Xbox Series X|S - Faz Business | فاز الأعمال

Dive Into the Magical World, Mechanics and Creatures Coming to Smalland 2: Lost Realms

Posted on July 16, 2026 by faz_business

Summary

Explore all of the new changes coming to Smalland 2: Lost Realms, the follow-up to Smalland: Survive the Wilds.
Learn more about new mechanics, including an expanded crafting system, evolved interactions, and the ability to swim through bodies of water.
Smalland 2 is heading to XBOX Series X|S later this year.

First of all, a big thank you to everyone who played the original Smalland: Survive the Wilds! Today, I’m excited to announce Smalland 2: Lost Realms, which will launch later this year on XBOX Series X|S.

Taking place ages before the events of the first game, Smalland 2: The Lost Realms brings you back down to size and into an expanded world filled with mythical creatures that are attuned to the natural elements. A world before the Giants colonized it, where you’ll discover new lands and cultures to help the Smallfolk thrive.

We’ve grown and expanded upon Smalland to create the ultimate Smallfolk experience in Smalland 2. Keep reading to learn about some of the changes between Smalland 1 and Smalland 2, as well as a glimpse into two new key mechanics.

Smalland 2 is the next evolution of the Smalland series, and with it comes a variety of updates to the game, including using Unreal Engine 5 for beautifully rendered graphics. The three main changes in the game involve the expansion of the world, how players interact with companions and changes to the crafting system.

A New World

Smalland 1 was a unified world where players could go onto trees, dive deep into caverns and more. To make for a more diverse experience, we’ve shaped the world into a realm of varying landscapes. We’ve also added new features related to different bodies of water that drastically change the approach to exploration and engagement with the ecosystem. These realms will feature region-specific resources and creatures that can be used for helping you and your team thrive.

Creatures as Companions, Not Tools

In Smalland 1, creatures were managed as an extension of the player, another tool in their

belt not so different from a hatchet or a weapon. Now in Smalland 2 we’ve revised the overall system to make the creatures you tamed to feel like true companions. You must bond and take care of these animals, and they will take care of you. By bonding with nature, you can form a party of creatures that will use their distinctive abilities to help you in your journey. Beware though, if you’re not able to tend to them, they will abandon you.

Crafting 2.0

Crafting is a major focus for any open world survival game, and we’ve elevated Smalland’s crafting system to allow for more player choice and expression. Previously, crafting was a linear gateway to progression. Now, we’ve expanded and improved the system to allow more freedom by combining different ingredients with different properties to craft exactly what you need.

With these changes, also come a bevy of new mechanics. We’ve taken community feedback to expand gameplay for an even richer experience and will continue to leverage player input to shape Smalland 2.

Bodies of Water

Water plays a major role in Smalland 2, particularly when it comes to exploring the world. New lands uncovered from crossing water will yield new resources and the opportunities to discover new creatures.

A highly requested feature from the community, players can now swim in ponds and rivulets of water and sail across the streams. Furthermore, seasonal changes will impact the environment and unlock new ways to explore the world. For instance, a water path that has frozen over in winter may lead to a new area.

Meet the Feyfolk

The realms of Smalland 2 are populated with whimsical creatures, each with their own communities, settlements and goals. Interact with the Feyfolk and build your reputation among them, uncover their secrets and learn their crafts.

These new and improved changes to Smalland 2 are just the start. We have much more to share in the future, so Wishlist the game and follow our social channels to be kept up to date on development.

You can play Smalland 2: Lost Realms on XBOX Series X|S later this year. If you haven’t already, you can play Smalland: Survive the Wilds today on XBOX Series X|S.

Smalland 2: Lost Realms

Max Ent Games Ltd

☆☆☆☆☆

★★★★★

Taking place ages before the events of the first game, Smalland 2: The Lost Realms brings you back down to size and into an expanded world filled with mythical creatures that are attuned to the natural elements. A world before the Giants colonized it, where you’ll discover new lands and cultures to help the Smallfolk thrive.

The elders foresee a tragic omen that will devastate the lands – can you prevent catastrophe from happening?

Key Features

Explore Mysterious Lands
Traverse a wonderous world filled with peril, mystery, and magic, where you will discover an array of lost realms, each with their own unique cultures and resources.

Survive Together
Play alongside friends with support for up to 10 in multiplayer. Explore together, fight together, build together and survive as a team.

Form Companionships
As marvelous and dangerous as the world is, you are not alone. Tame nature by forming a party of creatures that can use their distinctive abilities to help you in your journey. Bond and take care of these animals and they will take care of you.

Connect with Others
Discover and bond with the world’s inhabitants to gain access to new resources, technologies and arcane secrets.

Build & Link the Lands
Scavenge or refine resources to build outposts throughout the world and establish trade routes between the various lands.

Craft Powerful Items
Collect and craft armor and equipment to survive the perilous world. Glide through the skies, traverse the branches, navigate the waters and more.

Indie Selects for July 2026: Gameplay That Will Make Summer Pop

Posted on July 2, 2026 by faz_business

Mina The Hollower is a retro-inspired 2D top-down action-adventure game with a punishing, yet charming world. Players take on the role of Mina, a Hollower mouse, as she fights through hordes of enemies, traps, and bosses to restore generators and save a cursed island. It feels like a mix of Castlevania in the form of classic Zelda, with a sprinkle of Ghost ‘n Goblins, and a dash of Dark Souls.

“Everything is earned in Mina the Hollower.” I found myself repeating this after countless deaths to what looks like a forgiving world on the surface. It’s charming – but definitely not easy, and honestly, that tracks. It wasn’t until the final stretch, when mousetraps showed up as an obstacle, that it clicked: “oh yeah, I AM a mouse.” It’s easy to forget, because Mina can start to feel like a beast as you master traversal, unlock trinkets, sidearms, and weapon upgrades, but she’s still small in a world that’s thematically, overwhelmingly larger than her. You’re supposed to feel punished; you’re supposed to feel like Mina – barring pitfalls and hazard deaths, of course. While the methodical combat, larger-than-life bosses, and even the pacing of healing all reinforce a lot of the soulslike comparisons, it’s this idea of world scale and immersion that’s often forgotten when considering the ingredients of the genre and something that I find charming here.

It feels like a lost ’80s–’90s gem – polished just enough by Yacht Club to keep its spirit intact. Old-school design (contact damage, heavy knockback, real punishment) meets modern QoL, so it never feels dated. The world is charmingly dark, packed with lore, varied biomes, and fresh mechanics that keep things from getting stale. It’s tough but fair with every failure still feeling like something you can overcome – which makes pushing through it that much more rewarding. If you’re itching for that old-school top-down adventure feeling, this feels like a best-in-class example worth checking out!

– Deron Mann

Once Human Console Open Beta: Join the Supernatural Survival World on XBOX Series X|S

Posted on June 17, 2026 by faz_business

The apocalypse is calling! The wait is nearly over, Metas. Before the official launch, we are thrilled to announce the final Console Open Beta for our weird and wonderful supernatural survival game, Once Human.

Prepare to experience the apocalypse like never before. With the leap to the big screen, you can expect deeper immersion, stunning visuals on your XBOX Series X|S, and pure, unfiltered survival. More players, more chaos, and more fun await! Here is everything you need to know before you step into the supernatural monster world.

Experience the Apocalypse on the Big Screen

Survive in a supernatural apocalypse where reality has fallen apart. As a Meta-Human, you will explore a vast, Stardust-infected open world where monsters are both a threat and the key to your survival. Every expedition carries risk, but yields vital resources. Gather materials and build your ultimate territory, but be prepared to defend your home against relentless sieges.

In this world, your enemies are your greatest asset. You can capture Deviants—bizarre entities that can automate your base, gather resources, and fight by your side. Push your evolution further by hunting powerful anomalies for Mutagens. Fuse with them, mutate your body, and harness their grotesque abilities to crush anything that stands in your way. In Once Human, survival is more than just staying alive. It is about turning the unknown—and the monsters themselves—into your own power.

During this Open Beta, you’ll have access to multiple scenarios and seasons to fit your playstyle. Whether you want to learn the ropes or dive straight into hardcore challenges, the choice is yours. Available scenarios include:

Novice Scenario
Manibus
Endless Dream
The Way of Winter
RaidZone

(Note: Players in all scenarios except RaidZone can also experience Visional Wheel S3: Aberrant Progeny!)

Reach Level 20 & Earn Exclusive Rewards

As a massive thank-you to everyone participating in this final test, we are giving away exclusive rewards that you can bring with you into the official launch!

Reach Level 20 with any character during the beta to earn a Cosmetic Selection Crate and a Weapon Skin Selection Crate. (Note: If you only play in the RaidZone, you will need to accumulate more than 3 hours of playtime to be eligible).

Cosmetic Options (Choose 1 of 3):

Abyssal Dragon Set
Noise Manifesto Set
Wasteland Sheriff Set

Weapon Skin Options (Choose 1 of 3):

Dragon Dance – KAM
Reconstructed Matrix – AWS.33
Gem Symphony – MG4

Will my progress carry over? This Open Beta is a wipe test, meaning most of your character progress will be reset before the official launch. However, you won’t leave empty-handed! The following will permanently carry over to the full release:

✅ All earned Starchrom

✅ All cosmetics and outfits obtained

✅ Up to 6 collected Deviants

How to Join the Beta on XBOX Series X|S

This test is open globally, but spots are strictly limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the user cap is reached, the download channel may close, so be sure to secure your spot early!

To join on XBOX:

Turn on your XBOX Series X|S and open the XBOX Insider Hub app (download it from the Store if you don’t have it).
Navigate to the “Previews” section.
Search for “Once Human” and click “Join”.
You will be directed to the store page to install the game.

(If you participated in the previous Closed Beta and still have the game installed, you will receive an automatic update. If you deleted it, you can simply re-download it from your game library without needing to re-register).

Test Schedule & Important Info

Mark your calendars so you don’t miss a second of the action:

Pre-download Opens: June 17 at 5:00 PM PT
Servers Go Live: June 17 at 7:00 PM PT
Beta Concludes: July 8, 11:59 PM PT

A note on Cross-play: While cross-play with PC and Mobile players is not supported during this test, the console servers are unified! XBOX and PlayStation players will be able to team up and survive the apocalypse together.

We Want Your Feedback!

This final beta is crucial for us to polish the console experience before launch, and your feedback is incredibly valuable. If you run into bugs or have suggestions, please use the in-game Feedback & Customer Support menu. You can also join the dedicated tester-feedback-submit channel on the official Once Human Discord.

Gather your friends, grab your weapons, and get ready to survive the weirdness. We’ll see you in the monster world on June 17!

HOT WHEELS Infinite Rush: Race Beyond the Track

Posted on June 6, 2026 by faz_business

In HOT WHEELS Infinite Rush, we wanted to give players the experience of an open and dynamic adventure where speed, exploration, and creativity come together seamlessly. This initial idea guided the entire design process, ultimately leading us to create a Hot Wheels-sized world spanning across four themed islands that players can freely explore.

Each island has its own distinct atmosphere: some areas feature dense road networks and towering skyscrapers, while others offer vast grasslands connected by suburban streets. We designed them as dynamic playgrounds where players can free-roam, smash through breakable objects, uncover hidden collectibles and interact with the surroundings, shaping their journey at their own pace. We designed the islands to capture an authentic “Hot Wheels feeling”, translating the brand’s iconic imagery both tangibly – through toy-like materials, soundscapes, and visual details – and conceptually, by enriching the world with classic playsets and signature assets.

The progression itself is designed to foster curiosity, as players can decide how to move forward through the campaign by sky-jumping between islands, moving from high-intensity competitions to moments of discovery, collecting, or more unconventional activities. Traditional races are still there, but they naturally blend with a wide range of action-packed challenges.

Some examples? A peaceful free-roam drive could suddenly turn into a head-to-head race against a random opponent, or a shortcut beneath a skyscraper might become a frantic dash to avoid collapsing debris raining down from above!

The game features over 150 Hot Wheels vehicles across four distinct classes, each offering its own unique driving style and competitive edge. In traditional races, players face off against rivals within the same vehicle class, ensuring a balanced and tailored racing experience.

Outside of racing, players are encouraged to experiment with different vehicles depending on the activity or challenge. Some vehicles feel more at home blasting through high-speed asphalt, while others excel at technical maneuvers, like drifting or specialized in-game events.

To make exploration even more dynamic, players can build their own Rush Squad by picking their favorite Hot Wheels vehicles from each class, allowing them to instantly swap between vehicle types on the fly to adapt to any situation in the world.

Alongside both Sticker and Livery editors, which allow wheel customization, we’ve enhanced the Track Builder as well. Instead of manually adjusting the height of each piece to make it fit the terrain, players can keep track modules “locked” to the ground, so they naturally follow the surface as they’re placed in sequence.

On top of that, players can teach virtual opponents to race on their tracks by placing action markers that define the path, turning creations into fully playable races that can be shared with the community. All of this has been built on the same idea: capturing the fast and creative spirit of Hot Wheels while giving players freedom to experiment, create, and bring the Hot Wheels world to life in endless new ways.

That’s all for now, but I can’t wait to tell you more in the next few months. Stay tuned and get ready, as HOT WHEELS Infinite Rush launches on XBOX Series X|S on September 24, 2026.

How to Watch the XBOX Games Showcase and Gears of War: E-Day Direct on Sunday

Posted on June 2, 2026 by faz_business

This Sunday, June 7, our yearly double feature returns, offering you a look at what’s next from XBOX and our incredible partners across the world. The XBOX Games Showcase 2026 kicks off at 10am Pacific / 1pm Eastern / 6pm UK, immediately followed by Gears of War: E-Day Direct – presented by The Coalition, creators of the next mainline entry in one of XBOX’s most iconic franchises.

This year marks 25 years of XBOX, and this Showcase is poised to be a true celebration, offering world premieres, new gameplay, fresh updates and more for a swathe of projects we cannot wait to share. We invite you to watch live: here are all the details you need to know ahead of Sunday:

What time does XBOX Games Showcase begin? The Showcase will take place on Sunday, June 7, beginning at:

PDT: June 7, 10am
EDT: June 7, 1pm
BST: June 7, 6pm
CEST: June 7, 7pm
JST: June 8, 2am
AEST: June 8, 3am

What time does Gears of War: E-Day Direct begin? Immediately following the XBOX Games Showcase.

How do I watch the XBOX Games Showcase and Gears of War: E-Day Direct? The XBOX Games Showcase and Gears of War: E-Day Direct will be streamed live on official channels, including the below:

The show will also be streamed simultaneously on regional XBOX and Bethesda channels around the globe, as well as on Steam. It will also air on China’s Bilibili platform.

Is the event available in languages other than English? The XBOX Games Showcase and Gears of War: E-Day Direct will be streamed live on YouTube.com/xbox with English captions, and our other live languages will be available via regional XBOX channels.

The languages we will support live on our XBOX channels are: English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Brazilian Portuguese, Castilian Spanish, Mexican Spanish and Turkish. Following the broadcast, we will add additional languages including Afrikaans, Arabic, Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, Filipino, Finnish, Canadian French, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Hungarian, Indonesian, Malay, Norwegian, Persian (Farsi), Romanian, Russian, Slovak, Swahili, Swedish, Thai, Ukrainian and Vietnamese. The easiest way to find your preferred language is to go to your region’s XBOX page, or by viewing on the official XBOX YouTube channel at YouTube.com/xbox and clicking the gear icon in the lower right corner.

Is XBOX Games Showcase and Gears of War: E-Day Direct going to be Accessible to those with low/no hearing or low/no vision? There will be a version of the show with Audio Descriptions (AD) in English on the XBOX YouTube channel, American Sign Language (ASL) on XBOX’s YouTube channel and the /XBOXASL Twitch channel, and British Sign Language (BSL) on XBOX On’s YouTube channel at YouTube.com/XBOXOn.

I’m not going to be able to watch, where can I find out what was announced? As the broadcast runs, we’ll be publishing detailed blog posts for key announcements right here on XBOX Wire (with localized versions in Brazilian Portuguese, French, German, LATAM Spanish, and Japanese to follow).

A full show recap will be published here on XBOX Wire immediately following the end of XBOX Games Showcase, and a separate article for Gears of War: E-Day Direct will go live after the double feature ends. Plus, stay tuned to XBOX Wire in the days following the broadcast for more deep-dives into games from the show.

Will XBOX be releasing post-show content? During the week of June 9, the Official XBOX Podcast will be airing special episodes offering deeper dives into announcements featured during XBOX Games Showcase. These shows will be published on XBOX’s YouTube channel and podcast services.

Notes for co-streamers and creators: We at XBOX greatly appreciate any co-stream efforts and aim to ensure you have a smooth experience if you choose to do so. However, due to forces beyond our control, we cannot guarantee that glitches or disruptions by bots and other automated software won’t interfere with your co-stream. For those planning to create full post-show breakdowns of the XBOX Games Showcase and/or Gears of War: E-Day Direct in the form of video-on-demand coverage, we recommend you do not use any audio containing copyrighted music to avoid any action by automated bots, and to also consult the terms of service for your service provider.

We can’t wait for you to join us for the XBOX Games Showcase, followed by Gears of War: E-Day Direct on Sunday, June 7 – whether that’s online, or in-person as part of our returning FanFest event in Los Angeles!

Ticket to Ride’s 10th Expansion Arrives, Plus an Exclusive Look to New Horizons!

Posted on May 14, 2026 by faz_business

Summary

Ticket to Ride: Poland Expansion is available on May 13 for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One.
We go behind the scenes of Ticket to Ride’s ten expansions.
Exclusive to Xbox Wire readers, Marmalade Game Studio confirms a fan-favourite map is in the works.

Three years, ten expansions – and the Ticket to Ride train isn’t slowing down!

But we’re getting ahead of ourselves. Before we start gazing upon the horizon, we have our next stop to consider: Ticket to Ride’s tenth expansion, Poland. This marks the fifth digital debut for the game, following the well-received Heart of Africa, Japan, San Francisco, and Passenger-including Germany expansions!

Available on Xbox from May 13, the Ticket to Ride: Poland Expansion brings a new gameplay mechanic for you to master. It also includes two more locomotives, two additional carriages, and two original characters to play as.

From cards to coins

In the physical version of Ticket to Ride: Poland, you earn additional points by connecting neighbouring countries and picking up Country Cards. For the digital version, we’ve streamlined this mechanic by using Country Coins instead!

The game will take care of everything, setting up the Country Coins at the start of the match. Each country node gets a small pile of coins with different values shown on the top. When you connect one country to another, you get a coin from each node you built between – assuming there are any left in the pile, of course!

Then, at the end of the game, your Country Coins are added to your score. The trick is whether to focus on building out your railway network and completing tickets, or whether you rush to gather up as many Country Coins as you can before they all get swiped up by the other players!

Dance across Poland’s railway tracks and pick up those valuable Country Coins while riding the Polonaise train, or set off in the iconic Copernicus. Add the comfy Kujawiak carriage, or trust your cargo to the Orbiting Greatness carriage. You can also play as talented makeup artist Regina Kamińska or energetic drummer and student Kacper Pawlak.

Designed by history

As with all our Ticket to Ride expansions, history heavily influenced the design of the Ticket to Ride: Poland Expansion.

Filipa Semedo, Concept and 2D Artist at Marmalade Game Studio, explained: “I spent a lot of time researching 1950s Poland. The Polish government, highly influenced by the Soviet Union at the time, advised people to act and dress modestly. But American influence directly contradicted that. Since many Polish people had family in the US who sent them clothes, designs such as the American ‘A’ silhouette dress grew in popularity in Poland.

“Alongside fashion, jazz music became really popular with Polish youth too. We added a lot of that new subculture to Kacper Pawlak’s design.”

Going around the world

It’s not just historic research that drives Ticket to Ride‘s additional content. It’s been a long road to turn the maps you love into digital masterpieces!

Mike Rosser, Creative Director at Marmalade Game Studio, explained how the team selected ten expansions from the physical game’s library of maps.

“We aimed to have a good mix of expansions in the Round the World Ticket so that there are maps in there that appeal to all players. Some are more competitive, such as the India Expansion. Some are much more relaxed, like the co-operative vibes of the Japan Expansion.

“We also wanted a balance of complex maps that can take a while to play, and simpler, faster maps. By doing this, players always have a great choice available, regardless of how much time they have to play.”

“It was also important that we offered a mix of classic fan favourites like the Switzerland and Nordic Expansions along with more niche maps like Poland. We’re proud to have released some digital debuts too, like a full rendition of the Germany Expansion complete with its iconic Passenger mechanic.”

When you pick up the Round the World Ticket for Ticket to Ride, you’ll receive all ten currently released expansions to play with right away. That’s a lot of content to keep you going, but we’ve had a lot of questions about whether there’ll be more expansions beyond the ten that make up the Round the World Ticket.

**What’s on the horizon for Ticket to Ride?**

Well, we’re happy to confirm that there will be further content for Ticket to Ride. Plus, as an exclusive reveal for Xbox Wire readers, we can confirm that the highly requested Ticket to Ride: Pennsylvania Expansion is in the works! It’s still early days on that front, but you’ll be able to play this amazing map on Xbox in the future.

Full steam ahead, everyone!

Ticket to Ride and its current expansions are available now on the Xbox Marketplace.

Ticket to Ride: Poland Expansion is available from the May 13.

Ticket to Ride®: Deluxe Edition

Marmalade Game Studio Ltd.

☆☆☆☆☆
23

★★★★★

$39.99

$19.99

Prepare for an adventure on a global scale! The Ticket to Ride Deluxe Bundle has everything you need to kickstart your railway empire.

With the base game, you’ll be able to explore North America with six characters, seven trains and six carriages to choose from. When you’re ready to chase new horizons, the Round the World Ticket included in this bundle will open up a total of ten expansions – all currently released expansions will be playable immediately, then the remaining expansions as they release. Plus, enjoy two Ticket Packs – Europa 1912 and USA 1910, adding more tickets and game modes!

Europe Expansion:
Play as Erika Ford and Bertie Hawkes, and power your enterprise with the Rocket and Dolomyte Dynamite locomotives! Bonus content includes the Europa 1912 Ticket Pack, which adds three new game modes and new tickets to the Europe Expansion map.

Nordic Expansion:
Build routes between colourful Nordic cities, claim the sprawling Murmansk route and earn the Globetrotter Bonus in the world’s favourite train-adventure game!

India Expansion:
Set off on an adventure in India! New characters, locomotives and carriages await in this vibrant map. Rethink your strategies and ponder beyond single routes as you chase the elusive Mandala Bonus, awarded for completing tickets in multiple different ways!

Legendary Asia Expansion:
Journey along the Silk Road and take on the mighty Himalayas in Legendary Asia! Make new friends in Wang Ling and Lê Chinh, add new locomotives and carriages to your fleet and aim for the Asian Explorer Bonus!

San Francisco City Expansion:
Cruise through San Francisco in the Sixties as this fan-favourite map goes digital for the first time! Jump aboard a tram or get a lift from fashion designer Summer Ashbury or silver-screen icon Felix Woods as you take in the city sights and seek out Souvenirs.

Switzerland Expansion:
Take in the stunning sights of nature’s very own masterpiece as you strategise your way across Ticket to Ride’s most competitive map yet – the Switzerland Expansion! Connect Switzerland’s neighbouring countries as you travel along with two brand-new characters.

Japan Expansion:
For the first time ever, play Ticket to Ride: Japan Expansion in digital form! Work together with other players to build the Bullet Train network with travel blogger Nakanishi Kimiko and Gyōji Moriyama Isamu.

Heart of Africa Expansion:
Build your railway network across incredible new landscapes with festival organiser Blessing Kipruto and griot Nnamdi Okpara.

Germany Expansion:
Pick up Passengers when you join atelier owner Franziska Braun and scholar Reinhard Hofmann on a trip across Germany!

INCLUDES:
– Ticket to Ride Base Game
– Round the World Ticket
– Europe Expansion
– Nordic Expansion
– India Expansion
– Legendary Asia Expansion
– San Francisco City Expansion
– Switzerland Expansion
– Japan Expansion
– Heart of Africa Expansion
– Germany Expansion
– Europa 1912 Ticket Pack
– USA 1910 Ticket Pack

Ticket to Ride®

Marmalade Game Studio Ltd.

☆☆☆☆☆
19

★★★★★

$24.99

$9.99

Ticket to Ride has arrived at Platform Xbox!

Discover a fresh adaptation of the iconic, multi-award-winning board game. Play against fellow fans around the world, or take on state-of-the-art AI opponents. Build a railway empire, claim routes and dominate your competitors on the leaderboards in this fan-favourite modern classic!

FEATURES
– A TRULY SOCIAL TAKE ON MULTIPLAYER – Play online with friends or enjoy a seamless matchmaking experience when you challenge players from around the world. Alternatively, take on your friend sitting right next to you in couch play – use the free Ticket to Ride Companion App to really boost your couch gaming session!
– PLAY AROUND YOUR BUSY DAY – Set up a game in async mode and play a game across multiple days.
– SINGLE-PLAYER MODE DRIVEN BY EXPERT AIs – Powered by an innovative adaptive AI system, single-player mode offers a challenge for new and experienced players alike.
– AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE – Every moment has been brought to life with beautiful graphics that will immerse you in the adventure.
– STRATEGIC GAMEPLAY – Every game presents fresh challenges, and it’s your mission to work out the most efficient solutions. Collect points by completing tickets, linking destinations and building the longest route.
Join the Marmalade Game Studio Discord server to connect with players, organise matches, see the latest news and updates, and take part in events!

Contains:
– Ticket to Ride base game – the fan-favourite train-adventure game that started it all!
– Europe Expansion – includes the Europe map, two additional characters, two additional locomotives and two additional carriages

New Arc Raiders Map, New Threat: Your Guide to the Arc Turbine in Riven Tides

Posted on May 3, 2026 by faz_business

Summary

The new Arc Turbine joins the roster in Arc Raiders’ new update and map, Riven Tides.
Learn about this new large Arc enemy and its unique characteristics.
Plus, get some insider tips from the devs on how to beat it!

The latest free update for Arc Raiders, Riven Tides, launched this week, and alongside the new Riven Tides map the update also introduces the new Arc Turbine, an enemy that can operate both in the air and on the ground. In this article you’ll find out more about the new Arc threat, how to fight it, and get some tips from the devs on how to set yourself up for success.

A new Arc threat patrols the skies

Scouts have reported sightings of a new Arc enemy in the Rust Belt. Moving slowly across the sky, the conical-shaped Arc Turbine scans the surface looking for suitable places to land. Although its ultimate purpose is unclear, scout reports suggest it uses its inner machinery to collect airborne particulates from its surroundings, and enterprising Raiders are already eyeing its high-value Arc parts.

Defensive by design, dangerous when provoked

Rather than proactively attacking, the Arc Turbine relies on a series of defensive maneuvers to deter Raiders from interfering with its operations and actively tries to find landing spots far away from any threat, making it very challenging to reach, as it’s frequently spotted perching high up on roof tops and towers.

Dev tip: “Pick your spot. It’s safer to fight it in the open”

Mines, grenades, and zero mercy

The Arc Turbine is not the gentle giant it first appears to be and will respond with brutal force if provoked. Raiders who insist on hunting it down should adopt extreme caution as its electrically charged attacks will seek out anyone using the environment as cover, and motion detection mines will punish Raiders who try to charge up close to it.

Dev tip: “Plan your approach carefully and move slowly as you get closer – I wouldn’t recommend trying to hitch a ride on it!”

However, your chances to take it down increase dramatically if you band together, stalk it patiently and launch a flurry of coordinated attacks when it’s at its most vulnerable since it’s quick to relocate to safer grounds if threatened.

Dev tip: “Prepare for anything – pack traversal gear and Adrenaline Shots”

RIVEN TIDES UPDATE

The Riven Tides Update is the sixth free content update from Arc Raiders since launch, and the fourth update from the Escalation roadmap.

As well as a brand new Map, Riven Tides, The Riven Tides Update introduces a new large Arc threat, the Arc Turbine, plus a new minor Map Condition. Additional new content includes a Player Event and seasonal Raider Project, the spread of the Vaporizer to additional maps, plus new equipment, items and quests.

See you Beachside, Raiders!

ARC Raiders – Deluxe Edition

Embark Studios

☆☆☆☆☆
10427

★★★★★

$59.99

ARC Raiders Deluxe Edition includes the base game and the following content:

The Wanderer Set, including the following cosmetic items:
– “Valente” Outfit,
– “Pathfinder” Backpack,
– “Blanket Roll” Backpack Attachment.

Plus:
Lip Scar Character Cosmetic,
Finger Gun Rapid Fire Emote,
Cowboy Scrappy Body Type and Outfit,
2 400 Raider Tokens.

ARC Raiders

Embark Studios

☆☆☆☆☆
10270

★★★★★

$39.99

SCAVENGE, SURVIVE, THRIVE

In ARC Raiders, gameplay flows between the surface ruled by lethal machines, and the vibrant underground society of Speranza. Craft, repair, and upgrade your gear in the safety of your own workshop, before venturing topside to scavenge the remnants of a devastated but beautiful world. Play solo or in parties up to three, navigating the constant threat of ARC’s machines and the unpredictable choices of fellow survivors. In the end, only you decide what kind of Raider you are – and how far you’ll go to prevail.

EXPLORE AN IMMERSIVE WORLD

Explore four distinct maps at launch, with more to be revealed as the underground society evolves and expands its reach. Each destination carries the weight of a world twice-destroyed, and the scars of conflicts both old and new. Sift through the remnants for valuable loot, and piece together the past as it’s slowly reclaimed by nature. Evolving map conditions ensure that no two runs are the same, with varying weather, enemies, and mechanics adding unpredictability and danger.

STAKE YOUR CLAIM

In a society built on boldness and bravado, it is up to you to stake your claim as a Raider. The loot you scavenge can be sold for coin or crafted into all-new gear, allowing you take on increasingly lethal dangers head-on. Through both victories and hardships, you’ll gain valuable experience; unlocking varied skills that enable all-new ways of play. In addition, you’ll complete quests for Traders with differing motives and agendas; uncovering both the friction and comradery of a community under constant threat of collapse.

BEWARE THE MACHINES

Lethal machines known as ARC rule the surface, ranging from unrelenting drone swarms to mechanical giants that obliterate everything in their path. Their origins remain a mystery, but their ever-present danger is felt with every step you take. Each machine comes with distinct strengths and tactics, forcing you to pinpoint their weak spots and constantly think on your feet. And remember: the noise of battle carries. Other Raiders may be listening; eager to claim what you leave behind.

FORGE YOUR OWN PATH

Raiders survive by kitbashing scavenged materials; using long-lost tech and looted ARC parts to craft weapons, gadgets, and gear. Upgrade your workshop stations and learn blueprints to craft even more advanced items, or improvise quick fixes in the field to get yourself out of a bind. As you make a name for yourself, you’ll be able to measure your skill against other Raiders by taking on Trials; rising through the leaderboards to earn valuable rewards.

QUESTS

In Speranza, everyone has an agenda, and the Traders are no different. They’ll send you topside on missions in exchange for rewards, slowly revealing more about who they are and what they want for Speranza’s future. Complete quests to earn gear, crafting materials, and XP to level up your Raider and unlock new skill points.

SKILL TREE

The ARC Raiders skill tree branches into three paths: Survival, Mobility, and Conditioning. Spend your points to shape your playstyle. Loot faster and move quieter with Survival skills. Outmaneuver your opponents and threats with Mobility. And enhance your Strength and Stamina with Conditioning. Choose how you grow and what your Raider brings to the battle.

BUILD YOUR ARSENAL

Whether you’re preparing to take down specific ARC enemies or fend off rival Raiders, there’s a choice of weaponry for every fight. Cater to your style with a range of firearms including SMGs, rifles and shotguns, as well as more advanced options such as railguns and energy weapons. Grenades, traps, ziplines and deployables offer the tactical depth needed to outsmart your enemies, while augments allow you to tailor your loadout to your preferred playstyle; unlocking dedicated inventory slots and additional gameplay perks.

Darkness Looks Good on Overwatch Heroes in New Collaboration

Posted on April 29, 2026 by faz_business

Summary

Overwatch x Hatred’s Reckoning is a deliberate clash of hope and darkness that lets both worlds stay true to themselves.
Five new Legendary skins reimagine Overwatch Heroes through Sanctuary’s lenses of Hell and chaos.
Available April 28–May 18, there will also be returning crossover skins, new challenges, and Twitch Drops through May 10.

Some collaborations are about swapping outfits. Overwatch x Hatred’s Reckoning, running April 28–May 18, is about figuring out how two very different worlds can borrow each other’s clothes—and still feel like themselves.

Overwatch is famously hopeful. It’s full of bright colors and Heroes who look like they believe things can get better, even when they’re knee‑deep in chaos. The world that inspires Hatred’s Reckoning, on the other hand, is all heavy atmosphere and big moods that don’t politely leave when the fight is over. Blending the two didn’t mean dialing either one down, it was about finding the overlap. Being able to bridge that gap without drifting into imitation required intention, restraint, and deep creative trust.

Interpretation was the key. The creative teams quickly realized that beneath the surface, both worlds actually take similar things very seriously: conviction, sacrifice, and what it means to keep fighting when things get grim. Once that clicked, the fun part began—asking what Overwatch Heroes might look like if they’d grown up in a different genre of battle.

Thus, five new Legendary skins were created, each playing with that “alternate fate” fantasy.

Ramattra x Mephisto turns hatred into something slow and inevitable—less explosion, more creeping dread.

Brigitte x Paladin is all about holding the line, faith and steel working together with zero hesitation.

Freja x Rogue keeps things quiet and efficient—clean shapes, quick strikes, no wasted motion.

Lifeweaver x Warlock leans into stark danger, where life and corruption are uncomfortably close friends.

And Mauga x Druid is joyful chaos showing up with muscles, teeth, and a very loud opinion.

Mauga’s skin proved to be a particularly creative puzzle. Turning a shapeshifting Werebear fantasy into a dual‑chaingun bruiser meant solving a lot of questions at once. His bear face, jaw, and eyes had to look great, animate smoothly, and still read clearly during gameplay. It was a balancing act between visual flair, technical reality, and “does this still feel like Mauga?” He’s the perfect example of exactly the kind of challenge the team loves tackling together.

In addition to these five skins, four Legendary skins return to complete the visual dialogue: Pharah x Inarius, Moira x Lilith, Reinhardt x Imperius, and Sombra x Gilded Hunter. Together, they act as echoes of earlier explorations of Sanctuary.

Alongside the skins, original event challenges return, joined by new rewards like the deliciously deadly Crab with a Knife Weapon Charm and Twitch Drops running now through May 10.

Hatred’s Reckoning proves that when hope and darkness collide, heroes rise—even when they’re wearing borrowed clothes from another world. Overwatch x Hatred’s Reckoning runs April 28–May 18.

Overwatch®

Blizzard Entertainment

☆☆☆☆☆
73938

★★★★★

Xbox One X Enhanced

Ultimate Game Pass

Overwatch is an always-on and ever-evolving free-to-play, team-based hero shooter game set in an optimistic future, where every match is the ultimate 5v5 or 6v6 battlefield brawl featuring new heroes and maps, different ways to play, and unique cosmetics! Lead the charge, ambush your enemies, or aid your allies as one of Overwatch’s 40+ distinct heroes. Team up with friends, take them into battle across 25+ futuristic maps inspired by real-world locations, and master multiple unique game modes.

Reign of Talon – Season 2: Summit

Reach Heroic New Heights

The climb continues as a new Hero rises and the fight for a better future pushes higher than ever!

The story resumes in Reign of Talon – Season 2: Summit, raising the stakes as new DPS Hero Sierra joins the Overwatch ranks, and letting you stand with her in an Operation: Grand Mesa defensive event. Then celebrate your squad with the return of Post Match Accolades and explore a reworked Antarctica map. Plus, overclock justice as Mythic Volted Overdrive Solder: 76 and wield the Sumi-ichimonji Genji Mythic weapon to cut down your foes in style. Ramattra steps into Stadium alongside a new Lijiang Night Market map to expand experimentation and test your skills. And Spring has sprung in the Battle Pass and Shop, with Spring Fairy and Sakura looks for you to truly bloom on the battlefield. The climb is on, find out what lies beyond the summit!

First Look at Palia’s Upcoming Royal Highlands Expansion Launching May 12

Posted on April 22, 2026 by faz_business

Summary

Palia is rarin’ to release its biggest Expansion ever on May 12, and with it, players will be able to explore a brand new Adventure Zone called the Royal Highlands – featuring horseback riding, a new Home Line, and more.
Get a sneak peek with the “Palia Path” video, giving players a deep-dive look at the content coming to the Expansion.
The fantasy life sim adventure game, Palia, has achieved a major milestone: a growing community of more than 10 million players worldwide. To celebrate, Singularity 6 is throwing an in-game event where players can earn free premium rewards for the first time.

Howdy, Xbox Palians! A new chapter is about to begin.

On May 12, Palia’s biggest expansion yet – the Royal Highlands – launches on Xbox, inviting you to explore a massive new Adventure Zone alongside a brand-new story, more ways to customize and express yourself, and the introduction of a new traversal option: horses!

Let’s saddle up and take a look at what awaits in the Royal Highlands.

The Royal Highlands is our largest and most ambitious Adventure Zone to date – even larger than Bahari Bay. You’ll journey across sprawling sun-kissed rolling hills and windswept cliffs. We designed the map to feel expansive in a way that fundamentally changes how you move through the world.

For the first time, mounts arrive in Palia – and with them, a new rhythm to exploration. It’s traversal that feels faster, yes – but also more personal. Riding your horse isn’t just a matter of getting from point A to point B. We want you and your equine partner to feel calm and carefree while taking in all the sights and sounds the Highlands has to offer. And you’ll raise and breed your own horse through the Ranching skill on your barn, shaping their trait appearance and performance over time.

Wherever you travel with your trusty steed, there’s always more to discover. The Royal Highlands rewards curiosity with new fish to reel in, creatures to hunt, minerals to mine, and materials to gather.

You will likely stumble across some mysterious Amber Echo, a strange substance spreading across the Highlands that traps anything caught within it – freezing it in time for years, or even longer. As you explore, you’ll meet Eshelon, heir to the Bahari Dukedom, who’s been sent to investigate these unusual occurrences. Together, you’ll begin to uncover what’s really happening beneath the surface.

Back on your Home Plot, the expansion brings a fresh layer of expression. The Ancient Human Home Line introduces a more refined architectural style inspired by the Royal Highlands itself, alongside a third-story upgrade that quite literally raises the ceiling on what’s possible creatively. Add in expanded storage, new Decor sets (including the elegant Aristocrat Set and the playful Teapot Set!), and your home will feel more opulent, regal, and unapologetically luxurious.

Also, upgraded Clothing Dyes gives you more control over how you present yourself to the game world. From subtle changes to enthusiastic overhauls, applying colors you’ve unlocked to select outfits help you to make a statement for your in-game identity.

Before we open the gates to the Royal Highlands, we’re taking a moment to celebrate. Palia has surpassed 10 million players worldwide – a milestone shaped by millions of stories, homes, and shared moments across the community.

To mark the occasion, the 10 Million Player Celebration Event is live now through May 11. During the event, simply log in and complete daily quests to earn rewards, including event-exclusive Decor, Plushes, a commemorative Nameplate, and – for the first time – up to two completely free premium Mystery Outfits.

This is our way of saying ‘thank you,’ whether you’ve been with us since day-one, or if you’re just joining us today.

We’re also offering a limited-time 25% discount on the Starter Pack and Founder’s Pack, for anyone looking to jump in (or back in!) before we kick off the next chapter.

Your next Palian adventure is just over the hill and through the golden meadow, and you’ll be hoofin’ it (literally) with a community of more than 10 million players.

We’ll see you in-game today for the 10 million player celebration, and when the Royal Highlands expansion launches on Xbox on May 12.

Palia

Singularity 6

☆☆☆☆☆
713

★★★★★

Discover a welcoming world in Palia, a free-to-play fantasy life sim adventure where you can craft, explore, and create the life and home of your dreams. With nearly endless ways to make Palia your home, you’ll find relaxation and joy in every corner of this vibrant, heartwarming world.

Live Your Fantasy Dream Life
Dive into a world rich with adventure and lore. Complete quests that reveal the secrets of Ancient Humans, deepen your connections with Palia’s Villagers, and help shape the story around you.

Craft, Build, and Make Memories Together
Design your ideal space with near limitless possibilities! Craft items, place Building Blocks, and landscape with Yardwork Decor to create a home that’s uniquely yours, both inside and out. Display your creativity and join Home Tours to get inspired by the community’s incredible designs.

Discover the Secrets of Elderwood, an Ancient Magical Forest
Explore a dense, magical forest filled with surprises around every corner. Discover new artifacts, creatures, insects, and more when you unveil Elderwood’s mysteries with friends.

Celebrate with Events and Minigames
Join in on exciting in-game events and activities, such as the bustling Maji Market, or get cozy in the Underground Black Market playing the Hot Pot card game with friends. With events, minigames, and seasonal content year-round, there’s always something fresh to enjoy that will keep you coming back.

Build Lasting Relationships
Grow meaningful relationships with lovable Villagers or team up with fellow adventurers for unforgettable journeys. Chill out by collecting and trading irresistibly adorable Plushies, Potato Pods, and Stickers, fostering friendships one collectible at a time.

Explore, Gather, and Thrive
Wander through Kilima Valley, Bahari Bay, and the Elderwood to gather rare insects, forage for ingredients, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Palia. Tend to your home plot, nurture your garden, and live your dream life.

Your Adventure, Your Way
Whether solo or with friends, Palia is a place where you’re always welcome. Discover a cozy community filled with new friends, enchanting magic, shared adventures, and endless charm.

Inside 3on3 Freestyle’s New Career Mode: A New Way to Learn, Play, and Progress

Posted on April 11, 2026 by faz_business

Summary

3on3 Freestyle’s new Career Mode is a PvE experience with its own, character-based progression and resources.
Incorporating roguelike elements for replayability, Career Mode serves as a great way to master the game’s core mechanics and get ready for competitive PvP play.
3on3 Freestyle is free to play and available now on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Play Anywhere.

3on3 Freestyle continues to evolve with the introduction of Career Mode, a new solo experience designed to help players learn the game, build confidence, and grow their skills at their own pace.

Built as a stage-based PvE experience, Career Mode lets players take control of their chosen character and progress through a structured journey, where difficulty gradually increases over time. Through hands-on play, players naturally learn core systems, positioning, and strategy, creating a more approachable experience for both new and returning players.

A Character-Driven Progression System with Scalable Challenge

Career Mode is built around character-focused progression. Each character features their own set of stages, and as players continue to develop their character, higher difficulty stages become available.

With increased difficulty comes more demanding challenges, along with access to Career Mode-exclusive resources that reward progression. In addition to scaling difficulty, players can further customize their experience by applying different conditions — such as strengthening opposing AI, applying limitations to their own character, or modifying match rules.

This flexible system allows players to shape their own challenge while steadily pushing toward higher levels of play.

Strategic Gameplay Built on Player Choice

Career Mode incorporates roguelike-inspired elements to ensure that each run feels fresh and dynamic.

At the start of each stage, players select from a set of randomized buffs that impact gameplay. These buffs persist across all stages within the current difficulty tier, meaning each decision plays a meaningful role in the overall run. Rather than serving as short-term boosts, these choices require players to think strategically about how they approach each stage.

Once all stages are cleared and players move to the next difficulty level, buffs reset, allowing for new combinations and strategies in the next run. This structure naturally encourages experimentation and replayability.

A Progression System That Connects Play, Rewards, and Growth

Career Mode is designed so that gameplay directly feeds into progression.

By clearing stages, players earn Career Mode-exclusive resources, which can be used to invest in progression systems that strengthen their characters. These include both character-specific growth trees and shared progression trees that benefit multiple characters.

Completing all stages within a difficulty tier grants additional rewards, providing further incentives to take on greater challenges. As players develop multiple characters, shared progression becomes more impactful, enhancing overall growth efficiency across their roster.

Built for Growth While Preserving Competitive Balance

Career Mode integrates naturally with existing progression systems, allowing players to bring in characters they’ve already developed through upgrades, ability cards, and P-Buff setups, while continuing to grow them further within the mode.

At the same time, all progression gained in Career Mode is limited to solo play and does not carry over into PvP modes. This ensures players can freely experiment and grow without affecting competitive balance.

Visual enhancements powered by Lumen also bring added depth to the experience, introducing more dynamic lighting and environmental detail that make on-court action feel more natural and readable, while maintaining the fast-paced gameplay players expect.

A Natural Path Toward Competitive Play

Career Mode serves as more than just a standalone experience — it acts as a bridge into the broader 3on3 Freestyle ecosystem.

By learning systems and mechanics in a controlled environment, players can build confidence and transition more smoothly into multiplayer and competitive gameplay, preparing them for higher-level play.

Step Onto the Court

With Career Mode, 3on3 Freestyle introduces a new way to experience the game — from learning the fundamentals to refining strategies and taking on greater challenges. It’s a space to experiment, grow, and prepare for what comes next.

3on3 FreeStyle

JOYCITY Corp.

☆☆☆☆☆
2872

★★★★★

3on3 FreeStyle!
Welcome to the world of 3on3 FreeStyle street basketball.

Choose from 57 unique characters, each with their own signature skills, and lead your team to victory in intense 3v3 matches.
Experience fast-paced, stylish street basketball action.

Master each character’s skills and strategic team play to dominate the court.

Enjoy both single-player and multiplayer modes:
Grow your character in My Career (PVE) or compete in real-time 3v3 matches.

Play solo or together—create your own style and become the best.

Probability Item Info: http://3on3.fsgames.com/newNews/drawRate/5583/view