If you love games that challenge your perception and reward thinking outside of the box, upcoming physics puzzler Nomori may be right up your alley. At the recent ID@Xbox event at GDC, I was able to play through the demo and chat with Studio Director Marnix Licht, who leads Enchanted Works’ small remote team distributed across the Netherlands.
In Nomori you play Kiko, a young girl who, in classic folktale form, gets sidetracked on the way to her grandmother’s house. Soon she finds herself lost in a whimsical spirit world of floating islands populated with friendly mushrooms, giant talking cats, and the like. It’s all drawn from Japanese folklore, particularly via the beloved work of animation legend Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli, like “Spirited Away” and “Princess Mononoke.”
That extremely cozy and inviting surface belies a much trickier puzzle design, however. Licht told me that one of their core observations at the start of development was that often a game with gentle vibes has similarly gentle puzzle mechanics. They supposed that many people might like a game with a cozy aesthetic, but far trickier and more nuanced underlying gameplay, akin to Portal, which is a comparison that will shortly become obvious.
Initially the challenge is simple navigation and platforming, making your way across a series of floating islands that are connected by fixed portals. The first twist comes when you find that portals maintain orientation, so the direction of gravity when you enter will be the same for you wherever you exit. So, for instance, you can step through a portal at the bottom of a cliff face and emerge through a perpendicularly oriented portal onto that cliff as your new ground.
“If Portal is all about conservation of momentum, Nomori is about conservation of orientation,” Licht told me. He also brought up the work of surrealist illustrator M.C. Escher as a big and obvious inspiration for this relativistic relationship to space.
The next major element introduced is a large, friendly gelatinous cube with bunny ears called a Slimebun. You can pick it up and telekinetically move it around with your Wind Grasp ability to use as a mobile platform and as a key to open the door to the next island. Invoking Portal again, Licht called it “the ultimate companion cube.” Eventually, you can also reverse its direction in time, scrubbing it back and forth along its previous path like with Link’s Recall ability in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, creating a moving platform for your traversal.
The moment that really made me lean forward and recognize what this game has cooking was when Kiko could start rotating the portals in 90-degree increments, changing the orientation at which you came out (and thus the direction of gravity when you did). I’d been breezing through the introductory puzzles to this point, but suddenly I had to start rotating the space in my mind like a Rubik’s Cube and just ended up doing a lot more experimentation.
The Slimebun has a sloshing layer of liquid on its bottom and bunny ears on top, which are important cues for making its orientation obvious. This is crucial because Wind Grasp lets you send it through portals without you, bringing it out nearby with a different direction of gravity than you, for instance turning it falling down into your elevator ride up. This gets even more complicated with moving it back and forth in time, since its path (helpfully represented in the world with a dotted line) retains orientation to the Slimebun and not the environment, so you can use that in conjunction with rotating portals to do some tricky things.
By grounding the world in consistent (but interesting) physics and giving you a growing array of open-ended tools, Nomori increasingly allows for multiple solutions to its problems as it goes on and grows in complexity, which can give you that delicious feeling that you’ve outsmarted the game for coming up with something that doesn’t seem intended. Licht and team have rewarded this directly by placing Kodamas (collectible spirits) based on spots their playtesters have managed to reach that they hadn’t initially intended to be accessible.
Nomori is charming and thoughtful, and I’m now very excited to see all the directions its relativistic portal puzzling goes across the whole game when it comes to Xbox Series X|S and Xbox on PC later this year, with support for Xbox Play Anywhere.
Dave The Diver: In the Jungle DLC is scheduled to launch June 18 on Xbox on PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and handheld.
The newly released trailer teases details about Dave’s next adventure.
With a new village, new NPCs, and unique underwater experiences, the DLC aims to offer something fresh and distinct from the Dave the Diver experience you know.
It’s been a long time coming, and we’re thrilled to finally share the launch date for our upcoming Dave the Diver DLC called In the Jungle. Dave takes on this whole new adventure as of June 18, 2026!
The news about this expansion has been out for a little while now, so the time for being koi… (ahem, fish pun) is over! Today, we’re excited to share more about what to expect in this new DLC that gives Dave a whole new flavor while remaining true to its roots.
Let’s start with today’s new trailer. We saw a lot this time, and perhaps most notably the giant freshwater dinosaur washed ashore in the village. Fans of Dave know that there’s a whole story waiting to be uncovered there, and frankly, there are many surprises in store that we can’t wait to tease more of later. Oh, and you probably noticed one of the characters in that scene is not like the others…that’s Muna, Dr. Bacon’s assistant. We’ll learn more about her, too.
There’s also lots of sneak peeks into other new elements in this DLC, ranging from the new locations, puzzles, minigames, boss fights, and jungle creatures you’ll meet. But the true star of the show this time is the new campaign and the way our players will interact with new characters and the environment, as well as the implications a jungle setting has on Bancho’s choice of cuisine.
The new trailer showcases Dave and his friends’ next big adventure featuring an all-new jungle eco-system to explore, a fantastic new restaurant for Bancho to demonstrate his culinary skills and lots of surprises! Check out the trailer below:
[TRAILER EMBED]
A New Campaign, A New Jungle, Same Old Dave (Mostly)
When we started building In the Jungle, one thing was non-negotiable: it still had to feel like Dave the Diver, full of the same humor, wit, and orchestrated chaos that our fans know and love.
This time, Dave trades the Blue Hole for an entirely new biome, a lush jungle packed with new opportunities, exotic ingredients, loads of wildlife, and a bustling lakeside village called Utara. It’s alive, it’s vibrant, and it’s filled with new characters to meet, along with a few familiar faces who couldn’t resist tagging along for the adventure.
But make no mistake. This is no simple change of scenery for the gang. There’s a robust new life to be lived here, complete with danger, mystery, and lots of amazing food.
And of course, Dave is still Dave. Slightly overwhelmed, surprisingly capable, and somehow at the center of it all.
Jungle Gameplay: New Waters
Even in a whole new biome and trading the wetsuit for stained khakis, we’ve preserved Dave’s signature offbeat humor, stylised pixelated cutscenes, and the fulfilling blend of exploration and management that makes Dave tick. But of course, the jungle changes things.
This time around, Dave is traversing not only the surrounding jungle and village, but the massive lake in Utara where he meets many new fish species, discovers new ingredients, and other ecosystem-specific surprises, including the way the fish and other underwater animals interact with Dave. Freshwater fish have new movement patterns, new attack behaviors, and new environmental interactions that shift the rhythm of dives in ways that should feel both familiar and refreshingly different.
There’s also the villagers. As much as the ecosystem in the jungle lake beats with life, the village of Utara operates within its own unique system, one that Dave will need to learn and master. With some earned trust, a stroke of luck, and that undeniable Dave charm, the villagers can be welcomed to Bancho’s restaurant as guests. This new dynamic propels much of the storyline in this DLC, and it of course means new friends along the way.
Beyond the bird-hunting sequence from the trailer, we’re introducing several additional minigames that build on what players loved in the base game. As ever, they’re woven naturally into the story and the world, adding even more variety to Dave’s routine.
Bancho’s Grill: No Sushi, No Problem
Another area where In the Jungle departs from the base game is the introduction of Bancho Grill. This freshwater twist on Bancho’s restaurant features a fully-cooked jungle-themed menu – time to grill and chill!
This time, Dave isn’t stuck serving along a single horizontal plane. He can now move freely throughout the Grill, serving customers across multiple areas. And as I mentioned before, one of the most exciting aspects of the new restaurant is the interaction with the villagers themselves. As Dave interacts with local inhabitants, his bonds with them grow, and they’ll begin visiting Bancho’s Grill as diners, making the restaurant a key hub between Dave and the village community.
You’ll also be able to customize Bancho’s Grill, giving it a personality that fits your jungle journey. Meanwhile, Bancho will be hard at work transforming newly caught freshwater fish and locally gathered ingredients into entirely new dishes. After all, the jungle might be unfamiliar territory, but great food is universal!
The Jungle Calls
We have lots more to share about Dave the Diver: In the Jungle before launch on June 18. If you haven’t already, we welcome everyone to begin their underwater adventures in Dave the Diver today on Xbox, and check out all of the other DLC options — there’s something there for everyone! For more news about Dave the Diver and In The Jungle as it approaches launch, be sure to join the official Dave the DiverDiscord channel.
DAVE THE DIVER
MINTROCKET
☆☆☆☆☆ 240
★★★★★
$19.99
・An adventure, RPG, management hybrid
Explore and unravel the mysteries in the depths of the Blue Hole by day and run a successful exotic sushi restaurant by night.
It’s easy to get hooked on the satisfying gameplay loop!
・Casual combat and gathering gameplay with rogue-like elements
Dive into the ever-changing Blue Hole and use a harpoon and other weapons to catch fish and various creatures.
Upgrade and forge equipment with collected resources and sushi restaurant profits to prepare for the dangers that lurk in the unknown.
Running out of oxygen means leaving collected items and fish behind!
・Eccentric characters with a lighthearted narrative
Quirky but lovable characters and a story full of in-jokes, spoofs, and other humorous scenes provide an approachable and enjoyable gameplay experience.
・A beautiful sea environment with attractive 2D/3D Art
A combination of pixel and 3D graphics provides a stunning art style that showcases breathtaking underwater scenery. This oceanic adventure is set in the real marine environment of a Blue Hole filled with over 200 kinds of sea creatures.
・Ample additional content to complement the main gameplay loop
Minigames, side quests, and multiple storylines provide many hours of entertainment and varied gameplay.
Today, Capcom Spotlight shared exciting news and updates for Capcom’s packed line-up of games, with a little something for everyone. We’re proud to share new info ranging from returning franchises like Monster Hunter, to completely new titles like Pragmata, and more! Read on for the details.
Hack Deeper into the Mysterious World of Pragmata
Capcom Spotlight debuted a stunning new look at the long-awaited sci-fi action-adventure game, Pragmata. Additionally, we’re happy to announce the updated release date for the game, which now lands one week earlier on April 17, 2026!
Have a look at the new trailer, which includes a look at a new friend that will help guide you while you’re in the Shelter.
Pre-order Pragmata ahead of launch on Xbox Series X|S and check out the Deluxe Edition for some extra in-game costumes, rare digital artwork, and more.
If you haven’t tried the game yet, check out the Pragmata Sketchbook Demo to try out the game’s unique mix of hacking and shooting. Be sure to complete it multiple times to uncover its secrets and different endings.
PRAGMATA Sketchbook – DEMO
CAPCOM CO., LTD.
☆☆☆☆☆ 143
★★★★★
The gameplay demo, Sketchbook, lets you try out this combat system that engages both sides of your brain, while you also get to experience what it’s like to traverse the lunar research station.
*This demo supports English and Japanese voice.
*Some in-game features may differ from the full game.
*Ray tracing is not supported on Xbox Series S.
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection Launches March 13!
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection arrives next week, reaching new heights for this turn-based, story-rich RPG story set in the world of Monster Hunter. Have a look at the game’s launch trailer, which delves further into the deep and dramatic story that awaits.
Two countries, twin Rathalos. One Rider and their trusted Rathalos, alongside their companions, must navigate the conflict between these two Azuria and Vermeil, all while the looming disaster of the Crystal Encroachment threatens the world.
As you get ready for launch, here’s a rundown of the various bonuses you can get. Players with save data for past Monster Hunter games can get special layered armor for the protagonist.
Monster Hunter Wilds save data – Hope Layered Armor set
Monster Hunter Stories save data – Hakum Rider Outfit
Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin save data – Mahana Rider Outfit
Monster Hunter Rise save data – Kamura Garb
Additionally, linking your Capcom ID account will allow you to receive the adorable Catcom Works outfit for Rudy! We’re also releasing two free cosmetic DLCs at launch: the Gold Circlet accessory for the protagonist, and the Wind Wyvern’s Friend Layered Armor for Simon.
Interested in giving the game a test ride? Try out the content packed Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection demo now for free and transfer your save data to the full version at launch!
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection Trial Version
CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
☆☆☆☆☆ 58
★★★★★
This is the trial version of Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection.
You can play the beginning portion of the game for free.
Save data will transfer to the full version.
The third entry in the Monster Hunter Stories RPG series is here!
Twin Rathalos, born in a twist of fate.
Monster Hunter Stories is an RPG series set in the Monster Hunter world, where you can become a Rider, raising and bonding with your favorite monsters.
The Story
Azuria and Vermeil: two countries, on a path to destruction.
When all hope seems lost, an egg is found. Inside is a Rathalos, a species thought to be extinct.
But this quavering light of hope is quickly extinguished, giving way to the darkness of despair.
Born from the egg is not a single Rathalos, but twins, bearing the Skyscale marking that hearkens back to the disastrous civil war of 200 years prior.
The natural world teeters on the verge of destruction, with countless monster species facing extinction. In the shadow of these dark times, the flames of war rekindle.
Two countries, and two Rathalos.
A Rider and their trusted Rathalos, buffeted by the winds of fate, set out on a journey for the truth.
Online Features Revealed for Mega Man Star Force Collection
Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection arrives on Xbox Series X|S on March 26! Capcom Spotlight showed off the collection’s new online features, including the ability to search across all three titles to find a match quickly, or choose between Friend, Casual and Ranked Match based on your preference.
Trading and the Brother List features have been improved in this collection as well. Choose a card and trade it with your partner to acquire the cards you’re looking for! With the Brother List, you can add up to one hundred Brothers per game, a big improvement over the original limit of six.
Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection
CAPCOM CO., LTD.
☆☆☆☆☆ 7
★★★★★
$39.99
Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection – Geo Stelar and Omega-Xis Character Model Pack Pre-order Bonus
This product includes selectable character models of Geo Stelar (casual outfit) and Omega-Xis for the Main Menu.
Special arrangements for four music tracks are also included for the Music Player.
Note: This pre-order bonus may also become available at a later date.
*This pre-order bonus is available until March 26, 2026, 23:59 (local time).
The Mega Man Star Force series, which expanded into an anime, is back in the Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection! This collection includes seven games and additional features like a gallery of illustrations and music! Online play is also supported!
The following titles are included in the collection:
Mega Man Star Force Pegasus
Mega Man Star Force Leo
Mega Man Star Force Dragon
Mega Man Star Force 2 Zerker x Ninja
Mega Man Star Force 2 Zerker x Saurian
Mega Man Star Force 3 Black Ace
Mega Man Star Force 3 Red Joker
It is the year 220X, and the world has seen rapid advancements in Wave technology. Our protagonist, 11-year-old Geo Stelar, refuses to go to school as he mourns the disappearance of his astronaut father.
One night, Geo is at the observatory gazing at stars as he usually does. Suddenly, his Transer picks up a signal from space and he is hit with a powerful electric shock!
When he finally comes to, an alien with an electromagnetic wave body called Omega-Xis is standing over him…
Note: The toy link features found in the original versions are not supported.
Alex Makes His Entrance in Street Fighter 6 on March 17!
The dark devil himself, Alex, steps into the ring as part of Street Fighter 6 Year 3 on March 17! Alex uses pro wrestling techniques, overpowering and overwhelming opponents both in and outside of the squared circle.
Motion capture for Alex was performed by the legendary pro wrestler, Kenny Omega, adding authentic touches to his walk-out sequences, Super Arts, and more! JAM Project also contributed an original track for Alex called “Go! Alex! Hope is Born! – Alex’s Theme”! In anticipation of Alex’s release, the Alex Arrives! Fighting Pass will bring exciting content across each game mode.
Finally, the swimsuit series of outfits continue with Outfit 4 for Dee Jay and Elena, also launching alongside Alex! Even though it might not be sunny weather, these two outfits are sure to heat things up.
Street Fighter™ 6
CAPCOM CO., LTD.
☆☆☆☆☆ 1242
★★★★★
$39.99
Here comes Capcom’s newest challenger! Street Fighter™ 6 launches worldwide on June 2nd, 2023 and represents the next evolution of the series.
Powered by Capcom’s proprietary RE ENGINE, the Street Fighter 6 experience spans across three distinct game modes featuring World Tour, Fighting Ground and Battle Hub.
Diverse Roster of 18 Fighters
Play legendary masters and new fan favorites like Ryu, Chun-Li, Luke, Jamie, Kimberly and more in this latest edition with each character featuring striking new redesigns and exhilarating cinematic specials.
Dominate the Fighting Ground
Street Fighter 6 offers a highly evolved combat system with three control types – Classic, Modern and Dynamic – allowing you to quickly play to your skill level.
The new Real Time Commentary Feature adds all the hype of a competitive match as well as easy-to-understand explanations about your gameplay.
The Drive Gauge is a new system to manage your resources. Use it wisely in order to claim victory.
Explore the Streets in World Tour
Discover the meaning of strength in World Tour, an immersive, single-player story mode. Take your avatar and explore Metro City and beyond. Meet Masters who will take you under their wing and teach you their style and techniques.
Seek Rivals in the Battle Hub
The Battle Hub represents a core mode of Street Fighter 6 where players can gather and communicate, and become stronger together. Use the avatar you create in World Tour to check out cabinets on the Battle Hub floor and play against other players, or head over to the Game Center to enjoy some of Capcom’s classic arcade games.
Your path to becoming a World Warrior starts here.
Online Play
Capcom provides various online services for this game, including online-only content.
* Certain elements of this game cannot be accessed without an internet connection.
* A Capcom ID is required to use online-only content.
* For information on the services related to Capcom ID and how to use it, please visit the official Capcom ID website (https://cid.capcom.com/). Please note that there may be cases wherein use of Capcom ID is age-restricted.
* For online-only content, a separate paid membership service (Game Pass Core) is required.
* Capcom may temporarily suspend online services in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
Every Wednesday, dive into the Indie Select Hub — your gateway to a fresh, curated indie collection plus four themed spotlights that rotate weekly! You can always find this collection hub in the Xbox Store and on Xbox.com/IndieSelects.
The ID@Xbox team felt February’s peculiar sparkle in the air, so we curated 6 offbeat adventures that match that delightfully strange charm. From a hand‑drawn British comedy to a psychological race against time to save a plague‑stricken town, this slate delivers bold hooks for every mood. Fight fairytale capitalism, settle into a magical farming life, brave a dread‑tinged fishing odyssey, or command a retro JRPG party through dungeon‑delving action. Whether you crave calm, comedy, chaos, or a fight for survival, we’ve got something uniquely – and unexpectedly – perfect for you this month (in no particular order):
Humor in video games is notoriously difficult to pull off, but the team at Panic may have cracked the code with Thank Goodness You’re Here! a comedy adventure game that lands joke after joke with remarkable confidence and impeccable timing.
Thank Goodness You’re Here! is a lively, hand-drawn comedy adventure game in the art style reminiscent of Terry Gilliam’s Monty Python’s and other surreal British animation from the 1960s and 70s, and it pairs this visual with sharp distinctly British humor. The result is a game that appears crude on the surface, but it’s clearly well designed with genuinely laugh-out-loud moments.
From the opening cutscene, the game establishes its bizarre premise and rarely lets up. You play as a small, mostly silent salesman wandering the fictional Northern English town of Barnsworth. Progress is driven entirely by interaction: poking, pulling, slapping, and getting into increasingly absurd and strange situations. The game rewards curiosity, timing, and the willingness to lean into the absurd.
The voice acting is superb, including the unmistakable presence of Matt Berry who delivers the game’s tone perfectly. Thank Goodness You’re Here! trusts you to find the humor without over-explaining and handing you the control to let the comedic timing do the work.
Charming, strange, confident in its own silliness, and never overstaying its welcome, Thank Goodness You’re Here! stands out as one of the most memorable comedy games in recent years. Ta-ta for now. – Oscar Polanco
Pathologic 3 is a game that lingers long after you put the controller down. The cult-classic psychological survival series from Ice-Pick Lodge returns with a new entry that reimagines its haunting world for modern hardware, while staying true to what makes Pathologic so distinct. This isn’t survival-horror built on reflexes or fear alone. It’s about pressure — the kind that builds quietly as time moves forward and the town refuses to wait for you. From the moment you arrive, the world feels hostile in subtle ways. Conversations are uneasy. Information is fragmented. Even simple decisions feel loaded. Playing Pathologic 3, I was constantly aware that every choice — where I went, who I helped, what I ignored — carried consequences I wouldn’t fully understand until much later.
You play as a doctor navigating a plague that can’t simply be cured. Resources are scarce, and the town’s residents feel less like quest-givers and more like people trying to survive alongside you. Saving one life often meant neglecting another, and there were moments where doing “the right thing” only made the situation worse. Combat is not the focus here. Survival comes from managing hunger, exhaustion, infection, and trust, both your own and the town’s. The tension doesn’t spike; it simmers. More than once, I found myself hesitating before making a decision, knowing the game wouldn’t stop me from making a mistake — it would just remember it.
On Xbox Series X|S, Pathologic 3 benefits from faster load times and enhanced lighting and environmental detail, keeping the experience uninterrupted and deeply immersive. The town feels oppressive, alive, and uncomfortably close. Pathologic 3 is a game that trusts players to sit with discomfort, ambiguity, and consequence. The plague is back on Xbox — and it’s watching how you choose to face it. – Steven Allen
Escape from Ever After is a cozy, whimsical experience that proudly wears its inspirations on its sleeve. What begins as an atypical hero-goes-to-slay-the-dragon story quickly shifts into a buddy-cop-esque journey about capitalism, evil conglomerates, and climbing the corporate ladder to destroy a company from within. It’s very unserious and silly — yet somehow the most genius thing I’ve played in a while.
The premise is centered around hero Flynt Buckler, villain Tinder the Dragon, and their temporary truce to thwart Ever After Inc. — a “real-world” conglomerate bent on infiltrating beloved fairytales and folklore to farm resources and characters for labor. As a result, you’ll find Pinocchio working a desk job, Red Riding Hood manning a receptionist’s desk, the Three Little Pigs as an evil construction company, and Dracula as a… tailor. You’ll also see things like printers as save points, gold coins referred to as “wages,” and coffee as your mana pool. I love how much it plays into the theme of the corporate world blending into fantasy, and it left me eager to see what stories would be included and how they’ve been impacted by Ever After.
As for the core gameplay, it’s an approachable RPG with platforming, puzzles, and exploration balanced into the mix. The combat is turn-based but leverages timing-based mini games to enhance actions. Historically, I’ve never really been a big turn-based RPG person, so this helped keep the combat engaging and definitely felt satisfying to pull off. There’s also a bit of party management as you recruit characters from different stories, a leveling system, abilities to unlock, and mild customization through costumes and such.
This game is awesome, and I had an absolute blast playing it. Through its story, gameplay variety, and approachability, this feels like a game I can easily recommend to anyone. – Deron Mann
Wylde Flowers is a standout farming life sim that breaks from genre norms with its fully voice‑acted cast and story‑driven approach. Instead of creating your own avatar from scratch, you step into the shoes of Tara, who returns to her quiet island hometown after twenty years to help care for her grandmother’s farm. It doesn’t take long before Tara learns that her grandmother is actually a witch and that she may actually share the same abilities.
The gameplay blends farming, daily chores, witchcraft, and socializing with the townsfolk, delivering a satisfying loop that stays approachable but rewarding. You’ll harvest resources, upgrade tools, craft practical and magical components, and unlock new potions and spells. One especially clever design choice is the way seasons advance: they don’t run on a timer but instead shift only when you decide. That small twist removes a lot of pressure, giving you all the time you need to gather materials and finish tasks before moving on.
But the real magic of the game lies in its cast of unique characters. The town is filled with everyday villagers as well as a few supernatural‑leaning residents, all of whom initially see you as an outsider which means you will have to win them over. Each character has distinct stories, quirks, secrets, and requests, and the more time you spend with them, the more your relationships deepen, with some even blossoming into romance. These connections aren’t just optional side flavor; they actively push the story forward as you piece together what’s truly happening in the community and who’s genuinely on your side.
If you’re an Animal Crossing fan craving something with richer narrative layers wrapped in cozy farming gameplay, this one is absolutely worth your time. – Raymond Estrada
Quite possibly the most indie game to ever indie without being in voxels or 2D, in Loan Shark you play as a sad sack fisherman who owes a lot of money to a loan shark just waiting onshore to do serious damage to you and your loved ones if you don’t meet the payment deadline. To make a dent in a seemingly impossible debt ceiling, you just have to keep fishing like your life depends on it… because it does. Because this is a horror fishing game.
As a hapless fisherman desperate to pay off a debt, you’ll have to fish, fish, fish stuff out of the ocean from your ramshackle boat, gut your catch, and toss it in a chest for a payment that slowly chips away at an enormous bill you’ve racked up with the local crime-lord-slash-loan-shark. The waters are dark, the visuals are murky in a PS2 kind of way, and the controls are both simple and clunky at the same time. Don’t dive into this one expecting to marvel over technical gymnastics or pristine presentation – this is a game about making choices, being accountable for them, and of course, a creepy talking fish who offers you some potentially easy answers (which is also a choice for you to make). And that’s really it. Each run lasts around 45-ish minutes and, depending on how you handle yourself, can result in very different endings. I don’t really want to dish out any more info in order to avoid spoilers, as you kind of have to go into this one with an open mind, a willingness to persist with little to no guidance, and a robust imagination (to make up for those technical rough edges). But please do, fish away!
This game hits me with all the nostalgia dopamine. Late‑’90s and early‑2000s turn‑based JRPGs were absolutely my thing, and Hero Seekers takes that classic formula and elevates it with a clever premise, strong characters, and stylish presentation. Memory drives both the story and gameplay: you awaken in a world where humans have been enslaved by demons, and major historical events have been rewritten. You’re the only one who remembers the true past, and it’s up to you to recover forgotten heroes, restore what was erased, and save humanity.
Combat is turn‑based and built around smart party choices and resource management. You can field up to five unique heroes, and while most battles are straightforward, tougher enemies and status effects occasionally demand more strategy. Routine encounters can be handled automatically.
Where the game really shines is in its hero collection. You gain access to a wide roster early on, encouraging experimentation as you mix and match characters, build unique parties, and optimize skills so they complement one another. Along the way, you’ll meet several standout heroes with distinct backstories that unfold as you help them reclaim their memories.
Hero Seekers scratches that old‑school JRPG itch with intuitive gameplay and strong presentation, while adding its own twist through its hero‑collecting focus and memory‑driven narrative. I’d recommend it to anyone who loves memorable, classic‑style JRPGs. – Raymond Estrada
Overwatch narrative lead Miranda Moyer tells us more about The Reign of Talon: the first complete, year-long story arc for Overwatch.
The new narrative launches with immediate global conflict as Talon challenges Overwatch, and will introduce 10 new heroes, each woven directly into the unfolding story.
Get ready for an Overwatch story that keeps you at the edge of your seat, with non-stop action, evolving characters, and plot twists.
Today, Blizzard’s Overwatch Spotlight announced the start of an exciting new story‑driven era for Overwatch, highlighted by a year-long narrative arc called The Reign of Talon, all‑new UI/UX design, and much more. Be sure to check out the full video for all of the details. As an extra treat, we’re joined by Lead Narrative Designer Miranda Moyer to dive deeper into what this new story‑driven chapter means for Overwatch.
For the first time in Overwatch’s history, we’re telling a complete story.
I don’t say that lightly. Over the past decade, Overwatch’s narrative has been about possibility – introductions, hints, and setups. We’ve met heroes, discovered conflicts, and learned just enough to know there was something bigger happening beyond the edges of the screen. But this year, we’re doing something we’ve never done before: telling a story with a clear beginning, middle… and yes, an end.
That means things move. When something happens in the world of Overwatch now, it doesn’t sit untouched. Objectives are set, and met. You’ll see outcomes unfold across seasons. We’re finally seeing payoff for parts of the Overwatch world that you’ve maybe wondered about for years. This evolving story will be brought to life through a variety of mediums – including Hero Trailers, motion comics, and more – so you can experience each chapter in unique ways. All these pieces will be available on our dedicated narrative viewer, organized in chapters that guide you through the year’s epic narrative.
At the center of this year’s Overwatch narrative is a global conflict that’s impossible to ignore. Vendetta has seized control of Talon, overthrowing Doomfist and rejecting the clandestine nature in which he operated. Where Talon once skulked in the shadows, Vendetta believes in acting loudly, decisively, and without restraint. Her goal is explicit: she wants the world, and she believes Overwatch is the only force standing in her way. Because of that, we’re not winding up to conflict: we’re starting with it. Talon strikes early, attempting to remove Overwatch from the equation.
What’s fresh about the way we’re telling this story is how deeply our heroes are embedded in it. Every new character plays a direct role in the narrative. Those new faces are also a great vehicle to continue the stories of established ones. We’re touching so many parts of the world of Overwatch, and the more stories we develop, the more opportunities we’ll have to progress the journeys of heroes both new and longstanding.
One of the biggest highlights for Overwatch this year is the introduction of 10 new heroes. In Season 1, which begins February 10, you’ll meet five of them at once: each with their own narrative thread which helps set the tone for what’s to come.
Domina operates on the edges of Talon’s chaos, not publicly aligned with Vendetta (for fear of unsavory headlines), but more than willing to profit from the destruction she causes.
Emre is caught in a far more dangerous position, coerced into cooperation under the threat of catastrophic loss.
Mizuki finds himself torn between old obligations and the people who have become his family.
Anran enters the fight on Overwatch’s side, driven and connected to the story in deeply personal ways.
And then there’s Jetpack Cat, a long-running meme turned mobile support. She’s worth keeping an eye on, both for the future of her curious tale (tail?), as well as to make sure she isn’t knocking anything off counters.
This year’s narrative is about convergence—threads coming together, tensions peaking, and long-running questions colliding in ways that matter. Both established and new heroes will see movement in their stories, evolving amid this conflict. For Overwatch, this is the most ambitious narrative we’ve taken on. Each piece builds on the last, pushing characters and conflicts forward.
Join us on this new journey, and jump into Season 1 on February 10 and see it unfold for yourself.
Overwatch® 2
Blizzard Entertainment
☆☆☆☆☆ 2000
★★★★★
Xbox One X Enhanced
Xbox Game Pass
Overwatch 2 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.
Overwatch 2 – Season 20: Vendetta
Give the Gift of Vengeance
Embrace the season in a flurry of festivity with a new DPS Hero, Winter Wonderland modes, holiday event, merry Mythics, and more!
Season 20 carves a cold path with Vendetta, the ruthless new melee DPS villain fueled by ambition and revenge. But it’s not all frosty edges—celebrate the holidays in the return of Winter Wonderland! Make some merry Mischief & Magic on a whimsical new wintery map, with a midway mode twist where the props fight back in Mischief & Magic Wonderland. Earn Winter Tokens through the Winter Wonderland event to unlock festive holiday skins for Tracer, Junkrat, and Torbjörn, then step into Stadium for a fresh map with new Heroes, updates, and prizes. Top it all off with Mythic Divine Desperado Cassidy and Orisa’s Mythic Capsule Cannon packing a cascade of cheer, plus more frosty skins as you jingle all the way through Battle Pass tiers. ‘Tis the season to deck your enemies’ halls, claim your vengeance, and unwrap your rewards!
What would you like to say to your players after releasing Ninja Gaiden 4 this year?
Our deepest thanks to everyone who has played the game, from the Master Ninjas who have been supporting the series for a long time, to those who are playing the series for the first time! Our days were spent developing the game so that players can enjoy the series’ signature intensity and a variety of actions to overcome difficult situations, so I’m happy if you experienced even a bit of the game! I think the flavor of the action really comes through the more you play it, so please continue to enjoy the different characteristics of the two Master Ninjas, Yakumo and Ryu! – Hirayama
To everyone who has supported Ninja Gaiden over the years, and to those how have started playing the series from this entry, thank you for playing the game. I enjoy watching your gameplay videos and comments on social media every day. In this game, we aimed for the revival of pure action that transcends time, and the three companies put everything into developing it. The action is really exciting and it’s a stoically made game, so those of you who have played the game please continue to thoroughly study it… and those who haven’t played it yet, I’ll be thrilled if you give this feel good slash action a try! – Nakao
How does it feel to have the game out there after development?
First of all, to be able to deliver a new numbered title in the series after 13 years is something that our entire team is truly happy about. We continuously debated and adjusted the game towards its launch, and once it was released it felt like it passed in an instant so I didn’t feel anything immediately, but as I saw social posts and videos being posted every day, little by little I began to feel joy. – Hirayama
For our development team, there are many members who, during the golden age of slash action games, were players or were involved as developers. So, while we had confidence in the game itself, I felt more nervous and excited than I have ever been before. And my current feeling is of relief, since the action has been well received. – Nakao
Are there any stories about how players have engaged with your game that you’d like to reflect on?
For a long time, we were in the dark while developing this game but seeing everyone playing and reacting to it at gaming events was a big driving force in development, and we made use of it in the final adjustments towards launch. Thank you again for your support! Post-launch, we are checking every single piece of feedback, so please look forward to future in-game updates! – Hirayama
Although I’ve mentioned it several times, we’ve been receiving a lot of feedback that, “the action definitely feels good!”, and it’s the part we’ve put our most effort into, so I am extremely happy that everyone is pleased with it. In this game we’ve taken the big challenge of mixing the best parts of Ninja Gaiden with the best parts of PlatinumGames’ action, so nothing makes me happier than hearing everyone enjoying the action. – Nakao
What is your studio most looking forward to in 2026?
We are really looking forward to everyone playing “The Two Masters,” the additional content currently in development! In addition to new weapons for Yakumo and Ryu, we are planning on an additional story and other replayable content. We’re working hard to deliver it as soon as we can, so please wait a little bit longer! – Hirayama
There are many games coming out next year, and as always, several action games will be released, so as an action game maker we are looking forward to seeing these games. For us, in 2026 we are planning to release additional content for Ninja Gaiden 4, “The Two Masters,” which we are currently hard at work developing. Not only is there content such as a new story, but above all the new weapons for each character will provide a new play experience unlike any of the previous weapons, so we hope you look forward to it! – Nakao
The definitive ninja hack & slash franchise returns with NINJA GAIDEN 4! Embark on a cutting-edge adventure where legacy meets innovation in this high-octane blend of style and no-holds-barred combat.
Return of the Legend
Experience a return to the intense, high-speed combat that established NINJA GAIDEN as a premier action game series. Prepare for a legacy reborn with captivating style for a new generation of players.
Epic Hack and Slash Combat, Evolved
NINJA GAIDEN 4 fuses Team NINJA’s tempered combat philosophy with the stylish, dynamic action gameplay of PlatinumGames. Engage in visually stunning combat that rewards precision and strategy. Use Bloodbind Ninjutsu to transform your weapons and unleash devastation upon your enemies, alongside legacy techniques like the Izuna Drop and Flying Swallow. The legendary Ryu Hayabusa also returns with a revamped yet familiar set of tools to master. With a customizable player experience, NINJA GAIDEN 4 will push action game veterans to their limits while allowing newcomers to enjoy a heart-pounding adventure full of twists and turns.
An Ancient Enemy Returns
An endless rain of miasma hangs over a near-future Tokyo in the wake of an ancient enemy’s resurrection. The fate of the city lies in the hands of young ninja prodigy, Yakumo. Fighting his way through cybernetic ninja soldiers and otherworldly creatures, Yakumo must reconcile a destiny he shares with the legendary Ryu Hayabusa himself and free Tokyo from the ancient curse that brought the city to its knees.
Lords of the Fallen II revealed its first gameplay trailer at The Game Awards 2025.
Find out more about three new bosses included in the trailer in our article.
The final major patch for Lords of the Fallen (2023) is also now live, bringing major updates – including a new Veteran Mode.
The next chapter in this dark fantasy saga is gathering strength. Revealed today at The Game Awards, we unveiled the first ever gameplay trailer for Lords of the Fallen II, the long-awaited new soulslike RPG, arriving in 2026.
The trailer offers a first glimpse at three colossal bosses, a host of new foes, refined combat, and story-driven moments that pull players deeper into the battle-scarred land of Axiom. Cinematic glimpses of torment are woven with brutal combat, giving a glimpse of the merciless journey ahead, in a world sharpened by suffering, shaped by ruin, and ready to strike back.
Bosses are a huge part of Lords of the Fallen II so, once you’ve watched the trailer, join us as we break down the Heartroot Warden, Koydreth, and Lingao, the Souring Storm, as well as some of the smaller enemies you’ll meet in between.
Strange New Foes
The trailer opens with the Dark Crusader stepping toward a four-armed horror with a hollowed head and a chest glowing with an eternal flame. This creature is the Ashen Skin Stealer, a new Rhogar foe born for dueling. These inhuman hunters carve and collect human skin as treasured trophies, though none know where this grotesque ritual began. They fight with single minded ferocity and take pleasure in the slaughter of their enemies.
Moments later, a knight in horned armour hurls himself across the arena with crushing force. This is a Heartroot Warden, the first of the three bosses revealed. His attacks are relentless and heavy, driven by a chain-wrapped great sword that punishes hesitation. Only the most honoured Trelisi warriors were chosen for the sacred rite that twisted them into these undying guardians, their bodies fused within enchanted armour and stripped of humanity.
Through trickery and evasion, a winged figure slips through a rune etched mirror. This is Koydreth, once the respected leader of the Crescent Host. He is the second boss introduced. Cursed for a sin so grave it reshaped him in body and spirit, he now rules the skies with a monstrous elegance. He moves like a predator, both majestic and savage.
The Dark Crusader then stands before a vast draconic head. Lightning splits the air as its jaws descend. This is Lingao, the Souring Storm, the third and final boss revealed. Lingao commands the fury of the skies, wielding wind and lightning with terrifying speed. His massive frame sweeps across the battlefield, attacking from every direction.
Elsewhere we witness the player fire a crossbow bolt into a frenzied attacker. This is the Man of Letters, once a scholar, now a feral shell consumed by Umbral corruption. They charge with no thought for survival, driven only by blind hostility.
Then emerges the Hysteric, wearing a wicked grin and carrying twin axes in elongated arms. Wild, erratic, and constantly shifting their style, they keep players guessing with every strike.
These foes are only the beginning. Each is bound to the histories, cultures, and tragedies that have shaped Axiom. With Lords of the Fallen II, the team at CI Games has pushed enemy design further than ever before.
Lords of the Fallen: New Veteran Mode
Today, Lords of the Fallen also receives its final major update, Version 2.5. This patch introduces extensive behavior upgrades to bosses, mini bosses, and enemies throughout Mournstead across both Normal and the new Veteran Mode. Veteran Mode heightens the challenge further, granting bosses new attack patterns, swifter transitions, and far more unpredictable assault chains. Several boss weapons have also been reforged with new signature animations.
Coming Next Year
Launching in 2026, Lords of the Fallen II aims to deliver a darker, more demanding experience than anything we’ve made before. With evolved combat, fearsome new bosses, and a world swallowed by ruin, the sequel promises to test the resolve of every player.
For Xbox fans, this marks a powerful evolution of the franchise. Greater threats, deadlier encounters, and more strategic combat await those willing to brave the horrors rising within Axiom.
Lords of the Fallen II
CI Games
☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★
Realm by realm, nation after nation, the Umbral darkness consumed all in Her path. Now, over 1,000 years later, only one Kingdom remains; a sacred land, shrouded by an ancient force. Or so it was…
Stolen by the Gods themselves, mankind is left forsaken, defenceless against the darkness. Unless this force is restored, the shadow of death will devour all. But how do you kill… an immortal?
A hero must rise, for a God to fall.
Explore a Broken World
Journey across a vast, war-torn kingdom crumbling from within, as the realms of living and dead begin to bleed into one. From moonlit citadels to time-ravaged temples, tread carefully, for each step forward may well be your last.
Master Tactical Combat
Engage in intense, soulslike battles where every strike counts thanks to a fast, fluid and aggressive combat system. Whether steel or sorcery, melee or ranged, experiment with countless builds to overcome each unique enemy encounter before delivering an arena-drenching execution.
Battle Monstrous Bosses
Confront colossal abominations forged in a world without hope and void of mercy. Each distinct showdown will prove a brutal test of skill, grit, and unyielding will. Though aid is at hand, should you seek it…
Harness the Umbral
As bearer of the Umbral lamp, you have the ability to pass between the realms of the living and the dead, each with its own pathways, treasures, and of course, nightmarish creatures. But even greater, darker powers await you on this journey…
Welcome to Next Week on Xbox! In this weekly feature we cover all the games coming soon to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Xbox on PC, and Game Pass! Get more details on these upcoming games below and click their profiles for further info (release dates subject to change). Let’s jump in!
In forgotten lands shrouded by myth, Ro—a hunter from a small tribe—is overcome by grief following the death of her beloved son. Guided by voices from another world, she transcends into the realm of spirits, in hopes of bringing him back. Explore the realm of spirits and gather ingredients to craft cards from each region. Discover shamanic totems to enhance your deck and cast a variety of melee and ranged spells to balance your offensive and defensive skills. Each new card lets you tailor your tactical style while preparing for your next deadly encounter.
METAL GEAR SOLID Δ: SNAKE EATER Digital Deluxe Edition
The Beginning of it All. A remake of the 2004 game Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, with the same gripping story and engrossing world, now with all new graphics and 3D audio that enhance the jungle atmosphere. Get ready for the ultimate survival stealth action experience.
After arriving early for a big meeting with the mayor of a bizarre Northern English town, a traveling salesman takes the time to explore and meet the locals, who are all very eager to give him a series of increasingly odd jobs… Thank Goodness You’re Here! is a comedy slapformer, which unfolds over time as the players’ exploration and antics leave their mark on the strange town of Barnsworth. With each completed odd job, new areas of the town open up, stranger and stranger tasks become available, and the clock ticks towards our salesman’s big meeting. The town’s colorful inhabitants are brought to life with vibrant hand-drawn animation, fully voiced dialogue, and wall-to-wall double entendres.
Dunjungle
Astrolabe Games
☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★
Dunjungle – December 11 Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Optimized for Handheld / Xbox Play Anywhere
Dunjungle is an action-packed roguelite about a monkey hero, adventuring into a jungle under the menace of a corruptive power that is transforming its peaceful creatures and destroying everything on its way. You’ll explore continuously changing dungeons, temples, crypts, and other mysterious places, where you’ll find all sort of weird enemies and an arsenal of weapons, spells, and relics, granting you a different experience every time you play.
Experience the events of ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ brought to life through glorious pixel artwork and action-packed arcade gameplay! Play as Sarah Connor and the T-800 through a variety of thrilling missions as they take on the T-1000 and try to put a stop to Skynet’s plans before the human race is annihilated. Lead the Resistance as John Connor in the future, fighting on the front lines as mankind’s only hope in the War Against the Machines. In this unique story blending iconic scenes from ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ with original scenarios and multiple endings, humanity’s fate is yours to decide.
After graduating high school, Kaito returns to his hometown for one final summer before stepping into adult life. The ocean that once shaped his childhood memories now calls him back—and so do the two girls he once shared it with. In Beautiful Sakura: Surfing Club 2, Kaito reunites with his former surfing partners and close friends, Michiko and Yuuki. Once inseparable, the three drifted apart after the events of the first game. Now older, more confident, and carrying new dreams, they decide to revive the Surfing Club for one last unforgettable season.
When students Graff and Ott are invited to celebrate “Natal Untail,” a twisted take on Atlasia’s ancient tradition, they’ll discover that even in a decaying world, the greatest treasures are the values of sharing and friendship. This “Special” release adds interactivity through choices and consequences, designed exclusively for consoles. Part of the Brok the InvestiGator universe, this prequel introduces key characters and can be enjoyed as a standalone story.
Dig deep, sell what you find, update your equipment to continue your journey further and further. With every spadeful you dig, you get closer to the truth. There’s no rush, no rules – just you and the adventure underground. Costs as much as a coffee, but is fun for longer!
Sanctum Push is a charming pixel art sokoban adventure where you play as a brave paladin pushing enemies into their rightful places to restore peace to a corrupted castle. Every move counts, plan carefully, position your foes, and clear each room to advance through the sanctum’s ever-changing halls.
Acting alone, without back up or deadly weapons, a forensic analyst searches desperately for evidence to connect a spate of disparate murders to a single Serial Killer, in this highly pressured Survival Horror Game. Focused on the real-life practices of forensic analysts, She’s Leaving allows the player to understand and uncover the truth behind the evidence they find. Throughout, you begin to discover that there has always been a target on your back. Equipped with only a taser, the choice is up to you – are you going to run and hide, or stand and fight?
Snaky Snakes is an exhilarating game where the player controls a snake through randomly generated obstacles while collecting cherries. Each cherry increases the snake’s length and score. Additionally, the player can use cherries to purchase new environments such as Desert, Asia, and Ballroom from the in-game shop. The objective is to achieve the highest score possible and unlock all environments.
Unbeatable is an anime-juiced rhythm adventure where you (figuratively) destroy on stage while you (literally) destroy on stage. During rhythm gameplay, you only need two buttons: a button for up and a button for down. Simple to understand! The complicated part is doing it. Try not to get destroyed yourself. Half the game is walking around and taking things at your own pace. The other half is trying to keep up with ours.
New beautiful game about Love! In this puzzle you need to swap the tiles to indirectly control the hearts that move towards each other until blocked by a wall. Help hearts to have a date!
Montezuma’s Revenge – The 40th Anniversary Edition
Experience a timeless classic adventure now fully evolved and complete for the first time! The 1983 classic multi-room platformer Montezuma’s Revenge returns in 2.5D glory, and now Pedro’s adventure is bigger than ever with 100 tricky rooms to explore! For its 40th anniversary, what was once an unfinished game is now resurrected to match the full vision of creator Robert Jaeger. This time you can choose between male and female explorers, Pedro or his sister Rosita, to delve deep into the dangerous ruins and hunt for treasures untold!
Remember turning the living room into your own railway kingdom? Experience a bit of that magic with Teeny Tiny Trains – Build tracks, flip switches, and dodge playful obstacles to guide your trains home.
Cakey’s Twisted Bakery is a stealth survival horror where you must bake to survive. Trapped inside a deranged bakery crawling with sweet-toothed mascot monsters, you play as a lost child searching for your brother. Sneak through candy-colored corridors, gather bizarre ingredients, and craft color-coded pies that can stun and destroy your enemies. Hide under tables, time your moves, and uncover the dark secret behind the bakery’s grinning faces. One recipe at a time, fight your way out before you become the next dessert.
Now you can enjoy 4 RPGs: Monster Viator, Crystal Ortha, Armed Emeth, Justice Chronicles, in one bundle! In Monster Viator, recruit over 20 different monsters as your allies! Explore a fantastical world where you can almost hear the breath of life as you search for lost memories. In Crystal Ortha, an odd party race to uncover the legendary mother lode! Pixelated animations bursting with immersive intensity! Set your skills freely and engage in battles your way. In Armed Emeth, ride golems and hunt for bounties! A tale set in a wasteland filled with the scent of dust and oil. The key to victory lies in golem customization! Justice Chronicles is an epic saga carved alongside guardian beasts. Overcome meetings and partings, despair and hope, and face new history in unknown battlefields.
In Sintropia: Fruits Together, cooperation is the main ingredient! Control fruits with unique abilities and solve puzzles full of creativity and charm. Switch between fruits to press buttons, activate platforms, fans, and elevators, clearing the way so everyone can reach the goal.
The Santa Claus dating sim you can play all year round! You don’t know what’s worse: your love life or your toy store’s sales reports. Desperate for some yuletide loving (and some new customers!), you make a wish on a Christmas Star. That’s when your store is visited by not one, not two, but SIX Santa Clauses. Sexy Santa, Saintly Santa, Sleepy Santa, Sassy Santa, Sad Santa, Secret Santa… it’s simply Too Many Santas! Can you watch all of them and run the store at the same time? Or will you be caught up in the sweet Santa romance?
Experience the beauty of winter in Aery – Winter Wonderland, a relaxing and immersive adventure where you take flight as a graceful bird. Explore breathtaking snowy landscapes, glide through icy valleys, and uncover a heartwarming story. Your journey follows Frosty, a curious traveler searching for a legendary magical flower hidden deep within the frozen world. As you soar through the skies, you’ll collect shimmering crystals that reveal pieces of the story, guiding you through different winter-themed environments. Each level offers a unique atmosphere, from serene snow-covered forests to towering ice peaks and frozen lakes, all designed to create a peaceful and visually stunning experience.
Ascendance is a calming, relaxing and minimalist first person 3D Platformer. Shape your way with mysterious abilities and rise with the enchanted wind platforms beyond the skies within a world which evolves and transforms around you. A journey which leads through different ages of our world awaits you.
Inspired by the gritty atmosphere and taut suspense of 80s slasher films, Christmas Mutilator is a gripping, stealth-driven horror experience set in the chilly seclusion of a lonely, snow-covered cabin. You take on the role of Amelia, a loving mother and wife who has traveled to the remote cabin to celebrate Christmas with her husband, Adam, and kids. But when a murderous maniac starts stalking the cabin, your vacation plans take a terrible turn.
Return to Renaissance Florence and uncover an ancient secret of immortality. After a great war more than a decade ago, Europe lies in ruins, struggling to rebuild. In the heart of Florence, Italy, an ancient secret of immortality is buried deep within the city’s veins. A shadowy web spun over centuries, now slowly unraveling. Is the fabled salvation a blessing… or a curse? One day, you encounter a mysterious girl with snow-white hair and beauty eyes like a witch’s. From that moment, the gears of fate begin to turn.
Everyone’s favorite dinosaur with a gentle heart in the Jurassic Era, “Dino.” One day, indiscriminate slaughter by brutal dinosaurs has begun in a peaceful forest. “Dino” sees his lovely girlfriend, “Meeshell” and his friends trying to escape, and decides to fight for them. Curls up himself, transforms into a ball with hyper strong power, and attack the enemy dinosaurs! “Dino” is taking a step into his epic adventure to bring peace back to the sky, sea and earth.
Gravity Escape From The Maze throws you into a thrilling, gravity-bending adventure where every second counts. You play as a fearless little square with an extraordinary power: the ability to flip gravity at will. Dive into mind-twisting mazes packed with deadly traps, shifting platforms, hidden dangers, and fast-moving obstacles. Collect keys, outsmart the labyrinth, and push your reflexes to the limit as you race for survival. Every flip could save you — or send you straight into danger. Can you escape the maze before it escapes you?
In Knight with Tactics, every move is a challenge, every enemy a puzzle. Guide your knight through a world of traps, weapons, and enemies where brute force isn’t enough — you’ll need brainpower to survive. Plan your path, grab your weapon, and defeat your foes in the right order… or face defeat. Each level is a tactical test that pushes your problem-solving skills to the edge.
Military Logistics Simulator puts you behind the wheel of real-world military logistics. Rise from a low-ranking soldier to a seasoned quartermaster as you manage vehicles, expand your base, and take charge of critical supply lines. Deliver vital cargo and defend it from drone attacks, rescue survivors, and help rebuild a war-torn region after conflict — all in immersive first-person simulation. Play solo or with friends and earn your place, leading military operations from behind the lines.
The ancient elven home is under siege! Step into the quiver of Elara, an elite elven archer and master of the bow and magic arrows. The heart of the forest and its ancient magical essence are being drained by the Shadow Blight, a sudden and sinister invasion. Run, jump, and shoot your way through corrupted environments, facing sinister creatures to save your people from the imminent darkness.
Night Swarm is a vampire-themed roguelite RPG bullet hell where you play as a fearsome young vampire lord rising to power. Gather loyal allies, unleash devastating abilities, and fight back against the relentless werewolf hordes that threaten to consume the night.
Help the panda collect the bamboos in this precision adventure! In Panda Bamboo Adventure, you control a cute little panda who must dodge spears and traps while collecting its missing bamboos. Use your double jump and dash abilities to overcome tricky obstacles and reach new areas. Jump on enemies’ heads to defeat them and clear your path through this charming and challenging journey!
Pyramid Quest 2 is an exploration and treasure-hunting game inspired by classic platform games. The goal is to find the three parts of an artefact and open the gate to the next level while collecting diamonds and coins. Traps, obstacles, and enemies from old days make the quest very dangerous and challenging.
Yuma, a first-year high school student, was eating lunch he had bought when a beautiful senpai, Mio, appeared before him. She offered him a homemade bento, saying, “I couldn’t finish it.” Thus begins a bittersweet youthful love story. Their special lunchtime together on the bench behind the school gradually connects their hearts. Through jealousy and misunderstandings, a story of first love blossoms. Includes Japanese voice acting.
Space Elite Force II is a space-shooting game for up to 2 players in local cooperative mode. With a wide variety of weapons, enemies and improvements to your ship, it presents all the intensity, depth and beautiful handcrafted pixels of a classic space-shooting game. Have fun in insane battles, facing epic bosses and unlocking a wide variety of achievements in one of three game modes, alone or with a friend in local cooperative mode.
SpotCat vs The Cheddar Mafia Back To Past is a thrilling “Find-the-Difference” game with a hidden object twist. They’ve been caught on Earth. They’ve been chased through space. Now the Cheddar Mafia is breaking all the rules by going back in time! Travel across iconic eras, spot every difference, and foil their most absurd plan yet! Explore vibrant, hand-drawn scenes from distant galaxies, spot the subtle differences, and stay sharp—mafia rats can appear when you least expect it. Your mission? Find all 25 mafia rats, solve every scene, and restore the timeline before it’s too late!
Get ready for a treasure-filled adventure beneath the waves! Merge coins and gems to uncover riches beyond imagination! Discover maps that change how you play, each with its own unique shape and background. Can you master them all and merge the biggest treasure?
Welcome to Next Week on Xbox! In this weekly feature we cover all the games coming soon to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Xbox on PC, and Game Pass! Get more details on these upcoming games below and click their profiles for further info (release dates subject to change). Let’s jump in!
Tribute Games and Dotemu are teaming up again, in collaboration with Marvel Games, to craft an original, fresh beat ’em up. Featuring dynamic combat combos and dazzling pixel art, this planet-hopping adventure stands as a love letter to the Marvel Universe. Whether you’re teaming up with friends or family, Marvel Cosmic Invasion has you covered with local/online play and a drop-in/drop-out adaptive system. A cosmic battle awaits!
Start from zero and discover the newest entry in the Octopath Traveler series. Experience a story of restoration and retribution over the divine rings — an epic saga that unfolds across the realm of Orsterra. Enjoy familiar features such as the series’ HD-2D graphics, a fusion of retro pixel art and 3DCG; the player’s ability to roleplay using Path Actions of their choice; and the Break and Boost system that can turn the tide of battle. Additionally, brand-new features such as character creation and town building allow you to create your own character and restore your hometown.
Blood: Refreshed Supply follows Caleb, an undead gunslinger on a quest for revenge against his former demonic master, Tchernobog. Despite his once powerful position as a fearsome Cabal commander and one of Tchernobog’s “Chosen” few, Caleb and his fellow Chosen are betrayed by the dark god and slain for reasons unknown. Seeking answers and vengeance, Caleb rises from the grave to put a stop to Tchernobog and his murderous lieutenants once and for all.
ROUTINE
Raw Fury
☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★
Routine – December 4 Game Pass / Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Optimized for Handheld / Xbox Play Anywhere / Smart Delivery
Routine is a first-person sci-fi horror title set on an abandoned lunar base designed around an 80s vision of the future. Curious exploration turns into a need for survival when a lunar base goes completely quiet. Searching for answers puts you face to face with an enemy who is certain the main threat is you. Discoveries lead to deeper unknowns and the only way to go is forward.
Observe. Report. Survive the night. Monitor the surveillance system for anomalies and report them to survive the night. Use your sharp eyes and keen attention to detail to detect supernatural anomalies ranging from subtle environmental changes to eerie and unsettling otherworldly intruders. Can you survive the night shift, or will you succumb to paranoia…? I’m on Observation Duty 8 is the most ambitious title yet in the original viral franchise that ignited a trend in spot-the-difference horror games that have been loved by players and streamed for millions by legendary content creators.
You’re out of jail, but the debt isn’t gone. Sneak, steal, and break into houses solo or in 4-player co-op. Use lockpicks, sleeping gas, and brute force to complete jobs, outsmart security, and make enough money before time runs out. Will you pay back what you owe, or lose everything?
Seven centuries in the future, humanity is collapsing. In an attempt to spare yourself the same fate as the rest of the system, you flee to the furthest away place you can feasibly survive: Pluto. Survive the downfall of humanity in a centuries old survival bunker, or at least the first week. You crash land on Pluto, it’s the furthest away place you could reach that was apart of the CCOT’s emergency shelter program. It had been centuries since it was last used, which has left it needing maintenance. Ride out the Plutonian night while hiding from the end.
Brok, a former boxer turned detective, stumbles upon an underground bar hidden deep in the Slums. Old instincts kick in, and he jumps headfirst to prove he’s still top dog! (or…gator.) Solo or with a friend in co-op, take on creative challenges inspired by “Event matches” of platform fighters, taken to the next level with original addictive mechanics and variety. In this gritty-yet-humorous bar, meet unforgettable characters and uncover surprises around every corner as the story unfolds.
Step into the warm world of Cute Bonfire, a charming pixel-art puzzle game set inside a fireplace. Take control of a little fire spirit that moves tile by tile, pushing charcoal pieces to light up the bonfires. With 30 levels of gradually increasing difficulty, delightful visuals, and a cozy, relaxing atmosphere, Cute Bonfire is perfect for casual players who love the satisfaction of solving puzzles.
Elon and Friends: Winter Pack – 13 Games (Xbox+XPA+PC)
This winter celebration pack contains the following games: Elon and the Divine Proof, Green Soldiers Heroes, Extreme Bikers, Prison of Illusion, Super Snake Block DX, and SHMUP Mania. Windows (PC) versions are optimized for handheld PCs.
Sleep Awake is an immersive first-person psychedelic horror narrative experience that explores the realm between sleep and death. Submitted to perpetual insomnia, the denizens of the last known city on Earth are reaching a panic crisis of reckless experiments in an effort to avoid The Hush, the inexplicable disappearance of those who sleep. Playing as Katja, you must survive the devotees of various depraved death cults and desperately try to stay awake. Solve the puzzles of this mysterious world while avoiding the grasp of the death cults in an attempt to shatter the horrors of the past.
Slimeboo
Zakym s. r. o.
☆☆☆☆☆
★★★★★
Slimeboo – December 2 – Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Optimized for Handheld / Xbox Play Anywhere / Smart Delivery
Slimeboo is a simple and fun platformer game that is perfect for children of all ages. The game is controlled with a single button, making it accessible to even the youngest players. Boo, a small and adorable slime, has gotten lost on a tropical island. To find his way home, he must leap over all the obstacles in his path. Help him overcome them! Good luck!
Caput Mortum is a short first-person horror experience inspired by retro 3D dungeon crawlers and survival horror games. Delve into a tower of forgotten nightmares, where every step could be your last. Overcome horrors from beyond death and unlock the secrets of forbidden knowledge.
An evil Lich has tainted Mama Duck’s beloved pond and kidnapped her ducklings! Arm up and beat him once and for all in this QuackMan roguelite – storm through dungeon mazes to rescue her family! With classic arcade controls and a twist – an attack button that lets you smash walls and enemies – you’ll fight back against the Lich and his army in no time!
Embark on a journey through the depths of a lost ancient jungle temple. Start your journey through the depths of a forgotten jungle temple. Match colorful balls, unlock powerful power-ups, and construct your own temple as you progress. Choose between adventure and endless modes, immersing yourself in classic match-3 gameplay!
A pirate turned into octopus. Can you break the curse? OctoCurse is an action platformer following the story of a pirate captain who has been turned into an octopus by an evil spirit. The little octopus embarks on the quest to save the rest of his crew and reverse the curse. Experience epic pirate adventure. Explore levels, collect coins, unlock doors and climb the mysterious tower as you get closer and closer to the final showdown. Make your way through the tropical jungle, brave the harsh winter, weather the storm and endure other exciting environs. Save your friends and meet new ones along the way.
Classic sokoban with a twist and a sci-fi theme! A scientific organization sends a robot-expeditor developed on artificial intelligence to the newly discovered exoplanet Xeran, on which, most likely, there are very valuable resources for humanity.
Explore a heartfelt and thought-provoking tale of bittersweet homecoming! As Elias returns to the coastal town that once sheltered him, he’s pulled into a slow winter of connection, memory and quiet decisions. Take the role of this young man and guide the choices he makes, surrounded by the warmth of townspeople young and old, often holding conversations in a bookstore over shared coffee.
Step into the shadows of New York City in Yakuza: Shadows of New York, a gripping action-adventure where the old codes of honor clash against the forces of modern corruption. Become Kaito Nakamura, a skilled enforcer on a mission to find his missing mentor while navigating the city’s dark and treacherous underbelly.
Baseless is a challenging planet-jumping shooter. Blast from planet to planet with 360° gravity, creatively demolishing every enemy in your path. Fire powerful weapons, rescue cute friends, and discover a galaxy worth fighting for!
Detective – Rainy Night puts you in the shoes of Iker Carmona, a police officer investigating a string of strange disappearances. After a long drive, Iker decides to spend the night at a small roadside motel called the Holiday. What begins as a quiet stop quickly spirals into something far more sinister.
Finding America: The Heartland Collector’s Edition
Strap on your seatbelts for a trip to America’s Heartland! From South Dakota’s monumental Mount Rushmore to the humble farmhouses of Kansas, this lovely slice of American pie will have something just for you. Visit jazz bars in Illinois, Wisconsin’s cheese shops, and stunning national parks, all as lovingly crafted Hidden Object Scenes and challenging Minigames! Complete each chapter, unlock tons of trivia, and enjoy everything the Heartland has to offer in this all-American Hidden Object game!
Your daughter is missing. The world is gone. Only the Mist remains. In Mist, a devastating crash marks the beginning of your descent into a world lost to alien terror. As a father, you search desperately for your child—but what you find instead is a crumbling world buried in fog, crawling with monsters beyond comprehension. This is no ordinary RPG. Mist fuses idle progression, visceral real-time combat, and an evolving horror narrative into a genre-defying experience. As you explore the ruins of civilization, you’ll form a pact with a mysterious alien being that grants you strength—at a cost. Level up, mutate, and unlock terrifying new abilities as you battle grotesque creatures and uncover long-buried truths.
The Phantom is an arcade-style beat-em-up coming to PC and consoles. Play as the Phantom or his partner, Diana Palmer, in this 14-level adventure. The feared pirates of the Singh Brotherhood are battling for power and threatening the Phantom’s legacy, and it’s up to you to stop them. Use your hand-to-hand fighting skills and trusty weapons to dispatch this evil, and call in assistance from your animal friends Fraka the falcon and Devil the wolf. The Phantom features a brand-new story approved by King Features. Experience this canon addition through full-screen cut scenes and captivating in-game visuals, hand-illustrated and animated frame-by-frame by seasoned comic book artists and Art Of Play’s dedicated in-house 2D creative team.
A warrior on a mission to rescue last human remnants. What’s left of humanity are minds trapped in circuits. You are awaken as ReSetna, a warrior on a mission to rescue last human remnants. Explore seven hostile zones, face seven brutal bosses and evolve through a unique upgrade system. Uncover horrifying truth and decide if the future is worth saving.
Experience interaction in a new and engaging way. Choose to respond to what the characters have to say… directly! Deal with your own hostage situation, negotiate for more than just your freedom. Learn about the people who hold you captive, deconstruct the cult, manipulate them- all to not end up as their next sacrifice.
Your veterinary adventure begins at the wildlife park! Help injured and sick animals such as horses, deer, ducks, donkeys, goats, rabbits, and many more. With a great deal of empathy, you examine symptoms, make diagnoses, and treat over 30 different diseases. Each animal has individual needs and is waiting for your expert help. Use modern instruments, accompany your patients’ recovery step by step, and experience a varied everyday life in the animal park. Intuitive controls, realistic treatments, and lovingly animated animals make this game a highlight for young animal lovers.
Connect It is a clever, visually striking puzzle game that challenges you to link matching colors scattered across a grid. Your mission? Draw connections between all the pairs—without crossing paths. It sounds simple… until it’s not. With over 200 handcrafted levels, each one more intricate than the last, Connect It constantly surprises with new layouts and clever twists. The controls are intuitive, the gameplay is smooth, and every solved puzzle delivers that satisfying “aha!” moment.
With his children away on the moon, there is no time to relax for Dr. Cavor. Once again, Victoria is under attack. The aging but brilliant scientist begins research on a new means of defense. After much work, he finds success with Mechanized Assault Unity 19 — M.A.U.S.
Pixapple Adventure is a colorful pixel-art platformer starring a brave little apple with arms and legs! Run, jump, and collect all the stars to open the portal and reach the next level. Across three vibrant worlds — Forest, Snow, and the Valley of Fear — the challenge increases as you progress. Simple, fast, and fun, Pixapple brings back the joy of classic platformers with a charming twist.
Santa’s World is a jump-‘n-run Christmas game inspired by classic platform games. The goal is to find the three lost Christmas gifts and go to the next level while collecting items. Traps, obstacles, and enemies make the quest very challenging. Find snowballs and throw them at enemies to remove them. 3D graphics packed in a nice graphics style, great 2.5D levels and proven gameplay gives you hours of fun.
The year is 1996 and you’re employed by a science lab called Nova Nexus. You work as a security guard at the front gate to the lab, inside a guard booth. However, tonight it seems something important is happening inside of Nova Nexus and things are… well… a little strange. Your job is simple. you must make sure that only the right authorized personnel are getting into the facility. To do this, when a car arrives at the gates, it is your job to go and talk with the driver and check their license plate. Make sure that the person is on the employee register by finding the license plate on the register. If the person is not on the register you must tell them to leave. Make sure to only open the gates to employees and keep the gate closed at all times.
Inspired by 80s and 90s classics, Speed Factor is an old-school racing game with pixelated graphics, arcade driving style, exhilarating punk rock music, and some awesome classic cars! Customize the difficulty level and traction assist level to your personal tastes to make the game as easy or challenging as you want. Cruise through 50 different tracks spread across 5 locations! Win races and earn money to level up and improve your ride!
Get ready for non-stop fun in Stacky Dash! Slide to collect tiles, build paths, and race through colorful levels full of exciting surprises. Dodge blasting cannons, and zip through portals as you conquer each tricky stage! Save adorable animals to grow your own zoo and take on timed challenges to test your speed. With tons of cool skins to unlock, every level is packed with energy and fun!
Fix, build and renovate highly detailed and fully interactive tanks (German, USA or Soviet), armored cars or self-propelled guns. Experience a realistic simulator game of being a Tank Mechanic. Find abandoned and destroyed tanks from battlefields of Second World War. Use special tools to find each tank, and extract it from the ground. Grow your repair service business and start your own tank museum.
Players should check out the BCX event for exciting new announcements, as well as play the free in-game anniversary event.
Managing Director Zeke Sparkes reflects on the early days of the game, how it’s grown to a community over 125 million players strong, and keeping the community at the core of the game’s vision.
Brawlhalla, the free-to-play platform fighting game, is celebrating its 10th anniversary since launching its open beta in 2015. What started as an indie game with five playable Legends has grown into a pillar of the fighting game community, with 67 playable Legends; a plethora of maps and biomes; crossovers with popular IP such as Star Wars, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and Halo, among many others; and over 125 million lifetime players.
Each year, around its anniversary, Brawlhalla celebrates in two ways: an in-game anniversary celebration, and the in-person Brawlhalla World Championship Expo (BCX). BCX 2025 is taking place at the Gateway Center in Atlanta, GA from November 21-23, and will feature world-class competitive Brawlhalla, announcements of what’s coming in 2026, and an expo packed with dev panels, cosplay, and more.
The in-game anniversary event runs now through December 3: a month-long celebration of Brawlhalla featuring new content, community events, rewards, and surprises. The festival introduces a new Legend – a cleric named Lady Vera – as well as the long-awaited Guild feature, which allows players to build community in new and exciting ways. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a new player, Brawlhalla’s 10th anniversary is the perfect time to log in, join a Guild, and brawl it out in the arena.
Zeke Sparkes is Brawlhalla’s managing director, and he’s been a developer on the game since its inception. We spoke to him to learn more about Brawlhalla’s beginning, how it’s continued to grow over the past decade, and how the team kept the player community at the core of the game’s vision.
What can you tell us about Brawlhalla’s early days of development and the vision for the game?
It was exciting because we realized pretty early on that we had something that had legs, but we didn’t know how far it could go. So, we poured our hearts into it and built really strong ties with the community early on. We knew, especially being free to play, that we had to be talking and listening and adapting based on what the community was saying. And so, we put ourselves out there and it’s been a wild ride seeing how far we can go.
Has the approach to development changed in the last decade?
I’d say the mentality is still the same. It’s a team that loves the game – everybody is here because they want to be working on Brawlhalla, and we are connected to the community. We’re constantly finding new ways to listen to the community and figure out what we can do to tweak the game, keep people interested and excited, see what things we’re doing that are working well, and what things we’re doing that aren’t working so well that we need to update. We’ve had a constant commitment to that.
Over the years, we’ve gone from launching just on Steam, where we could patch two, three, four, five times a week – really, really fast – to being on every major platform. That adds a layer of logistics we didn’t have early on; we have to plan a bit further ahead. So, the processes changed a little bit, but the heart and mentality are still the same.
As you’ve mentioned, community is a huge part of Brawlhalla, and being connected to the community has been the plan since day one. How did you build that community relationship? Was there any surprising feedback?
One of the first things we did was stream the game on Twitch, even before we really understood what Twitch was or how to do a good stream. We knew that it was going to be important, and it was one of the first times you could get real-time feedback from players as a developer, which was really exciting.
Because of that connection, we had a really big change early on. Originally, the game wasn’t character-focused; you would build an avatar and then spec out exactly how you wanted your character to be based on the weapons we dropped for you during gameplay. The early feedback told us the prototype was cool, the combat’s fun, but characters were missing. That’s when we started to think about pivoting to a character-centric game and started figuring out what archetypes we could add based on what we had made. We started with five Legends and released the 67th this month.
Now, we’ve got a full-on livestream studio with a set and awesome production values and motion graphics, but the core of the experience is still there, where it’s us talking to the community about what we’re doing, what’s going on, seeing how they react to stuff, and listening to the things they want to see in the game. That’s how we keep Brawlhalla moving forward.
Brawlhalla’s World Championship Expo (BCX) is taking place November 21-23 in Atlanta. What can fans expect this year?
That is the place to tune into. You get the best Brawlhalla gameplay in the entire world, and it just gets better every year. It’s incredible – the atmosphere is amazing, and it’s where we make some of our biggest announcements and reveals. We’ve got some really good ones lined up this year (I’m thinking of a couple now that are going to make people go crazy), so make sure you tune in on twitch.tv/Brawlhalla.
Any reflections on the past decade you’d like to share? What’s up next for Brawlhalla?
Lady Vera, our 67th Legend, is out now. She’s a cleric with some really interesting signature moves, and you can do some pretty fun stuff with her. She has a lot of radial skills, so depending on where you are when you do the move, the direction that your opponent goes can change pretty dramatically. So, if you’re creative, this really is a character for you. We’ve also just released phase one of our Guilds feature, which is a long-time player request. You’ll be able to build your community of players around a Guild that works across all different platforms, and that’s just phase one. We’ll continue to add cool, new, engaging mechanisms to Guilds as we move forward. Tune into BCX 2025 for more specifics of what’s to come!
I’d also like to say that building Brawlhalla with this team and with the community has been amazing. Over the past decade, players have shaped this game’s direction, fueled its esports scene, and fostered a welcoming space for brawlers of all backgrounds. The Anniversary Event is as much a celebration of the community as it is of the game itself. It’s exactly what we love to do and we’re so thankful for everybody that’s been on this journey with us whether you’re brand new today or you’ve been playing Brawlhalla since the closed alpha. We’re super excited that there’s a community of people that love the game and love what we’re doing.
Brawlhalla is free to play on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One.
Brawlhalla
Ubisoft
☆☆☆☆☆ 1015
★★★★★
An epic platform fighter for up to 8 players online or locally. Try casual free-for-alls, ranked matches, or invite friends to a private room. And it’s free! Play cross-platform with millions of players on PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android and Steam! Frequent updates. Over fifty Legends._x000d_
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The Legend Rotation of nine free to play characters changes every week, and you can earn gold to unlock more Legends by playing any online game mode. _x000d_
Includes: Orion Legend unlock, Dark Age Orion Skin, Thumb’s Up Emote, Trident Weapon Skin._x000d_
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Brawhalla will always be 100% free to play with no pay-to-win advantages.
