Astral Throne high fantasy SRPG roguelike coming April 4 to Steam!

Ontario, Canada – March 20, 2024. The team at Zero Sun Games is thrilled to invite all strategy and RPG fans to dive into the realm of Astral Throne with an all-new demo launching on Steam on April 4, 2024!

The upcoming demo will focus on Act I of Astral Throne, showcasing its unique blend of roguelike progression, turn-based battles, and epic fantasy narrative. The announcement is accompanied by a new trailer that offers a glimpse into the enigmatic universe of Astral Throne and the twist it puts on the familiar genre.

Watch the new Astral Throne trailer:

Dubbed ‘the roguelike Fire Emblem’, Astral Throne merges grid-based combat of classic SRPGs (Strategy Role-Playing Games) with the exhilarating randomness of roguelike adventures. Every playthrough offers a strategic challenge and peels back another layer of the game’s overarching narrative puzzle. Developers draw on the rich legacy of legendary titles like Fire Emblem and Final Fantasy Tactics, blending it with genre-defining roguelikes such as FTL and Slay the Spire to craft an experience that feels equally nostalgic and novel.

In Astral Throne, you step into the boots of a Hero on a journey through a mysterious island kingdom. Ever since the realm was struck by a falling star, it has been shrouded in mind-warping fog. The few explorers lured to the island’s mystery seldom survived. Those who did share fragmented visions of a cult that took over the royalty and embraced the worship of the Fallen Star.

Since its inception in 2022, Astral Throne has been generating excitement among RPG and strategy enthusiasts, drawing comparisons to titles such as Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance. Zero Sun Games also achieved praise at last year’s Indie Cup Canada festival, with the jury commending Astral Throne’s in-depth mechanics and handcrafted combat scenarios.

Once the demo is available on April 4, developers will invite the players to share their feedback on the game, helping Zero Sun Games shape Astral Throne into a true genre landmark. The Fallen Star awaits!

Key Features

  • Strategically Rich, Deceptively Simple. Engage in grid-based battles that evolve from straightforward confrontations into intricate strategic puzzles. Master the synergy between units, the arsenal at your disposal, and the abilities of each hero to secure your triumph.

  • A World That Never Stays the Same. Your choices lead to significantly different outcomes, shaped by random skills, characters, loot, and story events. True to its SRPG heritage, Astral Throne features permadeath for every unit, adding weight to every decision and battle.

  • Handcrafted Tactical Encounters. Developers meticulously designed every battle scenario to present a distinct strategic challenge. Though the path you take through the island is random, no two encounters ever feel the same.

  • A Puzzle-Like Narrative. Each playthrough is an individual ‘what if’ scenario that shakes up character relationships and narrative arcs, revealing pieces of a grand, overarching mystery you have to solve through replay and exploration.

  • A Realm of High Fantasy. Step into the world of a fallen kingdom veiled in Stardust Fog, a land of lost memories and faded glory. Accompanied by a stirring orchestral soundtrack, Astral Throne invites players on an epic, emotional journey.

Factsheet

About Zero Sun Games

Zero Sun Games is a video game development studio based in Ontario, Canada. Co-founded by a group of talented and passionate friends, the studio is focused on creating a diverse range of games in various genres for a wide audience of gamers.

Links

Article by: Susan N.



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Foundry is launching in Early Access on May 2nd

Players will be able to experience the 3D voxel-based factory builder soon


Stockholm and Vancouver, March 20 - Today, Paradox Interactive and Channel 3 Entertainment are thrilled to announce that Foundry will be launching in Early Access on Steam on May 2nd. Foundry, the procedurally-generated voxel factory-building and automation sandbox, already garnered 100,000 players during its alpha phase on Itch.io and its demo on Steam Next Fest in October 2023.

Foundry is a first-person, factory-building and automation sandbox set in a beautiful, procedurally-generated voxel world. Starting from humble beginnings of manually mining and processing resources, crafting machinery, and developing technologies, players can advance to automating the entire production line to their precise plans. They will face different logistic challenges such as planning pipe and belt networks and managing complex power systems, working to expand their constantly growing production lines as they create their own gigantic, automated, and self-sustaining factory. Played solo or with friends, Foundry is the perfect mix between grid-based construction games and factory building simulations.



About Channel 3 Entertainment

Channel 3 Entertainment is a new studio built by Patrik Meder, the original creator of Foundry and industry veterans Mark Laprairie and Johann Seidenz. Their previous experiences include critically and publicly acclaimed Oxygen Not Included and Don’t Starve Together. They are currently working on the development of Foundry.

About Paradox Interactive

Paradox Interactive is one of the premier developers and publishers of strategy and management games for PC and consoles. The players are located all over the world but some of the biggest markets are North America, Western Europe and Asia.

The game portfolio consists of popular franchises such as Stellaris, Europa Universalis, Hearts of Iron, Crusader Kings, Cities: Skylines, Prison Architect, the Surviving games, Age of Wonders and Victoria. Paradox Interactive also owns the World of Darkness brand catalog.

For more information, please visit http://www.paradoxinteractive.com

 

Article by: Susan N.



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Simon The Sorcerer Origins Overview Trailer NOW LIVE!

The prequel to the iconic 90s point-and-click graphic adventure is back with brand new content featured in the Future Games Show earlier today.

Chris Barrie, the original voice of Simon, heard for the first time, plus exclusive scenes and partnerships - including pop legend Rick Astley.

 

Milano, March 21, 2024 – An all-new overview trailer for Simon the Sorcerer Origins, the prequel to the iconic point-and-click adventure from the 1990s, developed by  Smallthing Studios and supported by publisher Leonardo Interactive, has premiered as part of the Future Games Show Spring Showcase.

Simon the Sorcerer Origins is an all-Italian project that immediately won over Simon and Mike Woodroffe, the original creators of Simon the Sorcerer, who enthusiastically welcomed the team’s desire to create the adventures of the young sorcerer in a nostalgic, yet modern game.

The overview trailer includes brand new gameplay scenes featuring British actor Chris Barrie, the original voice actor of the main character, and music from the soundtrack composed by Mason Fisher.

Simon the Sorcerer Origins is being lovingly created by a team of 80 professionals, dedicated to delivering a new adventure worthy of continuing the Simon the Sorcerer legacy with 15,000 hand-drawn frames.

Finally, the participation of pop legend Rick Astley, with his hit Together Forever, is just one of the many reasons Simon the Sorcerer Origins is one of the most anticipated releases of the year.

Simon the Sorcerer Origins will be available in 2024 on all major console platforms and PC, and will be localized in several languages, offering players worldwide the possibility to experience an epic adventure.
 

More information:
Website Leonardo Interactive: https://leonardointeractive.com/
YouTube Leonardo Interactive: https://www.youtube.com/@leonardointeractive2528
Instagram Leonardo Interactive: https://www.instagram.com/leonardointeractive/
Facebook Leonardo Interactive: https://www.facebook.com/leonardointeractive

 

Website Smallthing Studios: https://smallthingstudios.com/ 
Instagram Smallthing Studios: https://www.instagram.com/smallthingstudios/

 

About Leonardo Interactive
Leonardo Interactive is a video game publisher based in Rome, Italy, that has produced and published award-winning titles on all major platforms. Selling games on both physical and digital format, the company has released several noteworthy titles, including Dry Drowning®, Willy Morgan and the Curse of Bone Town®, Hell Architect® and Shattered Heaven®. Leonardo Interactive will soon release Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle® and Simon the Sorcerer Origins®. For more information, visit: https://leonardointeractive.com/
 

About Smallthing Studios
Founded by Massy Calamai (Co-Founder, President and Game Director) and Stefano Campodall'Orto (Co-Founder e CTO) in 2018, Smallthing Studios is a holding company structured on three locations:  the creative studio in Liguria, Italy, the technical studio in Gorizia, Italy, and an office for more strategic activities in Cupertino, California.  The company is developing several licensed titles and multi-platform (console and PC) AA and A titles. Currently working on Simon the Sorcerer Origins®. For more information, visit: https://smallthingstudios.com/
 

 

Article by: Susan N.



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Acclaimed ENDER LILIES Sequel “ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist” Ascends into Early Access On PC

TOKYO – March 25, 2024 – ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom In The Mistthe sequel to the critically-acclaimed dark fantasy metroidvania fairy tale ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights, which sold more than 1.4 million copies from publisher Binary Haze Interactive as well as developers Adglobe and Live Wire, launches today on PC via Steam Early Access.
 
A king’s desire for expansion leads to the creation of artificial intelligence known as the Homunculi. However, tragedy strikes when mysterious toxins rise from beneath the Land of Fumes driving the human-like machines to madness. As mankind flees for safety, Lilac, the “Attuner” who can purify corruption from unnatural souls, rises to the occasion. But who will Lilac save — the humans or the Homunculi?
 
Slay multitudes of mechanical monsters with the help of the Spirit Reaper who fights at Lilac’s command. Convert enemy bosses into allies by purifying their souls, then employ their skills to add 30 enhanced attack and movement abilities to Lilac’s disposal. Level up abilities at rest points, and equip up to four friendly powers at once to adjust to any combat situation.


Combine double-jumps with special movement abilities to traverse crumbling ruins, and search for relics and lore-filled notes chronicling the Kingdom’s downfall. Collect gold and spare parts scattered across abandoned cities, decrepit dungeons, deserted laboratories, and abandoned sorcerer academies. Then, visit the Blacksmith to trade resources for weapons and stat-boosting items.
 
Delight in the enchanting tunes by returning musical group Mili (ENDER LILIESGhost in the Shell). ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist’s original soundtrack will be available for purchase at a later date.
 
Adventure at any pace through a hand-drawn enthralling atmosphere, and witness nightmarish memories through cutscenes that reveal Lilac’s mysterious origins. Today’s Early Access launch invites intrepid explorers to see ENDER MAGNOLIA’s beginning and first third of content planned for 1.0. The 1.0 launch will include hours of added content, including additional abilities, enemies, biomes, bosses, and much more. 
 

“The feedback we received from the ENDER LILIES community has been a major contributor to the development of ENDER MAGNOLIA,” says Hiroyuki Kobayashi, CEO, Binary Haze Interactive. “We encourage everyone to lend their voice during Early Access, and . we have much more to share at 1.0, stay tuned!”
 
ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in The Mist is now available on PC via Steam Early Access for $19.99, with the 1.0 launch arriving on PC via Steam, PlayStation 4|5, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch in 2024 with language options in Japanese, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese (Simplified & Traditional), and Korean-language support.

For more information, please visit the ENDER MAGNOLIA - Bloom in The Mist - official website, follow ENDER LILIES on TwitterFacebook, and Instagram, as well as Binary Haze Interactive’s official account on Twitter.

About Binary Haze Interactive

Binary Haze Interactive, founded in 2020 by Hiroyuki Kobayashi, is a production and publishing company located in Tokyo, Japan, Starting with ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights, Binary Haze publishes games with a focus on atmospheric settings for major consoles and PC. 

 #EnderMagnolia #Metroidvania #Indiegame

Article by: Susan N.



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Japanese Horror Invades Fortnite! Mondrian's Yokai BOX PVP Now Open, Overseas Creators Wanted

Tokyo, Japan – Mondrian Corporation, a pioneering Metaverse company based in Tokyo, proudly announces the release of Yokai Box PVP. Developed by their award-winning team known for creating immersive experiences across major platforms like Fortnite, Minecraft, Roblox, and Zepeto, Yokai Box PVP offers players a unique blend of Japanese folklore and competitive play.

Yokai BoxPVP is not just a game; it's an entry into a haunted Japanese world where mythology comes to life. Players transform into Yokai, legendary spirits with unique powers, battling it out to become the last spirit standing. The game supports up to 16 players and features a meticulously designed horror-style map (MAP CODE: 2412-8654-0437), promising an unparalleled multiplayer experience.

For a closer look at the gameplay, Fortnite players are invited to watch the official gameplay video, showcasing the thrilling dynamics and unique features of the game, available on Mondrian Corporation's official YouTube channel.


In conjunction with the game’s release, Mondrian is extending an exclusive invitation to Fortnite creators worldwide to join their community. The company seeks enthusiastic creators to test upcoming Mondrian releases, provide valuable feedback, and explore collaboration opportunities.

Joining Mondrian's Discord server opens doors to interact with some of the most creative minds in Japan Metaverse, gain early access to Mondrian's latest games, and potentially collaborate with Japanese companies to create new experiences for audiences worldwide.

About Mondrian Corporation:

Mondrian Corporation, led by CEO Kakuda, is a pioneer in the metaverse industry. Backed by collaborations with major Japanese entities like Tokyo Dome, TV stations, and Wakayama City, Mondrian excels in tourism promotion, esports experiences, and groundbreaking events like the Metaverse Creator Awards (MCA). Their expertise spans multiple platforms, offering comprehensive services from content creation to community building within the metaverse.

For more information about Mondrian, visit Mondrian Website.

 

Article by: Susan N.




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Hardcore platformers Hellstuck and Diamond Hands are now on Nintendo Switch

Hellstuck: Rage With Your Friends and Diamond Hands: To The Moon are two hardcore retro-style platformers that are just hitting the Nintendo Switch. The games are distinguished by their demanding gameplay based on precise jumping. Both titles were previously released on PC, where they were well-received by players.

The creation of Hellstuck: Rage With Your Friends and Diamond Hands: To The Moon is the work of the independent Terror DogStudio, which also has titles like the cooperative survival horror Ultimate Zombie Defense to its credit. The versions for Nintendo Switch were prepared by the Polish company Ultimate Games S.A., which is also the publisher of both titles. The platformers are available in the Nintendo eShop both individually and in a more affordable bundle, the Rage Quit Bundle.

Hellstuck: Rage With Your Friends also on Switch. It's time to escape from hell!

Hellstuck: Rage With Your Friends is a challenging platform game where the player starts in the deepest abysses of hell. The main goal is to escape from the 9 circles of hell, which will require precise jumping. The title is distinguished by its dark graphics and retro-style music.

The gameplay in Hellstuck: Rage With Your Friends is based on simple principles – the player can only move sideways and jump upwards. The key to success, or escaping the successive circles of hell, lies in precisely timed jumps. The game requires not only dexterity but also good planning of jumps, as one wrong move can result in a long fall.

The platformer created by Terror Dog Studio offers a single-player mode, and in local co-op mode, 2 players can play simultaneously.

The release date for Hellstuck: Rage With Your Friends on Nintendo Switch is set for March 6, 2024. The game is also available on PC (Steam).

Links for Hellstuck:

Hellstuck: Rage With Your Friends | Nintendo Switch Trailer:

https://youtu.be/k6bnE3cz3fM

Hellstuck: Rage With Your Friends (Nintendo eShop):

https://www.nintendo.com/store/products/hellstuck-rage-with-your-friends-switch/
https://www.nintendo.com/store/products/rage-quit-bundle-switch/

Hellstuck: Rage With Your Friends (Steam):

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1559570/Hellstuck_Rage_With_Your_Friends/

Challenging platformer Diamond Hands: To The Moon is now on Nintendo Switch

In Diamond Hands: To The Moon, players are offered a unique opportunity to reach the Moon. This is an unconventional platformer with simple premises but is challenging to master. Its retro-style graphics add a distinctive character to this demanding platform game.

The gameplay in Diamond Hands: To The Moon focuses on timed jumps, allowing players to ascend to increasingly higher regions. Precision, calmness, and agility are crucial for success. Terror Dog Studio has prepared a variety of levels to overcome, humorously referencing themes like the stock market and a realm of chickens.

The title offers fun for single players and a local co-op mode for 2 players.

Diamond Hands: To The Moon was released on Nintendo Switch on March 6, 2024, and is also available on PC (Steam).

Links for Diamond Hands: To The Moon:

Diamond Hands: To The Moon | Nintendo Switch Trailer:

https://youtu.be/37WexoV4Z6U

Diamond Hands: To The Moon (Nintendo eShop):

https://www.nintendo.com/store/products/diamond-hands-to-the-moon-switch/
https://www.nintendo.com/store/products/rage-quit-bundle-switch/

Diamond Hands: To The Moon (Steam):

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1727810/Diamond_Hands_To_The_Moon/

About Terror Dog Studio:

With a wreath of combined talent across the games industry, the Terror Dog team is made up of a select few who have proudly worked on some of the greatest games to ever hit the market, including Warhammer 40,000 & Total War titles. Terror Dog collaborates from Belfast, Northern Ireland & London from the United Kingdom.
 

Article by: Susan N.


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Merge with the Shadows to find the Truth in Ereban: Shadow Legacy this April 10 on PC


Baby Robot Games Proudly Debuts with a Third-Person Fast Paced Stealth Adventure set in a Decadent and Beautiful World

BARCELONA – March 13, 2024 – The young small independent studio Baby Robot Games is happy to announce that, after 5 years of hard work, their debut title Ereban: Shadow Legacy will be arriving to Steam and Epic Games Store on April 10

This fast-paced, story-driven stealth platformer combines stunning visuals and innovative third-person shadow merging mechanics in a morally grey universe. The game introduces an innovative mechanic to the stealth genre: the ability of merging with the shadows (or Shadow Merge), that gives the main character Ayana an extraordinary level of mobility and strategic options to infiltrate into her enemy domains and find out what happened to her people.

Developed with very humble resources, but having main inspirations coming from big names as Metal Gear, Splatoon, Aragami and Assassin's Creed, Ereban: Shadow Legacy sets players in control of female protagonist Ayana, the last descendant of the Ereban race that holds the precious power of merging and roaming freely within the shadows.

As they uncover the enigmatic connection between the cryptic energy megacorporation Helios and her people, players will master the combination of Ayana's agility with her mystical shadow powers and high-tech gadgets to either cleverly avoid or mercilessly defeat anything and anyone that stands in her way in pursuit of the truth.

When we started this adventure 5 years ago, we couldn’t imagine that what started as a love letter to stealth games would grow this much and turn into such a solid project. It has been a long and difficult journey, pandemic included, but after a lot of love and effort we are finally here. It is a dream come true that this is going to be our first game for many of us. We really hope you enjoy it, and can’t wait for you to become one with the shadows on April 10th!” - Alejandro Marquez (Game Director at Baby Robot Games).

MAIN FEATURES

Become one with the shadows.

Experience an unprecedented blend of stealth and shadows with the Shadow Merge ability. Dive into shadows and move freely through them to climb walls, reach inaccessible places, attack from cover or advance unseen.

Combine agility, powers and gadgets.

Absorb echoes to learn more lethal and non-lethal shadow powers, craft high-tech gadgets, and combine all this with your agility to infiltrate Helios lines and investigate what they are hiding.

Play your way.

Approach each level with your own strategy. Use your powers to move like a ghost or strike as a deadly shadow in this fast-paced stealth game that combines platforming and puzzles.

Define your legacy.

Avoid or kill. Spare or consume. Save or doom. In this world where actions go beyond good and evil… how far are you willing to go to uncover the truth?

Explore a dying, beautiful world.

Discover the ruins of lifeless cities, infiltrate sci-fi facilities carved into ancient temples and forge alliances to unravel the mystery of who you are and what happened to your people.

Ereban: Shadow Legacy will be released this April 10, 2024 on Steam and Epic Games Store. The game can already be wishlisted on Steam. For more information, visit the official website: https://ereban.com.

ABOUT  BABY ROBOT GAMES

Baby Robot Games is a young indie studio from Spain. Passionate about video games since we were children, we want to give back what this industry gave us. Our goal is to create highly enjoyable experiences with original mechanics, strong visuals and compelling stories. Currently working on our debut title. 
 
Article by: Susan N.



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Weyrdlets Closed Beta - Join Now!

[For Immediate Release] Embark on an Exciting Journey with Weyrdlets Closed Beta: Where Entertainment Meets Productivity!

[Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia] –We are thrilled to announce the launch of the closed beta for Weyrdlets, an innovative virtual pet game that offers an experience that blends entertainment with daily productivity, and creative relaxation.

Dive into a cozy island and customize your pet and its home, creating a haven tailored to your tastes. What sets Weyrdlets apart is its seamless integration with your desktop, transforming your pet into a supportive companion throughout your daily tasks. With built-in productivity tools like the Pomodoro timer and To-Do list, staying focused has never been easier.

Features available in the closed beta include:
 

  • Pet interaction: Feed, pat, and play with your pet, both in-game and on your desktop.
  • Pet and home customization: Personalize your pet and its surroundings with stickers, accessories, and furniture.
  • Desktop mode: Bring your pet to your desktop for constant companionship during work or leisure.
  • Productivity tools: Utilize the Pomodoro timer and To-Do list to enhance focus and productivity.
  • Playground: Hang out with your pet in an open space and interact with toys.
  • Adventure mode: Send your pet on adventures to gain knowledge and badges, shaping its personality.
  • Multiplayer: Visit friends' homes and leave sticky notes on their walls.
  • Twitch integration: Viewers can use chat commands and engage with the streamer and the game directly through Twitch.
 

In addition to these features, the development team is working tirelessly to introduce even more exciting elements, including expanded multiplayer options, wellness tools, and of course, fixing bugs.

Be a part of Weyrdlets’ development and sign up for the closed beta here.

Wishlist us on Steam and Join us on Discord to get our latest game updates!

Developer: Weyrdworks

Weyrdworks is a Malaysian game development studio known for its award-winning eccentric games and a penchant for tinkering with experimental interactive experiences. Our latest project, "Weyrdlets," a virtual pet game, is set to release in Q3 2024, promising a fresh take on the genre.



Article by: Susan N.


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The Legend of Legacy HD Remastered - PS5 Review

The Legend of Legacy HD Remastered  by developer FURYU Corporation and publisher NIS America Inc.Sony PlayStation 5 review written by Pierre-Yves with a copy provided by the publisher. 

Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes.

The Legend of Legacy HD Remastered is a treat for fans of hardcore turn-based combat and exploration. Originally released in North America for the Nintendo 3DS in 2015, this predecessor to The Alliance Alive is now available for those looking to return to this adventure or to dive into it for the very first time.

For some, there may be a sense of familiarity when starting up this adventure. While displayed in a 3D fashion, there are some shared aspects with the Etrian Odyssey series such as the exploration and creation of maps. For others, there are some shared aspects with the Saga Series, or, Final Fantasy II now that it's easily available under the more recent Pixel Remastered Collection, which is how skills are developed. In either case, while there's familiarity there is still a shiny new adventure just waiting to be explored with its own twists and turns.

To start off the adventure, you have the choice from one of seven characters. Each has their own starting bonuses in the form of Attack, Defense or Support. Each also has their own starting weapons and skills learned. From there, two others will join up for your starting party of three and the introductory mission that serves as a tutorial for the adventures ahead. 

The Legend of Legacy is very, very, gameplay heavy. There is next to no dialog short of a few quick speech bubbles here and there. It's truly about a group of adventurers who are exploring this mystical island and mapping their progress as they move along. And if you're not sure how you feel about a character? Don't worry. It won't take long to recruit the other 4 and as for their skills? That won't be an issue due to the grind.

As you explore this wonderous island, there are a few things for certain. The first is that the world you're exploring is pretty. Not only has the cell shaded world aged very well with time, but there's an almost popup book artistry to it. As you move through the environment the elements of the world pop up around you revealing their secrets if you know what to look for.

The second thing for certain is that you'll be fighting. A lot. A part of this is because you need to in order to become stronger. Another is where I have an issue with the world’s design. Because everything pops up as you go, if you move too fast you won't have the chance to see the enemies and you'll run right smack into them. Sometimes you'll want this. Other times? You just want to be able to explore that glorious map for some very much needed cash money dollars.

Combat, unlike a lot of JRPGs, is not financially lucrative in the long run. Sometimes you'll pick up a decent item to sell, but for the most part? It's what it can do for you that matters. The Legend of Legacy does not run off of experience points. Instead, it runs off of some mystical math of the gods that will deem whether or not you're ready for their blessings.

Going back to the three character attributes of Attack, Defense and Support, each of these can be increased over time as you fight against the horses of enemies between you and exploration. Starting off with only one formation, you can easily create more to help in these increases. Attack, attack, defense. Attack, defense, defense. Triple support. Whatever works for you in the moment as there are no wrong answers depending on what your personal growth plan is.

Doubling down from those, every character skill has the same three attributes and will also increase in power as they are used. Some can be done with zero cost, while others will need some SP to perform. Finding that your SP is too low to use your skills? That's ok! Your SP, like your HP, will also increase over time as you use it. The only catch? You need to hope that whatever math is behind each’s growth actually kicks in and increases the values.

To the side of a character’s skills, there is also a form of magic that can be learned. Split between singing and whispering shards, elemental contracts can be made in order to swing the balance of power on the field of battle. Starting off with the singing shard of water, you can make a contract that will mildly regenerate your HP while also allowing you to cast a variety of other abilities. Water shields can better protect your party from damage, Healing Hands can be better than the normal medicinal boxes and a Hailstorm can rain on your enemies parade. Literally.

Each of these abilities can be immediately used through a shard but over time can also be learned to cast without the shard in question. You’ll still need a shard with the element in question to cast, but it allows for a higher range of abilities as long as the element is in your favor. Just be careful however as enemies can steal the contracts for themselves costing you a valuable turn to rain hell down upon them, or, heal and defend yourselves.

And this is what makes this adventure a bit tougher. You can't really plan around the growth, it needs to happen. So for it to happen, you need to fight. So it all meshes together rather well at times as long as you are patient about it and try not to run faster than the map will uncover itself. Because as mentioned above, while some monsters pop up in front of you? Others are mere shadows on the ground circling the skies above just waiting to end your life. And your progress.

So here’s the fun part. If you need to run away, run away. It’s not a chance to run away and you wasting turn after turn trying. You simply run away. The catch, because there is always a catch, is that you are returned to the entrance of the area. Not the map that you are on. The bonus with this is that you can easily use this feature to get back to the entrance and head back to town to rest and save as there’s no other way to save your game. So every time you go out, just be prepared that you can easily lose progress on just a bad roll of the dice with enemies that you weren’t prepared to deal with. 

Finally, as a bit of help, when in town, you can sell your maps for money. The more detailed the map, the more money you’ll be given. This seriously helps you figure out if a map is truly complete or if you missed an area. If you sell it early, you’ll earn less and you won’t be able to sell an updated version for the remainder of the balance. Side to that, there’s a ship that you can commission to sail out and bring you back some goodies. This will cost you either 400, 1,000 or 5,000 dollars and take more time to come back. The longer the time, the higher potential value of the items that can be brought back. The great thing with this feature is, it’s designed to work on an actual clock and not the in game time counter. So let them set sail for 5 hours as you are calling it quits for the night and check the spoils once you jump back on the next day. 

Overall, having played the Legend of Legacy years ago on my 3DS and playing it again on the PS5, it was nice to come back to this adventure. While perhaps a little less portable this time around, there is definitely a higher comfort factor as you sit back with a controller in hand and play on the big screen. It may not be for everyone, as it’s on the harder side of things, but it’s well worth the adventure as it unfolds itself under your feet as you explore the island to see what secrets it has been hiding. 

Score: 8 / 10

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See Card-en-Ciel During PAX East This Weekend by INTI Creates!

March 20th 2024, INTI CREATES has announced a new project, “Card-en-Ciel,“ to be shown at this week’s PAX East expo in Boston, Massachusetts March 21st through 24th. 


Card-en-Ciel stars Neon, a gaming detective, as he collects and battles with over 300 cards on a deck-building RPG adventure.

Players will adventure through over 10 different dungeons, earning character cards to strengthen their deck and unlock new techniques to use in ever-expanding roguelite card battles.

Special “Muse Cards” add another layer to the card battles, activating powerful abilities with their songs during battle, with 50 vocal tracks included in-game. 

Together with the Muses' song abilities, players will use hidden card "glitches" and even enemies' attacks against them to perform satisfying, full power combos with their unique decks.

Look for more information about Neon’s battles through the eras of gaming coming soon!


A card-battling RPG through the eras of gaming!

Characters from other game universes are showing up in a work in progress! Can the detective Neon find the source?

Card-en-Ciel is a deck-building roguelike featuring over 300 unique cards and 50 vocal songs.

Each card features a character from a game within the Card-en-Ciel universe, waiting to be collected and brought back from the game’s dungeons. You’ll need all the help you can get when the virtual world enters “all out war!”

With each victory, you’ll select a card to add to your deck to power it up and create new combos.
Each card can be played, used to move during battle, or for a Special Skill, allowing you to make the most of each draw from your deck within Card-en-Ciel’s deep combat system!

Famous characters are invading an in-development game?!

Muse Cards add another layer to combat. Meet their conditions during battle, and they’ll sing a unique song that activates a special ability, unlocking new strategies and combos for the rest of your deck! 
Use these powerful song abilities, hidden card "glitches", and even your enemies' attacks against them to perform satisfying, full power combos!

Colorful characters you meet in the dungeons, dungeon bosses, and the “imaginary” games they come from all play a part in Card-en-Ciel’s story. Collect each game’s heroes and heroines to win the “all-out war!”

See it all in action in Card-en-Ciel’s project kickoff trailer!


Glitch your way to victory!

Product Information

Title: Card-en-Ciel
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Steam (PC) 
Genre: Card-battling RPG
Rating: Pending
Players: 1-2
Release Date: TBA
Price: TBA

© INTI CREATES CO., LTD. 2024 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Article by: Susan N.
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NETMARBLE Opens Global PRE-Registration For Upcoming Action RPG SOLO LEVELING:ARISE

Early Access Available for Canadian Players Starting March 21


LOS ANGELES – March 19, 2024 – Netmarble, a leading developer and publisher of high-quality mobile games, opened pre-registration globally for its upcoming mobile and PC game Solo Leveling:ARISE, and beginning March 21, Early Access will be available in Canada. Players can pre-register today and earn rewards via the official website, Google PlayApp Store, or Netmarble Launcher
 
Solo Leveling:ARISE is an action RPG adaptation of Solo Leveling, based on the hit anime and Webtoon. Taking on the role of Jinwoo, players can experience his level-ups and progress through the beloved anime tale firsthand, taking on dynamic battles and creating their own combat styles, relying on various combinations of skills and weapons. Not only can players team up with hunters from the Webtoon, they can summon their own “Army of Shadows” using Jinwoo’s famous line “Arise.”
 
As a special reward for pre-registering, players will receive a Chic Black Suit Costume for Sung Jinwoo, two Mana Power Crystals for each attribute (for a total of 10), Legendary Artifact Sets, and 100,000 of Gold to jumpstart players’ journeys. Players also shouldn’t miss out on the chance to obtain Jinwoo's cherished partner/hunter, Yoo Jinho as an additional pre-registration reward. These rewards will be distributed upon the game’s official launch.
 
A never-before-seen trailer has been revealed to celebrate the pre-registration of Solo Leveling:ARISE.  As this marks the very first game adaption of the webtoon, this trailer shows the stylish and highly anticipated Action RPG gameplay.  Check out the trailer on YouTube here.


 

Early Access for Solo Leveling:ARISE will begin at 1:00 AM Pacific Time on March 21 in Canada, and is limited to Android and PC. The game will support six languages during the Early Access period, including Korean, Japanese, English, Chinese, Thai and Traditional Chinese. Additional language support, including European languages, will be added when the game launches. 
 
The Hunter Archive sub-story for Lee Joohee and Kang Taeshik will be available for Early Access players to tackle when the game goes live. Early Access players will also see a number of events active during the game’s introductory period including ▲14 Day Check-In Event Special Draw opportunity for ‘The Ultimate Hunter’, SSR Choi Jong-In, ▲'Dice Event' in celebration of Choi Jong-in Special Draw, ▲’Collect Letters' Event. Canada’s Early Access information can be found here.
 
For more information on  Solo Leveling:ARISE, please visit the official website, XFacebookInstagramDiscord, and official YouTube channel
 
About Netmarble Corporation
Established in Korea in 2000, Netmarble Corporation is a leading developer and publisher of top-grossing mobile games worldwide. Through powerful franchises and collaborations with acclaimed IP holders, Netmarble strives to elevate the gaming experience and entertain audiences globally. As a parent company of Kabam and SpinX Games, and a major shareholder of Jam City and HYBE (formerly Big Hit Entertainment), Netmarble’s diverse portfolio includes Seven Knights Idle Adventure, Tower of God: New World, Lineage 2: Revolution, MARVEL Future Fight, Ni no Kuni: Cross Worlds and The Seven Deadly Sins: Grand Cross. More information can be found at http://company.netmarble.com.

 

Article by: Susan N.



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Classified: France '44 - PS5 Review

Classified: France '44 by developer Absolutely Games and publisher Team17Sony PlayStation 5 review written by Jim with a copy provided by the publisher.

Estimated Reading Time: 4 minutes.


When I was younger lots of games were set in WWII. You had Medal of Honor games, Call of Duty was still set in WWII, Brothers in Arms, and Battlefield just to name a few. Nowadays you don't see WWII used as much but it is still one of my favorite settings. I used to learn a lot of history from those games so when I see a game based on WWII today I just have to play it. Classified: France '44 is one of those games I just had to play.

Although I am used to first-person shooters set in WWII, Classified: France '44 is a turn-based strategy game. You start with just a small group of four soldiers. As you play you will rescue others who will join your cause. The four soldiers were parachuted into France before D-Day to help weaken the Nazis in the area and to capture key points to help make D-Day a success all while helping three different resistance factions.

The gameplay reminded me of X-COM mixed in with a board game. The missions and combat play like X-COM where you move the soldiers about on a map and try to take out the enemies. There are however different mission types, For example you have stealth missions that you can try to complete without alerting the enemies by getting in close and using a knife to attack. This will kill most common enemies but not tougher ones. Another mission type is ambush. You start in stealth but once you kill enough enemies you will start an ambush which lets you use all of your soldiers before the enemy's next turn. 

Each character has AP that is spent on doing things like moving, shooting, throwing a grenade which you only get one of per mission per character, and reloading their weapon. When getting shot at both your characters and enemies will lose morale once it gets low enough they will become suppressed. And if it is completely empty they become broken and can't do anything on their turn. If this happens the next mission they will start with one less morale point. Each unit also has health. Once it runs out they will go down and will revive in three turns or if another one of your units reaches them and revives them. If they go down more than once they will retreat and become injured. Injured units will start the next mission with one less health point. One thing I did not like was that in almost all the missions enemies will keep spawning in every few turns. It does show that they are coming, but this just made me feel rushed and not able to do what I wanted in each mission. Definitely made it unnecessarily harder.

There are different types of units that you can recruit during a playthrough. Leaders who can help restore morale, support who can heal, and a sniper are a few. Something you don't see very often in WWII games is women and you will have a French woman who can join you. It's a good detail as there were females in the resistance. Each unit type uses a different weapon and everyone has a side arm they can switch to that does less damage. This is good for the times when their main weapon is empty and an enemy is near. Enemies also have unit types like a grenadier that explodes after you kill them. Some of the heavy units you won't be able to take down with one knife attack so you cannot stealth kill them.

After each mission, the units that were on that mission will earn experience points and level up. Leveling up gives you points that you can then use to add new skills. You will get resources that you can use to buy new gear or send a unit on tasks. Lastly, you will level up one of the three factions depending on the area the mission took place. Leveling these up unlocks new gear to buy. Each character must use equipment of their own country though. On the main map after a mission, you will be able to strengthen an area that can help once you take all three parts of an area. 

The hospital for example helps your character heal faster. The enemy can take one of the three areas back at times and you will need to send one of your units on a task that costs resources to retake it. Other tasks you can do is fully heal a unit including health and morale, train a unit if you have the right part of the map freed, and other such things. Also on the map, you will be able to use skill points, change load-outs and equipment, and hear a conversation from two of the characters that also restores morale points between missions. These conversations help you learn a little more about the characters. You also will have a countdown to D-Day so you have to get as much done as you can in so many days. Most missions cost two days but they vary.

Graphicaly the game could be better, but it gets the job done. I do like the cut scenes you get after some missions as it looks like it's getting drawn right in front of you. It makes me think the leader is writing this all down in a journal. The music is what I would expect for a WWII game, but it's nothing grand. Like the graphics it gets the job done. The voice-over is all right; just like before it's nothing great but it works. The game ran smoothly for me with no glitches or crashes. The loading times are a little longer than they should be on a PS5.

Overall Classified: France '44 is a decent WWII turn-based strategy game. I both enjoyed and hated the missions if only enemies wouldn't respawn so much. Each mission for me is also a bit long with most taking over a half hour for me. Other than that I enjoyed the art of the cut scenes and the conversations the characters would have. I am glad to have a new WWII game on the market that was decent and not an online multiplayer-only FPS.


Score: 7.5 / 10

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Try Everdream Valley's New Co-op Mode on PC!

Article by: Susan N.
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