In this gameplay of Thymesia, we finish a short tutorial section, take down a boss and explore the fabled Sea of Trees area.
Thymesia is a gruelling action-RPG with fast-paced combat and an intricate plague weapon system. In a kingdom where death spreads, play as a mysterious character known by the code name “Corvus”. Prey upon your enemies, wield the power of disease and find the truth in your own memories.
Thymesia Developer: OverBorder Studio Publisher: Team17 Website: https://www.team17.com/games/thymesia/ Platform: Windows Release Date: 19 Aug, 2022 Price: $29.99 USD
Recommended – “A game with a lot of ambition and underwhelming execution. A bit rough around the edges yet incredibly engaging if you can get past the initial setbacks.”
PlayStation Australia invites players to relive the epic story of God of War (2018) ahead of the launch of God of War Ragnarök on Playstation on November 9.
Ahead of the release, the amazing Felicia Day and the Smartest Man Alive, Mimir, tell the story of Kratos and Atreus so far in the “Myths of Midgard”.
Before you watch, beware – there are spoilers ahead! Check out the trailer here.
God of War (2018) Story Recap
God of War began with the funeral of Faye, mother to Atreus and wife of Kratos. Her last request begins this epic journey, to have her ashes scattered on the highest peak in all the realms.
The Father
Kratos, still haunted by his bloody past as the Ghost of Sparta, must now cope with the death of his wife while learning how to be the father his son needs.
The Son
Atreus is a young boy dealing with the sudden loss of his mother and a cold, distant father. He wants nothing more than to fulfil his mother’s final wish and prove he is strong to his father.
Arrival of the Stranger
Baldur, a mysterious stranger who feels no pain, is sent by Odin to investigate Kratos and Atreus, leading to an earth-rending battle. It seems that a pantheon of gods knows more about Kratos than his own son.
Unexpected friends in unexpected places
Kratos and Atreus begin their journey to what they think is the tallest mountain in their realm, and meet legendary dwarven blacksmiths Brok and Sindri.
They also encounter the mysterious Witch of the Woods, who shows them how to use the Bifröst to travel between the Nine Realms. The Witch is later revealed to be Freya, mother of Baldur and exiled wife of Odin.
Mission accomplished! Or is it? (It’s not)
As father and son reach the mountains’ peak they meet Mimir, self-titled Smartest Man Alive, who reveals to Atreus and Kratos that the highest peak in the Realms is in the inaccessible realm of Jötunheim, meaning their journey is only just beginning.
Sons of Thor
With a newly released Mimir (or at least his head) in tow, Kratos and Atreus are ambushed by Thor’s sons, Magni and Modi, on their journey toward Jötunheim.
Kratos overcomes Magni but Modi later returns and subdues Kratos, triggering Atreus’ unfound Spartan Rage ability.
The price of secrets
Kratos takes an unconscious and sick Atreus to Freya in the hope she can wake him. Freya reveals Atreus’ sickness is caused by the conflict between his nature as a god and his ignorance of that fact.
To save his son, Kratos must return to his past home and retrieve the Blades of Chaos, thereby acknowledging his past as the God of War.
After saving Atreus with Freya’s help, Kratos reveals to the boy his true nature as a god.
Sins of the Mother
Having gathered the tools to make a portal to Jötunheim, Kratos, Atreus, and Mimir return once again to the peak of Midgard to travel to the realm of the Giants.
As they arrive, they are ambushed by Baldur, leading to an epic, realm-jumping battle where Baldur learns that his invulnerability comes from a spell cast by his mother to protect him from a prophesied murder.
Death of a god
As Kratos and Atreus attempt to enter Jötunheim on Mimir’s guidance they are again ambushed by Baldur, but this time Freya intervenes.
Working together in perfect unison, Kratos and Atreus destroy the spell giving Baldur invulnerability and eventually best Baldur.
Kratos spares Baldur’s life, knowing the pain Freya will feel over losing her child. But, as payment for his years of torment, Baldur uses his last strength to strangle Freya.
Kratos, seeing his own bloody mistakes about to be repeated by Baldur, steps in to save Freya’s life by killing her son. Unable to accept his death, Freya cradles the dead body of Baldur while swearing vengeance upon Kratos for taking away her only child, even if it meant that she would live.
The highest peak in all the realms
Finally able to make the journey to Jötunheim with the help of Mimir’s Bifröst eyes, Kratos and Atreus reach a Giant temple – one that has their entire journey carved into the walls
Atreus finally uncovers the full truth of his heritage, that he is not only part god and part mortal, he is part Giant as well. His mother Faye was a giant herself.
Atreus had two names, one was given to him by his father and the other, his mother. The name Faye had bestowed upon him was Loki.
Fimbulwinter has fallen
As they return home to Midgard, Mimir warns them that the death of Baldur means that the first event said to mark the arrival of Ragnarök has come to pass.
Kratos and Atreus now find themselves at the centre of a prophecy that has foretold the complete upheaval of the Nine Realms and a battle so great it results in the deaths of many Aesir gods including Odin and Thor.
For more information on God of War head to the PlayStation Blog.
PREPARE FOR FINAL FANTASY XIV ONLINE PATCH 6.2’sISLAND SANCTUARY WITH A WEEKLONG LIVESTREAM FROM “MOGCHUTE FARM”
From Today until 19th August, Experience Life on a Farm Presented on the Official FINAL FANTASY XIV Online Twitch Channel
LONDON (15th August 2022)– SQUARE ENIX® is today kicking off a weeklong livestream hosted at “Mogchute Farm” to celebrate the upcoming launch of Island Sanctuary, a new type of casual solo content releasing in Patch 6.2 as the next major update to the critically acclaimed MMORPG FINAL FANTASY® XIV Online releasing on Tuesday 23rd August.
From today until 1pm BST Friday 19th August, the livestreamed event will allow viewers to experience life on a farm from the comfort of their own homes as they look forward to the release of Island Sanctuary in Patch 6.2: Buried Memory. Island Sanctuary will allow players to build and customise their own personal farm in-game on an island paradise abundant with wildlife, by gathering materials, building facilities, caring for creatures, and more, all without the need for prior crafting or gathering experience.
The livestream will star several farmyard favourites over multiple days, including pigs, goats and chickens, with several other surprises as the week progresses. Viewers can follow their daily routines of feeds, frolics, and festivities, and will be invited to vote on what the animals will be fed on stream. Feeds will take place at the below times each day, with other activities planned in-between:
9:15am – 9:30am BST
4:00pm – 4:15pm BST
Based in London, United Kingdom, “Mogchute Farm” is taking place at Mudchute Farm, a registered charity with care for the environment at the heart of their mission. Founded in 1977, Mudchute Farm is set in 32 acres of green space, which are open to the public and offer views across London. For more information on Mudchute Farm, including to support their work with a donation, visit: https://www.mudchute.org/
During last week’s Letter from the Producer LIVE broadcast, FINAL FANTASY XIV Online Producer and Director Naoki Yoshida offered viewers a first demonstration of Island Sanctuary. Additional details on Patch 6.2 were also discussed, including the continuation of the main scenario questline, PvP updates, Pandæmonium: Abyssos, and more. For more information about Island Sanctuary and Patch 6.2, check out the special site at: https://sqex.to/uuTTH
With more than 25 million total registered players, there has never been a better time for newcomers to begin their adventures in the critically acclaimed FINAL FANTASY XIV Online saga. The expanded Free Trial now includes all content from A Realm Reborn™ and the Heavensward™ expansion (and updates through Patch 3.56), as well as an additional playable race (Au Ra), and three additional playable jobs (Dark Knight, Astrologian, and Machinist). Free Trial players can enjoy hundreds of hours of award-winning gameplay and story experiences equivalent to two full FINAL FANTASY titles, without limit on playtime. More information is available: http://sqex.to/FFXIVFreeTrial
Square Enix Ltd. develops, publishes, distributes and licenses SQUARE ENIX®, EIDOS® and TAITO® branded entertainment content in Europe and other PAL territories as part of the Square Enix group of companies. Square Enix Ltd. also has a global network of leading development studios such as Crystal Dynamics® and Eidos Montréal. The Square Enix group of companies boasts a valuable portfolio of intellectual property including: FINAL FANTASY®, which has sold over 168 million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST®, which has sold over 84 million units worldwide; TOMB RAIDER®, which has sold over 88 million units worldwide; and the legendary SPACE INVADERS®. Square Enix Ltd. is a London-based, wholly-owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.
ENDWALKER, A REALM REBORN, HEAVENSWARD, the FINAL FANTASY XIV logo, CRYSTAL DYNAMICS, DRAGON QUEST, EIDOS, EIDOS MONTREAL, EORZEA, FINAL FANTASY, the FINAL FANTASY logo, THE LODESTONE, SPACE INVADERS, SQUARE ENIX, the SQUARE ENIX logo, TAITO and TOMB RAIDER are registered trademarks or trademarks of the Square Enix group of companies. “PlayStation” and the “PS” Family logo are registered trademarks and “PS4” and “PS5” are trademarks of Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc. All other trademarks are properties of their respective owners.
A thrilling space-based adventure setting for the world’s greatest roleplaying game
Wizards of the Coast today released Spelljammer: Adventures in Space, the latest campaign for the world’s most popular tabletop role-playing game, Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). A glorious reimagining of the classic setting first introduced for 2nd edition, Adventures in Space builds on the thrill of nautical exploration by sailing through the Astral Plane, home of the stars, gateways to heavens and miniature giant space hamsters! It will feature three hardcover books plus game accessories and is available on Amazon AU or at local gaming retailers.
Voyage across the Astral Sea aboard a spelljammer, a magnificent flying vessel built to traverse interplanetary space. In a realm of endless possibility, Adventures in Space offers a thrilling new setting for both seasoned and new spacefarers. Adventurers can soar across the silver oceans of Wildspace, explore a giant citadel built on an asteroid, and discover mysteries behind the decaying remnants of gods floating in the ether.
Spelljammer: Adventures in Space contains a double-sided poster map of the campaign’s hub city, the Rock of Bral, and a sturdy four-panel Dungeon Master’s screen designed for use with the following set books (with additional alternate-style covers available only through local game stores):
The Astral Adventurer’s Guide
The Astral Sea awaits
A must-have for spacefarers from all corners of the multiverse, The Astral Adventurer’s Guide is a 64-page hardcover book detailing the Astral Plane setting, aimed at players and Dungeons Masters to acquaint themselves with everything they need to run a campaign within the Astral Plane.
Contains: Space-based character races, spells, magic items, spelljammer ship deck plans and more.
Boo’s Astral Menagerie
A cosmic compendium
Exploring a cosmic realm teeming with life will be difficult for adventurers who don’t possess Boo’s Astral Menagerie, a 64-page hardcover book that serves as a detailed bestiary for Dungeon Masters.
Contains: In-game statistics and descriptions for over 60 creatures, including astral elves, lunar and solar dragons, murder comets, space clowns, and more.
Light of Xaryxis
A spacefaring saga
Designed for characters levelled five to eight, Light of Xaryxis is a thrilling multi-episode campaign that will sweep players on a journey through Wildspace and the Astral Sea.
Contains: Details for new and returning locations within the Astral Plane such as the Rock of Bral, new mechanics, NPCs, Dungeon Master materials and more.
The latest instalment to the Dungeons & Dragons multiverse also introduces six new playable races:
· Astral elves: distinguishable by the starlight in their eyes, these wanderers have ventured from the Feywilds to call the Astral Plane their home.
· Autognomes:mechanical gnomes built to survive even the deepest reaches of space.
· Hadozee: flying simian humanoids known for their love of sailing and knowledge of spelljamming.
· Giff: these “hippo-folk” come from a world long-forgotten, and have been aimlessly travelling the Wildspace since.
· Thri-kreen: hunter nomads from the Shaar, these mantis warriors are fierce and agile adversaries.
· Plasmoids: experience the thrill of playing as a sentient slime for the first time in D&D.
Spelljammer: Adventures in Space launches today and is now available to be purchased at local gaming retailers, bookstores, and through online retailers.
Dungeons & Dragons® is a leading fantasy entertainment franchise, fueled by the imagination of fans around the world. It has been bringing gamers together for more than 44 years with its diverse offering of products, including books, video games and livestream entertainment on Twitch and YouTube. Now in its fifth edition, D&D is more popular than ever before.
Humans have always been gathering around to tell stories together. Dungeons & Dragons provides the framework for everyone to fulfil that basic social need and adventure with your friends.
About Wizards of the Coast
Wizards of the Coast, a subsidiary of Hasbro, Inc., is an award-winning developer and publisher of tabletop and digital games that ignite a sense of adventure in passionate players around the globe. Best known for publishing groundbreaking fantasy franchises, MAGIC: THE GATHERING® and DUNGEONS & DRAGONS®, Wizards is dedicated to bringing together world-class talent to create unforgettable play experiences at its headquarters in Washington and studios in Austin and Montreal. Learn more at www.wizards.com.
Private Division Announces Publishing Partnership with Wētā Workshop
Renowned New Zealand company developing a new game set in the Middle-earth universe of J.R.R. Tolkien
Private Division, a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO), today announced they have signed a new publishing agreement with Wētā Workshop, best known for their work on Middle-earth for The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. In 2014 Wētā Workshop founded an interactive game division and are now developing a new game set in the Middle-earth universe of J.R.R. Tolkien. Middle-earth Enterprises have licensed the literary works of the series, providing Wētā Workshop with the broadest creative license to interpret the underlying lore of the books.
“We are thrilled to partner with Wētā Workshop to publish a game set in such an extraordinary and celebrated universe,” said Michael Worosz, Chief Strategy Officer, Take-Two Interactive, and Head of Private Division. “TheLord of the Rings IP is home to so many remarkable stories, and no entity is better equipped than the team at Wētā Workshop to create a distinctive, new Middle-earth gaming experience.”
“It’s a privilege to create a new game set in Middle-earth, especially one that’s so different from what fans have played previously,” said Amie Wolken, Head of Interactive at Wētā Workshop. “As fans ourselves, we’re excited for gamers to explore Middle-earth in a way they never have before, and introduce new fans to the magic of The Lord of the Rings.”
This title is in early development and does not yet have an announced release date. It is expected to launch during Take-Two’s Fiscal Year 2024. Private Division and Wētā Workshop look forward to sharing more details about this game in the future.
Private Division is a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTWO).
About Middle-earth Enterprises
Inspired by a deep appreciation for the fictional world created by J.R.R. Tolkien, Middle-earth Enterprises is dedicated to working with businesses providing quality products in accordance with best green business and sustainability practices including fair trade, equality in the workplace, and a commitment to protect our earth, its wondrous beauty and the viability of every living creature. Middle-earth Enterprises has been producing and licensing films, merchandise and stage productions based on The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit books for more than four decades. With headquarters located in Berkeley, California, its website may be found at www.middleearth.com.
About Wētā Workshop
Wētā Workshop brings imaginary worlds to life by delivering concept design, physical effects, collectables, immersive visitor experiences and games to the world’s entertainment and creative industries.
Established by Richard Taylor and Tania Rodger in 1987, we are best known for our screen work on The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Avatar, and Dune, our immersive visitor experiences, Gallipoli: The Scale of our War, Expo 2020 Dubai’s Mobility Pavilion and Wētā Workshop Unleashed. Based in Wellington, New Zealand, Wētā Workshop’s ground-breaking work has earned us multiple international awards. Our Interactive division was established in 2014 and is led by an experienced team of creative game developers and film veterans who bring Wētā Workshop’s signature storytelling, technical innovation and artistry to our games studio.
About Private Division
Private Division is a developer-focused publisher that partners with the finest creative talent in the video game industry, empowering studios to develop the games that they are passionate about creating, while providing the support that they need to make their titles critically and commercially successful on a global scale. The Label publishes the Kerbal Space Program franchise, Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey from Panache Digital Games, The Outer Worlds from Obsidian Entertainment, Disintegration from V1 Interactive, and OlliOlli World and Rollerdrome from Roll7, with future unannounced projects in development with Moon Studios, Evening Star, Piccolo Studio, Yellow Brick Games, and other esteemed independent developers. Private Division publishes the physical retail edition of Hades from Supergiant Games on PlayStation® and Xbox consoles. Private Division continues to build its internal studio capacity, with Roll7 and Intercept Games as internal developers for the Label. Private Division is headquartered in New York City with offices in Seattle, Las Vegas, Munich, and Singapore. For more information, please visit www.privatedivision.com.
About Take-Two Interactive Software
Headquartered in New York City, Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. is a leading developer, publisher, and marketer of interactive entertainment for consumers around the globe. The Company develops and publishes products principally through Rockstar Games, 2K, Private Division, and Zynga. Our products are currently designed for console gaming systems, PC, and Mobile including smartphones and tablets, and are delivered through physical retail, digital download, online platforms, and cloud streaming services. The Company’s common stock is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol TTWO.
All trademarks and copyrights contained herein are the property of their respective holders.
Statements contained herein which are not historical facts are considered forward-looking statements under federal securities laws and may be identified by words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “potential,” “predicts,” “projects,” “seeks,” “should,” “will,” or words of similar meaning and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the outlook for the Company’s future business and financial performance. Such forward-looking statements are based on the current beliefs of our management as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to them, which are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Actual outcomes and results may vary materially from these forward-looking statements based on a variety of risks and uncertainties including: risks relating to our combination with Zynga; the uncertainty of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and measures taken in response thereto; the effect that measures taken to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic have on our operations, including our ability to timely deliver our titles and other products, and on the operations of our counterparties, including retailers and distributors; the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on both consumer demand and the discretionary spending patterns of our customers as the situation with the pandemic continues to evolve; the risks of conducting business internationally; the impact of changes in interest rates by the Federal Reserve and other central banks, including on our short-term investment portfolio; the impact of inflation; volatility in foreign currency exchange rates; our dependence on key management and product development personnel; our dependence on our NBA 2K and Grand Theft Auto products and our ability to develop other hit titles; our ability to leverage opportunities on PlayStation®5 and Xbox Series X|S; the timely release and significant market acceptance of our games; the ability to maintain acceptable pricing levels on our games; and risks associated with international operations.
Other important factors and information are contained in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, including the risks summarized in the section entitled “Risk Factors,” the Company’s most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and the Company’s other periodic filings with the SEC, which can be accessed at www.take2games.com. All forward-looking statements are qualified by these cautionary statements and apply only as of the date they are made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Sign up for the Most Exciting Space Tour in the Galaxy! (Survival Not Guaranteed)
SYDNEY – 15 August 2022 –To the Stars, the tactical roguelike deck-builder from developer Stellar Cartography and publisher Blowfish Studios, adds Earth to the itinerary along with Nintendo Switch, PC and Mac via Steam in Q2 2023.
What’s a disgraced captain of a renowned treasure-hunting brigade to do when they fail to make a name for themselves? Open a universe-wide touring service, of course! Surf a procedurally generated sea of stars while recruiting a group of…quirky, yet talented alien crewmates. Utilize their distinct abilities to effectively manage the voyages ahead and, most importantly, ensure guests have a great time aboard your spaceship.
The galaxy is full of threats, so cruise cautiously and keep an eye out for territorial tyrants and rival tour agencies. Ready a deck with an elite arsenal of aliens, weapons, bonuses, abilities, and ships to safely ferry passengers through the final frontier. Prepare for real-time strategy battles – deploy Neela the Great, the best darn pilot in the galaxy, Zelbob, the slyest smuggler in the sector, and more colorful characters to eliminate galactic threats with style.
Tons of randomized scenarios will require the quick thinking of a true con artist, the expert guidance of a captain, or simply the raw PEW PEW SMASH power of a seasoned celestial barbarian – whichever makes more sense at the time. Sustain a diverse crew to guarantee passenger safety and keep the business thriving.
“To the Stars is a fun mesh of deck-building card games and tactical planet hopping adventures,” said Ido Yehieli, Founder, Stellar Cartography. “Guides will discover strange new worlds, meet cute aliens, and take on exciting battles whilst giving a flock of gullible loveable tourists the space tour of a lifetime!”
Stellar Cartography is an independent development team of seasoned, award-winning developers who are committed to providing their players with artsy and whimsical new adventures. To the Stars is the company’s debut game as well as the inspiration for their name.
To learn more about Stellar Cartography, please visit the team’s website.
About Blowfish Studios
Blowfish Studios is an award-winning game developer and publisher based in Sydney, Australia. The studio strives to release original multi-platform games, while also collaborating with developers from around the world. As developers first, they bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to any partnership. The studio provides development services to get the game release ready, porting to all major platforms, platform approval, marketing, and promotion to the world. Blowfish Studios is a part of Animoca Brands gaming focused endeavors.
Animoca Brands, a Deloitte Tech Fast winner and ranked in the Financial Times list of High Growth Companies Asia-Pacific 2021, is a leader in digital entertainment, blockchain, and gamification that is working to advance digital property rights and contribute to the establishment of the open metaverse. The company develops and publishes a broad portfolio of products including the REVV token and SAND token; original games including The Sandbox, Crazy Kings, and Crazy Defense Heroes; and products utilizing popular intellectual properties including Disney, WWE, Snoop Dogg, The Walking Dead, Power Rangers, MotoGP™, and Formula E. It has multiple subsidiaries, including The Sandbox, Blowfish Studios, Quidd, GAMEE, nWay, Pixowl, Forj, Lympo, Grease Monkey Games, Eden Games, Darewise Entertainment, Notre Game, and TinyTap. Animoca Brands has a growing portfolio of more than 340 investments, including Colossal, Axie Infinity, OpenSea, Dapper Labs (NBA Top Shot), Yield Guild Games, Harmony, Alien Worlds, Star Atlas, and others. For more information visit www.animocabrands.com or follow on Twitter or Facebook.
Cult of the Lambis a rogue-lite/management sim hybrid. After being saved from death, players are tasked as the new prophet of an imprisoned being. A second chance at life comes at a cost though, as players will need to build a cult to worship the being and slash their way through the four bosses keeping the being in chains.
Story
Rogue-lites have a pretty low bar for storytelling, and Cult of the Lamb isn’t raising the bar to new heights. Instead, it simply meets the standards for the genre with its occasional dialogue that slowly hammers out the story over many deaths. The writing is decent, but everything feels more like flavour than actual content to chew on.
Gameplay
Cult of the Lamb is a rogue-lite featuring a gameplay loop of runs through a series of randomly generated rooms followed by a period of cult management. Each run gives the player a randomly selected weapon and a magical spell referred to as a curse. As players proceed through the levels, they’ll acquire buffs in the form of tarot cards. If the player dies and prematurely ends the run, they will be penalized with the loss of some of the items collected in the run and their follower’s faith will waver. The punishment system is very well balanced. There’s enough sting to encourage players to use the escape feature as necessary, but the pain isn’t so severe that it’ll create a snowball effect that is difficult to break out of.
Combat is simple, but tightly executed. There are no complicated attack combinations to speak of, the game consists simply of physical attacks, limited magical curses, and dodge rolls. The dodge mechanic feels pretty good. Attacks are clearly telegraphed with a wind-up animation and a flashing white animation. My only issue with the system is that there are a lot of flashing on the screen by default and enemies can be a little small, so spotting an enemy ready to strike can be a little difficult in the chaos. I would love to see an accessibility option added to the game that lets players customize the flashing colour so it can be more easily seen.
There is a satisfying variety of weapons and curses for players to master, with more being unlocked as the game progresses. I like that the game forces players to master all the available weapons instead of encouraging them to pick a favoured weapon style and run with it all the time. Considering the combat is so simple, it keeps each run fresh and adds another factor into the equation when players decide if they should bail out of a run early.
The management sim surprised me the most with its depth. Initially, it felt lightweight, and I fully expected the worst. As I progressed, I realized the game has plenty of opportunities for players willing to plan out their doctrine choices and ritual use for the long term to maximize productivity and resource generation. The developers did a great job hitting the Goldilocks zone where there is just enough complexity to be captivating without overshadowing the rogue-lite portion of the game.
The game does an excellent job leaning hard into the cult theme. Fans of cult documentaries will recognize plenty of tongue in cheek references to stereotypical cult behaviour woven into the game’s mechanics. The doctrine choices are a decent mix of benevolent, evil, and ambiguous behaviour. It’s nice that the developers have opted to have some ambiguity, instead of going for the poles for every choice.
The game is accessible to all skill levels. Due to its rogue-lite nature, many skill gaps can be overcome with some extra grinding to arm players with extra bonuses. For the bigger skill gaps, there are four difficult settings that can be changed at any time. Furthermore, the mechanics are balanced enough that choosing the wrong doctrine or dying several times in a row isn’t going to dig the player into a hole they can’t get themselves out of.
The controls are solid. They are tight and responsive. The game is designed for a controller, and I’m not the biggest fan of the default layout. The attack is bound to X on an Xbox controller, and dodge is bound to B. A is used as the interact key but is easier to hit for due to its closer proximity. There is an alternate layout that binds dodge to A, but it does cause some issues where some things use X as the use key and other things using A compared to the default layout where everything is bound to A.
Visuals
The visuals are excellent. Its cute art style contrasts nicely against the violent nature of the game and the cult theme. The enemy design is eye catching, and the animations are solid.
Audio
The audio experience is enjoyable. The sound effects are great. The soundtrack is a pleasant accompaniment to the game as it hits all the right emotional notes without being distracting. My only complaint is I wish there was a different song that is more mellow for previously cleared rooms.
Overall
Cult of the Lamb is a stunning example of a game that eschews complexity in favour of doing the simple things well. The entire game is tightly executed with a surprising amount of depth considering its simplicity. While there are some small issues here or there holding it back from perfection, Cult of the Lamb is a must play for fans of rogue-lites and management sims.
Capsule Computers review guidelines can be found here.
Get ready to release your inner demon with this feminist punk rock slice-of-life
17 August 2022 – Game developer Triple Topping (Welcome to Elk) has unveiled its upcoming game, Dead Pets Unleashed, for PC and Mac platforms. Dead Pets Unleashed is a punk rock story about a band making one last effort to get big or grow up. Triple Topping has just launched a Kickstarter for Dead Pets Unleashed and a playable demo is available on Steam. Those wanting to follow and support the game’s progress can register on Kickstarter. Dead Pet’s Unleashed will also have a playable demo at the Indie Arena Booth at Gamescom (August 24-28).
Dead Pets Unleashed follows the punk rock band Dead Pets, who have been in the music scene for a decade. Set in the world of Ether, Gordy and the band live in New Void City. An entirely new world, the planet is inhabited by different species of demons. Players will decide if Gordy, the band’s lead singer, will follow her big plans to get the band’s big break or decide to put away childish things after turning 30. While the game does deal with some heavy topics, Dead Pets Unleashed will run players through several fun slice-of-life mini games, let them listen to a real punk rock EP played live during the game, and engage in Gordy’s daily schedule to determine the future of the band.
Inspired by cartoons Bojack Horseman and Tuca and Bertie’s colorful, surreal worlds, complicated adult friendships, and zany, offbeat humor. At its core, Dead Pets Unleashed is a game about friendship. The band have all been friends for a very long time, and the game explores how to manage old friendships that are taking different paths.
Being about a band, music is incredibly important to the game. However the punk rock music of the game isn’t too heavy, and is intended to be enjoyed by everyone with other music genres also intertwined in the game. You can listen to Dead Pet’s full single featured in the trailer, I Own My Smile. Inspired by female-fronted punk bands like Bikini Kill and Bratmobile, I Own My Smile is Gordy’s ode to catcallers.
Check out the song Dead Pets – I Own My Smile
For more information on Dead Pets Unleashed, check out the game’s Kickstarter page, playable demo, Triple Topping’s website or follow along on Twitter. The game will also be available to preview at the Indie Arena Booth for those heading to Gamescom from August 24-28.
International Producer Will Collaborate with Official Gaming Audio and Microphone Supplier on Original Product and Promotional Activities
Australia – August 15, 2022 – HyperX, the gaming peripherals team at HP Inc. and brand leader in gaming and esports, today announced the signing of world-renowned DJ, record producer, and songwriter Zedd as the brand’s newest ambassador. Through the relationship, HyperX will serve as Zedd’s Official Gaming Audio and Gaming Microphone Supplier. Zedd will in turn help the gaming solutions provider design and promote several original product offerings, including custom and limited-edition headsets and peripherals. Beyond original products, the duo will bring gamers and music fans exclusive content and promotional platforms.
The relationship between HyperX and Zedd developed organically, as a result of the artist’s passion for gaming. Zedd has been an avid gamer for years, playing multiple titles between tour stops and studio sessions.
“HyperX has supported my passion for gaming since we first connected via Twitter, several years ago,” said Zedd. “Their products are a major part of my gaming lifestyle and I am grateful for the ongoing support. I’m eager to kick off our collaboration, which dives much deeper than a typical partnership.”
Since 2002, HyperX has made gaming more approachable for gamers of all levels across multiple gaming platforms through its PC, console and mobile products. In addition to providing products that support varying needs, the brand has developed multi-year relationships with a diverse roster of celebrated ambassadors across culture, entertainment and sport. Built around transparency, innovation and collaboration, these ambassadorships have helped the brand bring gaming to new audiences and cement what was once a niche hobby as a popular pastime.
“Over the last two decades, we’ve really grown alongside gaming, from this bold, grassroots company into a lifestyle brand,” said HyperX. “Zedd is an incredible talent who’s known not only for his musical contributions, but passion for gaming. Together, we aim to show the authentic link between music and gaming, and bring these worlds even closer together.”
Zedd joins a growing line-up of more than 25 HyperX ambassadors, including Australian content creator Lachlan, football player JuJu Smith-Schuster, basketball players Gordon Hayward and Aerial Powers, tennis player Daniil Medvedev, international soccer players Dele Alli and Casemiro, professional race car driver Sage Karam, skateboarder Minna Stess, streamer Valkyrae and social media sensation Bella Poarch.
To stay up to date on this ambassadorship and potential collaborative offerings, please visit hyperx.com.
About HyperX
For 20 years, HyperX’s mission has been to develop gaming solutions for every type of gamer and the company is consistently recognised for delivering products that provide superior comfort, aesthetics, performance, and reliability. Under the tagline of “WE’RE ALL GAMERS,” HyperX gaming headsets, keyboards, mice, USB microphones, and console accessories are the choice of everyday gamers as well as celebrity ambassadors, pro gamers, tech enthusiasts, and overclockers worldwide because they meet stringent product specifications and are built with best-in-class components.
HP Inc. is a technology company that believes one thoughtful idea has the power to change the world. Its product and service portfolio of personal systems, printers, and 3D printing solutions helps bring these ideas to life. Visit http://www.hp.com .
# # #
HyperX and the HyperX logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of HP Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. All registered trademarks and trademarks are property of their respective owners.
FINAL FANTASY XIV ONLINE PATCH 6.2 “BURIED MEMORY” RECEIVES 23rd AUGUST RELEASE DATE AND NEW TRAILER
Letter from the Producer LIVE Broadcast Showcases Latest Upcoming Content; Moonfire Faire Seasonal Event Live
SQUARE ENIX® today announced FINAL FANTASY® XIV Online Patch 6.2, Buried Memory, will launch on 23rd August. Revealed during the latest Letter from the Producer LIVE broadcast presented by Producer and Director Naoki Yoshida, the news was accompanied by a new trailer and information on the latest chapter of the critically acclaimed title, which includes fresh battle challenges and the highly anticipated Island Sanctuary.
You can view the new Patch 6.2 trailer at:
During the broadcast, Yoshida offered viewers a demonstration of Island Sanctuary, a new type of casual solo content which allows players to build and customise their own personal farm on a deserted island by gathering materials, building facilities, caring for creatures, and more, without the need for prior crafting or gathering experience.
Additional details on Patch 6.2 were discussed, including PvP updates, Pandæmonium: Abyssos, and more.
An overview of content that players can look forward to in Patch 6.2 is included below:
● New Main Scenario Quests – The epic story continues in this latest chapter.
● New Side Story Quests – Experience the continuation of Tataru’s Grand Endeavor.
● New Dungeon – New challenges await in the Fell Court of Troia.
● New Trial – Band together with other players in a new trial with Normal and Extreme difficulties.
● New 8-Player Raid – Pandæmonium: Abyssos will be available in both Normal and Savage difficulties to challenge the most seasoned players. The Savage difficulty raid is planned for release one week following the launch of Patch 6.2.
● New Unreal Trial – Battle against Sephirot in Containment Bay S1T7 (Unreal).
● PvP Updates – PvP Series 2 and Crystalline Conflict Season 3 will begin with the release of Patch 6.2. Hidden Gorge will also resume, along with adjustments to PvP actions and the Crystalline Conflict ranked matching system.
● Continued Improvements to the Main Scenario:
○ The Duty Support feature will be expanded to include main scenario dungeons from the 2.x series to 3.0 (Snowcloak, The Keeper of the Lake, Sohm Al, The Aery and The Vault).
○ The Steps of Faith trial will be reworked into a solo quest battle.
○ The Thornmarch trial will be revamped.
● Miscellaneous Updates – Additional content including, updates to adventurer plates and portraits, glamour dresser capacity expansion from 400 to 800 slots, and more.
Some additional details were also shared about Patch 6.25 content, which will arrive at a later date:
● New Side Story Quests – Somehow Further Hildibrand Adventures continue in Patch 6.25.
● New Weapon Enhancement Quests – Players can obtain and enhance Manderville Weapons throughout the Patch 6.x series, which will begin in the Somehow Further Hildibrand Adventures questline.
● New Tribal Quests: Omicron – New daily quests for Disciples of the Land.
● New “Variant Dungeons” Battle Content – Players can enjoy this new variable-difficulty dungeon content—beginning with the Sil’dihn Subterrane—designed for between 1-4 players, with the difficulty of enemies scaling depending on party size. Dungeons will feature branching routes, which change depending on player action within the dungeon.
● New “Another Path: Criterion Dungeons” Battle Content –High difficulty four-player content, which features a distinct structure and enemies of the Variant Dungeons, but will have a set route. Criterion dungeons will feature two options of difficulties, each with their own unique set of rules and characteristics
In addition, a collaboration with Insert Coin clothing to create the FFXIV Endwalker Paladin Jacket was revealed. Inspired by the level 90 paladin job-specific gear featured in key art and the Endwalker trailer, the jacket features high-quality embroidery and is available to order now. For more information, please visit: https://sqex.to/InsertCoin
Alongside this, a weeklong livestream titled “Mogchute Farm” was announced, planned to celebrate the upcoming launch of the highly-anticipated Island Sanctuary content. Based in London, United Kingdom, “Mogchute Farm” is taking place at Mudchute Farm, a registered charity with care for the environment at the heart of their mission. From 1pm BST on Monday 15th August to 1pm BST on Friday 19th August, viewers will get the chance to watch several farmyard favourites over multiple days, including pigs, goats and chickens, with other surprises revealed as the week progresses. To experience their daily routines of feeds, frolics, and festivities, please visit the FINAL FANTASY XIV Online Twitch channel: https://www.twitch.tv/finalfantasyxiv
Also announced as part of the Letter from the Producer LIVE, FINAL FANTASY XIV Online will be returning to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre for PAX Australia 2022 with a dedicated booth. Between October 7-9, attendees will be invited to visit the booth where a range of activities will be available. More information will be available at a later date.
Furthermore, the FINAL FANTASY XIV Online Starter Guide Series, a seven-part online video series which provides novice players with tips and tricks to get the most out of their adventure, can be viewed now on YouTube. The videos follow the journey of new player Kaz and his mentor Mayra, who guides him through his first steps in Eorzea. More information about the series can be found here: https://sqex.to/8q2Pq
Finally, the Moonfire Faire seasonal event is in full swing until August 26 and allows players to obtain unique new rewards, including the Summer Sunset attire. More information on this limited-time event can be found here: https://sqex.to/t4wCH
With more than 25 million total registered players, there has never been a better time for newcomers to begin their adventures in the critically acclaimed FINAL FANTASY XIV Online saga. The expanded Free Trial now includes all content from A Realm Reborn™ and the Heavensward™ expansion (and updates through Patch 3.56), as well as an additional playable race (Au Ra), and three additional playable jobs (Dark Knight, Astrologian, and Machinist). Free Trial players can enjoy hundreds of hours of award-winning gameplay and story experiences equivalent to two full FINAL FANTASY titles, without limit on playtime. More information is available: https://sqex.to/FFXIVFreeTrial
Square Enix Ltd. develops, publishes, distributes and licenses SQUARE ENIX®, EIDOS® and TAITO® branded entertainment content in Europe and other PAL territories as part of the Square Enix group of companies. Square Enix Ltd. also has a global network of leading development studios such as Crystal Dynamics® and Eidos Montréal. The Square Enix group of companies boasts a valuable portfolio of intellectual property including: FINAL FANTASY®, which has sold over 168 million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST®, which has sold over 84 million units worldwide; TOMB RAIDER®, which has sold over 88 million units worldwide; and the legendary SPACE INVADERS®. Square Enix Ltd. is a London-based, wholly-owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.
