Smilegate expands partnership with former GTA creative director Dan Houser for global AAA publishing – New game set in A BETTER PARADISE universe in development, funded by Smilegate

August 6, 2025 – Smilegate today announced that it has signed an agreement with Dan Houser’s Absurd Ventures to globally publish the studio’s upcoming AAA, open-world, sci-fi action-adventure game, set in its mind-bending A BETTER PARADISE universe. The partnership follows Smilegate’s strategic investment in Absurd Ventures, announced last year.

A BETTER PARADISE is an expansive universe created by Absurd Ventures, the company founded by Rockstar Games co-founder Dan Houser, the former creative director and lead writer of the GRAND THEFT AUTO and RED DEAD REDEMPTION franchises, among others. Building on the studio’s talent for crafting incredible narrative worlds and characters, A BETTER PARADISE has already spawned a hit audio fiction series, A BETTER PARADISE Volume One: An Aftermath, which debuted at the top of Apple’s Fiction charts and won the 2024 Signal Award for Best Episode of Scripted Fiction. Absurd Ventures is also releasing a novelization of the first volume of A BETTER PARADISE’s story, due out in October 2025.

Currently in early development, the video game is being written and creative directed by Houser alongside his worldbuilding and creative team which includes longtime collaborators Lazlow, and Michael Unsworth. The game’s development at Absurd Ventures is being led by veteran studio head Greg Borrud who was previously General Manager of Niantic and co-founder of Pandemic Studios. Houser and Borrud have been building an elite team at Absurd Ventures studios and the A BETTER PARADISE game project boasts senior game development talent with previous experience from Bungie, Treyarch, Respawn, Insomniac, Riot, and more, with lead credits on best-in-class action and adventure games such as Call of Duty, Destiny 2, Valorant, Spider-Man 2, Hogwarts Legacy, and many others.

With a top-tier development team, Absurd is officially in development on this new AAA game, driven by an ambitious and exciting creative vision. The company expects Smilegate’s expertise and experience, as proven by its success in the global gaming industry, to bring strong synergy to their strategic publishing partnership. Following its equity investment in Absurd Ventures last year, Smilegate plans to make a full-scale investment, including development funding, into the A BETTER PARADISE project to help ensure its global success. 

Sung Joon-ho, CEO of Smilegate, said:

“We are thrilled to take on this new challenge in the global AAA game market alongside Dan Houser and Absurd. We are confident that the strong storytelling of the ABP universe combined with the development capabilities of the Absurd team will result in an outstanding title. We are a company with a developer-first DNA and truly understand what development studios need,” he emphasized. “Through our partnership with Absurd, we will fully support the A Better Paradise game project and do our utmost to help create a new title that will be loved by players around the world. Smilegate will leverage its extensive experience and success in global markets to ensure the ABP project becomes a beloved success worldwide.”

Dan Houser, founder of Absurd Ventures, stated:

“Absurd Ventures was set up to tell new and different kinds of stories, and to create what I hope are interesting and compelling original experiences. This new game is an opportunity to go somewhere entirely different and to take players on an entirely new adventure. I am excited to be going on this journey with the amazing team that we are building here at Absurd Ventures and am grateful that we are partnering with Smilegate who really understand and support our vision.”

Kwon Hyuk-bin, Chief Visionary Officer of Smilegate, added:

“Dan Houser and I have formed a deep friendship through our shared interest in games and the future, and I find it especially meaningful that we are now able to share our creative visions through this collaboration on the A Better Paradise project,” he stated. “We’re excited to present a title that reflects the vision we’ve often discussed—one that we hope will deeply resonate with gamers around the world.

Through this joint project, Smilegate aims to grow beyond Asia and become a major player in the global gaming industry.

Absurd Ventures was advised by Grubman Shire Meiselas & Sacks, P.C. and Fenwick & West LLP in connection with the transaction. Smilegate was advised by DLA Piper.

Further details, including the development schedule and platforms, will be announced at a later date. To learn more about the A BETTER PARADISE universe, visit the official website.

About Smilegate

Smilegate is a global game development and publishing company headquartered in South Korea with regional offices in the United States, China, and Japan. Its flagship franchise ‘CROSSFIRE’ is one of the largest and most successful franchises in gaming history. It has more than 1 billion registered users to date in PC and mobile platforms and over 8 million concurrent players globally. Its latest project, ‘Lost Ark,’ is an MMORPG that was released in South Korea in 2018 and was launched in North America and Europe in February 2021. Lost Ark recorded the number for concurrent players on Steam with over 1.32M. Learn more by visiting Smilegate.com.

About Absurd Ventures

Absurd Ventures is a storytelling-driven entertainment company creating original video games, live-action and animated film and television, audio fiction, books, comic books, and more. The company was founded by Dan Houser, who was previously co-founder of Rockstar Games, and the lead creative force behind some of the most successful entertainment properties in history. Absurd Ventures’ original IP, created by Houser, includes sci-fi-thriller universe A Better Paradise, crime-fiction universe American Caper, and comedy-satire universe Absurdaverse. Its debut project, an audio fiction series set in the A Better Paradise world, debuted as the #1 fiction podcast on Apple. In 2025, Absurd Ventures will release an American Caper comic book series, an A Better Paradise novel, Absurdaverse animation projects, and more. Absurd Ventures is headquartered in Santa Monica, with additional studio offices in Marin, California. Storytelling. Philanthropy. Ultraviolence.

A new open-world adventure game launching October 10 on Console and PC

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. and LONDON, UK, August 6, 2025 – Mattel, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAT), a leading global toy and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world, in collaboration with Outright Games, a leading publisher of family-friendly interactive entertainment, today revealed details of its upcoming console game, Barbie™ Horse Trails, a new single-player open-world adventure game available Friday, October 10, 2025 on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC through Steam.

Barbie Horse Trails will take players on a journey through the landscapes of Canterbury Trails Park with their beloved equine companion, Lucky. Taking the reins as Barbie ‘Brooklyn’ Roberts or Barbie ‘Malibu’ Roberts, players will explore vibrant ecosystems, complete nature-inspired quests, and uncover hidden treasures. 

Key features of Barbie Horse Trails include:

• Join the Junior Rangers: Team up as Junior Rangers-in-Training with Park Rangers and Ken’s aunt, Lady Carson, to refresh and beautify Canterbury Trails Park.
• Find Your Adventure: Explore diverse environments like wildflower meadows, lush forests, mountains, and peaceful lakes.
• Meet Familiar Faces: Reunite with friends like Ken, Teresa, Nikki, and Daisy for side missions and fun challenges. 
• Discover Wildlife: Learn about the park with Head Ranger Annalise and visit the Wildlife Centre to discover animals and plants.
• Capture the Magic: Use the in-world camera to capture magical moments and document findings in a journal to help guide players on their quests.
• Solve Mysteries: Collaborate with Archaeologist Dr. Potts to unearth ancient ceramics, follow clues, and solve the mystery horse quest.
• Horse Care: Build a bond with Lucky by cleaning, grooming, pampering, and feeding her.
• Express Your Style: Find collectible chests to customize outfits, gear, and colorful accessories like bridles, saddles, braids, and ribbons.

“With Barbie Horse Trails, our teams set out to create an experience that offers players a rich, hands-on adventure rooted in exploration and creativity,” said Erika Winterholler, Head of Business Development, Digital Gaming at Mattel. “From riding through unique environments to customizing characters and completing in-game challenges, the gameplay is designed to be immersive, engaging, and fun for all ages.”

“It’s a privilege to collaborate with Mattel again on such an iconic brand and incorporating the beloved equestrian element into Barbie Horse Trails really takes the adventure to new heights,” said Stephanie Malham, Managing Director of Outright Games. “We’ve created a game that immerses players in a beautiful open-world environment full of exciting adventures, making it an experience that fans of all ages will love.”

Since 1959, Barbie has inspired the limitless potential in every girl, sparking imaginations and shaping futures through play. The brand boasts over 175 diverse dolls, celebrating inclusivity and offering a unique voice across multiple platforms to engage a wide range of audiences. Throughout this evolution, the Barbie brand’s connection to horse riding has remained a beloved and recurring theme, as featured in several previous video games titles including the popular Barbie Horse Adventures series (2003-2008) and in the television series, Barbie Mysteries: The Great Horse Chase, currently on Netflix.

About Mattel

Mattel is a leading global toy and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world. We engage consumers and fans through our franchise brands, including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, Fisher-Price®, American Girl®, Thomas & Friends™, UNO®, Masters of the Universe®, Matchbox®, Monster High®, MEGA® Polly Pocket® and Barney®, as well as other popular properties that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include toys, content, consumer products, digital and live experiences. Our products are sold in collaboration with the world’s leading retail and ecommerce companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in empowering generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. Visit us at mattel.com.

About Outright Games

Outright Games is a global video games publisher with a focus on bringing quality family entertainment to a worldwide audience. Founded in 2016, Outright Games has established its place in the market delivering engaging interactive games of beloved entertainment licenses globally. Outright Games brings stories and characters to life with titles including favourites such as Peppa Pig: World Adventures with Hasbro, DC’s Justice League: Cosmic Chaos with Warner, Star Trek Prodigy: Supernova and Paw Patrol: Grand Prix with Nickelodeon, and DreamWorks Dragons: Legends of The Nine Realms with NBC Universal. With an Outright Games title there will be fun for all the family to enjoy. For more information please visit: www.outrightgames.com.

PHL

Since 2013 PHL Collective has designed and released numerous games for console, mobile, PC, and VR; it’s gained media attention and won awards for quality and gameplay. PHL’s games, coupled with its strong management and production processes, have fueled the studio’s growth, and made it Philadelphia’s largest game developer.

Channel the power of 80s action movies in this hard-hitting martial arts roguelite where just about anything can be your weapon.

[August 6, 2025] – Alawar is thrilled to bring its martial arts survivor-roguelite to console players. Karate Survivor is coming to PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch systems on August 28th! How you fight is up to you. Mix it up with your hands and feet, grab a fish out of the grocery store cooler, or take a seat in a lounge chair and spin like a top to send your enemies flying.

In Karate Survivor, the world is your weapon. If you see a dumpster, kick it forward. If there’s a baseball bat on the ground, pick it up and start swinging. You’ll need to get creative with your martial arts skills as endless waves of bad guys flood the streets and rooftops. In true roguelite fashion, though, obtain cards to power up your attacks, gain new ones, and make your body the most dangerous weapon of them all.

Key Features:

• Improvised Combat: Use whatever you can get your hands on to defeat your enemies. From plastic flamingos to mop handles, even a child’s toy hammer can be deadly in the right hands.
• Environmental Warfare: Manipulate your surroundings to your advantage. Push objects at enemies, bring down scaffolding, or slam them with a microwave door.
• Dynamic Combos: Hundreds of different attacks allow you to create unique combinations of up to six attacks tailored to your fighting style. Experiment and discover the most effective combos.
• Progression and Mastery: Collect experience to unlock and master new permanent techniques and skills between runs, making each playthrough more rewarding.
• Diverse Locations and Boss Battles: Battle through various areas, each with its own distinct features and items for combat. Face powerful bosses in each location, pushing your skills to the limit.
• Fast-Paced Runs: Immerse yourself in rapid, intense street battles. Test your martial arts skills and survival instincts in action-packed showdowns that pay homage to the adrenaline-fueled scenes of ‘80s action movies, ensuring you’re always on the edge of your seat.

Karate Survivor is available now on PC and fights its way onto consoles August 28th.

About Alawar

Alawar is an independent video game developer and publisher founded in 1999. Specializing in midcore and casual games, the company extends its creative influence across PCs, video game consoles, and mobile devices. Alawar’s key titles include the Beholder series, Do Not Feed the Monkeys, Necrosmith, Wall World, and an array of other releases.

Set sail with four new U.S. Destroyers in Early Access, the second collaboration wave with ‘Blue Archive’, new combat missions and plenty of quality of life improvements

August 6, 2025 – Wargaming, the developer and publisher of the leading historically accurate, naval multiplayer game World of Warships, is paying tribute to 80 years since the end of World War II in its latest update. New Operations commemorate the occasion with exclusive rewards and ships available to earn, including special Premium Tier VIII American cruiser San Diego. Plus, players can undertake the construction of Tier X American premium destroyer USS Laffey in the Dockyard, and a Content Rarity system joins the Armory to round out a sea of new updates for World of Warships.

“In The Name of Tomorrow” Commemorate the end of the Second World War with new Operations

80 years have passed since the end of World War II, and to mark this tremendous milestone, World of Warships is introducing three new Operations that reflect the war’s historic evolution. Across three weeks during this event named “In The Name of Tomorrow” with one Operation available at a time, players can complete the Arctic Convoy, Tokyo Express, and Pacific Offensive Operations. Each Operation is designed for up to seven players and offers a variety of objectives, including escorting convoys, stealth raids, and taking down fortified enemy installations. To assist those voyaging out on the seven seas, Tier VI French cruiser La Galissonnière and Tier VIII American cruiser Cleveland can be used as rental ships.

After the three weeks, all Operations will return for a final week, allowing players to complete them once again with expanded restrictions on tiers and nations. As players complete Operation objectives, they will be rewarded with stars to progress through a special narrative campaign, which contributes towards the new ‘39-’45 Chronicles Collection and unlocks plenty of rewards. Among these are a Special End of WWII skin for the Tier IX American battleship Iowa, a new enemy destruction effect known as Underwater Explosion, and the American Commander, Robert Adams. Along the entire update, players will be able to follow the journey during WWII of the final prize for those who complete the event, the premium Tier VIII American cruiser San Diego.

“The Ship That Would Not Die” joins the Dockyard

For the latest update, Tier X American Premium destroyer USS Laffey arrives in the Dockyard across 20 construction phases, known for its extensive service during World War II, the vessel was involved in historic moments, such as the Normandy landings and the Battle of Okinawa, the latter earning its nickname as “The Ship That Would Not Die” after surviving six kamikaze strikes and four direct bomb hits.

For World of Warships players, Laffey comes equipped with 127mm guns, which may not pack much of a punch, but synergise with a powerful toolkit that allows for strong concealment, Improved Defensive AA fire, and an enhanced Specialised Repair Teams consumable. If that wasn’t enough, Laffey also includes a variant of the Burst Fire mechanic, short-range torpedoes, and a time-based Smoke Generator to assist in some of her drawbacks.

The Armory welcomes the Content Rarity System

The Content Rarity System is joining the Armory, bringing colour-coded rarity grades for ships, camouflages, and enemy destruction effects. This system allows players to easily evaluate the difference in items and easily see the rarity of their unlocks. In addition to joining the Armory, this system will also be available as part of the Captain’s Log Book, finally World of Warships’ August update rounds out with two new flags and new achievements for Clan Battles Season 31.

###

About World of Warships

World of Warships is a free, historical, online combat PC game from Wargaming. With its massive fleet of most iconic war vessels, including five different ship classes and strategically designed environment, World of Warships provides the ultimate naval warfare gaming experience, suitable for everyone. Thanks to its largest collection of historically accurate ships available to play, World of Warships prides itself as a digital ship museum and a focal point for naval history enthusiasts. New thematic content and innovative game modes are being added on a regular basis, providing a diverse and exciting gameplay to its broad player base.

About Wargaming

Wargaming is an award-winning online game developer and publisher headquartered in Nicosia, Cyprus. Operating since 1998, Wargaming has grown to become one of the leaders in the gaming industry. Its 15 offices around the world include studios in Chicago, Prague, Shanghai, Tokyo, Vilnius, Belgrade, and Kyiv. Millions of players enjoy Wargaming’s titles across all major gaming platforms. Its flagship products include the free-to-play hits World of Tanks, World of Tanks Blitz, World of Warships, World of Warships: Legends, and World of Warships Blitz.

Echoes of Vana’diel – San d’Oria: The Second Walk, Vault Oneiron Treasure Dungeon, And Much More in Latest Major Update

6 August 2025 – SQUARE ENIX today launched the latest major update for FINAL FANTASY™ XIV Online, with Patch 7.3 The Promise of Tomorrow. 

Arriving with a wealth of new playable content, Patch 7.3 offers new main scenario quests, the next chapter of the Echoes of Vana’diel alliance raid series with San d’Oria: The Second Walk, The Meso Terminal dungeon, The Wreath of Snakes Unreal difficulty trial, where players will take on one of the Four Lords, Seiryu at Level 100, the Vault Oneiron treasure dungeon, the Bayside Battleground, a new Crystalline Conflict player versus player map and more.

The Patch 7.3x series will also include a number of updates set to arrive with patch 7.31, containing the first update to the gathering and crafting focused Cosmic Exploration and Phantom Weapon quests followed by patch 7.35 that includes Pilgrim’s Traverse, a new Deep Dungeon, new allied society quests with the Yok Huy and Inconceivably Further Hildibrand Adventures.

A breakdown of content in the Patch 7.3x series can be found below: 

• New Main Scenario Quests
• New Alliance Raid – Echoes of Vana’diel, Part 2: San d’Oria: The Second Walk
• New Dungeon – The Meso Terminal
• New Trial – Includes both Normal and Extreme modes
• New Unreal Trial – The Wreath of Snakes (Unreal): Take on Seiryu, one of the Four Lords, at level 100
• New Treasure Dungeon – Vault Oneiron
• Duty Support Additions – Support for the Cutter’s Cry will be added
• PvP Updates – The start of PvP Series 9, existing action adjustments, new ranked tiers and the addition of a new Crystalline Conflict arena: the Bayside Battleground
• Chat Bubbles
• Miscellaneous Updates – Phoenix Down changes, Group Pose updates and more

Patch 7.31 and Patch 7.35, set to release in the near future following Patch 7.3 include a number of updates, such as:

• Cosmic Exploration: New Planet – Phaenna (Patch 7.31) – A new planet for intrepid crafters and gatherers to explore, as well as additional updates and changes
• Weapon Enhancements Quests (7.31) – Phantom Weapons
• New Deep Dungeon (Patch 7.35) – Pilgrim’s Traverse
• New Allied Society Quests (Patch 7.35) – Yok Huy
• Inconceivably Further Hildibrand Adventures (Patch 7.35)

For more information, please visit the promotional site: FINAL FANTASY XIV: Dawntrail | Patch 7.3 The Promise of Tomorrow.

With more than 30 million total registered accounts, there has never been a better time for newcomers to begin their adventures in the critically acclaimed FINAL FANTASY XIV Online saga. The Free Trial includes all content from A Realm Reborn, the Heavensward and Stormblood expansions (and updates through Patch 4.58). Free Trial players can enjoy hundreds of hours of award-winning gameplay and story experiences equivalent to three full FINAL FANTASY titles, without limit on playtime. More information can be found at: https://sqex.to/FFXIVFreeTrial

About Square Enix Ltd.

Square Enix Ltd. develops, publishes, distributes and licenses SQUARE ENIX and TAITO branded entertainment content in Europe and other PAL territories as part of the Square Enix group of companies. The Square Enix group of companies boasts a valuable portfolio of intellectual property including: FINAL FANTASY, which has sold over 203 million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST, which has sold over 94 million units worldwide; and the legendary SPACE INVADERS. Square Enix Ltd. is a London-based, wholly owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.

More information on Square Enix Ltd. can be found at https://square-enix-games.com

Immersive sports simulator enters tenth edition with deeper control and real-time feedback

Rock Hill, SC – August 5, 2025 – Axis Football 2026, the complete American Football game and franchise simulator from developer Axis Games and publisher Upside Down Bird, crafts the ultimate playbook on Nintendo Switch, PC via Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation on Monday, Sept. 8, 2025 for $19.99 USD.

It’s 4th-and-1 and with an entire legacy on the line. Step onto the turf with beautifully upgraded graphics and lighting to compete in the grueling gauntlet of simulation football, and manage the minutiae of decades-long dynasties in the industry’s most robust Franchise Mode. Dive into the details both on and off the field: master a flawless two-minute offense, design audible packages to counter defensive schemes, and execute offseason moves to lock in long-term success for years to come. 

Play, coach, spectate, and simulate games with more than 30 American football teams in single-player and local two-player modes. Lob passes into fingertip catch opportunities, fire a spiral between the numbers, and stiff-arm a path to the end zone with precision as Axis Football 2026’s addition of User Action Indicators adds more immersion than ever before. 

Call and execute 1,000+ plays using 75+ modern formations, rebuilt from the ground up in the biggest Axis Football offensive overhaul yet featuring new block-and-release routes and all new handoff animations. Tailor a playbook to capitalize on star players, or draw up a custom set of X’s and O’s with the new Play Editor.

Listen to a beautiful game with the completely redesigned announcing system that features fluid play-by-play calling, a massive array of content to cover all the action on the field, and a deep database of names to make the game sound better than ever!

Take full control of the team’s future, choosing the league style, conference divisions, rosters, funding, drafting, and more. Manage draft picks, salary caps, trades, and retirements to keep the team healthy while monitoring morale level. Set league records at the risk of overuse injuries, or simultaneously nurse a lead and player health with conservative playstyles. Build customized team names, uniforms, logos, end zones, and stadiums with merchandise-worthy branding!

“Axis Football 2026 builds upon the previous iterations in the franchise by strengthening the player’s control over every play,” said Danny Jugan, Founder and CEO at Axis Games. “By integrating real-time feedback and boosts for catching, tackling, breaking tackles, and more, 2026 will be the most immersive Axis Football yet!”

Axis Football 2026 kicks off the season on Nintendo Switch, PC via Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation on Monday, September 8, 2025, for $19.99 USD. 

To scout out more information on Axis Games, visit the official website, join the community on Discord, and follow @AxisGamesDev and #axisfootball26 on social media. To learn more about Upside Down Bird, visit their official site and find them on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

About Axis Games

Axis Games is a small South Carolina-based development studio with a passion for creating immersive, multi-faceted sports experiences. Their flagship series, Axis Football, has continued to thrive since its first iteration in 2015. Axis Football 2026 is its latest title, currently in development.

About Upside Down Bird

A small indie development team based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Upside Down Bird is always looking to do things a bit different. Some of their projects include ECGC 2018 Indie Prize Winner Super Gravity Ball, and SIEGE 2018 Best in Show winner Mariachi Undead, speaking to the team’s diverse and outside-of-the-box development style. They’re currently developing 4v4 battler Shroom Siege and publishing sports sim Axis Football 2026.

Lofi beats to decorate and design to

Bristol, UK (August 5, 2025) – Independent British game developer Meteor Pixel, alongside co-publisher SECRET SAUCE, have revealed sticker book decorating sim Little Corners! Relax, unwind and remove the adhesive backing when the game launches on PC later in 2025 – though a demo is available to enjoy now on Steam. 

Watch the Little Corners announcement trailer:

In Little Corners, you’ll decorate to your heart’s content without needing planning permissions or approval from your landlord. Peel and place stickers of furniture, trinkets, and even animals (including an adorable mouse couple, squeak!), arranging and adjusting them until it’s just right.

Explore 10 dioramas, including an alchemist’s mystical medieval tower, a cozy winter cabin, and an adventurer’s tavern. As well as themed stickers for each setting, such as cauldrons, fireplaces, and magical artifacts, you’ll unlock and collect super secret stickers just by embracing your creativity and testing out combinations.

Little Corners is ultimately a laidback sim experience. There are no time pressures, objectives, or “right ways” to do things. In this game, set to a vibey and chilled-out lofi soundtrack, the goal is just to enjoy.

Key Features of Little Corners

• So Many Stickers: Place a library of more than 2,000 stickers, with unique themes for each diorama and special unlockable stickers to collect. 
• Drag and Drop: Super satisfying mechanics make placing stickers a joy, while layering also offers additional opportunities for creativity. 
• Lofi Beats to Stick to: An original lofi soundtrack sets the tone for the decorating gameplay. 

Little Corners will be released on PC in 2025 and a playable demo is available via Steam. A larger demo and developer interviews are also available at gamescom 2025 (Indie Arena Booth, ).

About Meteor Pixel

Meteor Pixel is a game development and outsourcing studio based in Bristol, UK. Over the past 10 years, they’ve worked on hit titles such as Date Everything, Two Point Museum and Flock. Now, they are working on their own IP, titled Little Corners, a wholesome sticker decorating game set to launch in 2025.

About SECRET SAUCE

SECRET SAUCE is a UK-based co-publishing and marketing agency founded in 2024 which supports developers, publishers and studios across AA to indie in bringing their games to market.

Upcoming Immersion Pack Focuses on Austrian Internal Affairs and Balkan Struggles

STOCKHOLM – 05 AUGUST 2025 – Though the Napoleonic Age has faded, the nationalist fervors excited by the export of Revolution have stirred the populations of East and Central Europe. Though no longer a Holy Roman Emperor, the Habsburg Crown in Vienna rules over one of the most multinational states in Europe. A German elite dominates dozens of large minority populations, each clamoring for more control of their own destiny. Meanwhile, a weakened Ottoman Empire opens opportunities to use nationalist enthusiasm for meddling in the Balkans. On 23 September, you can explore the history of the Habsburg Empire and its neighbors in National Awakening, a new immersion pack for Victoria 3, Paradox Interactive’s grand strategy society simulator of the dramatic century between the accession of Queen Victoria and the beginnings of World War II.

The liberal revolutions of 1848 were the culmination of decades of internal struggle, and the suppression of these revolts would complicate Austrian politics until the empire’s 20th century collapse. In National Awakening, you can steer your way through the crises that remade the political map of Europe.

Victoria 3: National Awakening has new historical content related to:

• Austria: Guided by the bureaucratic and diplomatic genius of Metternich, Austria starts in a strong position – but social and technological revolutions threaten to undermine the absolute Habsburg authority. Transform the Empire into a  cosmopolitan state under bureaucratic leadership, or try to harness the national aspirations of its many peoples towards reform.
• Hungary: Once freed from Austrian rule, Hungary has a chance to be a crucial weight in the balance of power in Eastern Europe.
• Serbia: Take sides in the rivalry between the Serbian royal houses of the Karadjordjevic and Obrenovic dynasties.
• Bulgaria: Establish freedom from Ottoman rule and establish the reputation of Prussia of the Balkans.
• Montenegro: Lead this tiny theocratic state to secular monarchy and potential expansion.
• Yugoslavia and Illyria: Form a new southern Slavic state, based on the historical Serbian led model or an alternate Croatian-Slovene nation.
• The Great Eastern Crisis: The rise of nationalism in Southern Europe deals an almost fatal blow to Ottoman power in Europe as formerly subject peoples rise up in rebellion,
• National Awakenings: New narrative events tied to National Fervor to better model the historical rise of nationalism in the Balkans.
• The Balkan Wars: New content to encourage a united Balkan front against the exhausted Ottoman Empire in Europe.
• New historical characters
• New art and regional building set

Victoria 3: National Awakening will be available on 23 September 2025 for the suggested retail price of $9.99/£8.50/€9.99.

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

DevGAMM, the international B2B game conference, returns to Lisbon this fall with a powerful lineup of talks, workshops, a 60+ games showcase, MeetToMatch-powered networking, and exclusive VIP formats. The event’s keynote announced so far is none other than legendary game designer & entrepreneur Peter Molyneux, with additional confirmed speakers from Riot Games, Ubisoft, Vivaro, Scopely, Druids AI, plus more global game industry leaders, that will be announced in September.

DevGAMM Lisbon 2025 will take place on November 6-7 at the Myriad by Sana. This year, the conference is a part of a DevGAMM week in Portugal that also includes Madeira Games Summit, an executive event on November 3-4. Details: https://devgamm.com/portugal2025/lisbon

Peter Molyneux, widely known as the pioneer of the God Game genre, will share creative and leadership insights from his trailblazing career. As the visionary behind classics like Fable, Populous, and Syndicate, and founder of indie studio 22cans, Molyneux remains one of the most influential figures in game design and innovation.

Concentrated on its high-quality content for decision makers, DevGAMM already confirmed the first wave of speakers:

• Nikola Stoyanov, Art Director, Ubisoft Sofia
• Abby LeMaster, Senior Lead Producer, Riot Games
• Adam Boyes, Founder & CEO, Vivrato
• Tulay McNally, Sr. Director, Inclusive Game Design Strategy, Scopely
• Miguel Oliveira, CEO & Co-Founder, Druids AI
• Maria Borys, Lead Narrative, Flying Wild Hog / Merry Tale Games

The submissions for DevGAMM Awards, a competition for AA & indie game developers, are still open until September 1, 2025. With a main prize pool of $100,000 in real cash, sponsored by Scorewarrior, and additional categories from sponsors worth more than $30,000, the competition offers a remarkable opportunity for emerging talents. 

Developers can also apply for the Game Showcase, Public Pitch, and Steam Event – all designed to connect studios with publishers, investors, and platform representatives.

Teams can submit their games via the link: https://devgamm.com/awards2025/

With last year’s 50+ top speakers, such as John Romero, 60 showcased games, and 394 companies present at the conference, DevGAMM in Lisbon aims to get bigger this year. Get ready for a refined gamedev experience by the Atlantic Ocean. Discover the best of Portugal through exclusive opportunities, private dining, and parties with extraordinary networking. 

About DevGAMM

DevGAMM game development conference is a US-registered company headquartered in Bellevue, WA. Originating in Ukraine in 2008, the team now operates 100% remotely, collaborating from eight different countries around the world.

DevGAMM has been uniting game industry professionals from Eastern Europe and beyond for over 15 years now. Each conference features multiple networking opportunities, heavy-packed content by top speakers, new games from all over the world, and so much more. For more information, visit the official website.

Card-based retro football management coming to PC in 2026

Sheffield, UK – 5 August 2025: Dust off your short shorts, lace up your boots, and don’t you dare shave that moustache – (retro) football is coming (to) home (computers)! The gaffers at Sumo Sheffield and shirt sponsors Secret Mode are getting ready for the season with NUTMEG!, a football management with a card-based twist and a love of English league football of the 80s and 90s. 

NUTMEG! will see players take a step back in time to manage their favourite teams through twenty years of the beautiful game. Start with a Division Four team and take them to the top of the table to unlock teams in the upper echelons of the sport. Use your knowledge of football’s past to snap up legendary players before their salaries get too inflated.

It’s a game of two halves – manage your team by setting training schedules and transferring players, answering calls from the press, buying merchandise, and adjusting ticket prices for home games. Combine cards generated from training to develop new tactics and build a deck that even Fergie couldn’t sniff at.

Then head onto the pitch for fast-paced card battles, diving into the match at key points to ensure the boys do good. Stop an attack, gain control of the ball, and prove your bouncebackability with a well-played card to shift the odds in your favour and get one in the back of the net.

Originated at Secret Mode in conjunction with the apprentices at the Sumo Digital Academy, the NUTMEG! team was called up by Sumo Sheffield as it entered full production. It will launch on PC in 2026.

About NUTMEG!

Deck-building goes in two-footed on football management!
Become the gaffer of a classic football team and embark on a 20-year journey up and down the English football Divisions through the 1980s and 1990s.

A Game of Two Halves
Pick your line-up and formations, and challenge the opposition in a fast-paced card battler with three points on the line in every match.

Move the Goalposts
The only football game where getting cards is a good thing! Earn card packs by completing challenges. Combine cards to enhance your deck and bully the other team off the pitch.

Get Your Head in the Game
Route one? Tiki-taka? Counter-attacking? Refine skills and strategies in training to earn extra card packs and humble your opponents when Saturday comes.

Keep Your Eye on the Ball
Pick your club, manage player transfers, scout and develop youth talent, and scrap for every place across four Divisions.

Get Stuck In
Oversee the entire club from your desk. Control the finances, talk with the press, and hire and fire backroom staff.

Big Game Player
Immerse yourself in some of the most iconic eras of English football. Unlock new clubs each season and decide whether to be a journeyman manager or a one-club hero.

NUTMEG! will launch on PC in 2026 and is available to wishlist on Steam now.

About Secret Mode
Secret Mode is an independent publisher and the winner of the MCV/Develop Indie Publisher of the Year 2025 award, Ukie Best UK Publisher 2024 award, and the Debug Indie Game Best Influencer Marketing 2025 award. Our titles include triple-BAFTA-winner Still Wakes the Deep, A Little to the Left, Wobbledogs, Loddlenaut, and Empyreal. We believe that games are for everyone, and that creativity has no limits. We believe quality and fun are everything. 

About Sumo Sheffield
Founded in 2003, Sumo Sheffield was the first of Sumo Digital’s studios. Firmly established as the premium development partner of leading publishers, the studio is trusted to deliver high quality games associated with some of the most iconic and valued properties in the industry, or by generating innovative new IP. With a highly skilled body of over 300 developers the studio works across all platforms, on a selection of AAA games covering multiple genres including Sports, FPS, and platform adventure.

About Sumo Academy
Founded in 2020, the Sumo Academy is a talent development programme creating new pathways into the games industry in the form of the Level 7 Game Programming Apprenticeship. Rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted, the Academy teaching team has over 100 combined years of game development experience, but they still can’t beat the apprentice’s high score on Zool.