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The Smurfs – Dreams releases a playable demo!

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While waiting for October 24th, try the game early on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series and Steam!

Paris, France – September 30, 2024 – It’s time to Smurf ahead of the curve! Try The Smurfs – Dreams before its official release on October 24. The playable demo is now available on the Nintendo eshop, PlayStation Store (PlayStation 5 only), Microsoft Store (Xbox Series only) and (Steam, GOG, Epic Game Store) offering a sneak peek of the incredible journey that awaits you.

Get ready to dive into an all-new adventure in the Smurfs universe with the 3D platformer from Ocellus Services: The Smurfs – Dreams, where the most fantastical dreams meet the darkest nightmares. Watch the playable demo trailer now for an epic preview of the incredible journey that awaits, through the wildest dreams of your favorite Smurfs.

Ocellus are renowned for their expertise showcased in Marsupilami: Hoobadventure. Praised by both critics and players alike, this platformer breathed new life into the iconic character within videogames.

Check out the special edition of The Smurfs – Dreams below!
Digital Deluxe Edition: Soon available on PC (Steam, Epic Game Store, GOG)

  • Digital Thief Skin
  • Digital Artbook
  • Digital Soundtrack

About The Smurfs – Dreams

Gargamel has devised a new nefarious plan to capture the Smurfs. The infamous character has cast a devious spell on the sarsaparilla bushes, the Smurfs’ favorite treat, plunging them into a deep sleep. Embark on a dreamlike expedition where you must wake all the Smurfs before the diabolical Gargamel reaches the village. This epic journey will plunge you into a gaming experience as thrilling as it is unexpected, for in the world of dreams, excitement can swiftly turn into the mystery of nightmares.

Key Features:

  • Solo or Co-op Gameplay: Team up with friends for a smurf-tastic gaming experience!
  • Dive into Unique Dreams: Explore diverse realms with their own set of challenges and surprises!
  • Embark on an Epic Adventure: Journey through 4 dreamy worlds with 12 levels and 16 mini-levels to conquer!
  • Customize Your Character: Collect magic orbs and boss tokens to unlock cool customization options and surprises!
  • Stunning Art Direction: Immerse yourself in a colorful and magical world that evolves as you progress!
     

Whether you play solo or with a friend, discover enchanting or nightmarish places and explore the dreams of your favorite Smurfs by navigating levels with varied gameplay in a fabulous adventure where each world has its own distinct characteristics. This 3D platformer offers exciting challenges, providing total immersion in a magical world where imagination comes to life.

The Smurfs – Dreams will be available on October 24, 2024 on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch in physical and digital edition, and on PC (Steam, GOG, Microsoft Store, Epic Game Store) and Xbox One|Series in digital edition.

About Microids

Microids is a French video game publisher. Founded in 1985, Microids’ editorial strategy now focuses on 4 major areas: adventure games, racing games, retro gaming and games inspired by iconic titles. By collaborating with renowned studios and authors (Revolution Software, Sloclap, Oddworld Inhabitants, Pendulo Studios, Eden Studios, Go Nagai, Charles Cecil, Benoît Sokal, Paul Cuisset…), Microids has become a major player in international video games. Taking inspiration from legendary titles, Microids reaches a wide audience and creates original adventures which give gamers the chance to play as some of their most beloved characters.

About Ocellus Services

At Ocellus Services, we are passionate experts in the art and development of stylized video games. Collaborating with industry leaders, we also cultivate our own universes within Ocellus Games. Our team is capable of overseeing the entire creative process, from pre-production to post-production, adapting our skills to projects of any size, genre, or platform. The games, brands, and videos we have contributed to have amassed billions of downloads and views, showcasing our impact in our favorite industry, gaming! 

About Peyo, IMPS (International Merchandising Promotions & Services)

IMPS (International Merchandising Promotions & Services) is the official licensing agent for the beloved little blue characters, “The Smurfs”, created by Peyo. Over the years, IMPS has worked closely with its agents to spread the Smurfs’ popularity worldwide and successfully develop and market publishing activities, audiovisual productions, licensed merchandise, retail promotions and collaborations, digital products and video games, family entertainment experiences, and a plethora of activities that have ensured the everlasting success of the Smurfs. IMPS is led by Véronique Culliford, the daughter of Pierre Culliford, the creator of the Smurfs, better known by his pseudonym Peyo. Véronique has been leading IMPS since 1984 and, along with LAFIG Belgium, holds the rights to the Smurf characters and licenses worldwide.

About The Smurfs™

Blue and as tall as three apples, the Smurfs embody teamwork, loyalty, optimism, joy, humor, and respect for nature. They may not be easy to distinguish at first glance, but each Smurf has its own uniqueness and personality. The Smurfs live in a village filled with mushroom-shaped houses, hidden deep within a magical forest where few dare to venture. Making their debut in Johan and Peewit’s comic book in 1958, these little blue characters created by Belgian artist Peyo (Pierre Culliford) have been spreading happiness and entertaining families worldwide for several generations. The new animated series “The Smurfs” (2021) airs globally on Nickelodeon and Netflix, as well as on TF1 in France. A new Smurfs movie, produced and distributed by Paramount Pictures/Nickelodeon Animation, with Rihanna playing the role of Smurfette, has recently been announced with a worldwide theatrical release scheduled©2024 Microids SA. All rights reserved. Developed by Ocellus. Published by Microids SA. All rights reserved. ©Peyo – 2024 – Licensed through I.M.P.S. (Brussels)

FINAL FANTASY XIV ONLINE PATCH 7.1: “CROSSROADS” REVEALED FOR MID-NOVEMBER 2024 RELEASE

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FINAL FANTASY XI Crossover Alliance Raid, “Echoes of Vana’diel,” Also Shown in Broadcast During Tokyo Game Show

30th September, 2024 – At the weekend, SQUARE ENIX® revealed the first major patch for FINAL FANTASY™ XIV Online following the release of its fifth expansion, Dawntrail™. Details of Patch 7.1, titled “Crossroads,” were shared alongside a mid-Nov. 2024 release as part of the latest Letter from the Producer LIVE broadcast streamed from Tokyo Game Show 2024.

During the broadcast, Producer and Director Naoki Yoshida highlighted a number of additions that will release with Patch 7.1, including the continuation of the main scenario quest, the first part of the FINAL FANTASY XI crossover alliance raid series, new Allied Society quests, and much more. 

An archive of the stream (Japanese audio only) can be viewed here:

The upcoming patch will introduce the highly anticipated crossover alliance raid with SQUARE ENIX’s first MMORPG FINAL FANTASY XI. Titled “Echoes of Vana’diel,” the 24-player battle content jumpstarts the new alliance raid series for FINAL FANTASY XIV: Dawntrail, where adventure beckons to an altogether different world─Vana’diel. 

The Patch 7.1 series also brings with it a plethora of additional high-level battle content of varying difficulty, including the first ever high-difficulty 24-player alliance raid, titled “The Cloud of Darkness (Chaotic),” as well as a new trial, new unreal trial, and new ultimate raid.

Patch 7.1 will feature a wide variety of new content, updates and more, including:

  • New Main Scenario Quests
  • New Dungeon – Yuweyawata Field Station
  • New 24-Player Alliance Raid Series – Echoes of Vana’diel
  • New Trial The Minstrel’s Ballad: Sphene’s Burden
  • New Unreal Trial The Jade Stoa (Unreal): Face off against Byakko, one of the Four Lords, at level 100
  • Chaotic Alliance Raid The Cloud of Darkness (Chaotic): A new 24-player, high-difficulty raid
  • New Ultimate Raid Futures Rewritten (Ultimate)
  • New Allied Society Quests – Players will be able to participate in new allied society quests for the Pelupelu that are designed for battle classes and jobs
  • A New Custom Delivery Client – Nitowikwe
  • Additional Role & Wachumeqimeqi Quests – A new role quest story will become available after completing all Dawntrail role quests, similarly a new Wachumeqimeqi story will become available when completing all of those associated quests
  • New Hildibrand Quest Series – Inconceivably Further Hildibrand Adventures
  • New Game+ Support for Patch 7.0 – Replay main scenario quests, job quests, and role quests
  • Duty Support Additions – Support for the non-main scenario quest dungeon Halatali will be implemented, with further additions in the future
  • Player Housing Update – The ability to select interior designs from different residential areas regardless of the location of the plot and new interior designs will be added
  • Miscellaneous Updates – Additional updates for the Hall of the Novice with training for a wide range of different battle mechanics, NPC voiceovers added to Doman Mahjong and more

For more information and the latest updates on content set to arrive with Patch 7.1 and subsequent sub-patches, please visit the promotional site: https://eu.finalfantasyxiv.com/dawntrail/

With more than 30 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 Free Trial now 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 185 million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST®, 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.

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

Blizzard at Tokyo Game Show 2024: Overwatch 2 x My Hero Academia collaboration; StarCraft: Remastered and StarCraft II are heading to PC Game Pass

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The Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2024 broadcast showcased key game announcements from across Xbox studios, including the exciting reveals that Overwatch 2’s next collaboration is with the hit anime My Hero Academia, and that both StarCraft: Remastered and StarCraft II are heading to PC Game Pass!

Overwatch 2: From 18-30 October AEST, step into the roles of your favourite anime heroes or villains with exclusive legendary skins that bring the action of My Hero Academia to life in the Overwatch universe. 

Each skin is designed to capture the essence of these beloved characters, giving you the chance to dominate the battlefield with their unique style and flair. 

  • Tracer as the determined Deku
  • Juno as the joyful Uravity
  • Reinhardt as the symbol of peace, All Might 
  • Kiriko as the cunning Himiko Toga
  • Reaper as the leader of the League of Villains, Tomura Shigaraki. 

StarCraft: Starting on 6 November AEST, StarCraft: Remastered and StarCraft II: Campaign Collection will be available to anyone with a PC Game Pass or Game Pass Ultimate subscription. 

Ever since StarCraft first launched in 1998 and expanded with StarCraft II in 2010, the series has left an indelible mark on the real-time strategy (RTS) genre, esports, and the rise of live streaming. It continues to enthral a very active and passionate community that is always looking to welcome new members into its ranks. 

In this genre-defining SciFi series, players engage in an epic war across the stars in the 25th century. Featuring three different factions—the human Terrans, bug-like Zerg, and the technologically advanced Protoss—the games set each species against each other for the fate of the Koprulu sector. 

You can also check out the Overwatch 2 x My Hero Academia Collaboration blog here

Your Peaceful Pixelated Farm Life Awaits – Dreamland Farm Debuts Today on Nintendo Switch!

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Have you always yearned for a farmer’s life? The time has come when the fulfillment of your dream is closer than ever. Starting today, Nintendo Switch players begin their move from the city to the bustling countryside and start their adventure on Dreamland Farm.

As the fields finish harvesting crops and celebrating the end of summer at Dreamland Farm, the rustic, fresh-smelling adventure is just beginning.

Tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, players can start enjoying Dreamland Farm today, where they will embark on a relaxing and atmospheric adventure amid nature.

DREAMLAND FARM AVAILABLE NOW ON THE NINTENDO SWITCH

The dream was unique and the preparation was long, but your grandmother, the former farmer, made sure to pass on all her knowledge of managing and running a farm to you. It’s time to make you a worthy successor of whom she will be proud. Now, leaving behind the turmoil of the city and standing at the door of your new home in the countryside, your most beautiful adventure will begin.

Raising crops, fruits, and vegetables, tending to the very round, cute animals, fishing, or visiting the surrounding town – from today begins the hard, but very pleasurable players’ agricultural labor.

They will be able to travel through and get to know the vast green land, as well as the residents. Players will be able to learn the stories of the locals and help solve their problems, for which they will receive rewards in the form of expansion of their dreamland and even handy blueprints for the production or improvement of various items.

And do not forget that there will be a variety of recipes to master from the collected ingredients and crops! It’s time to grab a shovel and a watering can and fall in love with country life.

Dreamland Farm is available now on the Nintendo Switch. The game will also hit the XBOX console in a later date.

ABOUT REDDEER.GAMES

Since 2019, RedDeer.Games (RDG) is an independent developer and publisher of video games. According to “Forbes”, RDG is ranked among the Top50 Polish game producers and has been awarded one of “The Fastest Growing Gamedev Companies in Central Europe”. RDG’s portfolio contains over 80 unique indie titles, some of which are Sprout Valley, One Night: Burlesque, Little Mouse Encyclopedia, She Wants Me Dead, and Uzzuzzu My Pet – Golf Dash, alongside franchises like The Smurfs, Kayko & Kokosh, as well as The Evil One. RDG releases games on key distribution platforms like Nintendo Switch, Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, and iOS. When it comes to plans for 2024, RedDeer.Games will publish Pilo and the Holobook and I See Red on Nintendo Switch console, as well as their own original project – Cook For Love.

Mullet MadJack kicks down the door and is now available on GOG

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The most stylish and badass mullet in gaming makes its debut on the GOG online store, and you can purchase it now for $19,99 for the base game.

Porto Alegre (Brazil), September 27, 2024 – Hammer95 Studios and Epopeia Games are honored to announce that the indie Brazilian FPS hit of 2024, Mullet MadJack, is also available for purchase on the GOG store. The game, which impressively reached over 500,000 wishlists and boasts a 98% approval rating on Steam, now expands the war against billionaire robots to yet another platform.

Check out our review for Mullet MadJack here

Get Mullet MadJack now on GOG:

Mullet MadJack is a kick to the face of billionaire robots

Mullet MadJack is an action-packed FPS game that combines classic elements of old-school anime with a modern cyberpunk twist. In story mode, where speed is (for once) a friend of perfection, you’ll face off against hordes of billionaire robots in a frenzy of bullets, brawls, and explosions as you fight your way through the building’s floors to save the world’s biggest influencer! But be careful: your life literally depends on dopamine, meaning the more robots you take down, the longer you can stay alive!

Looking for an even bigger challenge? Don’t miss the Endless Mode, which offers non-stop challenges and loads of adrenaline. There are also unlockable game modes, such as Weapon Roulette, where each weapon is randomly generated, and Happy Foot, where you face enemies without any weapons and have to rely on your creativity and lots of kicks to survive.

What are you waiting for? Head over to GOG and buy Mullet MadJack now!

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About Hammer95 Studios

Hammer95 is a collective of artists who love the aesthetic of old-school anime and aim to bring back that nostalgia. For more information, follow Hammer95 Studios on social media: XTikTokInstagramYouTube, and Discord.

About Epopeia Games

Epopeia Games is responsible for other games that have been nominated for various awards, and has published the Brazilian indie hit of 2024, Mullet MadJack. Now, it promises to innovate in the farm games genre with the release of Gaucho and the Grassland, which has already won the award for BEST GAME PITCH FROM REGIONAL ASSOCIATIONS at the Big Festival 2022 in São Paulo, Brazil. The game is scheduled for release on PC in 2025, with future plans for Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Playstation 4/5 releases.

SORROW, SECRETS AND ADVENTURE AWAIT AT SHORE’S END IN WUTHERING WAVES VERSION 1.3 AVAILABLE NOW 

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Journey to The Black Shores, a New Region Protected by Five-Star Resonator, Shorekeeper, Play Through a New Main Story Quest, Partake in Several Featured Events and Experience the Latest In-Game Optimizations

GUANGZHOU, CHINA – SEPTEMBER 29, 2024 – The latest update to Kuro Games’ award-winning open-world action RPG Wuthering Waves is available now. Featuring new playable characters, main story questlines, and quality-of-life optimizations, Version 1.3 introduces players to the Black Shores, a mysterious region teeming with secrets, danger, and a new hope. 
 
Featuring vast explorable areas, two new Resonators (Shorekeeper and Youhu), a fresh main story quest line, epic weapons, and brand new gameplay elements, Version 1.3 further sets Wuthering Waves apart from competing gacha titles.

Full of exciting new gameplay, a plethora of enticing new content and improved optimizations, Wuthering Waves Version 1.3 features include:

  • New Resonators: In Version 1.3 players meet five-star Resonator, Shorekeeper, the guardian of the Black Shores, with a healing, crowd control and damage amplification combat style. Also introduced is the four-star Resonator Youhu, a mischievous antiquarian with a silver tongue useful for selling treasures on the street. Youhu features a combat style of survival healing, resonance skill damage, resonance destruction and coordinated attack damage amplification.
  • The Black Shores: The rumored island hidden in the sea has two main areas: The Black Shores Archipelago (upper level) and Tethys’ Deep (lower level).
    • The Black Shores, an archipelago enshrouded in mysteries and turmoil, remains sealed away from the world in thick digital fog. It remains uncertain when or who will lift its veil, allowing it to once more shoulder the task of connecting the world.
    • Tethy’s Deep: As an untuned melody drifts across the night sky, the torchlights that once illuminated the stars now instead devour them in crimson blaze. Listen to the true cries concealed within the Lament, and face them with unwavering courage. Hope will be born anew.
  • New Weapons:
    • Stellar Symphony – five-Star weapon *****
    • Deep Sky Blazar Series – four-Star weapon ****
  • New Main Quest: Presenting a new story that sets the scene for a future that is still unknown and a past that remains buried beneath the waves. A blue figure guides you through the mist, unveiling an imminent danger that awaits both you and The Black Shores.
  • New Companion Story: At the northern border of Huanglong lies Jinzhou City, where players will encounter the vacationing Encore. She extends a special invitation to join her and her companion Small Wooly on an exciting adventure.
  • New Featured Events: Upcoming events in Version 1.3 include:
    • Where Stars Slumber – Area Exploration Event
    • Amidst the Stars – Photo Collection Event
    • Gifts of Sea Breeze – 7-Day Sign-In Event
    • Fairy Tale’s Finale – Featured Co-Op Battle Challenge
    • Infinite Battle Simulation – Featured Area Battle Challenge
    • Solaris Weather Forecast – Featured Parkour Collection Event
    • Lollo Campaign: Rerun – Featured Commission Event
  • New Boss and Echoes: Version 1.3 introduces Fallacy of No Return, a new boss that patrols the boundary between the real and the data spaces. Also available to play in the update are new echoes – Phantom: Gulpuff and Phantom: Limescale Construct.
  • New Events: Tactical Hologram: Inferno Rider and Retro Game Collector events kick off with the latest content update.

Wuthering Waves is a free-to-play, cross-platform, open-world action RPG that emphasizes dynamic movement and freedom of exploration on a mysterious, post-cataclysmic, sci-fi planet. Engage in fast-paced PVE combat that focuses on special dodge, parry, and counter mechanics. Wuthering Waves hosts a deep storyline, breathtaking art and atmosphere, and addictive action-RPG combat that is suitable for novice and veteran RPG players alike. Wuthering Waves features plenty of fierce opponents and captivating quests that unfold in the game’s vast world.
 
Download the award-winning Wuthering Waves today on the Wuthering Waves official website, on the App Store, Google Play, and PC via The Epic Games Store.

ABOUT KURO GAMES

Founded in 2014, Kuro Games main focus is to create high quality, original games that push the boundaries. For over a decade Kuro Games has strived to bring more diverse, innovative, and enjoyable services to its players.

Kuro Games independently developed “Punishing: Gray Raven”, which was well received with warm response from players around the world. With over 30 million downloads worldwide, its recently released new open-world ARPG “Wuthering Waves” is receiving the same public reception.

Looney Tunes: Wacky World of Sports Out Now on Consoles & PC

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Dive into fast-paced, hilarious, arcade action featuring basketball, soccer, golf and tennis with your favorite Looney Tunes all-stars in solo play and local multiplayer!

LEFT TURN, Albuquerque Sept. 27, 2024 – The Looney Tunes are back in action in Looney Tunes: Wacky World of Sports, which launches today on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam, the Epic Games Store and Microsoft Store. Jump into four fast-paced sports with your Looney Tunes favorites in solo play or local multiplayer in the first Looney Tunes video game on all home consoles in over a decade.

Compete against friends and family with the Looney Tunes squad in arcade-style basketball, soccer, golf and tennis. Play as your favorite Looney Tunes all-stars and choose the characters that best suit your play style. Avoid wacky obstacles and gain power-ups to incite chaos solo or in four-player local co-op!

Key Game Features

  • Four Action-Packed Sports: Take on all rivals in 2v2 arcade basketball, 1v1 or 2v2 arcade tennis, 4-player golf, and 4v4 arcade soccer!
  • Squad Up With Your Favorite Tunes: Choose from nine iconic playable characters each with their own specialties, including Bugs Bunny, Lola Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Elmer Fudd, Sylvester, Taz, Wile E. Coyote and Road Runner.
  • Compete With Friends: Enjoy arcade sports action solo or with up to four players in local co-op.
  • Travel the Loonieverse: Play across iconic worlds like Galactic Outpost Delta, Porky’s Barn, Foghorn’s Farm, Road Runner’s Canyon, Whispering Woods, Martian Command Center, Granny’s House, and many more!
  • Unleash the Full Acme Arsenal: Disrupt your opponents in the wackiest ways possible, but watch out for that anvil!

Looney Tunes: Wacky World of Sports is available today on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam, the Epic Games Store and Microsoft Store for $49.99.

The Deluxe Edition is also available now for $59.99, featuring the exclusive Yosemite Sam character to use in game, Golden Outlaws uniforms, and the “Wild West Sports Pack,” which includes a western-themed basketball, soccer ball, tennis ball and golf clubs.

Looney Tunes: Wacky World of Sports is licensed by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, developed by Bamtang Games and published by GameMill Entertainment.

LOONEY TUNES and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s24)

About Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment is a premier worldwide publisher, developer, licensor and distributor of entertainment content for the interactive space across all platforms, including console, handheld, mobile and PC-based gaming for both internal and third-party game titles.

About GameMill Entertainment

GameMill Entertainment, located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a third-party publisher of console and mobile games for passionate fans around the world. Development platforms include PC, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft consoles including the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, Sony consoles including the PlayStation®5 and PlayStation®4, and mobile devices. With development across the globe, GameMill is a source of entertaining and fun games for all ages. For more information, visit https://gamemill.com, as well as Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.

Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE Plus Review

Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE Plus

Developer: Too Kyo Games
Publisher: Spike Chunsoft
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S (Reviewed), PC
Release Date: October 1, 2024
Price: $59.99 USD – Available Here

Overview

When it comes to Kazutaka Kodaka’s works, fans have adored the Danganronpa franchise and have been hoping to see this same manic magic captured again in some way. Since the Danganronpa series appears to have come to an end, things have been a bit hit and miss with the popular writer and director. Kazutaka managed to make a successful return to his roots with plenty of mysteries to solve in Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE when it arrived last year as a Switch exclusive and now Spike Chunsoft is making sure that everyone has a chance to see what this title has to offer in the form of an enhanced multiplatform release. Containing all of the previous DLC and other upgrades, does Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE Plus manage to keep players on the edge with its mysteries?

Story

Yuma Kokohead has awoken in a lost-and-found room with no memory of who or what he even is, with his only real clue being a note in his jacket stating his name and that he is meant to travel to the Kanai Ward on a soon departing train as a trainee for the World Detective Organization. Aboard this train he finds a number of other highly gifted detectives, many of which reveal that every member of the WDO has a special “Forensic Forte” supernatural ability that helps them solve cases. The only problem is, not only does the amnesiac Yuma have no clue what his ability is nor a way to prove his identity, a disastrous crisis unfolds before the train can even arrive at the Kanai Ward.

Amidst this crisis Yuma finds that his amnesia is a result of making something of a deal with the devil as a mysterious voice revealing itself to be a ghostly apparition by the name of Shinigami reveals herself to him, promising to assist Yuma in any way when it comes to solving cases, even in ways unimaginable to the already over-the-top abilities of the other detectives. With the help of Shinigami Yuma quickly finds himself embroiled in mystery after mystery that initially seem separate from one another but eventually culminate in massive twists and reveals that tie everything together in some rather shocking ways.

RAIN CODE Plus tells an incredibly interesting and gripping storyline spread across its multiple mysteries and just like any good mystery game, while each case may seem separate from another it soon becomes apparent that a grander scheme is at play as numerous twists and revelations come to light as Yuma, Shinigami, and his fellow detectives continue to solve cases and uncover more about the secrets that make the Kanai Ward what it is. This is a narrative that will keep players wanting to learn more at every turn, and thankfully the title manages to deliver that and then some. In fact, RAIN CODE Plus goes a step beyond the original release as it comes coupled with all of the DLC cases that were released for the Switch version post-release. These extra chapters are all available right from the very beginning of the game but considering they contain spoilers and introduce characters and events incredibly out of order from the main storyline players should wait until they clear the main game first. 

That being said, these bonus cases are a great way to help the other characters in the game shine besides Yuma and Shinigami which is a good thing because the characters also happen to be one of RAIN CODE Plus’ strongest elements. As the main character Yuma works well with his amnesia allowing players to learn as he does all while making the amnesia a key plot point. Nearly every main character that works alongside Yuma is endearing in their own way and are just as unique as what fans of the writers would expect and, as mentioned before thanks to the extra content, they are given far more chance to shine outside of the main storyline as well. That being said, perhaps the character that really takes the cake among everyone else is Shinigami herself. She is completely irreverent to any serious scene, often mocking or teasing Yuna but obviously still willing to help nonetheless. Her innuendo and constant string of off-the-wall banter makes her a perfect match for Yuma and the dark situations he finds himself in. Sure, it is possible to see that she could be annoying for some, but for us she’s a perfect fit that balances the tone and themes of the game excellently.

Gameplay

When not talking or interacting with the colorful cast of characters in RAIN CODE Plus, players will generally be spending their time exploring the Kanai Ward or, most importantly, investigating the various crime scenes that they get involved in. Crime scenes all play out in a mostly similar manner, with Yuma being able to walk around and investigate objects both pertinent and negligible to the case but players are encouraged to investigate everything as even inconsequential items still reward them with Detective Points or DP. This DP works as a simple leveling system that also allows Yuma to unlock special abilities that will come into play during a much more involved gameplay element, the Mystery Dungeons, by increasing his health, making solving riddles a bit easier, or various other abilities though only a few can be equipped at a time.

While the general investigation element remains the same for most cases, what sets each one apart besides the obvious subject matter is that a different detective will accompany Yuma and assist him with their Forte in various ways. These Forte make for some incredibly interesting mechanics such as one case where players must obtain specific disguises to extract proper information from suspects or, in another case, rewind time partially though this isn’t quite as interesting despite how useful it might seem. As players search through a crime scene either alone or with a fellow detective they will uncover various specific clues and deduce how they play a factor into what happened as well, with these clues coming into play in the Shinigami’s Mystery Dungeon where she quite literally vomits them up as solution keys.

A lot of a Mystery Dungeon involves walking down an endless hallway with auto dialogue turned on to advance the unfortunately drawn out nature of the dungeon until players are challenged with a variety of different games. Some of these are as simple as deducing the right answer to a question with there being multiple correct answers, others involve quite literally placing Shinigami in a barrel and filling in a blank by throwing swords at her, quick time hopping to answer questions, or even taking part in a big “Attack on Titan” style encounter near the end of things. These mini-games can be rather wild and help keep things feeling at least somewhat fresh given how long and drawn out some Mystery Dungeons can be but perhaps the most involved sequences are the Reasoning Death Matches. 

These pit Yuma against a twisted phantom resembling someone from the case that throws out accusations and random noise to try and damage Yuma’s argument and it is up to the player to figure out the proper solution key to slot into their blade as evidence and slice through the accusation, proving the contradiction right there and damaging the phantom. Players will need to dodge around accusations to keep their energy up, which is also hurt by failing other mini-games mentioned earlier. These numerous mini-games keep the Mystery Dungeons feeling unique even if they do drag on a bit too long at times, especially when certain elements are repeated, but between these and the exploration found in the Kanai Ward, players are in for quite a unique treat when it comes to solving these mysteries with the power of Shinigami at their side.

Audio & Visuals

While originally developed for the Nintendo Switch Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE Plus has been given a solid visual upgrade by Spike Chunsoft with its arrival on the Xbox Series X. This includes upscaling the visuals to 4K and dramatically reducing load times. Considering the stylish designs of the world and the character models the upscaling isn’t a significant improvement but it is still impressive nonetheless. Of course, this is thanks to the fact that the character models are impressively detailed and are just as memorable as one would expect from the creator of the Danganronpa franchise. Nearly every story character, be it as simple as our lead Yuma or as excessive as Shinigami can be and everything in-between is a delight. The neon lit streets of the Kanai Ward are also presented wonderfully and the Mystery Labyrinths feel like trippy versions of randomized dungeons that players would usually find in an RPG rather than a mystery game, portraying the confusing nature of a mystery perfectly.

The voice work for the title is also handled quite nicely with all of the characters given voice work fitting for their designs and personalities. It is interesting to note that Shinigami will likely be a hit or miss character for some thanks to her personality but personally she was a delight throughout the adventure both thanks to her mischievous and blunt statements as well as her often completely out-of-place writing at times all handled excellently by her voice actor. Of course, the Japanese voice track is available for those who wish to play using the original dub instead. As for the soundtrack RAIN CODE Plus uses a wonderfully fitting collection of jazz style music with slight noir undertones and some blues as well, making for an eclectic collection of background music that can be enjoyed both during gameplay as well as sampled through the main menu’s “Gallery” option once unlocked.

Overall

Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE Plus has never looked better and by providing all of the additional DLC for the original release together in this enhanced version, players on these new platforms will be able to experience the best that this twisting mystery detective game has to offer. With a great art style and gripping mysteries to uncover, players will find that the game rarely misses a beat thanks to its wonderful cast of characters and expanded content thanks to the bonus cases, even if the Mystery Dungeons can be a bit long in the teeth sometimes.

Capsule Computers review guidelines can be found here.

Grab the Physical Limited Editions of Eco-horror puzzle platformer One Last Breath on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 consoles today!

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Switch and PlayStation 5 owners can now own the Collector’s Edition and standard physical copy of this 2.5D platforming adventure

Barcelona, Spain – September 27th, 2024 – Selecta Play, together with Maniac Panda Games and Catness Games, are proud to announce that their 2.5D platformer/puzzler One Last Breath will release as a physical edition on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 consoles today, at a price of €39.99 / $39.99 for Nintendo Switch and €34.99 / $34.99 for PlayStation 5.

The Seeds of Hope Collector’s Edition also launches today in Europe at a price of €69,99, releasing in a in a collectible monobox and including an exclusive 16-page comic, a biodegradable peat pot, a substrate disk, and a seed “bomb,” alongside a customizable wing crafted from algae. Everything you need to grow your plant can be found in this collector’s edition – simply add water and wait. With the digital version having released on PC and Xbox Series X/S as well as Switch and PlayStation 5 earlier this year, players can now own the physical and collector’s edition on select platforms.

About One Last Breath
One Last Breath
 is a 2.5D platformer/puzzler wherein you play as Gaia, an earth goddess born from mother nature’s very last breath. Thrust into existence in a post-apocalyptic earth where mankind has all but vanished, it’s up to Gaia to restore life back to the planet. But be forewarned, as decades of pollution and greed have twisted the land into a hostile ruin full of deadly aberrations.

Gaia’s powers allow her to control the environment – such as creating paths using tree trunks or summoning vines to hang between gaps – which are used in a variety of puzzles. Throughout her journey she’ll visit abandoned factories filled with hazardous, man-made obstacles that are mysteriously still operational. This polluted landscape is crawling with mutants who will mercilessly hunt Gaia down, so you must be careful if you’re to achieve your goal of restoring the planet. You’ll need to thoroughly explore too, as doing so will unlock an alternate ending, further uncovering the truth about humanity’s fate and its future.

About Selecta Play

Selecta Play is SelectaVisión’s video games publishing branch. The company works with talented studios on unique video games and helps them publish their titles in both physical and digital formats worldwide.

About Catness Games

Catness Games is a leading game company committed to innovation. We have been almost a decade working with well-known brands to develop, port and publish awesome Unreal Engine games.

About Maniac Panda Games

Maniac Panda Games is an independent video game studio by Nexxyo Labs, a vibrant technology company headquartered in Navarra, Spain, that unites a global team of  talented and young professionals.   

Born in 2019 from the dream of a group of friends passionate about gaming and possessing a wealth of experience in development, Maniac Panda Games has evolved into a mission to revolutionize the way people engage with gaming, actively crafting new ways to immerse players in the exhilarating world of gaming with thrilling games in the oven and their own ecosystem of games, Blink Galaxy. Rooted in our dual commitment to delivering entertainment and fostering a global gaming community, we continually push innovation ensuring enduring value for each player.

KOEI TECMO Unveils New Atelier Title at TGS2024, Atelier Resleriana: The Red Alchemist & The White Guardian

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First Teaser Trailer Gives Gamers a Glimpse Inside the Magical World

BURLINGAME, Calif. – Sept. 27, 2024 – Today at Tokyo Game Show 2024, KOEI TECMO and developer Gust unveiled the first teaser trailer for their new Atelier game, Atelier Resleriana: The Red Alchemist & the White Guardian. Set in the universe of Atelier Resleriana: Forgotten Alchemy and the Polar Night Liberator, this new Atelier title will embark players on a magical adventure, featuring a new protagonist. 

The game is currently in development and scheduled to release in 2025 on PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, and Nintendo Switch™, and Windows PC via Steam®.

For more information on Atelier Resleriana: The Red Alchemist & the White Guardian, be sure to visit the teaser site, Subscribe to the official KOEI TECMO America YouTube channel, Like us on Facebook, and Follow us on X, Instagram, and Discord.

ABOUT KOEI TECMO AMERICA CORP.

KOEI TECMO AMERICA CORP. is a publisher of interactive entertainment software for current generation consoles, handhelds and digital download content based in Burlingame, California. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of KOEI TECMO HOLDINGS CO., LTD., headquartered in Yokohama, Japan. KOEI is best known for its Dynasty Warriors® and Samurai Warriors® franchises. TECMO is best known for the Dead or Alive®, Ninja Gaiden®, Tecmo Bowl®, and Fatal Frame® series.

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©KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD. All rights reserved. Gust is a trademark of KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD. The KT logo is a trademark of KOEI TECMO HOLDINGS CO., LTD.

“PlayStation”, “PS5”, and “PS4” are registered trademarks or trademarks of Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc. Nintendo Switch is a trademark of Nintendo.

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