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Princess Maker 2 Regeneration launched on PS4 & PS5 today!

August 8, 2024 – To commemorate the launch of Princess Maker 2 Regeneration on PS4 and PS5 today, a launch trailer has been released.

Join us on a journey as we witness a daughter’s growth, shaped by the choices you make as her father. While you’ll guide her path with study schedules and part-time jobs, it’s the unexpected encounters that will truly define her.

About “Princess Maker 2”

“Princess Maker 2” is a childrearing simulation game in which the player experiences being the father to a daughter granted to them by the stars.

They raise the girl for eight years, from ages ten to eighteen. Your daughter grows up to be an adult through various experiences in the game. The girl’s dream is to become a princess, but a wide variety of opportunities await depending on how you raise her. What kind of dream will you make come true for this girl?

Redrawing the graphics This title is based on “Princess Maker 2: Refine,” released in 2004. Especially important graphics were redrawn by Takami Akai in a style similar to the PC-98 version. The graphics are drawn in high resolution befitting modern game systems, with a commitment to quality in the details.

Addition of an opening animation

An opening animation by Yonago Gainax has been added to the game. The animation, drawn by a team led by Takami Akai, envisions the future the player will have as the “father” with their “daughter”.

Knowing how your daughter is doing is the first step in raising her

This title is a social simulation, so it is very important to always be aware of your daughter’s status and use this to raise her.

In “Regeneration”, parameters for assessing your daughter’s status are always available, so you can check on her at a glance. Check what you should do for your daughter’s future, and raise her carefully.

Message from Takami Akai

I am deeply grateful to see that “Princess Maker 2”, which came out 30 years ago, is still so beloved by so many fans that we can release a new version. This time I was finally able to redo the graphics, which I had always wanted to do. Please enjoy the newly redrawn vacations and endings.

About Takami Akai

Born 1961. While still enrolled at Osaka University of Arts, he made his debut with the DAICON III Opening Animation. As one of the founding members of GAINAX Co., Ltd., he has worked on anime and tokusatsu shows, as well as games and events. His most noteworthy works include the “Princess Maker” series, Gurren Lagann, and Dai Tokusatsu Negiman.

About Bliss Brain

Bliss Brain Corporation is a Japanese game publisher. Bliss Brain revives high quality games for the modern day and distributes them to the world in downloadable format. Currently, they offer “Princess Maker 2 Refine”, “Princess Maker ~Faery Tales Come True~”, and “Princess Maker 5” for download on Steam. “Wonder Boy Collection” (not yet released in Japan) will be released for the first time on PS4 and Nintendo Switch. Bliss Brain plans to release more new games in the future.

For details, visit https://blissbrain.co.jp.

About Yonago GAINAX

Takami Akai started this entertainment company in 2014, in his hometown of Yonago City, Tottori Prefecture. It does business based on the theme of contributing to the local community. With a small team of just 10 members, it works on unique jobs, including anime, games, and events. For details, visit https://yonago-gainax.co.jp/.

THAT TIME I GOT RECINCARNATED AS A SLIME ISEKAI CHRONICLES RELEASES TODAY ON CONSOLES AND PC

8th August – Bandai Namco Europe announces today the release of That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime ISEKAI Chronicles, the first console and PC game of the Tensura series. This action RPG is available now on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch and PC.

Click here to watch the launch trailer:

Based on the That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime light novel and anime adaptation, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime ISEKAI Chronicles offers players to relive iconic moments of the original story as well as an entirely new one, featuring new characters created under the supervision of the original author Fuse.

Players will build the Jura Tempest Federation, welcoming new allies in their capital each with their side quests. While exploring the world, the 2D side scrolling action kicks in, allowing for dynamic combos in battles with powerful enemies. Players will be able to use each character’s special moves as seen in the animated series and each encounter will award new elements that will contribute to upgrading buildings, strengthening bonds with friends living around town.

A season pass is available for standalone purchase as well as part of the Digital Deluxe Edition, adding 3 DLCs:

  • DLC 1: “A Strange Fate” – Adding Hinata (29th August)
  • DLC 2: “The Fairy Queen’s Labyrinth” – Adding Veldora (12th September)
  • DLC 3: “Martial Arts Tournament” – Adding Milim (19th September)

Each DLC adds a new character, scenario or mode, buildings for the town and side quests to extend the player’s adventure.

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime ISEKAI Chronicles is available now for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch and PC.

For more information about That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime ISEKAI Chronicles and other titles from Bandai Namco Europe please visit: https://www.bandainamcoent.eu. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok or join the conversation on X.

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About Bandai Namco Europe S.A.S.

Bandai Namco Europe S.A.S. is a leading global publisher and developer of entertainment content for platforms including, but not limited to, all major video game consoles and PC.

Bandai Namco Europe is producing intellectual property for a global audience and is building its reputation with franchises such as LITTLE NIGHTMARES™, PARK BEYOND™, and the upcoming UNKNOWN 9™ Awakening – developed by the recently acquired Reflector Entertainment based in Montreal, QC.

Bandai Namco Europe serves as the Headquarters of Bandai Namco Holdings Inc. for mainland Europe, which is known for creating and publishing many of the Toy & Entertainment industry’s top franchises, including PAC-MAN™, TAMAGOTCHI™, GUNDAM™, TEKKEN™, DARK SOULS™ and the recently released ELDEN RING™.

For more information please visit www.bandainamcoent.eu.

Press Release © 2024 Bandai Namco Europe S.A.S. All other trademarks are properties of their respective owners.

Black Myth: Wukong Reveals the Stunning Breadth of its World in Final Gameplay Trailer Ahead of Aug. 20 Launch

GameScience, a Chinese global game developer and publisher is pleased to share a new gameplay trailer for its upcoming action RPG Black Myth: Wukong. The trailer provides audiences with an expansive look at the game’s dynamic and complex gameplay systems while revealing a myriad of new details for fans to discover. Showcasing a range of never-before-seen locations, transformations, characters, and more, the trailer delves deeper into the story and lore of Black Myth: Wukong before its worldwide launch on Aug. 20, 2024.

Black Myth: Wukong combines rich storytelling with stunning visuals and a unique take on the action RPG formula. Players will explore a fascinating realm filled with the wonders and discoveries of ancient Chinese mythology, breathtaking landscapes, and a diverse cast of memorable characters based on the acclaimed novel Journey to the West. In addition to a precise and visually striking melee combat system using a staff, the Destined One can harness spells, transformations, and magic vessels as powerful tools in their arsenal against tenacious foes. Freely combine different spells, abilities, weapons, and equipment to find the winning strategy that best suits any combat style. 

Black Myth: Wukong is set to launch worldwide from GameScience on Aug. 20, 2024, for PC and PlayStation®5. The standard and deluxe editions will be available in North America for an MSRP of $59.99 and $69.99 respectively in digital format on PlayStation®5, and PC (via Steam and Epic Games Store). The release timing for the Xbox Series X|S version will be disclosed later. For pricing in other regions, please refer to the information listed on the designated regional storefront. This game is rated “M” for Mature by the ESRB. 

Fans interested in learning more can follow the game on X, YouTube, and Steam, or visit the official Black Myth: Wukong website.

The PlayStation VR2 PC adapter is now available in Australia

PlayStation Australia is excited to announce that the PlayStation VR2 PC Adapter is now available in Australia. 

The PlayStation VR2 PC Adapter allows you to expand the library of games to play on your PlayStation®VR2, with thousands of virtual reality games to play and purchase on Steam™. Just connect the PC adapter to your PlayStation VR2 and a Windows PC, download the SteamVR™ App and the free PlayStation VR2 App from Steam to get started. 

Check out the launch video below

Check details on everything you’ll need to get started below, including tutorials here. For details on compatible Bluetooth adapters, please visit PlayStation.com.  The PlayStation VR2 PC adapter is available for a RRP of $94.95 AUD at select retailers. 

Players will also need a commercially available DisplayPort cable (sold separately) that is compatible with DisplayPort 1.4, as well as a Steam account and a PC that meets the minimum requirements below.*

Minimum PC requirements

Here are the minimum requirements for PS VR2 gameplay on PC:

Operating systemWindows 10 64-bit / Windows 11 64-bit 
ProcessorIntel Core i5-7600 / AMD Ryzen 3 3100 (Zen 2 or later architecture is required)
RAM / memory8 GB or more
GPU / graphics card-NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 or later (Turing or later architecture is required) -NVIDIA RTX series -AMD Radeon RX 5500XT or later / AMD Radeon RX 6500XT or later (For the best performance, we recommend that you use an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 or later or AMD Radeon RX 6600XT or later graphics card)
DisplayPortDisplayPort 1.4 (must have a standard DisplayPort or Mini DisplayPort output port)
USBDirect connection only
BluetoothBluetooth 4.0 or later** – For details on compatible Bluetooth adapters, please visit PlayStation.com

As with all PC gaming technology, performance may vary depending on your PC setup, including system compatibility and the quality of your DisplayPort 1.4 cable. Please ensure your setup meets the minimum requirements. SteamVR titles also have individual system requirements, so please refer to the game information on Steam.

Feature differences with PS VR2 on PS5

PS VR2 was designed from the ground up specifically for PS5 – so you’ll notice that some key features, like HDR, headset feedback, eye tracking, adaptive triggers, and haptic feedback (other than rumble), are not available when playing on PC. However, other high-fidelity and sensory immersion features of PS VR2 are supported, including 4K visuals (2000 x 2040 per eye), 110-degree field of view, finger touch detection, and see-through view, as well as foveated rendering (without eye tracking) and 3D Audio in supported games.***

While the most immersive way to experience PS VR2 gaming remains on PS5, the team hopes players will enjoy the ability to play an expanded lineup of VR games on PC using the same headset. Players can check out Steam’s huge library of multiplayer open worlds, survival horror and stealth action games, sports sims, puzzlers, and free-to-play fan favorites on the Steam Store

To learn more about the PlayStation VR2 PC adapter visit the PlayStation Blog

For the latest PlayStation news, follow PlayStation Australia on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. 

WARHAMMER 40,000: SPEED FREEKS EARLY ACCESS NOW AVAILABLE

Dive into the fast-paced word of combat racing mayhem with two exhilarating game modes, 6 diverse maps and 8 customisable vehicles

Sydney, Australia – 8 August 2024: Warhammer 40,000: Speed Freeks, the free-to-play multiplayer combat racer, is now available in Early Access on PC. Join us in the grim darkness of the far future, where only the fastest, cunning, and most brutal Orks will prevail.

Watch a brand-new trailer here and join the Waaagh!

Early Access Overview

Warhammer 40,000: Speed Freeks enters Early Access for a limited time as the development team prepares for the full launch later this year, marking the start of Season 1.

Early Access includes:

  • Two game modes. In Deff Rally, 16 players race to capture points and fight to control them in succession before a sprint to the finish. Kill Konvoy features teams racing alongside formidable Stompas, battling and bombing their enemy to help ensure their Stompa reaches the finish line first.
  • 8 vehicles to master and combine to help ensure victory
  • 6 epic battlefields representing the vast, hostile and diverse grim-dark universe of Warhammer 40,0000
  • WAAAGH! Path: the core progression system that encourages players to play towards unlocking new cosmetics that are released each season, along with other items like hard currency and Scrap Boosts. An optional premium subscription – the Loot Pass – grants access to additional exclusive items.
  • More than 100 customisation items: vehicle kits, paint jobs, rims, and more.

Early Access is just the beginning for Warhammer 40,000: Speed Freeks. Season 1 – the game’s first major update – will launch later this year, which will include Ork customisation as a way to customise the player’s mascot-like Pit Boss. In addition, the update will add a new vehicle, a new map, and various other improvements.

To join the Early Access on Steam, users need to sign-up or log into an existing Speed Freeks Account powered by PROS, our online service for upcoming games from PLAION, Saber Interactive, Deep Silver, and more.  

For more details about the Speed Freeks account please see our release information blog here.

About GAMES WORKSHOP

Games Workshop Group PLC (LSE:GAW.L), based in Nottingham, UK, produces the best fantasy miniatures in the world. Games Workshop designs, manufactures, retails, and distributes its range of Warhammer Age of Sigmar and Warhammer 40,000 games, miniature soldiers, novels and model kits through more than 540 of its own stores (branded Games Workshop or Warhammer), its own web store, and independent retail channels in more than 50 countries worldwide. More information about Games Workshop and its other, related, brands and product ranges (including its publishing division ‘Black Library’ and its special resin miniatures studio ‘Forge World’) can be found at www.games-workshop.com.

Warhammer 40,000: Speed Freeks © Copyright Games Workshop Limited 2024. Speed Freeks, the Speed Freeks logo, GW, Games Workshop, Space Marine, 40K, Warhammer, Warhammer 40,000, 40,000, the ‘Aquila’ Double-headed Eagle logo, and all associated logos, illustrations, images, names, creatures, races, vehicles, locations, weapons, characters, and the distinctive likeness thereof, are either ® or TM, and/or © Games Workshop Limited, variably registered around the world, and used under licence. All rights reserved to their respective owners.

About Caged Element

Caged Element is a passionate and independent game development studio that specializes in intense vehicular combat titles.  With their previous title GRIP, they unleashed a flurry of speed and chaos upon the gaming world, and are excited to extend that experience through SPEED FREEKS. 

About PLAION 

PLAION is a dynamic and diversified business in the global entertainment sector, masterfully crafting franchises that captivate audiences worldwide. Boasting a vast network of eight game development studios, fifteen regional publishing offices, three game publishing labels including Deep Silver, and PLAION PICTURES as an independent film publisher and distributor, the company extends its influence with merchandise production and expansive distribution capabilities across the globe. Founded three decades ago, PLAION has firmly established itself within the entertainment arena. With a diverse range of services and solutions, PLAION stands as the premier publishing partner for console and PC games across both physical and digital channels. Moreover, its strong foothold in the Virtual Reality (VR) domain highlights the company’s commitment to varied gaming experiences. PLAION is an Embracer Group company.

Nostalgic VR Light Gun Shooter On Point Blasts Into Early Access Today

Compete in marvelous minigame madness arriving on Meta Quest and Steam VR

BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND – August 7, 2024 – On Point, the vibrant VR light gun shooter from developer Actuator Digital, pulls the trigger on its Early Access launch for Meta Quest and Steam VR today!

Relive the glory days of fast-moving targets, colorful stages, and clicky plastic guns in 90 eccentric minigames reminiscent of notable arcade and lightgun classics. Wreak havoc in a china shop or blast away at waves of free-falling fruit and red-hot lava balls in each increasingly challenging stage.

Despite On Point’s ‘90s arcade inspirations, no tokens are required! Bring a sharp eye and split-second judgment to take down bullseyes hiding behind glass, leaves blowing in the wind, and seemingly innocent targets that could transform into game-ending bombs in an instant! Perfect the art of hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes to rocket to the top of the global leaderboards.

On Point will see several significant updates in the lead-up to its full 1.0 launch including a fully optimized PC mode, a new achievement system, light gun customization, leaderboard improvements, and Twitch chat support.

On Point is our team’s tribute to iconic ‘90s arcade games,” says Sebastiaan Fehr, Founder of Actuator Digital. “We’ve brought the best of these games to VR in the most accessible way possible. On Point emphasizes aim and coordination with limited locomotion, reducing the risk of nausea. We’ve worked hard to breathe new life into this genre and can’t wait for gamers of all skill levels to play it for themselves!” 

On Point enters Early Access today for Meta Quest 2 and Steam VR, retailing for $14.99 USD. For more information about On Point please visit their official website, follow the team on Twitter, join the community on Discord, and search #OnPointGame on all social media platforms.

About Actuator Digital

Actuator Digital is home to a small team of passionate developers based out of Brisbane, Queensland. It was formed to create beautiful software for both practical applications and game development. The studio embraces an owner-operator business model and strives to bring great ideas into fruition. Composed of industry veterans with extensive experience working with major IPs and game franchises, Actuator Digital’s approach to creating entertaining experiences combines cutting-edge development and a desire to create fun gameplay for people of all ages and backgrounds.

For more information on Actuator Digital, please visit their official website.

FORMER NFL PLAYER AND EX-ACTIVISION PRODUCER TEAM UP TO FORM NEW MOBILE GAME STUDIO

Marauder Tech Games, an innovative mobile game venture, emphasizes creativity and adaptability among its international team.

Orlando, Florida, Wednesday 07 August 2024 | The game industry sees further expansion today as former NFL Player Morgan Kane launches Marauder Tech Games, a remote mobile games studio geared towards leading the next generation of mobile game development. Alongside Kane’s leadership is Joel Balyeat, a former Senior Producer at Activision and current Chief Product Officer.

Marauder Tech Games emerges as a fresh face in the mobile games space. Led by former Tampa Bay Buccaneer and Carolina Panther Morgan Kane, the Independent AA studio aims to lead the next generation of mobile gaming with its diverse remote staff. As Kane’s first venture into the games industry, the self-funded studio is backed by his extensive business portfolio and curated executive officers. Marauder Tech Games is currently developing their first title, a turn-based mobile strategy game with a unique twist.

“Marauder started as an idea more than a decade ago. I’ve always enjoyed strategy games, but at the time, I didn’t have the resources available to start a game studio. In April of 2023, I decided to hire my first developer, and now, more than a year later, we’re ready to start slowly lifting the veil of what we’ve been working on for the past year and a half. 

Our goal with Marauder’s maiden title is to provide a unique take on the turn-based genre. Turn-based strategy games typically take quite a while to finish, and not everyone has time to sit behind their screen for multiple hours to finish a game. The focus on our first title is that players can play it when and wherever they want without feeling extreme time constraints for their moves.”

Among Marauder’s industry veterans is Joel Balyeat, a former Senior Producer for Activision’s Call of Duty franchise. As a studio executive, Balyeat’s vision encompasses not only the production of a successful final project but also the belief in “opportunity for everyone.” Marauder’s 22-person team consists of junior developers and seniors alike, leaning on the experience of seasoned staff while incorporating the innovation of industry upstarts. The AA studio is committed to Kane’s goal of becoming a global studio, with staff representing Australia, Argentina, the US, Canada, and more.

“As a new studio, we had the opportunity to do things different from traditional game studios. Our remote setup allows us to hire great talent from all over the world for every position without having to relocate them to a single area. We’re also extremely focused on hiring a diverse talent pool, from experienced AAA developers to juniors with fresh perspectives.

So far, our strategy has been extremely successful. We’ve been able to gather a strong team from people all over the world, which has allowed us to be adaptable and agile in our approach from prototyping to beta testing. Being in a relatively fast developer environment also means that we’re fast to implement feedback from our external tests much quicker than is usual for teams of this size.”

Marauder Tech Games is developing a turn-based strategy game that will be released on iOS and Android later this year. The medieval fantasy title will feature multiplayer duels, several character classes, and an adaptive strategy playstyle. The asynchronous gameplay allows for multiple games at once, challenging players to devise the ultimate strategy and turn spare moments into epic battles.

For more information on Marauder Tech Games, please visit maraudertech.net

About Marauder Tech Games

Driven by a passion for gaming, our founder, Morgan Kane, pursued his vision for turn-based strategy with patience and determination. Piece by piece, Morgan assembled a team to bring this vision to life. Today, we boast over 20 dedicated team members and several supporting agencies handling legal, marketing, public relations, community engagement, and money processing.

Tuneful Puzzle Adventure The Lullaby of Life Sparks New Life on Consoles Today

Embark on a tranquil journey with the power of sound on Nintendo Switch and Xbox

Green Bay, WI – August 7, 2024 – The Lullaby of Life, the award-winning musical puzzle adventure from developer 1 Simple Game and publisher Midwest Games, awakens today on Nintendo SwitchXbox Series X|Sand Xbox One. Featuring a hypnotic soundtrack, fun music-based puzzles, and a tranquil atmosphere, The Lullaby of Life is also available on PC via Steamthe Epic Games StoreGOG, and Fanatical.

Set forth on a whimsical adventure as Bombo, an inquisitive particle with the ability to inspire life through the power of music. Explore an abstract portrayal of a budding universe and create harmonious melodies while solving environmental puzzles that become steadily more advanced throughout Bombo’s journey. 

Help Bombo in its quest to fill the silence as it uses sound to bring harmony to the universe. Compose more complex tunes with the help of talented companions called Ohmies. These creatures, inspired by natural elements and string theory, enable the creation of sound and solving of puzzles through their properties of creation, destruction, and conservation. 

Awaken powerful entities known as Elders at the culmination of each colorful level to reveal new discoveries of the cosmos and escalate the process of the universe’s creation. More adventures await Bombo and the Ohmies in trials and challenge modes that will test their timing, focus, and dexterity, with beautiful music awaiting those who can tackle them. 

“Today, Midwest Games celebrates our first console launch alongside our valued partners at 1 Simple Game,” said Ben Kvalo, CEO and Founder of Midwest Games. “The Lullaby of Life is a beautiful ideation of life’s beginnings coupled with relaxing, yet challenging adventures. We hope console gamers will fall in love with Bombo’s developing world as much as we have with its launch on Xbox and Nintendo Switch today.”

The Lullaby of Life is available now worldwide on Nintendo SwitchXbox Series X|Sand Xbox One as well as PC via Steamthe Epic Games StoreGOG, and Fanatical with language support for English, Spanish, French, Italian, Arabic, Dutch, German, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, Turkish, Chinese (Simplified), and Chinese (Traditional).

About 1 Simple Game

Based in Guadalajara, Mexico, 1 Simple Game is a developer on a mission to entertain the masses, creating unforgettable experiences for players regardless of rain, snow or zombie invasions. With over 10 years in the games industry, 1 Simple Game has released 9 games with a combined 3 million downloads. 

About Midwest Games 

Based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Midwest Games is a video game publisher focused on creating opportunities for the abundant talent across the Midwest and other underrepresented regions. Led by industry veterans and entertainment enthusiasts, Midwest Games believes that great games can come from anywhere. For more information, please visit www.midwestgames.com

Solve Mind-Flipping Puzzles in Flash Game Compilation Shift Legacy Collection on PC Today

Complete more than 100 head-scratching enigmas in this nostalgic collection

WARWICK, UK – August 7, 2024 – Shift Legacy Collection, the definitive edition of the beloved mind-flipping Flash game series played more than 25 million times from developer Antony Lavelle and publisher Armor Games Studios, presents peculiar puzzles on PC & Mac via Steam today.

Travel back to a golden era of Flash games with all four entries in the Shift series. Master the shift ability to turn tall ceilings into floors, and pesky obstacles into vital pathways. Flip, rotate, and descend in monochromatic style across 100 increasingly difficult and complex levels.

Witness the evolution of the Shift series and its origins from straightforward puzzles to Metroidvania-inspired conundrums. Whether as a series veteran or a newcomer to these classics, dive into the definitive collection of the Shift series, featuring multiple level packs and the spinoff Shift 2 Mini Adventure. Next time you get stuck between a White and a Black space, remember that sometimes in life, Shift Happens! 

“Starting as a Flash game developed several years ago, I never thought I’d revisit the Shift series,” said Antony Lavelle, lead developer on Shift Legacy Collection. “I hope Shift Legacy Collection and my lifelong passion for puzzle platformers inspire a new generation of fans to create the next genre-defining puzzle adventure.” 

Shift Legacy Collection launches on PC via Steam today. Follow developer Antony Lavelle on Twitter/X for more updates.

About Antony Lavelle

Antony Lavelle has been a prolific game developer for many years, renowned for creating Flash game classics like the Shift series and IndestructoTank. He spent much of his early career at Armor Games, developing games that influenced the Flash game era. Recently, Lavelle has been a developer at Massive Monster, contributing to the indie hit Cult of the Lamb. 

About Armor Games Studios

Armor Games Studios is both a publisher of unique and creative indie games from all over the world, and one of the internet’s longest-running curated free Flash gaming portals. Play thousands of free games online at http://www.armorgames.com, or visit our publishing website at http://www.armorgamesstudios.com.

The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria Forges Aug. 27 Launch Date on Steam and Xbox Series X|S Alongside The Golden Update, Complete with Crossplay, Sandbox Mode, and More

Independent developer Free Range Games and publisher North Beach Games are excited to announce that The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria, the only survival crafting video game set in the Fourth Age of Middle-earth™, the iconic fantasy world created by J.R.R. Tolkien, will launch on PC via Steam and Xbox Series X|S on Aug. 27 at a discounted price of $19.99 for a limited time. As part of the game’s launch on the new platforms, The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria will usher in The Golden Update, which introduces crossplay between all platforms, Sandbox Mode, and a treasure trove of other content, updates, and improvements that have been implemented since the game’s release on Windows PC via the Epic Games Store (EGS) on Oct. 24, 2023, and for the PlayStation®5 computer entertainment system on Dec. 5, 2023. 

Watch the Golden Update Trailer on YouTube

New content and improvements in The Golden Update include: 

Sandbox Mode: Previously only available in beta via the EGS version of Return to Moria, the full launch of Sandbox Mode allows players across all platforms to experience independent exploration and experimentation throughout the mountain. This nonlinear mode unleashes the full potential of the procedural generation system, and the game world is generated with a wide variety of random seeds, meaning each playthrough can vary significantly in layout and difficulty. Because of its inherent unpredictability and minimal tutorials, this mode is recommended for players who are familiar with Return to Moria or other survival games.

Crossplay Across All Platforms: Exploring the Mines of Moria with friends just got easier! Any player on PC via Steam or EGS, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5 can now host games to be joined by any other player. Just like non-crossplay games, Steam players can host 8-player sessions, regardless of the platform the joining players are on.

New Weapons and Armor: Sandbox Mode brings with it recipes for 14 new weapons and armor including a Wolf Skin Hat, Gondorian Shield, Khazad Halberd, and Barôkamlut. Though only discoverable in Sandbox Mode, players can bring new objects into Campaign Mode as long as their Dwarf is equipped with them when transferring over.

New Building Parts and Decorations: Players can spruce up their bases with over 100 new building objects, including new cosmetic decorations such as light fixtures, rugs, banners, home furnishings, tables, and chairs.

Building Improvements: Restoring Moria is now easier than ever with the changes made to the stability system as well as improved object snapping. The miscellaneous buildings throughout Moria are now stronger than ever, expanding players’ ability to build expansive bases wherever they choose.

Single Player Pause: To improve the solo player experience, offline players can now pause the game by hitting “escape” on PC or by opening the settings menu. 

Ambient Music: Due to popular demand, there is now an ambient music soundtrack to accompany the Dwarves’ ventures through Moria.

Difficulty Settings: Players can now fine-tune the difficulty level for various aspects of the game including enemy aggression, combat, horde, siege and patrol frequency, world and mining drops, and survival. 

Bug Fixes and Improvements: For more details on the various updates, fixes, multiplayer connectivity improvements, and more introduced to the game, players can visit the official website

The story of The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria takes players beyond the books and into the Fourth Age of Middle-earth, the fantastical world created by J.R.R. Tolkien. Summoned to the Misty Mountains by Lord Gimli Lockbearer (voiced in-game by actor John Rhys-Davies), players band together as a company of Dwarves tasked to reclaim the lost spoils from the Dwarven homeland of Moria — known as Khazad-dûm or Dwarrowdelf — in the depths below their very feet. Their quest will require fortitude and teamwork, delving deep into the mines of Moria to recover its treasures in the hopes of one day restoring them to their former glory.

Developed by Free Range Games and Published by North Beach Games, The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria is available now on Windows PC via the Epic Games Store and the PlayStation®5 computer entertainment system for an MSRP of $24.99 USD, and has been rated “T for Teen” by the ESRB and has a PEGI 12 rating.