Category: Games

Bandai Namco and FromSoftware have teamed up with Torch Torch to unveil a new Elden Ring merchandise piece: the Spectral Steed Whistle replica. Priced at 28,600 yen (around $200), it is slated for shipping in January 2026.

This replica will appeal to fans of Torrent, the spectral steed featured in the game, despite its premium cost. “Elden Ring,” released in 2022, received immediate acclaim for its intricate dark fantasy world, shaped by Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R. R. Martin.

This collaboration is not Torch Torch’s first venture into soulslike merchandise, as they’ve previously produced items for Bloodborne enthusiasts. Previous offerings included a detailed Ranni statue, the Dark Moon Ring, and a necklace inspired by the Cainhurst Badge.

In addition, dedicated fans have created their own keepsakes, such as beautiful replicas of the Dark Moon and Black Blade swords. The new Spectral Steed Whistle replica is crafted as a gold ring that closely resembles the in-game item.

Made from 925 sterling silver, the price is significant, but collectors might find it worthwhile. Interested buyers can order through Buyee, which offers worldwide shipping.

However, they will need to be patient, as the item won’t start shipping until early 2026. Many fans believe that Torrent is essential to the game’s allure, bringing something unique to the world of video game mounts, making this ring a must-have for collectors even with its high price.

Torrent, the Tarnished’s mount, is a spectral steed with distinctive short horns and the ability to summon using the Spectral Steed Whistle. Players first encounter Torrent after meeting Melina in Limgrave, and they quickly learn about its unique traits, including a preference for Frozen Raisins and the ability to resist fall damage.

Additionally, fans anticipate the upcoming release of the co-op spin-off, Elden Ring Nightreign, set for May, which is generating buzz with its new classes and procedural content.

The Outer Worlds 2 promises exciting new features, including parkour mechanics and dynamic combat inspired by games such as Destiny. Players can expect to engage in battles both at close range and from a distance using grenades, as well as encounter a more advanced enemy AI. Character customization will play a significant role, allowing players to select abilities that directly influence gameplay, recruit companions, and modify how the colony reacts to their actions. The game is set for release in 2025, with day-one access available for Game Pass platforms.

In a recent presentation, Obsidian showcased the combat system of The Outer Worlds 2, revealing enhancements over its predecessor. This sequel transports players to a new solar system, featuring an entirely fresh cast of characters. As an Earth Directorate Agent, players will face the challenge of uncovering the mystery behind rifts threatening the Arcadia star system. Maintaining the spirit of the first game, The Outer Worlds 2 will include branching story paths influenced by player decisions.

Obsidian appears to aim for improvements in character progression. Drawing from feedback on the first game, there may be no level cap in this sequel. The game encourages players to approach combat in various ways, whether through stealthy eliminations, leading companions, or utilizing gadgets effectively. Inspiration from other titles has helped refine the shooting mechanics, contributing to a more fluid combat experience.

Character customization remains essential, with players able to tailor their avatars through a robust skill tree. This personalization allows for unique gameplay experiences based on decisions made throughout the game. Furthermore, players will have the chance to recruit diverse companions, each with distinct backgrounds and ambitions, enhancing the overall narrative depth. While detailed release information is still pending, fans remain eager for more updates, particularly with the June Xbox Showcase approaching.

Meanwhile, the original The Outer Worlds continues to be celebrated as a standout in the open-world genre.

Recent leaks indicate that Respawn Entertainment is preparing to unveil a new Legend named Belva in Apex Legends for the upcoming season. Belva’s abilities are rumored to revolve around archery, scanning, and stunning opponents, which has elicited a mixture of excitement and skepticism among fans. While some have criticized the character’s design, many supporters are looking forward to adding a fresh face to the game’s roster. Currently, Apex Legends boasts 26 characters, including popular choices like Ash, Wraith, and Alter.

However, players have expressed a desire for more options, feeling that the game’s metagame has become somewhat stagnant. The last new character introduced was Alter in Season 21. Despite an initially lukewarm reception, Alter has gained popularity over time. Yet, with no new characters since then, the demand for additional Legends has grown, prompting Respawn to consider expanding the roster.

In the wake of these leaks, there are also reports that Ubisoft is developing a multiplayer game similar to Apex Legends. This could underscore the competitive pressure on Respawn to innovate. It has been suggested that Belva may be revealed in a major announcement during the Prodigy Season on April 28, following a teaser that identifies him as “Giuseppe Belva,” also known by the nickname Sparrow. While some fans have expressed concerns about Belva’s lack of uniqueness and possible similarities to existing characters like Mirage, others appreciate his stylish design.

This new addition could provide a much-needed boost for Apex Legends, especially as the game continues to face challenges in retaining its player base amid criticism regarding its expansion plan. The upcoming seasonal update will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the game’s future and its community dynamics.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has achieved a remarkable accomplishment, selling 1 million copies within just three days of its launch. This turn-based RPG incorporates a real-time combat system, offering players a unique gaming experience. Its success can largely be attributed to its accessible retail price and favorable reviews from both critics and gamers alike.

Released on April 24 by Sandfall Interactive, Clair Obscur aims to fill a gap in the AAA gaming market by presenting a blend of turn-based mechanics with the dynamic elements of parrying and dodging. This innovative approach to combat distinguishes the game from traditional offerings within the genre. Additionally, the game was made available on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate from day one, which further boosted its visibility and sales.

Priced at $49.99, it invites players to enjoy its deluxe edition without breaking the bank, appealing to a wide audience. Many subscribers are also choosing to purchase the game to back the developers. The overwhelming positive reception from early reviews only confirmed the game’s potential as a contender for Game of the Year.

Players have praised its engaging combat, stunning visuals, and captivating soundtrack, along with the depth of its storyline and world-building. While the main storyline can be completed in around 30 hours, Clair Obscur offers plenty of content that encourages exploration. Set in a mystical world, the narrative revolves around the Paintress who annually marks a number that signals impending doom for those whose age matches it.

This premise sets players on an expedition filled with danger and intrigue as they attempt to confront the Paintress and halt her deadly ritual. Combat remains a crucial element in Clair Obscur, demanding precise timing for effective parrying and dodging. For players who might struggle with this aspect, an “easy” mode is available, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all.

With a strong user rating on Steam and a high average critic score, Sandfall’s Clair Obscur is well on its way to achieving even greater milestones.

Game director Hyungjun Kim is focused on enhancing communication with players of InZOI through more consistent updates and live streaming sessions. Following a successful launch, the game experienced a decline in player numbers as some found the gameplay lacking in depth.

Although InZOI has exciting developments on the horizon, it appears that a departure from Early Access is still a distant goal. InZOI’s Early Access release in March 2025 was initially met with enthusiasm, as it sold over a million copies within just a week.

There was significant anticipation surrounding InZOI, as many were eager to see if Krafton could create a true rival to The Sims. Despite the stellar sales figures, it became evident that the gameplay may not meet the expectations of all players.

While being in Early Access grants the developers time to refine the game, there is a clear long-term expectation for a more enriched gameplay experience. Hyungjun Kim addressed the community via the game’s Discord server, indicating that his team would share “thoughts and reflections on the development of InZOI” that go beyond mere concerns.

This initiative aims to include feedback, suggestions, and future plans. Additionally, he confirmed that the team would release a list of known issues each month and host regular live streams, providing previews and live Q&A sessions leading up to new content releases.

As the player base faces recent declines, Kim’s commitment to more open communication might help rekindle interest. While many players have not abandoned InZOI entirely, they seem to be holding out for a more comprehensive gaming experience.

In the meantime, fans can explore the content roadmap to see what Krafton has planned in the coming months. The development process remains underway, and the transition out of Early Access is anticipated but currently without a defined timeline.

Honkai: Star Rail appears to be on the brink of introducing a powerful new enemy type, potentially called “Local Legends.” Recent leaks indicate that these formidable foes may be added as overworld bosses, echoing similar enemies found in Genshin Impact’s Fontaine, Natlan, and Liyue regions. This information was shared by Sakura Haven, a prominent leaker within the HoYoverse community. Currently, Honkai: Star Rail is known for offering a variety of endgame challenges, where players can test their skills and team-building capabilities against some of the game’s most daunting adversaries.

These include the Memory of Chaos, a gauntlet of tough enemies, and Pure Fiction, which focuses on quickly defeating waves of opponents. However, the game has often been criticized for lacking powerful overworld enemies, as many of its strongest foes are confined to endgame modes and higher challenge floors. The potential introduction of Local Legends suggests a significant expansion of the overworld content, enhancing the gameplay experience with new challenges. While some powered-up enemies have appeared through the Apocalyptic Shadow game mode, they are typically limited to existing Weekly Bosses.

The leaked data hinting at Local Legends represents a step toward adding robust encounters outside of these modes. As the sci-fi RPG continues to evolve, the upcoming Version 3.4 update is rumored to come with several enhancements, including buffs for characters such as Stellaron Hunter Blade. The thrilling speculation doesn’t stop there, as players are also anticipating the long-awaited crossover with Fate/Stay Night, which could coincide with this update. With new characters and potential enemies on the horizon, Honkai: Star Rail promises exciting content for its dedicated player base.

Infinity Nikki Version 1.5 is set to bring an exciting multiplayer co-op experience to Miraland, focusing on teamwork and exploration. Players will have the opportunity to share materials, rewards, and explore together, significantly enhancing their gameplay. The eagerly awaited co-op mode will officially launch on April 29, 2025. When the developers at Infold first hinted at the introduction of multiplayer features in Version 1.5, fans were intrigued yet cautiously optimistic.

While there were hints of a new multiplayer zone, details remained scarce until the recent developer livestream, where a clearer picture emerged. Players can collaborate with other stylists throughout Miraland, particularly in the Sea of Stars, where they will be encouraged to solve puzzles and explore its enchanting environment. This zone will allow players to showcase their color schemes through a new dye system and enjoy services from the Starlit Shop. Multiplayer mechanics in Infinity Nikki are designed to foster cooperation.

Players can initiate co-op by sending invites via the Friend List or interacting with a Starlit Projection. A unique aspect of this mode is the ability to share materials and exploration progress. As long as players are holding hands, they can collectively gather items like Whimstars and Treasure Chests. In co-op, holding hands also enhances gameplay, allowing players to maximize the exploration abilities of their outfits, like the Snowy Ballad and Crimson Feather sets.

Additional features include the ability to capture group photos, where each Nikki can choose her pose, and the opportunity for players to chat in the open world, particularly in areas like Serenity Island. Infinity Nikki marks the fifth installment in the beloved series by Infold Games, utilizing the UE5 engine to create a vibrant world filled with magical adventures. Players will travel across diverse nations, encountering whimsical creatures and collecting outfits that possess unique abilities. The game promises a bright and enchanting environment, along with engaging platforming, puzzle-solving, and cozy sim activities for a truly immersive experience.

Elden Ring’s Spinning Strikes Ash of War has recently gained attention for its ability to deflect projectiles, a feature many players were previously unaware of. While not a hidden mechanic, the realization struck some members of the community only recently.

This was highlighted by a player who discovered that Spinning Strikes could counter Margit’s dagger throws. The player accidentally found this while executing the technique mid-animation, resulting in a surprising moment when all daggers were nullified.

Spinning Strikes is an easily obtainable Ash of War, accessible shortly after reaching Castle Morne in the Weeping Peninsula. However, those who usually refrain from attacking non-hostile NPCs may miss out on acquiring it until they reach the Liurnia of the Lakes region.

This Ash of War allows players, or Tarnished, to perform a spinning attack with compatible weapons like polearms, making it an efficient means of dealing area damage at a low FP cost. Reddit user Fail1ure showcased this newfound application of Spinning Strikes, posting a video that quickly garnered over 7,000 upvotes within a day.

This indicates that a significant portion of the player base was unaware of the ability to deflect projectiles until now. Although Margit’s daggers are not the most threatening attack—dealing minimal damage and easily avoidable—it underscores the potential of Spinning Strikes against other thrown projectiles from more challenging bosses.

In addition to Margit’s daggers, the Spinning Strikes skill is confirmed to counter thrown items in PvP scenarios. Although some players might not have been familiar with this aspect, the game does mention the trait in the Ash of War’s description, highlighting its capacity to “nullify projectiles such as arrows while spinning.”

Other Ashes of War and spells, like the Zamor Ice Storm Sorcery, offer similar projectile-deflecting capabilities.

Recent leaks suggest that Genshin Impact is developing a new endgame challenge. This upcoming mode is expected to feature a gauntlet involving various World Bosses, allowing players to engage in Co-Op gameplay.

As the game continues to expand, Version 6.0 will soon introduce Nod-Krai, marking the first playable area from the Snezhnaya region. Throughout its history, Genshin Impact has provided players with various forms of challenging content designed to test their combat skills after they’ve leveled up their characters.

Modes like the Spiral Abyss and Imaginarium Theater feature gauntlet-style challenges where players must face rotating groups of enemies and utilize unique buffs to optimize their team compositions. The addition of this new endgame mode seems to follow this trend, promising fresh challenges for dedicated players.

Genshin Impact has continuously lured players into its endgame content with enticing rewards, most notably Primogems. This currency is highly sought after as it can be used in the game’s gacha system.

Moreover, valuable resources like Sanctifying Elixirs and Dream Solvents have been introduced as part of the endgame rewards. The recently leaked details indicate that the new challenge will also come with alluring prizes.

According to leaker Seele Leaks, players may have to navigate through six stages, each with different World Bosses. The structure involves a two-minute limit for each floor, with the first four allowing players to use the same team across floors and even team up with friends.

In contrast, floors five and six will require different teams, prohibiting Co-Op play. Rewards will vary, with Primogems given for the first three floors and Sanctifying Elixirs for floors four and five, while the rewards for floor six remain a mystery.

As Genshin Impact looks ahead to the launch of Nod-Krai and the potential new game mode, it appears there are exciting times ahead for fans of the RPG.

The controversial Mouse Magnetism feature in Marathon’s closed alpha will be disabled in an upcoming patch. Designed as an aim assist-like functionality for mouse and keyboard users, its presence has sparked considerable criticism among players. Although users previously had the option to toggle Mouse Magnetism off, the feature will soon be disabled by default with the release of the next update.

Bungie has decided to remove this contentious feature after receiving widespread negative feedback during the game’s initial closed alpha playtest. Players expressed strong concerns over the surprising implementation of aim assist for mouse and keyboard users, prompting the studio to act. Marathon, which is a revival of one of Bungie’s oldest franchises, is reimagined as a live-service extraction shooter, diverging from its story-driven roots while still advancing the original lore of the universe.

Since its announcement nearly two years ago, Bungie recently showcased gameplay for Marathon, which generated a mix of praise and concern. In response to this feedback, a closed alpha was initiated, running from April 23 to May 4, allowing players to publicly share their impressions after lifting the initial non-disclosure agreement (NDA). Among early critiques of the closed alpha, Mouse Magnetism stood out.

Players noted that it not only slowed crosshair movement like traditional aim assist but also unintentionally pulled the aim toward targets while strafing, even without user input. Popular streamer Shroud expressed his frustration, arguing that such systems “water down” the PC gaming experience, suggesting players would prefer to develop their aiming skills without artificial aid. In light of the strong community response, Bungie’s gameplay director, Andrew Witts, explained that the aim assist was initially intended to level the playing field between PC and console players.

However, the upcoming patch will ensure that Mouse Magnetism is disabled by default, demonstrating Bungie’s commitment to addressing community feedback during Marathon’s alpha tests.