Fantasy Symbolism Influencing Visual Design in Digital Games 🎮

Image source: https://pixabay.com/photos/robot-machine-technology-mecha-ai-2301646/

Step into any fantasy video game and you’re instantly surrounded by a silent language of symbols, before you’ve heard a scrap of dialogue or read a quest prompt. Designers rely on this mostly visual shorthand to steer our emotions and choices from the first moment. A golden shimmer in the distance means you found a safe spot; blood-red, splashed across the screen, promises trouble. Certain shapes, too, whisper ancient meanings: think labyrinthine corridors, dragon heads, or those recurring, rune-carved stones. 

Decoding these cues doesn’t require a lore deep-dive. Centuries of storytelling have conditioned us. Recent surveys actually put a number to this: over 80% of today’s best-selling fantasy games lean heavily on symbolic palettes and iconography (SDLCCorp, 2023). It’s not just pretty art; this is what lets game worlds speak for themselves and draw players deeper.

2025 Belonged to Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 - Mike's Musings ✨ @expedition33

There is a terrific "How it started/How it's going" meme going around contrasting Sandfall Interactive head Guillaume Broche's initial, charming, kickstarter appeal on reddit with an image of him accepting every award known to man at last weeks Game Awards.

I’m not sure anyone involved with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 expected to walk away from the ceremony with their arms full of trophies, but here we are. Game of the Year, best Debut, Art Direction nods, critical darling status cemented, and a room full of developers looking faintly annoyed that a relatively small French studio just strolled in and stole their lunch money.

As noted in our own glowing review, Clair Obscur is the first game from Sandfall Interactive, a studio that, until very recently, was mostly known for not existing. Founded by former Ubisoft developers, the team hovered somewhere in the “AA but dangerously competent” space, reportedly numbering in the few dozens rather than the hundreds.

No vast satellite studios. No eighteen-hour mocap shoots for incidental NPCs. No decade long development hell. Just a relatively small team, a very clear vision, and the audacity to build a turn based RPG in 2025 and assume people might still care.

They were right.

Critical reception was, frankly, obscene.

Warhammer 40K Rogue Trader – Switch 2 Character Creation 🔫 @OwlcatGames #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich steps into the grim darkness of the far future with Warhammer 40000 Rogue Trader on Nintendo Switch 2! ⚔️ In this video, we dive deep into the character creation system, exploring classes, backgrounds, and customization options to build the perfect Rogue Trader for your journey across the galaxy.

Turtle Beach Rematch Wireless Controller: Mario Bricks Review By Britt "Ladies and gentlemen… we have a winner." 🎮 @TurtleBeach

I’ve covered a lot of controllers during my ten years here at The Mighty GF, and I really do have some favourites that are still with me, but the Turtle Beach Rematch Mario Bricks controller for the Switch (and Switch 2) is the controller so good that I would ‘accidentally’ drop it onto a bar just before closing time in front of a hot girl like it was the key to a Dodge Viper in order to seduce her instantly. And it would work.

In a world of so many options, wherein you can get lost in the sheer choice and amount of variables, Turtle Beach have honed in on the most appealing aspects of gaming, designing and delivering a controller that is a pure celebration of the Super Mario franchise itself. 

Put aside the fact that this features customisable back buttons, has a USB-C based rechargeable battery that lasts for up to forty hours of gameplay, and features up to 30-foot low latency wireless connection, or that the smooth thumb sticks and satisfying triggers and buttons feel like they would last years – I could say that about many controllers – but just look at it.

Detective: Rainy Night Nintendo Switch Review 6/10 *Care for a room, detective?* 🕵️‍♀️☔ @K148_GS #IndieGame #GameDev

I covered k148 Game Studio’s Detective: The Motel back in January, and whilst I relished the thought of the basic premise – a short detective title focused in a single location – the execution and layout of the game really hindered my enjoyment. Fast forward to the end of the year, and I got to tuck into Detective: Rainy Night, a title that moves away from tedious box-ticking exercises and instead more towards a supernatural, psychological horror bent. Good!

The POV adventure begins with your character arriving at a supposedly rural hotel (more on this later), with your character getting to briefly know the inhabitants of the scattered rooms, as well as the kindly motel manager. 

After a quick kip, you wake up to find that the heavy rain from the night before has now morphed into an impenetrable fog (again, more on this later) and to make matters worse, one of the temporary residents of the motel has been murdered, leaving you to don your detective cap and try to get to the bottom of what the heck is going on.

As much as I had fun with Detective: Rainy Night, there are a lot of caveats here. Whilst I enjoyed how stripped back and focused the narrative was – it’s a game that can be completed in a couple of hours – the game is very ‘assety’ and that does bite it on the arse somewhat.

For example, you are supposed to be in the middle of nowhere, but you can clearly see many houses around the motel, and at one point towards the ending, there’s a glitch (at least I assume its a glitch) in which you can openly leave the area and see the awkward surroundings/limitations of the street that the motel is plonked on. 

It doesn’t help that the burgeoning narrative really tries to drive home the fact that this motel is supposed to truly be miles out of town and almost unreachable. The sparsity of audio works with the unfolding tale, and I enjoyed how the story is set over five nights (shout out to the awesome Five Days a Stranger), with the creeping imminence of death closing in as the hapless residents get picked off one by one.

Again, as much as there are strengths in the interesting premise, the character models move like they are encased in cement, and the dialogue is less than ideal. The light environmental puzzles and brief fetch quests never slowed the pace down, and the character archetypes work insomuch as they fill a hole; you’ve got a moody young woman, an unhappy couple (the male is possible the horniest person I’ve ever encountered in a game, there should honestly be a copy of Readers Wives poking out of his jacket pocket), a miserable rich bitch, a chubby food-focused schlub, and an alpha male – but it all works in the sense that this is a trashy horror story.

SUMMARY
All in all, when playing Detective: Rainy Night, it’s best to keep in mind that this is the work of a single individual, and quite frankly this is light years ahead of their previous releases. 

Whilst I’ve only rated this a 6/10, I’m genuinely looking forward to what the developer hits us with next, as there really is something here, and I hope that in a year or two I’m singing the praises of their newest release to the high heavens. 

As it stands though, this is flawed, silly fun that will appeal to those that like to smash through a light-horror title of an evening, and there’s absolutely nothing at all wrong with that.

6/10 

🧊💦MELTING🧊💦

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(also available on PS5, PC, Xbox Series X/S)

Developer – k148 Game Studio [SOLO DEV]

Publisher – Jandusoft

Snakebyte Gamepad PRO S2 Firmware Update Guide + Setup Tutorial For Switch 2 🎮 @snakebytegear

Need to update your Snakebyte Gamepad S2 for Nintendo Switch 2? In this step-by-step guide, Rich takes you through the full firmware update process to ensure your Snakebyte controller works perfectly with the Switch 2. From setup to troubleshooting, this walkthrough makes updating simple and stress-free.

🎮 What you’ll learn in this video: How to connect your Snakebyte Gamepad S2 to Nintendo Switch 2 Step-by-step firmware update instructions Tips to fix common compatibility issues First impressions of the Snakebyte Gamepad S2 after update ✨ Why watch? If your Snakebyte Gamepad S2 isn’t working properly on Switch 2, this guide shows you how to get it updated and ready for gaming. Perfect for anyone setting up their controller for the first time or troubleshooting problems.

PURCHASE LINK: GAMEPAD PRO S2 (Black)

FIRMWARE UPDATE LINK: snakebyte DAM

Neon Inferno X Box Series X Review 8.5/10 *never reload, never stop shooting* 🏍️🔫 @ZenoviaLLC #IndieGame #GameDev

There are a lot of genres in the world of video games that slide by, or don’t feel like they got as fully explored as they could have at the time of release on whatever systems they found their home on. 

Quite often I’ll go back to one of my favourite consoles and wonder why there weren’t more titles in said genre – Landstalker springs to mind! - as they nail a niche that feels like there are deeper depths to be plumbed. 

Back in 1990, Dick Tracy on the Mega Drive was the first time I played a game that melded both side-scrolling action and gallery shooter mechanics, and despite its flaws it remains a strong title in the MD library for me; not only because of its awesome music, noir atmosphere and presentation, but because it felt truly different on Sega’s awesome 16-bit machine.

Cue Neon Inferno. Yes, there have obviously been other titles in this dual genre over the years, but since the 16-bit heyday, I can’t recall too many games that blended these genres so well.

Chickenhare and the Treasure of Spiking Beard | Nintendo Switch 2 Quick Look 🐰🐢🦨 @ChickenhareGame #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich embarks on a whimsical adventure with Chickenhare and the Treasure of Spiking Beard on the Nintendo Switch 2! 🐔🐇⚔️

In this gameplay showcase, we explore the vibrant world, quirky characters, and exciting mechanics that make this title a must‑play for fans of platforming and family‑friendly adventures.

Deathless. The Hero Quest Switch 2 Gameplay Quick Look 🃏⚔️ @Deathless_TOR #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich takes a quick look into Deathless: The Hero Quest on Nintendo Switch!

In Deathless, elements of a collectible card game, roguelike, and turn-based strategy combine seamlessly. Build a unique deck of cards, discover unusual relics, and face off against legendary bosses. With endless paths to explore, no two journeys will ever be the same.

Crush the Evil and save the world in this epic RPG adventure!

Citizen Sleeper 2 PC Review 7.5/10 "Cracked Dice N Glitches Means Stitches" 🎲🎲 @FellowTravellr #IndieGame #GameDev

Not many games embrace uncertainty as boldly as Citizen Sleeper 2. Following in the footsteps of its acclaimed predecessor, this narrative-driven, dice roller, sci-fi RPG once again places you in the fragile body of a Sleeper—a digitized consciousness fighting for survival in a hostile universe. But where many games punish failure, Citizen Sleeper 2 thrives on it. Every dice roll, every misstep, every imperfect outcome becomes part of a living story that adapts and grows around you.

At the heart of Citizen Sleeper 2 lies its signature dice system. Each cycle, you’re given a pool of dice representing your available actions. High rolls can be assigned to critical tasks—repairing a ship, negotiating with a faction, or uncovering lost technology—while low rolls might be relegated to riskier endeavours. 

Retro Games Ltd. Revives Iconic Quickshot Joystick for the Modern Era 🎮 @THEC64_RGL

Retro Games Ltd. (RGL), in collaboration with PLAION REPLAI, has unveiled THEQUICKSHOT II, a modern reimagining of one of the most legendary joysticks of the home-computer era.

The original Quickshot II, with its distinctive flight‑stick profile and signature red trigger, was a staple of 1980s and early 1990s gaming. From the Commodore 64 to the ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST, and Amiga, it became synonymous with arcade‑style action at home. For many players, it wasn’t just a controller — it was the controller.

Sub-Species Dives Into the Depths: A 2.5D Ocean Shooter With Alien Secrets 🌊 @howling_hamster #IndieGame #GameDev

Indie game dev studio Howling Hamster Entertainment has unveiled Sub-Species, a 2.5D multidirectional action/adventure shooter that plunges players into the darkest corners of Earth’s oceans. Combining retro-inspired precision with modern cinematic atmosphere, the game challenges players to survive amidst alien swarms, lost technology, and terrifying underwater mysteries.

A New Kind of Deep-Sea Challenge

In Sub-Species, players pilot a heavily armed submarine capable of full 360° rotation, facing threats from every direction. Missions send explorers deeper into contaminated zones filled with hostile creatures, collapsed structures, and remnants of forgotten expeditions. Along the way, players must balance:

• ⚔️ Combat – Fluid controls allow players to unleash mines, flares, and dodge bursts against alien swarms.

• 🧩 Navigation Puzzles – Tight caverns, unstable reactors, and collapsing ruins test precision and problem-solving.

• ⚙️ Resource Management – Survival depends on adapting strategies under pressure, conserving tools, and outlasting waves of enemies.

Skopje ’83 Gameplay | "Survive the Mutated Streets of the Balkans!" 💥 @Dark1_games #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich Steps into the alternate‑history Balkans with Skopje ’83! This gameplay showcases the comic‑book styled FPS where you battle hordes of mutated abominations, scavenge loot, and upgrade your mobile base (the DOM bus) to survive.

Borderlands 4 Xbox Series X Review 8/10 *More shooty, less bang bang* 💥

I covered Borderlands 3 back in 2021, scoring it a 9/10 and celebrating the zany world of Pandora and its myriad denizens. Whilst there were hardly any immense leaps in terms of core gameplay between games, the series always delivered mindless blasting action, which ramped up gloriously when playing with friends. 

This newest instalment instead shifts the action to Kairos, a hidden planet run by ‘The Timekeeper’; a masked, golden, and seemingly immortal figure that plants chips in the minds of his subjects allowing him to control their will, or to drive them insane, if he deems necessary…which he does deem quite often, quite frankly.

I was hips deep in the initial unveiling and first couple of hours, everything that I enjoyed about the series had returned, and now it was tied to a story that - although basic - seemed slightly more serious and focused which was certainly refreshing. Starting the game off with an epic prison escape got my engine revving and my guns cocked and loaded.

Getting Back into Gaming after a Long Break 🎮

Do you feel as though you are out of gaming? Maybe you want to get back into it, but at the same time, you don’t know how or even where to start. Either way, this is the guide for you.

Play with Friends

One of the best ways for you to get back into gaming is to play with friends. Getting back into gaming is easy when you start small and play in short bursts. You should also try and focus on fun rather than focusing on goals. If you have had quite a substantial break from gaming, then you shouldn’t try and focus on getting the most points in a game. Instead, focus on trying to come out with a smile on your face, or even think about how you are going to do better next time by being a good teammate. If you focus on these smaller goals, then you will find it easier to come out with confidence from every session you play. If you can’t play with friends because you have a broken console, then now could be a time to look into game console repair, because when you do, you can feel assured knowing that you’re going to be on the same level as everyone else.

Outlaws + Handful of Missions: Remaster Nintendo Switch Review 7/10 *Some Rootin’ Tootin’ Old School Shootin’* 🤠 @NightdiveStudio #IndieGame #GameDev

First of all, the game runs gloriously on the Switch - for some reason gyro controls were turned on automatically, so I kicked those off as fast as humanly possible - but there are a lot of accessibility options for you to tweak the game to your tastes as you walk – or glide, rather - in the well-worn boots of James Anderson, a retired U.S Marshal who is out to rescue his kidnapped daughter from the casually named ‘Slim’ Sam Fulton, and his associate, the more worryingly monikered ‘Dr. Death’ Matt Jackson.

Outlaws really felt apart from other FPS of the time as the slim, stark visuals almost echo the rangy James Anderson himself. The dusty soundtrack, satisfying weapons and combat take centre stage in the relatively empty-feeling levels that you will be blasting your way through.

Yes, the stages in Outlaws feel far more dated than a lot of other titles from around this time, and I can’t quite work out if I like that aspect or not. There seems to be a lot of big, empty rooms and outside space to roam through, but with only a handful of secrets in each of the nine levels (and five extra in the expansion, bringing it to a total of fourteen overall) the sparseness of each one will either appeal or be a detraction of your enjoyment. 

Marvel Cosmic Invasion PS5 Review 8/10 "It isn't a reinvention of the genre, nor does it need to be" @MARVELCosmicInv #IndieGame #GameDev

Marvel Cosmic Invasion doesn’t waste time pretending to be anything other than what it is: a loud, colourful, unapologetically arcade brained brawler where superheroes knock extra-terrestrial pests into orbit. It’s simple, it’s fast, and it wears its comic book heart proudly on it's sleeve, sometimes a little too proudly, but we’ll get to that.

What stands out straight away is the presentation. The game is a love letter to past Marvel fighter/brawlers like Marvel vs Capcom and the X-Men side scrollers. It has a punchy Saturday morning cartoon energy, all neon space vistas and chunky comic panel transitions. 

Every character, from deep cut favourites to headliners, move with personality. Rocket Raccoon scurries and blasts everything that looks vaguely flammable; Captain Marvel practically glows with stoic swagger; and even the grunts have expressive, over the top animations that make fights feel busy and chaotic in the best way.

Overcooked! 2 Switch 2 Edition | Cooking Frenzy Gameplay 👨‍🍳 @Team17 #IndieGame #GameDev

Overcooked! 2 is back on the Nintendo Switch 2! In this gameplay showcase, we dive into the frantic co‑op cooking chaos that makes Overcooked one of the most beloved party games. Watch as we chop, fry, and serve dishes under pressure while navigating wild kitchens full of obstacles and surprises.

Britt’s December Review Round Up! 🗓️🎮 #IndieGames #GameDevs

Pour yourself a large glass of Malbec and hook it up to your veins as Britt delves into the December Games Freezer games locker and digs for some Class A Indie Gold in his Brief Bulletin December Review Round Up!

Angry Video Game Nerd 8-bit (8.5/10)

The new house in rural Cambridge wasn't exactly what the Nerd had in mind.

Platform Reviewed – XSX (also available on Switch, PS5, PC)

We’ve been AVGN fans in our household for almost as long as the man himself has been uploading videos to YouTube, and over the years I’ve covered his previous games as well as their soundtracks. The news that another game was on the way was very much welcomed. I also have to say that even though I sort of knew what to expect, there were some very cool aspects around the game itself that blew me away!

From developer Retroware, Angry Video Game Nerd 8-Bit – whilst in the same genre as the previous games – feels a continuation of the genre as opposed to AVGN 1 & 2 a few years ago which came across as more of a highlight reel of it. This means that it feels like a lost game from the NES days as opposed to a purely modern spin on those classics. The music is as chiptune-tastic as you’d expect, and the difficulty ramps up nicely – in a Mega-Man-esque touch, you can also select the order in which you would like to play the game’s six stages,  each ending with a boss that will be familiar to fans of the show.

A huge boon here is the games lengthy opening cinematic that is basically a full episode of AVGN, it was such a great – and surprising! - way to kick off the game that I actually forgot I was playing one, and just sat back to enjoy the ‘episode’.

The game is available on all modern platforms with a NES physical edition en route. For fans of the AVGN, this is a no-brainer, and even without that nostalgia, this is a fun and solid 8-bit platformer with some hilarious moments and a challenge that is not shy.

Reus 2 Quick Look Gameplay Video (PC) –"The God Game Returns!" 🌍🗿 🌱 @ReusTheGame #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich gets a Warm Welcome to Reus 2 on PC! In this gameplay showcase, we dive into the world‑building god simulator where you shape planets, guide civilizations, and balance nature with human progress. Watch as we explore the mechanics, test strategies, and see how Reus 2 evolves from its beloved predecessor.

SNAKEBYTE TRAVEL CASE S2 – Nintendo Switch 2 | Unboxing & First Impressions 🎮 @snakebytegear

Rich was looking for the perfect way to protect his Nintendo Switch 2 on the go. In this video, he unboxes the Snakebyte Travel Case S2 and shares his first impressions of its design, build quality, and practicality.

🔗 Purchase Link: https://snakebyte.com/products/travel-case-s2

The C64 Mini Black Edition: Retro Reinvented 🕹️

The world’s best-selling mini home computer is back—and it’s dressed to impress. The C64 Mini Black Edition isn’t just a nostalgic nod to the past; it’s a celebration of everything the Commodore 64 community has built over the last two decades. With a sleek new look and a curated library of modern classics, this limited edition release is a must-have for retro gaming fans and collectors alike.

🎮 A New Era of C64 Gaming
Forget dusty cartridges and fuzzy memories—this Black Edition showcases 25 of the highest-rated new C64 games developed in the last 20 years. These aren’t rehashes or remakes; they’re fresh, inventive titles crafted by a thriving community of developers who’ve kept the C64 spirit alive and kicking.

Featured titles include:

• Sam’s Journey – A vibrant platformer that rivals modern indie hits.
• A Pig Quest – A charming adventure packed with personality and polish.
• Steel Ranger – A run-and-gun sci-fi epic with tight controls and explosive action.
• Knight ‘n’ Grail – A moody, atmospheric quest that blends puzzle-solving with swordplay.

Each game delivers captivating gameplay and stunning soundscapes that push the boundaries of what the C64 was originally thought capable of.

A Pizza Delivery Xbox Series X Review 6.5/10 *fancy a slice (of life)?* 🍕 @Dolores_Ent #IndieGame #GameDev

The first release from Spanish video game developer Eric Osuna, A Pizza Delivery is a game that overreaches its grasp, but is painfully close to being a glorious experience, blending as it does a scattered narrative with simple mechanics. 

Although, as much as certain sections of the game appealed to me, there were too many aspects that dragged my interest down, eventually making the game feel a bit meandering and light as opposed to being the vehicle to a budding realisation as the narrative would perhaps like me to believe.

Onirism PC Quick Look Ten Minute Taster | "A 3D Platformer With 90s Cartoon Vibes" 🔫 @OnirismThegame #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich dives into the colourful world of Onirism with this PC gameplay showcase! 🌙✨ 

Onirism is a fast-paced indie 3d action platformer that blends retro cartoon vibes with modern mechanics. In this video, we explore the opening levels, combat system, and unique environments that make Onirism a hidden gem on Steam.

Lumines Arise PC Review By PixelHunted 9/10 *Lumines Arise is an incredible game played on any size screen* ⏹️🟥🟧 @enhance_exp #IndieGame #GameDev

Many of you will know what it’s like to feel the cold hand of Father Time on your shoulder when it comes to gaming. Such is the case when I booted up Lumines Arise and grimly realized I’ve been playing this game for… Christ. 20 years…. Where did the time go?

I picked up the original Lumines in 2005 along with my shiny new PlayStation Portable. After Rez on Dreamcast I’d become a firm Tetsuya Mizuguchi fan, and his stylish little puzzler had me hooked. A year later, I had Lumines II, and in 2018 I was pleased to see the game return in shiny enhanced form as Lumines Remastered.

SnakeByte Nintendo Switch 2 System Case Organiser S2 Unboxing Video & First Impressions 📦 @snakebytegear

Unboxing the SnakeByte Nintendo Switch 2 System Case Organiser S2! 🎮 

Looking for the perfect way to keep your Switch 2 safe, organised, and travel‑ready? In this video, I dive into the SnakeByte System Case S2 to see how it stacks up in terms of build quality, storage capacity, and portability.

🔗 https://snakebyte.com/products/system-organiser-case-s2-black 🐍

Heistfest PC Gameplay Video - Quick Look - Ten Minute Taster "old school, hand‑drawn top down driving GTA vibes" 💥🚘🚁 @alabehi #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich steps into the world of Heistfest with this PC gameplay showcase, bringing back old school, hand‑drawn top down driving GTA vibes! 🎨🚗💥 This unique indie heist game blends retro aesthetics with chaotic action, delivering a nostalgic throwback to the gritty charm of classic crime sims. From hand‑drawn art style to explosive missions, Heistfest captures the spirit of the streets with a fresh twist.

Keys of Fury: Typing Action Preview By PixelHunted 🔑👊 @elecorn #IndieGame #GameDev

“Typing Action” as a genre is an acquired taste, but whenever a new entry appears on my radar, I’m always excited. The roots of the genre lie in Sega’s The Typing of the Dead, but have flourished in the indie space with the likes of Western Press, Epistory: Typing Chronicles, and Outshine.

If the extremely entertaining preview build is anything to go by, Keys of Fury: Typing Action could position itself at the top of this pile. It dons the skin and aesthetics of a retro beat-em-up, but instead of bashing out punches and kicks with button presses, you rapidly tap out words below enemies to deliver a blizzard of martial arts mayhem.

The preview covers the first three levels, introducing you to the art of “Key-Fu” and emphasising that success is about accuracy rather than speed. Unlike many other typing action games, Keys of Fury doesn’t test your words-per-minute speed, but on completing words without typos.

Black Friday Deals Are Coming to Your Favourite Video Games From 2K 💸🤑💵

Platforms, Sale and Dates*:

• Sony (www.playstation.com), Black Friday Sale, 11/21/25 - 12/1/25
• Microsoft (www.xbox.com), Black Friday Sale, 11/21/25 - 12/1/25
• Steam (store.steampowered.com), Black Friday Sale, 11/20/25 - 12/4/25

 

2K games included in all sales listed above unless otherwise noted*:

• NBA 2K26 (55% off)
• NBA 2K26 Superstar Edition (55% off) - Sony and Microsoft only
• BioShock: The Collection (80% off) - Sony and Microsoft only
• Borderlands 4 (20% off)
• Borderlands 4 Deluxe Edition (20% off) - Microsoft and Steam only
• Borderlands 4 Super Deluxe Edition (20% off)
• Borderlands Collection: Pandora's Box (75% off)
• Civilization VII (35%) - Sony and Microsoft only
• Civilization VII Settler’s Edition (35%) - Sony and Microsoft only
• Civilization VII Deluxe Edition (35%) - Steam only
• Mafia: The Old Country Deluxe Edition (10%)
• Mafia Trilogy (80% off)
• PGA TOUR 2K25 (55% off) - Sony and Microsoft only
• PGA TOUR 2K25 Legend Edition (55%) - Sony and Microsoft only
• PGA TOUR 2K25 Deluxe Edition (55%) - Steam only
• Risk of Rain 2 (75% on PlayStation and Xbox, 67% on Steam)
• WWE 2K25 (67%) - Sony and Microsoft only

*Discount based on 2K’s SRP. Digital only. PlayStation and Xbox offers end December 1, 2025. Steam offers end December 4, 2025. Terms apply.

JDM: Japanese Drift Master Xbox Series X Review 6.5/10 *Don’t let me drift away, babe* 🏯🚗💨 @GamingFactorySA #IndieGame #GameDev

Firstly, I have to say that whilst I didn’t fully click with JDM: Japanese Drift Master due to several issues that I’ll elaborate on below, this is clearly a game that’s been crafted with love, and has some real high points in the visual departments and world design. That said, there were too many issues to ignore and it all resulted in JDM feeling like a game that needed a bit longer in the oven to really make an impact.

The narrative of the game is told through Manga style comic imagery, a really cool touch that adds to the Japanese vibe of the game and bookends the chapters that make up the story in a fun way. The look and layout of the map is surprisingly varied as well, with some lovely touches and flourishes in the landscapes and environments that you’ll be whizzing through. 

Echoes Of The End: ENHANCED EDITION | Quick Look Gameplay Showcase ⚔️ @MyrkurGames #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich jumps into the world of Echoes Of The End ENHANCED EDITION – a cinematic fantasy RPG experience that blends breathtaking visuals with immersive storytelling. In this showcase, you’ll see enhanced gameplay, upgraded mechanics, and the stunning environments that make this edition unforgettable.

NOTE: SEE BRITT'S REVIEW HERE 👇

Echoes of The End Xbox Series X Review 7/10 "a visually stunning action-adventure title that fails to entirely engage" ⚔️ @MyrkurGames @deepsilver #IndieGame #GameDev | ❄️ Games Freezer | Retrogaming, Indie Games and Games Culture

“Kingdomino PC Gameplay | First Look at the Digital Board Game Classic” 🧩♟️ @MeepleCorpGames #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich plays Kingdomino the PC game for the first time. It's a board game he's been meaning to play for years and now today he gets to experience the BRAND NEW video game before he plays the board game.

Step into the world of Kingdomino on PC! 🏰 In this gameplay showcase, I explore the digital adaptation of the award‑winning board game. Watch as I build kingdoms, connect landscapes, and discover how the classic tabletop experience translates into a fun, strategic video game. 🎮 What you’ll see in this video:

• First look at Kingdomino on PC
• Gameplay mechanics explained
• Strategy tips for building the best kingdom
• Why this digital version is perfect for board game fans

If you’ve ever wanted to try Kingdomino but haven’t played the board game yet, this is the perfect introduction.

Mini Arcade Pro For Nintendo Switch 1 & 2 Unboxing and Set up 🕹️

Rich decides to turn his Nintendo Switch into a full arcade experience with the MiniArcade Pro by iMP Tech. In this video, Rich showcases how the MiniArcade Pro transforms your Switch into a retro‑style cabinet, complete with authentic arcade vibes. Perfect for Switch 1, Switch 2, and OLED models.

PURCHASE LINK:

Nintendo Switch 1 & 2 Mini Arcade – IMPGaming

RIG R5 Spear Pro HS Gaming Headset Review By Britt 🎧 @RIGGaming

An officially licensed PlayStation product, the R5 Spear Pro HS headset from NACON’s own RIG range gives a lot of bang for your buck. Coming in just shy of seventy quid, the headset has a lot going for it, with only a few minor niggles as drawbacks.

Coming packaged with a set of alternative PS branded mod-plates that can be swapped out for the standard RIG plates, the RIG R5 Spear Pro HS makes a great first impression out of the box as they are lightweight, sleek and matte black, with foam ear cups and headband as opposed to leatherette that can crack and peel off, meaning that these are built to last. I’ve used them for some pretty hefty gaming sessions (I’m still rocking 7 Days To Die with my GF cohort, Transvaal) and they actually hold up in terms of comfort more than the more expensive pair I used prior to receiving these, with no dip in sound or mic quality, according to my fellow players.

Dark Quest 4 Xbox Series X Review 8/10 *A Quest Very Much For Heroes* 🎲⚔️🧙‍♂️ @brainseal #IndieGame #GameDev

Dark Quest 3 was installed on my Xbox for a very long time back in 2023/24 when I covered it, and earlier this year I covered Brain Seal’s Blow It Up! Which was also a good time. 

Whilst I haven’t played the first two iterations of the Dark Quest series, I can tell you that whilst it looks the same in trailers, and the artwork and characters are familiar, this is a different beast to Dark Quest 3, moving away from random encounters and luck-based sections, and more towards a style of gameplay that feels more akin to the quest-based Hero Quest board game that Dark Quest gets some of its inspiration from. 

Whilst this does freshen things up, it also feels oddly stripped back, as the mechanics now feel quite bare, and I found myself wishing for a little more depth and camera control, especially in areas where parts of the environment were a mystery to me because of the locked view.

Above Snakes Switch 2 Gameplay | Wild West Survival RPG - Ten Minute Taster - Quick Look🌵🐍 @SquareGlade #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich decides to step into the Wild West frontier with Above Snakes on the Nintendo Switch 2!

In this gameplay showcase, we explore survival mechanics, base‑building, and the unique tile‑placing world design that sets Above Snakes apart. Watch as we gather resources, craft tools, and fight to stay alive in a harsh wilderness full of danger and opportunity.

Desert Race Adventures Nintendo Switch Review 7/10 "Oregon Trail With Less Dysentery and More Horsepower!" 🚛 @bssgameshq #IndieGame #GameDev

This new title from Firedrake Games is a rally game with a difference, as opposed to actually racing, your vehicle instead trundles on regardless as you take a backseat from driving, and instead focus on the logistical side of this mammoth task – which is driving across Europe and Africa.

With some lovely pixel visuals, and simple, looping music to keep you company on your trip, Desert Race Adventures begins with choosing your driver and co-driver from the six available and selecting up to three items for your vehicle loadout. 

Whilst each driver / co-driver has their own strengths and accompanying weaknesses – perhaps they fatigue slower, or require less nourishment than the other, greedier drivers, but also suffer more in crashes – the balancing act of switching between the stock in your limited carrying space makes up a very important part of your journey.

THE GOOD OLD DAYS "A GOONIES Video Game In 2025?" Ten Minute Gameplay Taster With Rich 📼 @tgod_en #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich steps back into the Good Old Days with this brand‑new PC gameplay video! Join me as I explore retro‑inspired adventures based loosely on the Goonies. This metroidvania is packed with nostalgia, classic metroidvania mechanics, and modern PC polish. Whether you grew up with pixel art and cool VHS movies like Goonies or you’re discovering it for the first time, this playthrough captures the charm of gaming’s golden era.

The Spectrum Collector’s Edition: A White-Hot Tribute to British Tech History 🕹️ #Retrogaming #ZXSpectrum

Retro gaming fans, prepare yourselves—because PLAION REPLAI, in partnership with Retro Games Limited, has just unveiled something truly special. Introducing The Spectrum Collector’s Edition, a stunning all-white homage to one of the most iconic milestones in British technological history: the one-millionth ZX Spectrum.

Available exclusively for pre-order now at plaionreplai.com, this premium Collector’s Edition is priced at £199.99 / €229.99. And here’s the catch: once it’s gone, it’s gone forever.

My Time at Sandrock PS5 Review By Lowri 9.5/10 ⛏️🪨 @MTaSandrock #IndieGame #GameDev

After playing a wide variety of games in 2025, I can confidently say that "My Time at Sandrock" stands out as my top gaming experience of the year.

Having previously enjoyed "My Time at Portia," my expectations for its spiritual successor were high, but "My Time at Sandrock" managed to surpass them in almost every way. 

While it retains the cozy, farming-sim elements that made the first game so charming, Sandrock expands the genre with incredible depth, creativity, and a vibrant desert world that feels both fresh and inviting.

GXT 735 Mylox Wireless Mobile Gaming Controller Review By Britt 🎮 @TrustGaming #MobileGamer

We continue our Trust odyssey with the Trust Mylox Wireless Mobile Gaming Controller, a mobile controller that I received – handily – just before a family holiday. Eschewing the usual Nintendo Switch, I instead decided to holiday away with the Trust Mylox Wireless Mobile Gaming Controller in a bid to really immerse myself in its abilities.

I tried out a few different genres on the system, but the game that I found myself really diving into over that period was Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, which really ended up highlighting the strengths of the peripheral.

The GXT 735 Mylox Wireless mobile Gaming Controller can be played for up to twelve hours before needing a recharge – which then takes three hours to recharge, but you can use whilst charging – and is very snappy in its approach to everything.

NCSOFT Unveils Horizon Steel Frontiers, a New MMORPG Set in the Horizon Universe 🏹🦖 @NCSOFT @NCSOFT_America

🦖Korean publisher kicks off G-Star 2025 with surprise reveal and trailer showcasing Horizon’s iconic hunting action and advanced combat systems for large-scale, cross-platform play.

Renowned developer and publisher NCSOFT today announced Horizon Steel Frontiers, a global MMORPG set in the acclaimed Horizon universe, during Korea’s premiere game conference, G-Star 2025.

Developed in collaboration with Guerrilla (creators of Horizon and Killzone), a studio under Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE), the new title expands the Horizon franchise into the MMORPG genre.

Horizon’s New Frontiers

Set in the lands of the machine hunters known as the Deadlands, Horizon Steel Frontiers builds on the franchise’s signature hunting-action gameplay while introducing advanced MMORPG systems. Players can expect deeply customizable combat, extensive freedom, and large-scale battles designed to deliver a distinct Horizon experience to fans worldwide.

Trailer and Developer Insights

NCSOFT has launched the official Horizon Steel Frontiers brand website, featuring the debut trailer and developer interviews. The trailer showcases mechanical creatures, expansive environments, and massive multiplayer encounters unique to the game.

In a developer interview, Jan-Bart Van Beek, Studio Director and Art Director at Guerrilla, expressed his excitement about collaborating with NCSOFT to bring this new Horizon experience to life. Taekjin Kim, NC CEO & Chief Creative Officer, and Sunggu Lee, NC Executive Producer, also shared their inspiration and hopes for the project in a 10-minute gameplay and commentary video.

What’s Next

Further details about Horizon Steel Frontiers will be revealed gradually through the official website. The game is confirmed as a cross-platform release for mobile and PC, powered by PURPLE, NCSOFT’s proprietary game platform.

Horizon Steel Frontiers - NCSOFT - NCSOFT

Infinity on Game Boy Color "2 Decades In The Making" ♾️ ⚔️ @Incube8Games #IndieGame #GameDev #RetroGaming

Purchase Link

I came across an upcoming game release a few weeks ago that caught my eye, a Game Boy Color title named Infinity, originally created by Affinix Software back in 2001, the game was never fully released due to publishing issues at the time.

Incub8 Games then picked up the project during a Kickstarter back in 2021, and now over 20 years on, the game is completed and finally ready for a physical release (a digital version is also available).

It’s always a pleasure to get the opportunity to play games lost to the mists of time, and so this is definitely one for the GBC fans out there to get excited about! In the coming months we will be reviewing the full game, but until then, check out the information below, and get your pre-orders rocking and rolling, should it tickle your fancy.