Diablo 4 Guide & Wiki

New Look At 007: First Light Takes Us Back To Beginnings<img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/06/04/17723102/bond5.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> We now have a closer look at the new Bond Game, which appears to take us back to the earliest days of the world’s most famous spy. Today’s State of Play finally gave us a close-up look at 007: First Light, the upcoming James Bond game coming to us from iO Interactive. At the risk of veering into hyperbole, it looks pretty amazing. Many longtime Hitman players have highlighted how well-suited the developer might be for tackling the James Bond mythology, and today’s trailer certainly backed up that suspicion. The third-person action title seems to borrow liberally from what we’ve seen in the Hitman games, but definitely has an active and fast-moving pace that establishes a unique identity.  From a storytelling perspective, this new installment takes us back to Bond’s earliest days in the spy service, and the tagline “Earn the number” suggests he won’t even have that familiar 007 designation as the game begins. We see a handsome younger version of Bond offering up plenty of swagger and confidence with the ladies, but the trailer also shows off some high-octane action sequences. We also learned that 007: First Light is on track for a release in 2026. We don’t have full details yet on platforms, but its prior announcement appearance confirmed the game for Switch 2, and today’s appearance during State of Play confirms we’ll also see the game on PS5. We’d be surprised if the game didn’t also make an appearance on Xbox and PC, but that remains to be confirmed.<iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/J4qY9DYE184" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="true"> </iframe> <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/06/04/1fca295f/bond4.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/06/04/e107914f/bond2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/06/04/96f6a903/bond1.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/06/04/ca67afd7/bond3.jpg'></figure></section>

Jun 4

Blades of Fire Review - Arduous Adventure<img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/23/91e7df17/blades-of-fire_announcement_03.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> Reviewed on: PlayStation 5 Platform: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC Publisher: 505 Games Developer: MercurySteam Release: <time datetime="2025-05-22T12:00:00Z" class="datetime">May 22, 2025</time> Rating: Mature Blades of Fire developer MercurySteam has a fascinating trajectory. Amidst excellent releases in the Castlevania and Metroid franchises, MercurySteam interrupted its strong run with a few disappointing releases. All of that is to say, its output has been inconsistent. Blades of Fire, sadly, falls on the lower end of the spectrum of its games, but it is not completely without merit. Excellent art direction, technical proficiency, impressive animation, and a unique combat system are all in its favor, but so many design decisions and ideas drove me absolutely crazy over the course of the game that I lived in a perpetual state of frustration while playing. A positive first impression and desire to get to know its protagonists eventually fell aside for an experience that is entirely too long, full of unearned twists, and needlessly challenging.<iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Vr50QNIZWXg" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="true"> </iframe>Among the positives, Blades of Fire’s world and setup invite exploration. Protagonist Aran is a soft-spoken, but imposing hermit who works with steel and seems to only want to do good. He saves a young monk named Adso and is given one of the seven hammers used to create the world. It means he (and the player) can create his own weapons, and he decides to use this new power to say flatly, “I am going to kill the queen,” inviting his new ward Adso to join him. I liked that opening moment and wanted to see why he was so resolute in his quest, but the resulting revelations mostly fall flat. It’s also a narrative that frequently puts you inches from the queen, only to inexplicably introduce a new supervillain that takes hours and hours to defeat. I constantly felt like I was gearing up for the final confrontation, only to be pushed further away.Combat is different than most sword action games and takes some getting used to. The four face buttons dictate which direction Aran swings his weapon. Enemies display their weak points, meaning encounters are often a matter of figuring out which direction to attack. For example, if their head is the weak point, you attack from above. It never gets much deeper than that, though, and by the end of the game, the weapon I was using was a stronger factor than how I was attacking enemies. But the way weapons and progress work, there is little incentive to engage in combat.Aran makes his weapons, which involves collecting materials and playing a smithing minigame. If you are enamored with a particular blade and successfully built it once before, you can thankfully skip the minigame. I quickly found the process of creating or rebuilding weapons annoying, especially early on, when I would go through myriad weapons when stuck on bosses. Since the only incentive to kill enemies is more materials to make more gear, and engaging enemies only brings your weapons closer to destruction, I often ran from objective to objective without fighting in order to save my favorite swords.The running between objectives is where the game most frustrated me. Navigating nearly every location in the game is a nightmare. There is a map and a menu option to show your next objective, but it helps only about half the time. I spent the other half running around avoiding enemies, just trying to find a door I missed, or a secret entrance – anything. And to make matters worse, extended sections hamper you even further. One area involves carrying a small skeletal child who can fall off and be kidnapped if you get attacked. I spent hours trying to ensure the child stayed on my back while searching for the exit and dodging enemies. In another area, a slow-witted ghost follows you, and in order to progress, you have to wait for them to remember where a switch used to be, or something comparable. I found these sections baffling, but the other, more straightforward locations were equally confusing. I rarely felt the reward of figuring something out. More often, I just angrily shouted at the TV, “How was I supposed to find that?” after stumbling across a climbing rope or an elevator hidden behind a statue. Finally figuring out where to go or what to do is the bad kind of surprise Blades of Fire is so adept at delivering, but there are good surprises, too. The larger narrative didn’t grab me, but I like the dynamic of Aran and Adso. I also like that it is very easy to send Adso away if he gets annoying, which is a smart way to mirror the narrative nature of their relationship through gameplay. Blades of Fire also delivers big, epic moments that showcase its dense fantasy world and character and creature design well. Giant monsters and impressive vistas live up to the high standard MercurySteam has set for itself with its past games. I liked looking at Blades of Fire, even if playing it was arduous.I consider myself a MercurySteam fan, and even after gleefully closing the game when I saw credits (and deciding the lengthy, extended final quest for the true ending was not for me), I remain a fan. Blades of Fire feels a bit like the developer’s attempt at bringing something new to what has now become the overpopulated Souls-inspired genre. It was unsuccessful in this instance, but some of its ideas around combat and the world it created are exciting. They just couldn’t overcome the parts that made me want to give up on the game. <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/23/499b8cbb/blades-of-fire_announcement_09.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/23/0adfd432/blades-of-fire_announcement_06.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/23/138ba3c5/blades-of-fire_announcement_07.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/23/f8328f73/blades-of-fire_announcement_05.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/23/b5e080b1/blades-of-fire_announcement_04.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/23/e21befe6/blades-of-fire_announcement_01.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/23/6e1c6ac8/blades-of-fire_announcement_08.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/23/e440190d/blades-of-fire_announcement_02.jpg'></figure></section> Score: 5.5 About Game Informer's review system

May 23

Six One Publishing Is A New Game Publisher From The Team Behind This Year’s Best Indie Showcase<img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/22/724ac84c/Six%20One%20Publishing.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> The <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2025/05/15/six-one-indie-showcase-returns-next-week-with-48-games-including-mouse-pi-for-hire-and">Six One Indie Showcase</a> just wrapped, <a href="https://gameinformer.com/round-up/2025/05/21/every-game-shown-during-todays-six-one-indie-showcase">highlighting more than 40 rad indie games</a> with world premieres, exclusive reveals, and more. It was this year’s best indie game showcase and one of my favorites ever, which is why it’s exciting to see the team behind it announce its new publishing arm: Six One Publishing.Coming from the Six One Indie team, Six One Publishing was “created for developers who need an impactful partner to help them cross the finish line.” The team describes itself as an “integrated, indie-first platform” that aims to reimagine what publishing can look like in 2025 and beyond.“We’re here to blur the lines,” Six One Publishing creative director Mike Towndrow writes in a press release. “The number of games hitting the market grows by the day, but unfortunately, the people to cover and amplify them seem to dwindle just as fast. Six One Indie has evolved into an ecosystem that can now offer a unique opportunity to get indies in front of players through fresh, unconventional means.” Six One Publishing says working with it means “gaining direct access to every part of the Six One ecosystem – from original video content and editorials to our growing slate of indie showcases and creator collabs. By fusing the best parts of publishing, media, and community into one agile framework, we’re rewriting the rulebook to serve developers – not shareholders.”Towndrow concludes the press release by stating he believes indies "deserve a major push backed by authenticity, genuine enthusiasm, and a new approach for an unpredictable industry.”If you want an idea of the types of indies Six One Indie wants to get eyes on, look no further than <a href="https://gameinformer.com/round-up/2025/05/21/every-game-shown-during-todays-six-one-indie-showcase">Game Informer’s round-up of every game shown during today’s Six One Indie Showcase</a>.  <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/9e702b00/44_blue_ridge_hunting.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/ec128a1a/43_video_ghastlies.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/03adeb0a/40_forbidden_solitaire.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/c18a564b/39_the_wide_open_sky_is_running_out_of_catfish.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/2d68e18e/46_oddbat.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/3f2524df/47_kidbash_super_legend.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/7e0ea62b/41_quite_a_ride.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/af9724fb/38_kabuto_park.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/e0df91eb/45_petal_runner.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/0b04e0b9/42_benny_bash.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/20341563/48_dinoblade.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/9e33b258/37_mouse_pi_for_hire.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/7e7fd7c7/27_grandma_no.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/3969b772/31_carimara.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/92de1e2b/26_guilty_as_sock.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/836d569f/30_rue_valley.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/c1f934f5/33_a_week_in_the_life_of_asocial_giraffe.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/73b6bc78/35_kejora.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/820e2b00/28_building_relationships.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/5c166e6d/36_one_way_home.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/f9a8d239/34_inkshade.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/2065bc7c/29_hotel_barcelona.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/4c134db4/32_battleversus.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/bec7e647/24_rogue_eclipse.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/97aa1f41/09_shadows_of_chroma_tower.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/b7378563/08_truth_scrapper.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/1c8620bf/25_glitchspankr.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/955aceb2/16_future_vibe_check.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/c3e36ccd/21_1000xresist_vinyl.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/8bceed3e/23_scaravan_66.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/8a7f5934/14_oscuro_blossoms_glow.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/67d125e8/19_anatine.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/69e3d38f/18_away_from_home.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/bf77918e/20_scratch_the_cat.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/424cbd78/10_artis_impact.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/e43a8916/11_1000_deaths.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/72e38c90/22_jump_the_track.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/cd5a778f/13_bonnie_bear_saves_frogtime.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/b958d613/15_cast_n_chill.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/5a97e656/12_bobo_bay.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/21/54ad4e49/17_fretless_the_wrath_of_riffson.jpg'></figure></section>

May 22

Two Realms: Whispers From the Rift Will Bring Dark Pixel Art Adventure to Life in 2026MOD42 is thrilled to reveal that Two Realms: Whispers From the Rift will be coming out on PC via Steam sometime in 2026. The post Two Realms: Whispers From the Rift Will Bring Dark Pixel Art Adventure to Life in 2026 appeared first on COGconnected .

May 21

Stellar Blade Developer Plans To Release A Sequel Before 2027<img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2024/04/23/724969be/stellar_blade_1.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Stellar Blade Sequel ShiftUp 2027 Eve" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> Korean developer ShiftUp released <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/product/stellar-blade">Stellar Blade</a> last year, and it quickly became a hit. In roughly one year, it has brought in more than $48 million of revenue for the developer, so it won’t be a surprise that the team is working on a follow-up game. However, according to a <a href="https://shiftup.co.kr/eng/ir/irdata.php?ptype=view&idx=254&page=1&code=irdata_eng">Q1 2025 fiscal year presentation</a> from ShiftUp, the developer plans to have a sequel before 2027.In the presentation, which is where ShiftUp reveals Stellar Blade has brought in 68.1 billion KRW (or $48 million), there’s a slide titled, “IP expansion on its way with high visibility.” We can see the 2024 release of Stellar Blade on PlayStation 5, additional strategy for ShiftUp’s mobile gacha game, Goddess of Victory: Nikke, and “Platform Expansion” for Stellar Blade. This likely alludes to <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2025/05/15/stellar-blade-hits-pc-next-month-pc-specs-and-features-revealed">the upcoming PC release</a>. However, beyond that, the slide also shows “Sequel” for Stellar Blade before the year 2027, which is represented as the cutoff for the slide’s timeline. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/20/cd472457/stellar_blade_shiftup_sequel_financial_presentation.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Though there aren’t any accompanying details, given the reception to Stellar Blade, it makes sense ShiftUp is planning a sequel for the action game.Elsewhere on the slide, there’s mention of something called "Project Witches," which gets its own color and is separate from Nikke and Stellar Blade, as it’s likely a new IP.While waiting for a Stellar Blade sequel, potentially next year, read <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/stellar-blade/more-than-a-pretty-face">Game Informer’s Stellar Blade review</a>. After that, read about <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2025/03/20/game-informers-belated-top-10-games-of-2024-awards">why it’s Game Informer’s best action game of 2024</a>, and then check out <a href="https://www.gameinformer.com/2025/05/15/stellar-blade-hits-pc-next-month-pc-specs-and-features-revealed">the PC specs required to play Stellar Blade</a> when it launches there next month. What do you want to see in a Stellar Blade sequel? Let us know in the comments below!

May 20

Square Enix Vocal Covers: Timeless Classics Includes NieR, Final Fantasy Square Enix Vocal Covers: Timeless Classics , a new cover album from Square Enix and Keiichi Okabe’s MONACA, will feature songs from NieR, NieR: Automata, Final Fantasy IX, FFX, and FFXIII. It will launch in Japan on June 25, 2025 , with European and US debuts following in July 2025. It will cost $26.99/€19.99 and feature six versions of five songs. It sounds like all six songs will be performed by the same singer, with two of them being English covers and the other four being in Japanese. Square Enix didn’t reveal their identity yet though. It did share the track list, which consists of two versions of “Melodies of Life” alongside the other four performances. Here’s the full list of songs: “Weight of the World” English Version from NieR: Automata “Kaine / Salvation” from NieR Replicant and Gestalt “Suteki Da Ne” from Final Fantasy X “The Sunleth Waterscape” from Final Fantasy XIII “Melodies of Life” English Version from Final Fantasy IX “Melodies of Life” from Final Fantasy IX Square Enix also started to share samples of the Square Enix Vocal Covers: Timeless Classics songs ahead of the album’s launch. It started with the first song on the album, which is the English version of “Weight of the World” from NieR: Automata. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Yrd4rC6fmBY The second sample to appear showed off “Kaine / Salvation” from NieR Replicant and Gestalt . https://www.youtube.com/shorts/6kRS0_C1nkw The reveals are going in order, as the one that showed up after that is the third track, “Suteki Da Ne” from Final Fantasy X. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/4DHzGt7_q_c The last one Square Enix shared is “The Sunleth Waterscape” from Final Fantasy XIII . https://www.youtube.com/shorts/VABojx6NFpA Finally, here's the cover art, which was created by Aamond. Image via Square Enix Square Enix Vocal Covers: Timeless Classics album will come to Japan on June 26, 2025, followed by a July 2025 worldwide release of the six songs. One of its last cover albums was #SQkawaii Sounds – Final Fantasy. The post Square Enix Vocal Covers: Timeless Classics Includes NieR, Final Fantasy appeared first on Siliconera .

May 15

Nintendo Store San Francisco Photo Tour<img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/1a02e64e/img_7491.jpg" width="800" height="600" alt="Nintendo San Francisco" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> This week signals the opening of the second official Nintendo Store in the United States. Nintendo New York opened in 2001 as a Pokémon Center before being converted to Nintendo World in 2005, then rebranded as Nintendo New York in 2016. Since then, Nintendo has opened first-party stores in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, Japan, but outside of the employees-only store in Nintendo of America's headquarters, the New York location has been the only US-based store. The two-story shop features exclusive merchandise, hard-to-find Amiibo figures, various statues of iconic Nintendo characters, and the ability to build a custom Nintendo Switch. You'll find dedicated sections to Nintendo and its biggest franchises throughout the storefront. On the main floor, you'll spot areas devoted to Mario (including Mario Kart), Animal Crossing, Donkey Kong, and a section dedicated to Nintendo San Francisco merchandise. If you walk down the stairs in the middle of the store, you can descend to the bottom floor, which includes Zelda, Splatoon, Metroid, Kirby, Pikmin, and Pokémon sections. Additionally, each floor features dedicated gaming areas, with loads of Switch games, a few playable Switch kiosks, and an absolutely loaded wall of Amiibo figures.Game Informer recently attended an invite-only media day for Nintendo San Francisco, which opens today for those with Warp Pipe reservations. However, for everyone else, Nintendo San Francisco opens on Monday, May 19. You can see what shoppers can expect when they step through the doors of the brand-new Nintendo San Francisco below.  <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/04dbe7a7/img_7464.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> You enter the store through the Powell St. entrance. Along the front and side windows, various Nintendo characters are depicted walking towards the entrance. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/efca8e3e/img_7472.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> The front section of the store includes mostly Nintendo San Francisco merchandise, as well as exclusive items to official Nintendo Stores. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/d4e04c00/img_7523.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Statues of characters like Mario and Link are found throughout the store, and if you want to take a miniature version home of your favorite statue, Nintendo San Francisco has replicas on its shelves. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/90bd21ee/img_7471.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> This is an often-used design on exclusive merch throughout the store. It can be found on bags, shirts, and other items. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/976c9197/img_7473.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/22899782/img_7470.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/b0f22d06/img_7469.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Near the front, you'll find the Donkey Kong section. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/262ade94/img_7475.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> A huge Mario statue welcomes you to the Mario section of the store. Here, you can find all kinds of merch from Mario's long history, including this dish set that was originally only for sale at the Japanese Nintendo Stores. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/11437434/img_7477.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> If you're looking to start a Mario plushie or Lego collection, this store has you covered. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/cbf82207/img_7479.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Similar to the Mario section, the Animal Crossing section is hard to miss. Here, you can shop from various home items ripped straight from your island getaway. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/a6dba3f6/img_7481.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Since the Animal Crossing section relies heavily on home items, The Roost line lets you put an Animal Crossing touch on your at-home coffee station. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/55a23d01/img_7480.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> If you'd prefer to show off your Animal Crossing love through apparel instead of home decor, you also have plenty of options.  <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/c761c8e8/img_7490.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Right next to the main floor registers, you have another chance to pick up some of the exclusive Nintendo San Francisco merchandise. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/e563a0f5/img_7515.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> One of the coolest sections of Nintendo San Francisco lets you use tablets to build a custom Nintendo Switch. You can select different Joy-Cons, straps, and docks. Once you place your order, your Switch will be ready for pickup the same day. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/7f38a95d/img_7514.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> If you're just visiting the Nintendo Store to pick up the latest game or a title you missed out on, you can select from a wide range of Switch titles. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/2bd1a9fc/img_7517.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Though you normally need to go to the Nintendo website and have a Switch Online subscription to purchase the Nintendo Switch Online classic controllers, you can grab them in-person (and without a paid subscription) at the Nintendo Store. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/b9778a12/img_7518.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Yes, you can get Alarmo at Nintendo San Francisco. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/ddf0b7da/img_7482.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> You can look over a railing from the main floor to see the massive gaming screen on the bottom floor. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/015c778d/img_7474.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> A staircase in the middle of the store takes you to the bottom floor. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/ea949fe4/img_7496.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> The first section you're greeted by on the bottom floor is the Legend of Zelda area. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/7d17f3d3/img_7486.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> The Zelda collection is geared towards a more mature audience, with items like messenger bags, replica swords, notebooks, wine glasses, and more. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/3442c528/img_7493.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Across from the Zelda section, you can find a ton of colorful Splatoon merchandise. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/4ae7cc68/img_7483.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> The giant screen you could spot from the main floor is playable on the bottom floor. After the store tour, a few invitees fired up a round of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/02e86662/img_7499.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> If you'd rather check games out on a smaller, more personal screen, the back corner of the bottom floor has kiosks for you to test out some games or watch some trailers. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/8174332b/img_7504.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> The bottom floor has more games for you to peruse. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/71dcf2e7/img_7502.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> The back wall features an impressive display of Amiibo figures, including several difficult-to-find figures. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/3d27209c/img_7506.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Pikmin and Mario share some space on the back wall. Some of the Pikmin apparel includes fun instances of the Pikmin carrying away items like the pocket on a T-shirt or a button from a dress shirt. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/85fd63cb/img_7508.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> The Pokémon section features a ton of plushies and apparel from the Pokémon Center. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/db6236dd/img_7507.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Though I didn't spot any Pikachu plushies exclusive to this particular store, Nintendo San Francisco has several of the Nintendo Store-exclusive plushies. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/98bd8a9a/img_7488.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> In addition to the sections highlighted in this photo tour, you can also find smaller sections featuring franchises like Kirby and Metroid.

May 15

Exclusive – Diving Deep Into Critical Role’s Daggerheart<img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/15/bf484d45/dagg_hero.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> After years of anticipation, <a href="https://darringtonpress.com/daggerheart/">Daggerheart</a> is about to be released next week. The tabletop role-playing game comes to us from Darrington Press, the publishing arm of Critical Role, which many players may know from the team's wildly popular role-playing streaming shows. Ahead of the game’s launch, we had the chance to put some questions to lead game designer Spenser Starke. He gave us a rundown on some of the core ideas that set Daggerheart apart from other RPGs like D&D, but also gave an early look at one of the campaign frames featured in the game – a dark and dangerous setting called Age of Umbra.Age of Umbra challenges players to send their characters into the Halcyon Domain, where the dead come back in twisted forms, animated by a strange, roaming, ethereal mass called the Umbra. Notably for video game players, Critical Role’s Matthew Mercer wrote the campaign frame specifically citing FromSoftware games like Dark Souls as an inspiration for the style of play.Mercer will be running an eight-part mini-series set in Age of Umbra, with a Session Zero on May 22, and the first full episode airing on May 29. You can watch the new show on <a href="https://beacon.tv/">Beacon</a>, <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/criticalrole">Twitch</a>, or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/criticalrole">YouTube</a>. Check out our complete interview with Spenser Starke below, as well as extensive art galleries from the soon-to-release Daggerheart game. We also have two exclusive book spreads from the Age of Umbra section of Daggerheart, which you can read through by clicking the first gallery below, and tapping the expand button in the upper right of the image to enlarge. Game Informer: How is Daggerheart different from other role-playing games on the market? How is the feel of playing different from that of familiar games like D&D?Spenser Starke: Daggerheart is a heroic roleplaying game designed from the ground up to be a collaborative, narrative-forward experience that supports both heartfelt storytelling and cinematic combat! So if the reason you play is to tell an awesome story with your friends, Daggerheart is almost certainly for you. It’s specifically designed to be light enough at level one that you can jump right into your first session without knowing much, but crunchy enough that as you level up through a campaign, there are plenty of interesting choices to make and new mechanics to learn!What can you tell us about the core dice mechanic of the Hope and Fear dice? How does that system shape play? Was there a particular reason to focus on 12-sided dice?The Duality Dice are one of my favorite features of the game–they really help to inject narrative into every roll. You choose one d12 to represent Hope and another to represent Fear, and whenever you’re making an action roll, you’ll use both the total of the roll (including any modifiers) AND whether the Hope die or Fear die rolled higher. This gives you results like “Success with Fear” or “Failure with Hope,” which will impact the consequences of the roll! It allows for there to be a spectrum of success and failure during play that encourages everyone to play to find out what happens next. The use of the d12 came about primarily because I adore d12s. I love their shape and I also really like their balance of swinginess; they give more variation than a d6 but less than a d20. Additionally, two d12s rolled together create a statistical curve that centers around 13, meaning the players know their dice are generally going to hit around that value. This makes even small modifiers really valuable! I could gush about dice mechanics for forever, but I will spare you from the pain. Daggerheart also leverages physical cards as an aspect of play. Can you talk about how those factor in? Is the use of cards central and necessary to the experience, the way that minis might be in a tabletop skirmish game?The cards in Daggerheart are designed as a shorthand way of building and operating your character. They make onboarding during a session zero much easier–we really wanted an experience that got you out of the book and onto the page as fast as possible. So choosing your level options from cards and placing them in your loadout to make that process as streamlined and accessible as possible, as well as having rad art across EVERYTHING in the game was something we were really excited about. There are ways to play without the cards using a loadout sheet instead, but we find the experience with the cards to be our favorite way to run the game!What are some of the features that make character creation and development interesting in Daggerheart? As a design team, did you have particular goals you hoped to reach in terms of the way characters come together over the life of a game or campaign?Experiences are something that really stand out to me as a particularly exciting component of Daggerheart – they are essentially narrative tags that you work with your GM to create about the kinds of experiences you’ve had as a character already, and when you leverage that knowledge while performing an action, you can get a bonus to the roll. As talked about above, the card system also makes character creation fast, visual, and exciting! You get to combine certain domain decks together to form your character’s loadout at each level. Additionally, the background and connection questions actively encourage a player to breathe life into their character as well as providing the GM narrative fodder for how to make the characters at their table the protagonists in the campaign. One of the significant challenges of tabletop role-playing (for game makers and playgroups) is the frequently dramatic difference in experience levels between longtime players and newcomers. How does Daggerheart approach that dilemma, specifically around welcoming new players, while also including enough depth for experienced players?We have done our best to make the onboarding process for new players as streamlined as possible, while offering the opportunity to opt into more crunch as players level up in a campaign. We also, where possible, attempted to put the bulk of the “crunch” of the system into the choices players make in downtime, between sessions, or during level-ups, as opposed to in the moment at the table, to avoid stopping downplay as much as we can.For folks who may not be plugged into recent happenings with Critical Role, how will the launch of Daggerheart affect the streaming, shows, and other content that Critical Role produces?We’re launching Age of Umbra very soon! It’s a series run by Matt Mercer using the Age of Umbra campaign frame, a dark, souls-like setting that is extra deadly. And much more to come, we’re just getting started!Today, you’re sharing more details about one of the campaign frames in Daggerheart. Would you describe what you mean by a campaign frame compared to a dedicated campaign setting? A campaign frame is kind of a starter kit for running a campaign in Daggerheart! They’re usually about 10-20 pages and focus on a specific subgenre or concept around which your campaign can be structured. They provide an overall narrative hook, some interesting lore you can incorporate into your campaign, a map of the region you can customize, a starting scenario to kick off your first session, and some mechanical additions or adjustments that impact the way the game runs! We’re hoping campaign frames provide everything you need to jump in, while not being so much they feel stifling to you and your table’s creativity. What is The Age of Umbra? What are some of the defining characters, groups, or setting features that make it special?Age of Umbra is a dark, deadly, souls-like campaign frame heavily inspired by media like Kingdom Death Monster, Elden Ring, and Dark Souls, written by Matt Mercer. It’s full of evocative lore and horrifying flavor, but one of my favorite aspects is the concept of the Sacred Pyres that exist all throughout the land, burning bright and providing refuge from the Umbra. That plays into one of the downtime mechanics that requires anybody resting outside the light of a Sacred Pyre to have a party member or two keep watch during the night… or bad things might happen.Matthew Mercer has likened The Age of Umbra to video games like Dark Souls. How far does that comparison bear out? Would you suggest that dedicated fans of video games like Elden Ring might want to consider it?The campaign frame is absolutely for fans of Elden Ring, Dark Souls, or really anyone who wants to run a dark and deadly story. Matt really outdid himself with this one. Are there other campaign frames in Daggerheart? How do they change the experience of play? Is there one you’d highlight, in brief, as an experience at the other end of the tonal spectrum from The Age of Umbra?Yes! There are six campaign frames in the Daggerheart Core Rulebook that have a wide range of genre and tone. They really form the subgenre of fantasy that you’re looking to play in, from lore to mechanics to weapons and everything in-between. I think on the other end of the spectrum from Age of Umbra (depending on what your spectrum is like!) is either Beast Feast, which is a light-hearted dungeon crawl about cooking what you kill, heavily inspired by Delicious in Dungeon and Monster Hunter World, or Motherboard, which is our sci-fantasy setting where all magic is technology, inspired by Horizon Zero Dawn and Mortal Engines.When and how can players check out Daggerheart for themselves? The game launches on May 20th on the <a href="https://shop.critrole.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=9338130859&gbraid=0AAAAACxEBGtVWVjyRLN6F9KwEGW3KuG9V&gclid=Cj0KCQjwoZbBBhDCARIsAOqMEZVAyaoeAoo9R8_whnarDEpJIRRLq2kUTe5u52Z9tNzruFNzMWrZq6caAt4EEALw_wcB">Critical Role shop</a> and in your friendly local game store, and can be found everywhere games are sold shortly after that! <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/15/06ba8530/umbraspread1_1.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/15/6ca3d4f4/umbraspread2_1.jpg'></figure></section>

May 15

Doom: The Dark Ages Review – Believe In The Shield<img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/d5087f4c/doomthedarkages_2.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Doom: The Dark Ages review" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> Reviewed on: PlayStation 5 Platform: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC Publisher: Bethesda Softworks Developer: id Software Release: <time datetime="2025-05-15T12:00:00Z" class="datetime">May 15, 2025</time> As a pioneer of the first-person shooter genre, Doom laid the foundation for its contemporaries but has also never rested on its laurels. Doom 3 steered the franchise toward survival horror. The 2016 reboot dared to revisit and refine the old-school formula in an era of Call of Duty-likes. Doom Eternal, for better or worse, implemented parkour-esque platforming. Doom: The Dark Ages offers perhaps the biggest and most impressive shake-up of the series’ tried and true formula. Incorporating visceral, parry-focused melee combat is a thrilling addition to the already stellar run-and-gun action, making this medieval entry an absolute blast from start to finish.  This prequel to the 2016 game sees the Doom Slayer rip apart hordes of demons amid a cool techno-medieval setting; imagine King Arthur as a Borg from Star Trek, and that’s basically the game’s look. While it’s a terrific aesthetic that perfectly complements the heavy metal soundtrack, the backdrop primarily serves as an excuse to add neat middle-age twists to the Slayer’s classic arsenal. The biggest and best change is the Shield Saw, a motorized serrated shield that lets players block and parry incoming attacks. While it's initially strange to use a shield in a Doom game, it is a brilliantly implemented addition I can’t imagine playing without going forward. Parrying glowing green attacks adds another fun test of reflexes. It’s easy to execute thanks to a generous parry window (on standard difficulty), rewarding an additional hit as you send projectiles back to their receivers. The exceptionally satisfying auditory feedback, which rivals the ear-pleasing “bong” when Captain America’s shield connects, is the cherry on top. Speaking of Cap, lobbing the Shield Saw like a discus at foes adds another ranged offensive option, great for slicing smaller demons in half (saving ammo in the process) or stunning larger threats by embedding and drilling into their flesh. I loved using the latter function to stop hulking demons in their tracks and riddle them with bullets. <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S7IEg0_qNXs" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="true"> </iframe>Performing a charging shield bash lets you rush distant targets from afar, serving as a great way to close gaps while keeping you moving across the often expansive arenas. However, the shield can only absorb so many hits before it becomes temporarily unavailable, so the action retains the series’ frantic urgency to keep moving to outmaneuver and outfox enemies. Instead of trivializing the danger, the Shield Saw becomes a fun new strategy to juggle; block or parry what you can, dodge what you can’t, and never stop moving. Revamped melee combat further emphasizes Doom: The Dark Ages' more in-your-face action. Players now have three melee options – a brutal punch combo, a slow but mighty hammer attack, and, my favorite, an armor-shattering flail – to pummel the ammunition out of foes, rewarding close-quarter confrontations with full clips. Like guns, though, melee attacks are limited and must be replenished by grabbing pick-ups or blasting demons with guns, creating a nice system where close and ranged offense empower each other. Battling melee-centric adversaries became entertainingly rhythmic slugfests as I deflected incoming attacks while retaliating during brief moments between, capped off by executing the ever-bloody glory kill finishing moves. Doom is all about guns, but The Dark Ages has perhaps the best close-quarters action I’ve experienced in a shooter. Inventive new weapons bolster the smooth-as-butter gunplay. My favorites include the Pulverizer, which grinds collected skulls to blast wide spreads of high-speed bone fragments to simultaneously wipe out scores of demons. Another cool weapon is the Chainshot, which shoots a retractable ball and chain, perfect for punching through shields and armor. Many of the six primary firearms have an alternate version you can switch between instantly (such as swapping between the faster-paced Shotgun and the slower but punchier Super Shotgun) and sport unlockable upgrades for each configuration, adding more bang to their punch. Whether it's a perk that rains down lightning upon a successful parry or another that lets you ricochet bullets off the shield while it’s drilling into a target, these enhancements add more depth and reward to the already entertaining action. Best of all, you can eviscerate any enemy using any weapon, ditching Doom Eternal’s more restrictive combat design. The Doom Slayer’s fresh bag of tricks allowed me to devise incredible new strategies to survive increasingly intense skirmishes where mobs can number in the dozens. Tossing the shield at a distant pest before instantly recalling it to parry an incoming attack at the last moment, then blowing its sender’s face off with a shotgun blast – all while weaving through waves of beams and fireballs – feels incredibly cool. That’s only one example of many fist-pumping moments that regularly occur in Doom: The Dark Ages. With both offense and defense to consider, the action feels more strategically dense than it ever has in a Doom title, and well-designed controls make everything a breeze to pull off once you’re acclimated. If that’s not enough, an impressive range of accessibility options, from adjusting the game speed, parry timing, and even the colors of in-game elements, allow you to customize the adventure so it’s as challenging or inviting as you’d like.  Between standard firefights, the Slayer can hop in the cockpit of a giant mech suit to battle gargantuan demons and atop a dragon-like beast to engage in aerial dogfighting. Both diversions are best described as broadly fine; mech combat primarily focuses on slower but impactful fist fights, while aerial bouts involve an ill-fitting exercise of dodging blasts to charge a beam to take out shielded targets. These segments aren’t very fleshed out and don’t last long enough to drag the experience down, but I was always eager to get my boots back on the ground for more traditional action. Like the last game, stages hide secrets, such as collectible figures, lore entries, upgrade gems, and treasure stashes to buy additional enhancements. Environmental puzzle-solving is generally simple if you explore thoroughly and often utilize the Shield Saw, such as tossing it to activate distant mechanisms or shield-bashing blocks in positions to climb and reach higher platforms. I can take or leave these diversions, but the rewards are usually worth the effort. The story, which involves stopping a demonic prince from stealing a great power from a mighty princess, doesn’t take itself quite as seriously as Eternal’s tale. However, it’s still a largely stoic and straightforward affair that won’t suddenly establish Doom as a narrative powerhouse. I approached the story much like the Doom Slayer himself; just point me in the direction of what needs killing while everything else barely matters enough to earn my full interest.  Doom: The Dark Ages is modern Doom executed better than ever. It’s a bloody, challenging, and strategic thrill ride that tested my skills, forced me to catch my breath, and always had me asking for more. With the Shield Saw and other great additions, id Software gives fans something they didn’t know they wanted, proving once again that this legendary series can still evolve in ways we haven’t even dreamed of.  <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/8cd4b36a/doomthedarkages_3.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/80b1317e/doomthedarkages_8.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/945dab32/doomthedarkages_4.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/bdc4ba66/doomthedarkages_7.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/dc32e939/doomthedarkages_5.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/e4ab963a/doomthedarkages_6.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/69706085/doomthedarkages_1.jpg'></figure></section> Score: 9.5 About Game Informer's review system

May 14

If You Liked Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Play These Games Next<img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/6234df99/clairrecheader.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> It would be inaccurate to say Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 snuck up on all of us. We were enamored with its setup, art direction, and gameplay from its reveal trailer, but we’ve all been on this hype train before. For a game to live up to its initial excitement is rare, but Clair Obscur managed to do it with confidence. It’s the kind of game that, despite having multiple epilogues, leaves you wanting more. And if that is the case, here are some games you should check out if you just couldn’t get enough of Gustave and friends' adventures. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/dd4ef812/switch_xb3_direct_characters_eng_scrn_5.jpeg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Xenoblade Chronicles 3 <h2>If You Liked The Story</h2>Clair Obscur begins with a compelling premise where everyone in the world knows the exact age at which they will die, and that number is getting smaller and smaller. Perhaps a product of a generation of modern game designers growing up with the medium and now hitting a point in their lives where they are thinking about mortality, Expedition 33 is not the first game to grapple with this idea. Like every game on this list, <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/xenoblade-chronicles-3/a-dull-knife">Xenoblade Chronicles 3</a> is very different from Clair Obscur, but it does share a similarity in that its characters are fully aware of their mortality. The cast is made up of genetically engineered soldiers who are born as young adults and only live ten years. The narratives branch in very different directions, but those compelling ideas about what it means to grow old are explored in both games. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/c27665ea/ss_6c7ece776d88f1a7252a08321dbdf1c9ee0e48e9.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Final Fantasy X To go into why there are similarities between Clair Obscur and <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/final_fantasy_xx-2_hd_remaster/b/ps3/archive/2014/02/24/revisiting-final-fantasy-x.aspx">Final Fantasy X</a> would potentially spoil late game details of both, but just know that developer Sandfall has cited the tenth Final Fantasy specifically as inspiration for its game. They explore different ideas, but are tonally similar, with both having a melancholy edge.  <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/ef6993a7/switch_supermariorpg_scrn_14.jpeg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Super Mario RPG <h2>If You Liked The Gameplay</h2>I personally love an RPG with timed button pressing mechanics. It keeps the combat engaging, and also lets you take on enemies and bosses that are out of your league, as long as you are willing to persevere. Nintendo’s Mario RPGs popularized this style of gameplay, and they hold up surprisingly well. The 2023 remake of <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/super-mario-rpg/toady-nostalgia">Super Mario RPG</a> is an excellent look at where those mechanics arguably began, and 2024’s Switch release of <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/paper-mario-the-thousand-year-door/back-and-forward">Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door</a> is also excellent. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/c2c58155/ss_b8b0f1cd2c75f18436f6344a075ea97b31de72b8.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Sea of Stars For a nostalgic, but contemporary option, <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/sea-of-stars/genre-excellence">Sea of Stars</a> is another mechanically excellent RPG that keeps you on your toes by rewarding dodging and doing bonus damage with smart, timed button presses. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/7f6e88d9/ss_a3258aba84ae2f2ff13a02a160f7495bfc152adb.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Persona 5 Royal Like the Final Fantasy X recommendation above, <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/persona-5-royal/persona-5-royal-review-revealing-its-true-form">Persona 5 Royal</a> does not feature timed-button pressing, but it is an excellent turn-based RPG, and is one that developer Sandfall cites as an inspiration. Persona lacks the compelling death countdown and focuses more on merging RPG gameplay with slice-of-teenage-life, but moving through Clair’s combat menus and its overall user-interface design are incredibly reminiscent of Atlas’ beloved RPGs. Both feature mechanics based on evolving relationships with party members that reward you with new moves, too. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/13/1d67df94/ss_adc858ddceb956fa7e653e6190957a4712f6c05e.jpeg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Assassin's Creed Unity <h2>If You Liked The Setting/Art Direction</h2>Clair Obscur is French as hell, and there is arguably no better representation of France in video game form than in <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/games/assassins_creed_unity/b/xboxone/archive/2014/11/11/game-informer-review-assassins-creed-unity.aspx">Assassin’s Creed Unity</a>. Unity will always bear the reputation of its troubled launch where the game was riddled with issues, but all these years later, the game is reportedly stabilized and lives up to its initial promise. If you loved hanging out in an abstract version of France in Clair, wait until you see the “real” thing in Unity. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/cdf6d2ed/ss_6da0465ea662d368ad4b2cf1c0812faa1d0ca317.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Lies of P And speaking of abstract versions of France, the fictional city of Krat in <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/lies-of-p/master-of-puppets">Lies of P</a> is, similar to Clair, inspired by the Belle Époque period. The two games look similar (in a complimentary way to both), and for bonus points, Clair features some Souls-like mechanics and Lies of P is a Soulslike. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/2c7697af/ss_99530c1f839832ceeab2cf3450d5c0905312de47.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> Final Fantasy XVI <h2>If You Liked Ben Starr</h2>In Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, actor Ben Starr plays a character named Verso. In <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/final-fantasy-xvi/victory-in-the-land-of-gods-and-monsters">Final Fantasy XVI</a>, Starr plays a character named Clive Rosfield. Verso and Clive look kind of similar, share somewhat dour but inviting personalities, and – shockingly – sound kind of similar. I couldn’t help but feel a little bit like I was hanging out with Clive from another universe when I met Verso. You could also check out Khazan: The First Berserker, which is a Soulslike released earlier this year that stars Starr as the main protagonist. <img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/e7244b4b/ss_45d83359cafa20c685e5e249c965958180dd3440.jpg" typeof="foaf:Image" alt class="image-style-body-default"> SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom - Rehydrated <h2>If You Liked The Flying Waters Location</h2>Speaking with <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="http://creativebloq.com">creativebloq.com</a> prior to the game's release, Sandfall art director Nicholas Maxson-Francombe cited an unexpected reference when talking about the Flying Waters location. “SpongeBob has the same kind of idea where they’re just walking normally underwater. So I was like, why not try to make a realistic version of that?” The idea was apparently born from the team wanting an underwater level, but wanting to avoid creating a whole new set of underwater and swimming mechanics. So, if you enjoyed being underwater, but not playing an underwater level, we suggest arguably the best SpongeBob video game, <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4zoLbQOhqI">SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom – Rehydrated</a>. For more on Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/review/clair-obscur-expedition-33/melancholy-rpg-eminence">you can read our review here</a>, <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://gameinformer.com/tips-tricks/2025/04/24/spoiler-free-tips-and-story-primer-to-help-you-play-clair-obscur-expedition">get some gameplay tips</a>, <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/feature/2025/05/12/the-worst-games-to-play-with-a-newborn-at-home">learn why it’s a bad game to play with a newborn</a>, and <a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://www.gameinformer.com/opinion/2025/04/30/clair-obscur-trusts-its-audience-and-thats-why-its-a-hit">why we liked the beginning so much</a>.

May 14

Devolver Digital Announces Shroom And Gloom, A First-Person 'Double-Deckbuilder' Roguelike With A Demo Out Now<img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/b061a24d/shroom_and_gloom_header.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Shroom and Gloom Team Lazerbeam Devolver Digital Roguelike Deckbuilder" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> Devolver Digital, as a publisher, has quite an eye for games that fall somewhere between strange, fun, odd, and charming, and the latest game it has announced, Shroom and Gloom, fits right in. Developer Team Lazerbeam describes the game as a first-person roguelike double-deckbuilder. Players must work through mysterious fungi-filled dungeons that combine hand-drawn 2D art and animations with 3D exploration.The reveal trailer shows how the game’s mechanics work, including why Shroom and Gloom is a “double deck-builder.” The first deck players build is one for exploration, with different cards serving as tools to help advance through dungeons. Then, when it’s time to fight, players use a separate combat deck to take down fungal enemies.Check out the double-deck action in the trailer below:<iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vL3TJj9mtMc" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="true"> </iframe>Shroom and Gloom allows players to collect new cards and upgrade and modify them “infinitely,” suggesting a lot of customization for players’ decks. After defeating these mushroom foes, you can season, skewer, roast, and ultimately eat them to restore health.Team Lazerbeam says its dream version of Shroom and Gloom features “hundreds of cards, deep meta-progression and scores of unique enemies, spread across a dense network of caves and tunnels.” It also says the game is in an early stage of development, but it encourages players to check out the demo on <a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/3271280/Shroom_and_Gloom/">Steam</a>. Notably, Team Lazerbeam released what it calls a Shroom and Gloom "prototype" on itch.io in <a href="https://teamlazerbeam.itch.io/shroom-and-gloom/devlog/798570/we-did-it-shroom-and-gloom-prototype-is-here">September of last year</a> – the <a href="https://teamlazerbeam.itch.io/shroom-and-gloom">page</a> is still up, giving you a chance to check out the original vision and what it is today (pretty identical). While waiting to learn more about Shroom and Gloom, check out this fresh batch of screenshots below:   <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/0a8c9670/shroom_6.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/1000cbe4/shroom_9.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/38de1980/shroom_8.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/1f76f14d/shroom_3.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/968a1589/shroom_1.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/149e625d/shroom_7.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/906c0d4a/shroom_2.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/b2a1ce2b/shroom_4.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/18b8adb9/shroom_10.jpg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/05/14/07b0cb10/shroom_5.jpg'></figure></section>

May 14

Next Level Savings promotion comes to PlayStation Store May 7PlayStation Store ushers in its new promotion, Next Level Savings, tomorrow, May 7. For a limited time*, you can enjoy discounts across a selection of titles, including The Crew: Motorfest (70% off), Resident Evil 4 (50% off), Diablo IV – Expansion Bundle (40% off) and many more. Browse a selection of games on offer below, […]

May 7

I Am 99% Sure the Diablo 4 Season 8 Issue That Blizzard Is Calling a ‘Bug’ Is Just AI Well, yes, AI is a great alternative for getting products fast, sure. But here I ask you, at what cost? Blizzard is undoubtedly facing issues from players for using AI in their ARPG franchise, Diablo 4. Come on, what’s next? AI players, since no human will trust you anymore to play your games? Thanks to […] This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire

May 1

Battle Chef Brigade Developer's Latest, Battle Suit Aces, Gets Limited Time Playable Demo<img loading="lazy" src="https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/04/25/0c235877/header10untitled.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" class="image-style-body-default" /> Battle Suit Aces, the next game from developer Trinket Studios, the team behind Battle Chef Brigade, is getting a free demo, but it will only be available for a limited time. You can download the demo <a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/2870530/Battle_Suit_Aces/">on Steam here</a>, which is being released as part of LudoNarraCon 2025. <iframe width="560" height="315" frameBorder="0" allow="autoplay" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zZ_ykynYEGk" width="640"></iframe> The sci-fi mecha RPG features a fully voiced branching narrative alongside its 5v5 card-based gameplay. You also have a ship you can customize that will play into your strategies, as well as a number of mecha Battle Suits. <a href="https://gameinformer.com/2024/06/09/battle-suit-aces-is-a-card-based-mecha-rpg-from-the-makers-of-battle-chef-brigade">You can learn more about the game here</a> from its announcement back in June of last year. <section class='type:slideshow'><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/04/25/032a0976/7untitled.jpeg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/04/25/819bc5ef/6untitled.jpeg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/04/25/76cfcea0/4untitled.jpeg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/04/25/24c56300/8untitled.jpeg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/04/25/2cdbf8ad/1untitled.jpeg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/04/25/d00805e7/2untitled.jpeg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/04/25/e45f4a45/3untitled.jpeg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/04/25/180377ca/untitled.jpeg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/04/25/877cd449/9untitled.jpeg'></figure><figure><img src='https://www.gameinformer.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_default/public/2025/04/25/f395ffa8/5untitled.jpeg'></figure></section>

May 1

Diablo IV Update 2.0.0 Patch Notes Revealed For Season 8, Includes Belial Buffs & Class Balance ChangesDiablo IV Season 8 has arrived! Find out what's new in the Diablo IV update 2.0.0 patch notes from Blizzard. The post Diablo IV Update 2.0.0 Patch Notes Revealed For Season 8, Includes Belial Buffs & Class Balance Changes appeared first on PlayStation Universe .

Apr 30

Diablo 4 May Release on Switch 2 Once Blizzard Figures Out How to Bring Live-Service Elements OverWhile the live-service elements are an issue for now, Blizzard believes that there is "opportunity there" for Diablo 4 on Switch 2.

Apr 23

The Diablo IV X Berserk Collab Nose What The Players WantThey didn't blow it The post The Diablo IV X Berserk Collab Nose What The Players Want appeared first on WellPlayed .

Apr 23

Diablo x Berserk Collaboration Details Unveiled For May 2025Time to grab your Dragon Slayer. Blizzard Entertainment announced a Diablo IV collaboration with Berserk that starts on May 6, alongside Diablo Immortal: Struggler's Path running from May 1 to May 30.

Apr 22

Diablo IV and Diablo Immortal Berserk Event Starts in May Following Activision Blizzard’s Diablo Berserk tease , it set dates for the Diablo IV and Diablo Immortal events. It starts in the mobile game first on May 1-30, 2025, with the Diablo Immortal : Struggler’s Path event. Meanwhile, the anime-inspired event it will last throughout Season 8 in the main game starting on May 6, 2025. In both cases, there will be themed opponents and challenges, as well as some equipment tied to the anime. The Diablo Immortal : Struggler’s Path event includes a Survivor’s Bane event that has you dealing with the Eclipse and fighting demons. Zodd will appear as Nosferatu Zodd, and earning the Crimson Behelit Gem lets you face a harder version of the fight. There will also be a login campaign with free equipment and cosmetics and items to earn like The Broken Band’s Armament and weapon skins. Here’s the trailer for the Diablo Immortal version of the crossover. https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=shared&v=yXS30KScwFI As for Diablo IV, the Berserk crossover event will involve both trading Behelits for cosmetics and visiting the in-game shop to buy equipment inspired by the characters and game. Once May 6, 2025 rolls around, you can get Behelits from elite enemies. Get enough and you can trade them at the Berserk Reliquary for items inspired by the series. The store will also sell items based on characters. The Berserker Armor for Barbarians in the event is inspired by Guts. The Rogue’s Hawk of Light equipment is based on Griffith. Meanwhile, it looks like The Struggler Rogue armor is based on Chasca. As for the Necromancer’s Skull Knight, that look is based on… The Skull Knight. You can also get the Chimimoryo in a Pet Bundle called The Schnoz with Chimimoryo’s Resemblance and the Mask Rakshas Mount Trophy, and Griffith’s Warhorse of the Hawk mount and mount and mount armor will be sold. Here’s the trailer for the console and PC version of the crossover. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6LL5EsAwvE&feature=youtu.be Finally, there will be a Support a Streamer initiative on Twitch tied to this crossover. There’s no exact date for it yet, but it will involve a chance to earn a Skull Behelit Mount Trophy in Diablo IV . Here are screenshots for the Diablo IV items from the crossover: Images via Activision Blizzard Diablo IV is available on the PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and PC and Diablo Immortal is on PCs and mobile devices. The Berserk crossover events will start in May 2025 in each game. The Berserk anime is found on Crunchyroll , and Dark Horse handled the manga. The post Diablo IV and Diablo Immortal Berserk Event Starts in May appeared first on Siliconera .

Apr 22

Diablo IV devs spill secrets on Berserk collaboration and Season 8We sat down with Lead Season Designer Deric Nunez and Associate Director of Game Design Colin Finer to dive into Diablo IV Season 8. The post Diablo IV devs spill secrets on Berserk collaboration and Season 8 appeared first on Checkpoint .

Apr 22

Diablo 4Join the fight for Sanctuary in Diablo IV, the ultimate action RPG adventure. Experience the critically acclaimed campaign and new seasonal content.