Whether through board games, pen-and-paper RPGs, or video games – gaming has always been a part of our household.  Like most families, we also watch movies and television together, but the interactive nature of playing video games is something that we truly cherish.

I fondly remember when The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild first came out, and both of my daughters were old enough to play.  The original game, The Legend of Zelda, was one of the first games I had when I was around their age and it was nice to share that with them.  Even though it’s a single-player game, the three of us sat on the couch battling monsters and trying to solve puzzles together. We took turns trying different strategies, while the other two shouted out suggestions.  We were talking, laughing, using our brains, and practicing how to share.

But not all games are appropriate for kids.  When they were younger, they were very curious about a different game I was playing that also involved riding around on horseback.  That game was Skyrim.  Skyrim is rated M for Mature and has plenty of content that isn’t appropriate for young kids.  I did, however, let my oldest sit on my lap and ride around on the horse.  If she ran into a combat situation, we paused the game and I explained that some parts weren’t for her before she would scoot off, somewhat disappointed that it wasn’t just a horse-riding simulator.

From their very earliest years, they knew that some games were for them – and some weren’t (yet).  They also knew that their father was not only making that determination as their dad, but also was behind the black-and-white letter that was on the front of the game’s box.

What Makes Up a Rating?

Most parents’ jobs don’t involve evaluating video games for age appropriateness. But that is precisely what I do for a living at the ESRB as its Senior Vice President of Ratings. ESRB assigns age and content rating information to video games and apps to help parents decide which products are appropriate for their kids.

There are three parts to the system:

Rating Category
The Rating Category suggests whether a game may be appropriate for a certain age group. That doesn’t necessarily mean the game is designed or intended for that age group — just that the content is suitable. There are plenty of E-rated games that might still be too challenging or complex for a young child.

Content Descriptors
These provide more detail about what players will encounter in a game and ultimately what content led to the Rating Category assignment. In the case of Breath of the Wild, one of the Descriptors is Fantasy Violence. That means the game includes combat or action sequences that aren’t realistic or something you’d encounter in everyday life — such as battling a rock monster rather than a human foe. On the other hand, Skyrim has a Descriptor for Intense Violence signaling to parents that the violence is more graphic and/or realistic looking.

Interactive Elements
While not relevant to all games, Interactive Elements inform parents about non-content features that may be important to know before their child plays a game. For example, if a game allows players to communicate with others, you’ll see “Users Interact.” If it offers in-game spending, you’ll see “In-Game Purchases” or “In-Game Purchases (Includes Random Items).” These notices help families understand the kinds of interactions or transactions a game may include, allowing parents to plan ahead, discuss household rules around video games, and set parental controls to back them up.

For physical, boxed games, ESRB also provides Rating Summaries — short paragraphs that go a step deeper to describe in more detail the content of the game and the context in which it is presented to the player. These are especially helpful for parents who want more insight into why a game received its specific Rating Category and Content Descriptors.

Staying Involved

Sharing time in front of the TV with a controller in hand has created some of our most memorable family moments.  Lately, we’ve been playing through The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (the sequel to Breath of the Wild).  Their hand-eye coordination has now surpassed my own. They are more likely to take the controller away from me instead of relying on me to get them through.  They’re growing up.

Playing together has helped us stay connected and maintain open communication about games — what they’re about, why we enjoy them, and what’s appropriate for different ages. When parents understand what their kids love about games, it becomes easier to set household rules around playtime, online interactions, and spending.

For example, my younger daughter has been increasingly interested in Roblox over the past few years. Talking with her about why some of the experiences on Roblox resonated with her helped us talk about appropriate online interactions with others, what’s off limits, and more. For more information on establishing household rules and starting constructive conversations around video games visit ESRB’s Family Gaming Guide.

As mentioned, if you’re looking for a way to reinforce household rules, nearly every device that can play games — from consoles to smartphones — includes built-in parental controls.

These tools make it simple to:

• Manage what your kids can play, based on the ESRB-assigned age rating.
• Set time limits and control when games can be played.
• Restrict with whom they can communicate.
• Limit or block the ability to make in-game purchases.

Visit ParentalTools.org for step-by-step parental controls guides to help parents get started setting controls.

Ultimately, playing games together led to a lot of quality time for me with my daughters, and it’s one of the best ways to connect as a family.

The post Level Up with ESRB: Talkin’ Ratings – Family Game Time appeared first on ESRB Ratings.

Welcome to 2026. We’ve officially defeated 2025 and moved on to the next level, and if life really is the ultimate co-op game, we’re sure there are plenty of boss battles waiting for us. As always, a new month means a fresh batch of indie games to get excited about, and January is bringing a seriously varied line-up.

Here are some of the coolest indie PC games launching this month.

StarRupture – 6th January

This month’s survival game comes with some serious visual flair. StarRupture drops you onto a constantly changing alien planet where you’ll gather resources, build up a base, and fend off enemies in FPS combat. It feels like a mash-up of Satisfactory and Sanctum 2, which is a pretty exciting combination. It’s also from the team behind Green Hell, and that alone makes it worth keeping an eye on.

BrokenLore: UNFOLLOW – 16th January

BrokenLore: UNFOLLOW is a psychological horror game exploring isolation and the darker side of online culture. Expect eerie environments, unsettling imagery, and a heavy focus on atmosphere. It looks like the kind of horror experience that sticks with you long after you stop playing.

Tailside: Cozy Café Sim – 21st January

Tailside: Cozy Café Sim puts you in the fluffy paws of a fox running a café for the locals. Brew coffee, make latte art, decorate your space, and keep customers happy as you go about your day. It’s charming, laid-back, and exactly the kind of cosy game you might want to kick the year off with.

Nova Roma – 22nd January

Hooded Horse are once again coming for your free time with Nova Roma. This city builder has you managing your people, supplies, and even the gods themselves as you shape your empire. There’s a surprising amount of depth here, too, including systems like running water, letting you get as detailed as you want with your city planning.

The Spirit Lift – 27th January

The Spirit Lift is a horror-tinged roguelike deckbuilder set in a haunted hotel. It’s packed with creepy enemy designs, strong ’90s vibes, and plenty of mysteries to uncover. You’ll choose from classic character archetypes to build your team and see how long you can survive the horrors waiting inside.

Steel Century Groove – 28th January

Steel Century Groove is a rhythm-RPG where giant mech battles play out to the beat. Timing your moves is key as you unleash stylish attacks and try to outplay your opponents. Between battles, you’ll get to know your team, tackle mini-games, and work your way toward the big leagues.

Cairn – 29th January

Cairn is all about the climb. This survival-focused game has you carefully scaling a massive mountain, managing stamina and planning every move along the way. There’s no combat here – just you, the rock face, and the constant risk of falling if you make a mistake.

I Hate This Place – 29th January

Closing out the month is I Hate This Place, an isometric survival horror game dripping with ’80s vibes. Based on a comic book series, it fully leans into that style with on-screen sound effects and bold visuals. Spend your days scavenging and crafting, then fight for your life each night as the real horrors come out to play.

The post Indie Video Games Round-Up – January 2026 appeared first on Green Man Gaming Blog.

As the highly anticipated release of Resident Evil Requiem creeps ever closer, there has never been a better time to unearth the history of this pioneering series. Interconnected and deeply tangled like a tentacular T-Virus mutation, the events chronicling this nearly three-decade-long trailblazer are essential to understanding what will transpire in next year’s entry. So, grab your first-aid spray and check your ammo—let’s get started.

Resident Evil Zero: The Spark

Long before a steroid-obsessed Chris Redfield was punching boulders, the nightmare began with three architects of ruin: Edward Ashford, James Marcus, and the chillingly calculated Ozwell E. Spencer. After discovering the “Progenitor” virus in Africa – an ancient strain capable of radical biological restructuring – the trio founded the Umbrella Corporation. Their goal was nothing less than weaponised evolution, refined into what would become the T-Virus.

While the world saw a benevolent pharmaceutical giant, Umbrella’s real business lay in black-site laboratories and military contracts. This hubris inevitably backfired, culminating in a localised outbreak in the Arklay Mountains. Rookie S.T.A.R.S. medic Rebecca Chambers and escaped death-row inmate Billy Coen became the first unwilling witnesses aboard a derailed train crawling with infected horrors. Their investigation led them to a grotesquely mutated James Marcus, resurrected and driven by a desire for revenge. Though Marcus was finally destroyed, the damage was done – Rebecca fled toward the Spencer Mansion, while Billy disappeared into the forest, his fate deliberately left unresolved.

Resident Evil: The Mansion Incident

Dispatched to locate the missing Bravo Team, the S.T.A.R.S. Alpha Team – including Jill Valentine, Chris Redfield, Barry Burton, and their commander Albert Wesker – sought shelter in the ominous Spencer Mansion. What appeared abandoned was anything but: the estate was a sealed ecosystem of zombies, experimental predators, and the Tyrant, Umbrella’s crown-jewel bioweapon.

The greatest betrayal, however, came from within. Wesker revealed himself as an Umbrella operative, orchestrating the incident to collect live combat data by sacrificing his own team. The plan unravelled when the Tyrant turned on its handler, allowing the surviving S.T.A.R.S. members to escape and destroy the mansion. Chris, Jill, and Barry emerged alive – but marked. Umbrella would never allow witnesses to walk away unpunished.

Resident Evil 2 & 3: The Fall of Raccoon City

Only months later, the nightmare went public. A T-Virus leak spread through Raccoon City’s water supply, transforming a thriving Midwestern metropolis into a necropolis almost overnight. Rookie police officer Leon S. Kennedy crossed paths with Claire Redfield, who had come searching for her missing brother, Chris. Together, they fought through police stations, sewers, and laboratories, uncovering Umbrella’s sins piece by piece.

Central to the disaster was William Birkin, a scientist who had perfected the G-Virus, an unstable pathogen that drove relentless mutation and regeneration. His daughter Sherry became both a target and a symbol of Umbrella’s moral collapse. While Leon and Claire escaped with their lives, Jill Valentine was enduring her own hell nearby. In Resident Evil 3, she was hunted relentlessly by Nemesis, a bioweapon engineered specifically to eliminate surviving S.T.A.R.S. members.

With containment impossible, the U.S. government made the unthinkable decision to sterilise the city with a nuclear strike. Raccoon City was wiped from the map, and Umbrella’s public image collapsed alongside it.

Resident Evil Code: Veronica: The Legacy Continues

Umbrella’s downfall did not mean its extinction. Claire Redfield’s continued search for Chris led her to Rockfort Island, a remote prison facility controlled by the unhinged Ashford lineage. There, the siblings reunited amid yet another outbreak – this time fueled by lingering Umbrella experiments and old family grudges.

More importantly, Albert Wesker returned. Having survived the mansion incident through viral self-experimentation, he emerged superhuman, ruthless, and fully independent. Though the Redfields escaped the Ashford Antarctic base, Wesker vanished with invaluable virus samples, ensuring that Umbrella’s research would survive, no longer centralised, but scattered across the global black market.

Resident Evil 4 & 5: Global Bioterror

The series pivoted dramatically with Resident Evil 4. Leon S. Kennedy, now a hardened government agent, was dispatched to rural Spain to rescue the President’s kidnapped daughter, Ashley Graham. There, he encountered Las Plagas – an ancient parasitic organism capable of controlling hosts while preserving intelligence, signalling a shift from mindless zombies to deliberate, organised threats.

This evolution of bioweapons is carried directly into Resident Evil 5. Chris Redfield, now a founding member of the BSAA, deployed to Africa with partner Sheva Alomar. They uncovered TRICELL, a corporate successor exploiting Umbrella’s abandoned research. At its centre stood Wesker, intent on unleashing the Uroboros virus to “perfect” humanity through forced selection.

The conflict ended in spectacular excess (yes, including a volcanic showdown and the infamous boulder punch), but Wesker’s death marked a turning point. Bioterrorism was no longer an isolated conspiracy; it had become a permanent, global arms race.

Resident Evil 6: The Global Crisis

That arms race exploded in Resident Evil 6. Spanning multiple continents and intersecting storylines, the game followed Leon, Chris, and Jake Muller – Wesker’s estranged son and a living genetic anomaly – as they confronted Neo-Umbrella and its C-Virus. This new pathogen blurred the line between infection and weaponisation, capable of tailored mutations on a massive scale.

While the heroes prevented total annihilation, the cost was staggering. Entire cities were lost, alliances fractured, and the illusion of control finally collapsed. The age of clean victories was over.

Resident Evil 7 & Village: The Winters Saga

The series then narrowed its focus with Ethan Winters, an ordinary man searching for his missing wife in the swamps of Louisiana. What he found was Eveline and “The Mold” – a sentient fungal organism capable of imitation, control, and psychological manipulation. Gone were global conspiracies; the horror was intimate, claustrophobic, and deeply personal.

That intimacy carried into Resident Evil Village, where Ethan’s pursuit of his kidnapped daughter led him to an isolated European village ruled by Mother Miranda. The truth was brutal: Ethan himself had died in Louisiana, unknowingly sustained as a mold construct. Yet even that revelation couldn’t stop him from making the ultimate sacrifice to save Rose.

In the aftermath, a weary Chris Redfield took responsibility for Rose’s protection, having uncovered a final, unsettling truth – the BSAA, the organisation he helped create, had begun deploying bioweapons of its own. History, it seemed, was already starting to repeat itself.

Resident Evil Requiem: The Final Reckoning

This brings us to the present. Thirty years after the destruction of Raccoon City, Resident Evil Requiem seems set to bridge the gap between the franchise’s origins and its future. The story introduces Grace Ashcroft, daughter of Outbreak’s Alyssa Ashcroft, who returns to a decaying Midwest hotel to investigate a series of recent murders and, hopefully, solve her mother’s murder at the same time.

In a potentially legendary crossover, she looks set to join forces with fan-favourite Leon S. Kennedy as they both must face their pasts and uncover the truth behind the Raccoon City Incident. With rumours swirling about Leon’s own infection and a return to the restricted “Dead Zone” of Raccoon City, Requiem is set to be the ultimate survival horror experience – a culmination of three decades of fear, shadow, and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.

The post The Road to Requiem: Resident Evil Story and Timeline Recap appeared first on Green Man Gaming Blog.

With 2025 rapidly drawing to a close, it’s fair to say this has hardly been a year in which we’ve been starved of exceptional gaming experiences. From the lightning-in-a-bottle success of the magnificent Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, to the long-awaited resurgence of the Battlefield franchise courtesy of October’s excellent Battlefield 6, the superb Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, and the unexpected domination of the extraction shooter genre by Embark Studios’ ARC Raiders, we’ve been well and truly spoiled for choice. Happily, we’re delighted to report that 2026 is shaping up to be even better. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the most anticipated games of 2026.

007 First Light

With it being nearly 14 years since the last James Bond tie-in hit our gaming machines (2012’s utterly risible 007 Legends), it’s safe to say that ol’ 007 has some serious work to do to restore his reputation among players. Thankfully, Hitman developer IO Interactive has stepped up to the plate – and judging by what we’ve seen so far, they look poised to do the franchise some long-overdue justice.

A third-person action-adventure that puts players in control of a younger, less experienced James Bond, 007 First Light sees 007 tracking down the treacherous agent 009. Drawing heavily from IO Interactive’s Hitman design DNA, the game leans into stealth, player freedom, and sandbox-style environments, while significantly expanding the formula with punchy cover-based gunplay and a stronger, mission-to-mission narrative throughline—something the Hitman series has traditionally lacked. Simply put, James Bond has never looked quite so essential, and March can’t arrive soon enough.

CONTROL Resonant

The sequel to one of 2019’s standout releases, Control Resonant is a direct continuation of the events of Control. This time, players step into the shoes of Dylan Faden, who awakens in the aftermath of the chaos set in motion by his sister Jesse and must stop the Hiss from completely annihilating downtown Manhattan.

While Control Resonant retains the third-person exploration and eerie atmosphere that defined the original, it meaningfully expands the formula with a stronger emphasis on visceral melee combat and the introduction of a host of new Hiss-possessed enemies. If you loved Control, then Control Resonant is about as close to a no-brainer purchase as you’ll find in 2026.

Crimson Desert

From the studio behind Black Desert comes Crimson Desert, a markedly different proposition from its sprawling MMORPG sibling. This time, the action moves offline without sacrificing any of the spectacle or ambition.

An open-world action RPG of frankly breath-taking scope, Crimson Desert allows players to explore a gorgeously realised dark fantasy world where they can fly dragons, pilot mechs, unleash Devil May Cry-style melee combos, and ultimately shape the fate of a nation. Powered by the studio’s bespoke BlackSpace Engine, the game also boasts some of the most impressive visuals seen in years. Are we excited for Crimson Desert? You bet your bottom gold coin we are.

Gears of War: E-Day

Although little has been shown of the Unreal Engine 5-powered Gears of War: E-Day beyond its initial cinematic reveal, that hasn’t stopped excitement from reaching fever pitch. This marks the franchise’s second foray into prequel territory, following the underrated Gears of War: Judgment.

Likely launching toward the tail end of 2026, Gears of War: E-Day places players back into the well-worn size 16 boots of Marcus Fenix and Dom Santiago as they face the Locust menace on the very first day of the invasion. While gameplay specifics remain under wraps, it would be genuinely shocking if the game didn’t feature generous helpings of cover shooting, roadie runs, and chainsaw executions. Regardless, Gears of War: E-Day already looks like manna from heaven for fans of the series and horror shooters alike.

Grand Theft Auto 6

Like a vast cosmic black hole, the gravitational pull of Grand Theft Auto 6 on the games industry cannot be overstated. No publisher is brave – or foolish – enough to launch a game in the same week, let alone the same month, as Rockstar’s genre-defining juggernaut. Each delay sparks a curious mix of frustration and celebration, as developers scramble to fill the vacuum left in its wake. That’s before factoring in the impact on booked annual leave and mysteriously timed sick days.

As for the game itself, Grand Theft Auto 6 looks set to fundamentally reshape the open-world genre yet again, much as GTA V and Red Dead Redemption 2 did before it. Players can expect a meticulously handcrafted version of the fictional state of Leonida, packed with extraordinary micro and macro detail, vastly improved NPC AI, cutting-edge next-gen visuals, and Rockstar’s trademark sharp, satirical storytelling. Add in a dual-protagonist system starring ex-con Lucia and her partner Jason (embarking on a Bonnie and Clyde-style crime spree across a sunshine state that definitely isn’t Florida) and you have something truly special.

Grand Theft Auto has always been a trailblazer in open-world design and cinematic storytelling, and all signs suggest GTA 6 won’t just be the most anticipated game of 2026 – it has a very real shot at being the game of the decade. Hyperbole? Not in this dojo, my friend.

Marvel’s Wolverine

Marking a clear tonal departure from Insomniac Games’ Spider-Man series, Marvel’s Wolverine looks ready to fully embrace the ultraviolence of its comic book roots. And yes, that means an unapologetically brutal video game to match.

Voiced by Liam McIntyre of Spartacus fame, this gruffer, more feral Logan carves his way through mutant hunters, Sentinels, and even the notoriously vicious Omega Red. Visceral, furious, and visually striking, Marvel’s Wolverine is already shaping up to be the next essential superhero game.

Phantom Blade Zero

A wuxia fever dream brought to life, Phantom Blade Zero has impressed at every turn since its announcement in May 2023. This lavish, third-person, combat-focused experience infuses each frame with rapid, acrobatic swordplay reminiscent of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and House of Flying Daggers.

The result is a balletic showcase of Chinese martial arts, brutal violence, and haunting mythology that stands apart from almost everything else on the horizon. Phantom Blade Zero is simply unmissable.

Resident Evil Requiem

Essentially Resident Evil 9 in all but name, Resident Evil Requiem takes players to the very end of the series timeline as we know it, delivering an experience that truly feels like a game of two halves.

As FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft, players are thrust into classic survival horror territory, where jump scares are frequent, and evasion is key due to Grace’s limited combat abilities. The other half of the game places players in the blood-soaked boots of returning fan-favourite Leon S. Kennedy, who dispatches enemies with explosive kicks, bone-crunching suplexes, and chainsaw carnage that would make Leatherface proud.

Beyond its dual-protagonist structure, Resident Evil Requiem also allows players to switch between first- and third-person perspectives, adding a level of customisation not seen before in the series. With a February 2026 release date, this looks set to be an essential experience for both longtime fans and newcomers to survival horror.

Slay the Spire 2

The sequel to one of the finest indie games of the 2010s – and one of the best deck-building roguelikes ever made – Slay the Spire 2 wisely avoids reinventing the wheel. Instead, it builds upon its already rock-solid foundations with meaningful new twists.

Alongside returning characters like Ironclad and Silent, two new playable heroes join the roster: The Regent and The Necrobinder, each with distinct mechanics and playstyles. There are more cards, relics, items, and consumables than ever before, as well as new quests and a stronger narrative focus that expands the game’s lore in ways the original only hinted at. Deck-building fans are going to eat very well when Slay the Spire 2 enters PC early access in March 2026.

Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis

A full-fat, full-sugar remake of the original Tomb Raider, arriving thirty years after its debut – and nearly two decades after 2007’s Tomb Raider: Anniversary – Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis is already one of 2026’s most anticipated releases.

Built in Unreal Engine 5, the game completely reimagines Lara Croft’s first adventure, modernising its puzzles, refining its platforming, and overhauling combat to meet contemporary expectations. Crucially, it aims to strike that elusive balance between honouring the spirit of the original while presenting it in a bold, refreshed form. If successful, Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis could be something truly special.

The post The Most Anticipated Upcoming Video Games of 2026 appeared first on Green Man Gaming Blog.

Nearly seven years after the release of the original Code Vein, Bandai Namco Studios has returned to the series with Code Vein 2. Designed as an evolution of the anime-styled, Souls-like-inspired combat and exploration that defined its predecessor, Code Vein 2 builds upon the foundations of the original while pushing the formula forward in meaningful ways. From expanded combat systems to reworked world design, the sequel aims to stand as both a worthy continuation of a cult favourite and a substantial action-RPG experience in its own right.

Be sure to keep this Code Vein 2 guide bookmarked to stay up to date with everything from the release date, story so far, and gameplay details, through to trailers, pre-order bonuses, special editions, and more.

Code Vein II Release Date

Code Vein 2 is officially scheduled for release on PC via Steam, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S on January 29, 2026. At present, the game has not been confirmed for PlayStation 4 or Xbox One. Similarly, while there has been no official announcement regarding a Nintendo Switch or Switch 2 release, future platform expansions remain a possibility.

Code Vein II Pre-Order Bonuses

Players who choose to pre-order Code Vein 2 can access a selection of bonus items, including the following:

• Stylized Forma Set
  • Forma Face Paint: A cosmetic item that applies a forma design to the corner of your eyes.
  • Twin Fangs of the Lone Wolf (Weapon): Twin blades engraved with a special forma, delivering a powerful lunging slice attack inspired by a wolf’s ferocity.

Additionally, those who pre-order the Deluxe or Ultimate Editions receive early access to the game up to 72 hours ahead of the standard launch.

Code Vein II Special Editions

In addition to the Standard Edition, Code Vein 2 is available in Deluxe and Ultimate Editions. Each version includes a range of digital bonuses aimed at players looking for additional content beyond the base game.

Deluxe Edition

• Code Vein II base game
• Custom Outfit Pack: Contains three costume sets and one weapon
• Expansion DLC: Mask of Idris (available by January 2027)

Ultimate Edition

• Code Vein II base game
• Custom Outfit Pack: Contains three costume sets and one weapon
• Expansion DLC: Mask of Idris (available by January 2027)
• Code Vein Character Costume Set: Six costumes inspired by characters from the original Code Vein
• Code Vein II Digital Mini Artbook & Soundtrack

Code Vein II – The Story So Far

The original Code Vein is set within the quarantined ruins of Vein, a post-apocalyptic zone sealed off by a supernatural barrier known as the Red Mist. Far more than simple fog, the Red Mist protects the inhabitants within from the dangers beyond. These inhabitants, known as Revenants, are resurrected remnants of humanity—immortal soldiers who must consume blood, or Blood Beads, to retain their sanity. Without it, they risk devolving into feral creatures known as the Lost.

Players take on the role of a uniquely gifted Revenant capable of cleansing corruption and exploring memories. As Blood Beads begin to disappear, the survival of the Revenants is thrown into jeopardy. The situation worsens with the revelation of Cruz Silva, a Revenant Queen whose failed attempt to save humanity resulted in catastrophic consequences.

To prevent her resurrection, Cruz Silva’s immortal form is split into powerful relics that must be recovered and contained. In the canon ‘True Ending’, companion Io sacrifices herself by transforming into an immense Amber Blood Bead tree, ensuring a stable supply of Blood Beads for the future. With the Queen’s relics stabilised within them, the protagonist ultimately ventures beyond the Red Mist into the unknown.

Code Vein II Gameplay – What’s New?

Code Vein 2 retains the core Souls-like combat and exploration of the original while introducing several notable changes. New weapon types, such as Dual Swords and Rune Blades, expand combat variety, while the new Assimilation system allows players to directly command partner abilities, offering greater tactical control during battles.

World design has also seen a significant overhaul. Rather than relying heavily on linear, corridor-based environments, Code Vein 2 features larger open areas and a broader selection of distinct dungeons. A time-shifting mechanic allows players to travel 100 years into the past, altering environments and unlocking new routes in the present, adding a puzzle-oriented layer to exploration.

Further enhancements include an expanded character creator and a reworked progression system that supports more detailed build customisation. One of the sequel’s most significant changes is the removal of multiplayer co-op, placing a stronger emphasis on a refined single-player experience with improved balance, pacing, and AI partner behaviour.

Where Can I Watch The Latest Trailer?

The most recent Code Vein 2 trailer can be viewed above. With a strong focus on character presentation, it highlights Lyle McLeish, also known as ‘the solitary swordsman’. A stoic yet principled Revenant, Lyle showcases precise sabre techniques alongside a powerful array of spells. The trailer also features extended combat footage, offering a clear look at how Code Vein 2’s systems and visual style come together in action.

The post Everything You Need To Know About Code Vein II appeared first on Green Man Gaming Blog.

It’s been a truly incredible year for indie games, with an almost absurd number of releases and more than a few genuine all-timers among them. Nearly every month in 2025 has delivered a new indie game that completely captured players’ attention, and the indie scene has felt more creative, ambitious, and exciting than ever before.

We’ve somehow narrowed things down to ten of our favourite indie games of 2025, which unfortunately means plenty of phenomenal titles didn’t make the cut. We’re also refusing to rank them, because choosing between favourites feels cruel and unnecessary. You wouldn’t ask us to do that. Legally, you can’t ask us to do that. Anyway, let’s get into the list.

Blue Prince

Blue Prince had players everywhere slipping into detective mode and learning how to think in entirely new ways. Honestly, notebook and Post-it note sales must have skyrocketed as people tried to connect the dots in this brilliant puzzle game. The constantly shifting manor at the heart of Blue Prince is an absolute joy to explore, and it regularly has you bouncing between feeling incredibly clever and painfully foolish. That balance is the hallmark of a truly inventive puzzle experience.

Skin Deep

Skin Deep let us loose in one of the coolest immersive sims we’ve played in years. You creep around a beautifully designed spaceship, using your wits, the mysterious power of cats, and whatever else you can get your hands on to outsmart a crew of space pirates. You can also dispose of the pirates’ floating heads in a bin, which is reason enough to recommend it on its own.

Read our Skin Deep Mini-Review here.

BALL x PIT

BALL x PIT is sublime, blending brick-breaking, base-building, and roguelike mechanics into a game that’s dangerously hard to put down. You combine balls to create stronger ones, evolve them into devils, suns, and other wild forms, and mix different characters to create entirely unique playstyles. It’s endlessly satisfying, and the soundtrack absolutely rules.

Megabonk

Megabonk was everywhere at launch, thanks to its ridiculous memes, overpowered builds, and pure chaotic fun. This Vampire Survivors-style indie game stands out by being fully 3D, which might sound like a small change but dramatically alters how it feels. The ability to jump transforms the chaos, making the action feel fresh and dynamic, and it’s no surprise that plenty of players are still coming back to it daily.

Read our Megabonk Mini-Review here.

Abiotic Factor

It’s been a standout year for indie co-op games, and Abiotic Factor is right near the top. This survival game has you and your friends trying to stay alive inside a research facility that has gone very, very wrong. You’ll explore multiple strange realms to gather resources and fend off escalating threats. The modernised N64-inspired visual style gives it a distinctive and nostalgic charm.

Monster Train 2

The original Monster Train was already exceptional, and Monster Train 2 somehow improves on nearly every aspect. Alongside a brand-new set of clans, you’ll face new enemies, experiment with additional card types, and unlock even more strategic depth. Eventually, the original clans return as well, opening the door to an absurd number of builds and combinations that deckbuilding fans will love.

Haste

Haste is essentially a Sonic the Hedgehog roguelike, built entirely around mastering momentum and movement. You need to flow through levels at high speed, avoiding hazards while chaining abilities to maintain your pace. Even landing jumps correctly matters, and the whole experience feels like a classic arcade game in the best possible way. The music is outstanding, too.

Read our Haste Mini-Review here.

PEAK

PEAK is, fittingly, peak chaos. While it’s another co-op experience, this one is mostly about surviving your friends rather than the environment. The goal is simple: climb and explore breathtaking locations. In practice, it’s a disaster, and you’re all going to fall constantly. It’s silly, stressful, and hilarious, evoking the same energy as Overcooked as it turns cooperation into chaos and laughter.

StarVaders

StarVaders takes the roguelike formula and applies it to a new genre: turn-based Space Invaders. That pitch might sound strange on paper, but the execution is phenomenal. It’s one of the most inventive roguelikes in recent memory, packed with deep build variety, clever enemy design, and boss fights that constantly force you to rethink your strategy.

Read our StarVaders Mini-Review here.

Goodnight Universe

Finally, Goodnight Universe comes from the team behind Before Your Eyes, a genuinely stunning indie game you should absolutely play if you haven’t already. Like its predecessor, Goodnight Universe is deeply inventive, using your webcam to let you control a psychic baby facing the unique challenges that come with psychic powers. It’s beautiful, heartfelt, and emotionally powerful. Don’t miss this one.

The post The 10 Best Indie Games of 2025 You Need to Play Right Now appeared first on Green Man Gaming Blog.

Some roguelikes let you fight with preset weapons, but a small sub-genre lets you invent your own, turning every run into a playground of spells and chaos. Noita is a great example, letting you play with the world’s physics by freely mixing and matching effects. Magicraft does something similar, but with a more traditional roguelike viewpoint, and becomes pure chaos once a run really gets going. Both demand sharp reactions, but Arcane Trigger approaches things a little differently.

Arcane Trigger has you playing as an arcane gunslinger, combining different bullet types and spells to unleash massive chains of firepower against a strange realm encroaching on your own. It begins simply, as most roguelikes do, but escalates very quickly, eventually letting you fire dragon eggs and even meteors. The key difference is that everything here is turn-based.

In fact, all you really need to do is click the fire button. You don’t need to move at all, just pull the trigger. That doesn’t mean there’s no depth, though. The order of your bullets matters, as do your upgrade choices. You’ll be aiming to collect three of a kind to fuse bullets together, lean into specific elemental synergies, or ban certain bullets entirely so you can focus on a single strength. When it comes to combat execution, however, it’s still just one button.

As a result, this is a roguelike where your reactions don’t need to be constantly tested. Instead, you’re free to take your time crafting and refining your attacks. As you progress, you’ll develop a stronger understanding of how different builds work, and you’ll also unlock other gunslingers to experiment with. It’s an incredibly easy game to play, but a difficult one to master, and it’s refreshing to experience a roguelike that embraces a slower pace for once.

The post Arcane Trigger Mini-Review: Big Spells, One Button appeared first on Green Man Gaming Blog.

Great heroes aren’t born – they’re forged through choice, sacrifice, and consequence. The RPG Icons Bundle brings together some of the most influential role-playing games ever created, uniting timeless classics and modern epic storytelling in one definitive collection.

Even better, every purchase supports Direct Relief, helping deliver critical medical aid, emergency supplies, and life-saving care to communities in need around the world. Your journey through legendary realms can help make a real-world impact.

A Hall of Fame Collection of Role-Playing Legends

Each title in the RPG Icons Bundle represents a milestone in RPG history, offering deep systems, unforgettable characters, and stories shaped entirely by your decisions.

• Mythforce: A vibrant, Saturday-morning-cartoon-inspired action RPG blending roguelite structure with cooperative first-person fantasy combat.
• Neverwinter Nights: Complete Adventures: A Dungeons & Dragons classic featuring expansive campaigns, iconic modules, and a thriving community of custom content.
• Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous – Enhanced Edition: Lead a crusade against demonic forces in one of the deepest modern CRPGs ever made, featuring mythic paths and far-reaching moral choices.
• Baldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition: Begin your journey along the Sword Coast in the remastered classic that defined an entire generation of computer role-playing games.
• Baldur’s Gate II: Enhanced Edition: Continue the saga in one of the most beloved RPGs of all time, celebrated for its characters, storytelling, and epic scale.
• Planescape: Torment – Enhanced Edition: A narrative masterpiece exploring identity, philosophy, and fate – widely regarded as one of the greatest stories ever told in gaming.
• Icewind Dale: Enhanced Edition: A tactical, combat-focused D&D adventure set in the frozen North, where strategy and party composition are key to survival.

Play Legendary Stories. Support Life-Saving Work.

Every purchase of the RPG Icons Bundle helps support Direct Relief, one of the world’s leading humanitarian organisations focused on improving health and saving lives during emergencies and ongoing crises. Your support helps deliver medical supplies, protective equipment, and critical aid to communities facing their toughest moments, ensuring your adventure extends beyond the screen.

Instant Access. Lasting Impact.

All keys are delivered instantly, so you can step into these legendary worlds without delay. Build your party, choose your path, and shape destinies – knowing your purchase is helping to change lives in the real world. So gather your party. Steel your resolve. Forge your legend – and help save lives while you do it.

The post RPG Icons: Legendary Stories with Life-Saving Impact appeared first on Green Man Gaming Blog.

Looking for the best games like Crimson Desert to keep you busy until the highly anticipated action RPG launches? You’re not alone. With its stunning visuals, fast-paced combat, and expansive open world, Crimson Desert has quickly become one of the most anticipated fantasy games in development.

Although we haven’t played Crimson Desert yet, its flashy combat, cinematic presentation, and crafting-heavy gameplay strongly resemble several popular games already available. If you’re searching for open-world fantasy RPGs like Crimson Desert, the titles below are your best options right now.

Black Desert

Black Desert is the MMORPG that started it all for Pearl Abyss. Featuring fast, combo-driven combat, gorgeous visuals, and a massive open world, it’s the closest experience to Crimson Desert currently available. While Black Desert is multiplayer-focused, many of its mechanics—combat, world design, and visual flair—clearly inspired Crimson Desert’s direction.

Elden Ring

If you’re looking for a dark fantasy world filled with danger, Elden Ring is one of the best games like Crimson Desert in terms of exploration and challenge. Its open world is packed with deadly enemies, hidden secrets, and breathtaking environments. The combat builds on the Dark Souls formula, offering more flexibility and playstyle variety than any previous FromSoftware game.

Sonic Frontiers

At first glance, Sonic Frontiers may seem like an odd comparison, but it shares several key similarities with Crimson Desert. It places high-speed combat and boss battles into a large open-world setting, encouraging exploration and skill chaining. Add in its memorable soundtrack and cinematic moments, and it offers a surprisingly fitting alternative.

Atlas Fallen: Reign of Sand

Atlas Fallen: Reign of Sand is an open-world action RPG centred around magical weapons, massive monsters, and fast-paced traversal. Sand surfing lets you move across the world at high speed, while combat emphasises flashy abilities and fluid movement. With optional co-op play, it’s a strong choice for fans of cinematic fantasy combat.

Enshrouded

While Enshrouded leans into survival crafting, it offers deep fantasy RPG elements that fans of the genre will appreciate. Playing as a Flameborn, you’ll explore a dangerous world consumed by a mysterious fog, battling bosses and uncovering secrets. It supports solo and cooperative play, making it one of the best fantasy survival games available.

Dragon’s Dogma 2

Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a high-fantasy open-world RPG filled with dynamic combat, memorable monsters, and meaningful player choice. The world reacts to your decisions, ensuring that each playthrough feels unique. Its flexible combat system and emergent gameplay make it an excellent alternative.

While the wait for Crimson Desert may feel long, there’s no shortage of incredible open-world and fantasy RPGs to keep you busy in the meantime. Whether you’re drawn to fast-paced combat, vast worlds to explore, or deep progression systems, the games above each capture a different aspect of what makes Crimson Desert so exciting. Until its release, these titles offer plenty of epic adventures to dive into – and may even become favourites in their own right.

The post Best Games Like Crimson Desert to Play While You Wait appeared first on Green Man Gaming Blog.

When Sega’s Yakuza series first punched, kicked, and swaggered its way onto the scene in 2005 with enough testosterone to destroy a small planet, it’s fair to say the games industry hadn’t quite seen anything like it before. Sure, you could argue that Yakuza is ultimately a fusion of well-worn genres and mechanics, but Sega’s brashly violent new franchise was — and still is — defined by a much broader range of qualities than that alone. With that in mind, here’s how the Yakuza franchise has gone from strength to strength as it celebrates its 20th anniversary.

Not Grand Theft Auto – Something Else, Something Different

I get it. At first glance, it’s easy to see why those unfamiliar with the Yakuza (or Like a Dragon, as the series is now also known) games might assume they share a close kinship with Rockstar’s Grand Theft Auto. Crime-opera storytelling, colourful characters, sprawling urban environments, open exploration, and freewheeling violence all make the comparison understandable — especially for players yet to be fully initiated into the franchise’s charms.

What we actually got with Yakuza, however, was something entirely different. Where Grand Theft Auto is built around rapid vehicular traversal across vast open worlds and the freedom to do almost anything, Yakuza deliberately keeps its world smaller and more intimate. Players are encouraged to walk — or run — through its streets, soaking in every handcrafted inch of an evocative recreation of Tokyo’s real-world Kabukicho district. With an emphasis on bone-crunching, face-to-face combat over firearms, a wealth of eccentric side activities, and a flawlessly executed tonal balancing act that shifts effortlessly between the profound and the absurd, Yakuza stands worlds apart from Rockstar’s marquee series.

Walking That Tonal Tightrope

Indeed, one of the most surprising things for newcomers to the Yakuza franchise, and certainly an enduring quality for those who would consider themselves long-time fans, is the manner in which the series walks the tonal tightrope. Deftly oscillating between super-serious, double-hard tattooed dudes gruffly talking stoically about honour, mafia politics and Yakuza tradition, through to the glorious nuttiness of its many, many scenarios that has our hero doing everything from stopping a peeping tom to beating up a bunch of thugs dressed up as babies in a creche(!) It’s fair to say that no series quite manages (or even attempts) this sort of tonal double act.

And somehow – it all works, and a big part of this is down to the fact that the series knows to keep the more serious stuff in the domain of its main story quests, while the much-less serious, grin-inducing stuff is found almost exclusively in the veritable wealth of side quests and incidental activities.

A Saga Told Across Eras

One of the more compelling aspects of Yakuza’s design has been how its long-running saga spans across time periods that can quite literally stretch across the centuries. From the early Tokugawa period, which Ryū ga Gotoku Kenzan embraces as its own, through to the Bakumatsu era of Like A Dragon: Ishin, the heady 1980s of Yakuza 0 and the shining modernity of Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth’s 2023 setting, the Yakuza franchise doesn’t just take place in different eras; it fully acknowledges the passage of time, too.

A City That Feels Like a Character All Its Own

From long-time protagonist Kazuma Kiryu to fan-favourite anti-hero Goro Majima and everyone in between, Yakuza hardly lacks compelling characters. Yet, without sounding too clichéd, the city of Kamurocho arguably stands as a character in its own right — one that has played a central role for nearly the entire lifespan of the franchise.

A neon-lit labyrinth of bars, storefronts, hostess clubs, winding alleyways, and towering skyscrapers, Kamurocho is more than a convincing recreation of a real-world location. It’s a near-permanent fixture, appearing in almost every entry across a timeline that spans close to four decades. Like any character followed over time, Kamurocho ages too — not through wrinkles or scars, but through architectural and structural change.

Shops and street stalls that exist in the 1980s-set Yakuza 0 may later be boarded up or removed entirely, while the relentless march of progress sees dormant retail units transformed into sprawling shopping centres in Yakuza 6. Returning to Kamurocho across successive games often feels like reconnecting with an old friend — familiar, yet subtly changed.

Bone-Breaking Combat: Unlike Anything Else

More than almost any other aspect of its design, Yakuza’s brutally satisfying, fully three-dimensional real-time combat acts as a powerful hook for first-time viewers. If you were being particularly reductive, you might describe it as a 3D evolution of the scrolling brawler combat Sega popularised with Streets of Rage and Golden Axe — or perhaps even SpikeOut, for the half-dozen people who still remember it.

In practice, Yakuza delivers immediate, visceral savagery. Every encounter sees players punching, kicking, grappling, throwing, and unleashing devastating combos. Weapons abound (both carried and improvised), and the series’ iconic Heat Action system elevates combat into something unforgettable. With a full Heat gauge, players can trigger cinematic finishing moves: smashing faces into pavement, slamming enemies spine-first into lampposts, crushing skulls with car doors, or far worse. Violence, it’s fair to say, was never in short supply.

While later entries pivoted toward turn-based JRPG combat and reimagined fist-to-face brutality in new ways, the series’ freewheeling violent spirit has never truly left.

Re-establishing Mini-Games in the Action RPG Genre

With a typical Yakuza game clocking in at 20–30 hours for main story content alone, it’s understandable that players might want to break things up, and that’s where the franchise’s staggering range of mini-games comes in. Far more than throwaway distractions, many offer tangible character progression and are robust enough to stand as fully-fledged experiences in their own right.

From darts, baseball, pool, karaoke, fishing, mahjong, poker, and golf, to miniature car racing, drone racing, skateboarding, cabaret management, real-estate empires, cage fighting, arcade gaming, and countless part-time jobs, the sheer breadth of activities can easily push playtime beyond the 100-hour mark for completionists. And speaking of arcade machines…

Arcade-Perfect Ports as Part of the Package

True to its love of history, Yakuza is also renowned for its pitch-perfect recreations of classic Sega arcade games. From retro gems like Space Harrier, Super Hang-On, and Out Run, to more modern titles such as Taiko no Tatsujin and Virtua Fighter 5: Final Showdown, these arcade-perfect inclusions serve as a loving celebration of Sega’s coin-op heritage.

As much as it is an enduring action RPG saga, Yakuza also stands as a quietly impressive act of gaming preservation – one that, 20 years on, shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

As Yakuza celebrates two decades of grit, heart, and sheer unpredictability, its journey stands as one of gaming’s most remarkable evolutions — from cult favourite to a genre-defining franchise with a global fanbase. Whether you’re drawn to its brutal combat, sprawling side activities, or unforgettable characters and cityscapes, there’s no denying the series’ lasting impact. For a deeper look at every entry and how they stack up, be sure to check out this comprehensive ranking of the Like a Dragon series from best to least best. Whatever the future holds, Yakuza looks poised to keep surprising, delighting, and punching its way into the hearts of players for many years to come.

The post Yakuza Turns 20: The Rise of Sega’s Most Uncompromising RPG Franchise appeared first on Green Man Gaming Blog.

Death Howl is ambitious simply for the two genres it tries to fuse. Deckbuilders are almost always roguelikes, and Soulslikes are almost always action-heavy. The idea that you could blend these systems in a way that not only makes sense but actually feels good to play seems almost absurd. Yet Death Howl pulls it off, all while telling a moving, heart-wrenching story about grief.

You play as a mother who has lost her son and refuses to be consumed by the despair threatening to overwhelm her. Instead, she steps into the spirit world to search for him and bring him home. The writing is excellent, and the quieter, emotional moments between the violence are genuinely powerful. It hits especially hard if you’re a parent, but the struggle to push back against grief is something most of us understand in some way.

As for how it plays, you explore the world, interacting with objects to uncover new knowledge and gather items that can be turned into cards. You can refresh the spirit realm by resting at special stones, which restore your health but also revive the spirits, forcing you to push through them again.

Combat is turn-based and unfolds on a grid, with you and your enemies jockeying for position while you manage mana to play moves that attack, defend, or trigger entirely different effects. It’s a delicate balance and one that often feels stacked against you, but that only makes each victory more rewarding.

The challenge in every encounter reinforces the strength of the protagonist and her relentless fight to recover her son. Expect an uphill climb and a world that isn’t afraid to land emotional blows as you push forward.

The post Death Howl Mini-Review: A Genre-Bending Journey Through Grief appeared first on Green Man Gaming Blog.

We’re entering the hallowed ground of the Top 10, the territory of listicles across countless topics, as we search for our very most desired games of 2026. This batch of games has some galactic and not so galactic racing, a bit of revolution in the air, a much wanted sequel, and an experience that might leave you shaken but not stirred.

10 – Star Wars: Galactic Racer

PS5, XSX|S, PC – 2026

In a galaxy far, far away an Empire has fallen and a New Republic is forming. However, this is a time of great upheaval and uncertainty, which means there is space for some sci-fi motor racing. A spiritual successor to Star Wars: Episode I: Racer, Star Wars: Galactic Racer introduces us to the undergroung Galactic League, where racers from different backgrounds and disciplines come together to prove who the best pilot is in the galaxy. Podracer Sebulba is just one of those characters.

There is also a new character called Shade, and that is who players embody. Shade is a racer starting at the bottom who has two goals; glory and revenge. Glory in becoming the best racer in the league, and revenge against rival Kestar who wants to run the league in his own way. Racing just makes up one part of Star Wars Galactic Racer, as players will have to navigate alliances and rivalries with other racers to come out on top. There will be race tracks across familiar planets as well as new ones being added to the Star Wars universe.

9 –  Clockwork Revolution

XSX|S, PC – TBA

inXile Entertainment has steadily built itself up as a studio that can deliver fun and interesting RPGs, from The Bard’s Tale series, through Torment: Tides of Numenera and most recently Wasteland 3 each showing depth in ideas and execution. But since their acquisition by Microsoft they’ve been able to push on towards full AAA territory. Clockwork Revolution is the time-bending RPG coming out of this ambition, and it’s high on our list following a great looking gameplay reveal that showcased fun gameplay, comedy, and a world that can be changed by player actions.

Clockwork Revolution is set in the year 1895 in the steam powered city of Avalon where humans and clockwork people live and work together side by side. It is also a world filled with criminals and a powerful ruling class that can time travel to craft Avalon in their image. Unfortunately for them, your character has also found a way to time travel and shape the city to their own ends. We know the main character is a scoundrel who appears they will do anything to get ahead. The character creation alone is integrated into the game as someone giving the police a description of you after you have robbed them.

8 – Forza Horizon 6

XSX|S, PC (and possibly PS5) – 2026

The announcement for Forza Horizon 6 had some of its impact taken away after the Forza Horizon social media accounts posted the teaser ahead of the official reveal at Tokyo Game Show. The teaser pans across items from different parts of the world before settling on a Japanese license plate and a white Neko figure. It then pans up to show Mount Fuji, confirming Forza Horizon 6 will be taking place in Japan.

Not much is known about Forza Horizon 6 right now, beyond the fact that it will carry on in the traditions of the open world series. Seasons will be returning, and the map will have be landmark-filled approximation of Japan, including Mount Fuji, Tokyo, and rural areas. This map is being developed with Japanese consultants so more is shown of the country than just the touristy bits. Expect to see an awful lot more of this game, and likely a release date announcement during the Developer_Direct stream on 22nd January.

7 – 007: First Light

PS5, XSX|S, NSW2, PC – 27th May 2026

While we still wait on the news on who will be the next James Bond for the films, we don’t have to wait much longer for IO Interactive’s take on the most famous of spies, even if the game has been delayed to May. 007: First Light is IO Interactive’s most ambitious games, taking on the mantle of crafting a new Bond story while using lessons learned from its highly acclaimed Hitman games.

Bond is not yet the globe trotting super spy we all know, but a young agent still earning his reputation and having to work as part of a team. The mission is to take down 009 who has gone rogue, using MI6’s own tactics against them. Bond is a loose cannon who will do things his own way to get the job done, even if it doesn’t please others in the organisation. The game will feature spycraft, shootouts, and driving ( a first for IO Interactive) with each taking inspiration from the 007 books and movies.

You can read more about the game in our very own preview.

6 – Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2

PS5, XSX|S, PC – 2026

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun was heralded as a great return to form for the boomer shooter form, getting critical acclaim and commercial success. Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2 has already got high expectations placed upon its shoulders, and what we know of it so far seems to promise a lot more action without sacrificing much of what made Boltgun great.

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2 gives us two protagonists to play as, Sternguard Veteran Malum Caedo and Sister of Battle, Nyra Veyrath. Each has their own playstyle so you can try new ways of taking on enemies as you travel through a hive city and mangrove swamps. The story will also have a branching narrative with each choice taking you to different levels, meaning you may have to play through a few times to see everything. On top of that there are new enemy units to engage in combat with including Bloodletters ,Juggernauts and other new enemies from different factions. Boltgun 2 is going to be a bigger and louder experience than its predecessor, but we will have to wait and see if it is better.

That’s it for today, and we’re going to take a day off tomorrow to catch our breath and then blitz through out top five with daily posts. What’s going to come out on top?

We are now in the top 30 of our Most Wanted Games of 2026 and here we’re hitting a mix of sequels, prequels, a much anticipated horror, and what could prove to be the ultimate mashup that will dominate 2026. Scroll down to find out what games have got into our top 30.

30 – Slay The Spire II

PC – “A secret Thursday in March 2026”

It was in early 2024 when we learned that smash-hit rogulike deckbuilder Slay The Spire would be getting a sequel, and it’s safe to say it has big shoes to fill. Slay The Spire II is separated by 1000 years from the original game, which means new slayers, new cards, and new potions to use in the challenge to beat the Spire, which will contain new challenges.

Slay The Spire II was meant to be released into early access in 2025, with Mega Crit envisioning a year to 18 months before a full release. However, development delays meant early access did not take place when initially planned, instead now penned in for March 2026. We can only hope that Slay The Spire II is more worthy successor rather than the difficult second album.

29 – Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy

PS5, XSX|S, PC – 2026

It was in mid-2025 when Asobo Studio revealed Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy, giving us a new game in the A Plague Tale universe, though setting it 15 years before the events of the main games. This spin-off sees a new main character in Sophia, a plunderer who finds herself on Minotaur Island fighting and trying to evade an army that is chasing her, with the possibility that the Minotaur will also make an appearance.

The description for Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy references two heroes as players will switch between the ancient Minoan civilisation and Sophia’s time. The gameplay will consist of fighting various enemies as they come for Sophia and solving the puzzles across Minotaur Island to discover answers to why Sophia is there.

28 – Pokémon Pokopia

NSW2 – 5th March 2026

Pokémon Pokopia could easily end up as one of the most popular and best selling games of 2026 when it comes out in March. Take the popularity of Pokemon and blend it with the life sim vibes of Animal Crossing, and you have something that very few fans of both franchises would be able to resist.

In Pokémon Pokopia, you play as a Ditto that has taken on human form who has decided to create a little slice of paradise for fellow Pokemon. Just like any other Ditto, Pokopia’s Ditto can learn moves and abilities from other Pokemon allowing it to find ways to craft the cosy little getaway. For example, Ditto can transform into Lapras to swim around the world or sprout Bulbasaur vines for some bush slashing. Ditto will have friends to help with the crafting of paradise with the likes of Professor Tangrowth, and as more spaces are created more Pokemon will be attracted to join your little commune.

27 – Reanimal

PS5, XSX|S, NSW2, PC – 13th February 2026

There is a lot of expectation behind Reanimal. Coming from Tarsier Studios, the original developers of Little Nightmares and with a good long wait for their latest game since Little Nightmares II (Little Nightmares III was not developed by Tarsier but Supermassive Games), and Reanimal looks like it could scratch that horror adventure vibe that made Little Nightmares so popular.

Reanimal looks familiar to Little Nightmares but this a new universe, a new story, and an emphasis on partnership as a brother and sister search for their friends and look for a way off the island that was once their home. The pair explore the remnants of their home by land and sea, going to once familiar locations that have been twisted and have their own horrifying stories. Reanimal has been designed to have the siblings experience things together, which means it is fully playable either solo or in co-op. We don’t have too long to wait as Reanimal is out in just over a month.

26 – Gears of War: E-Day

XSX|S, PC – 2026

Since its reveal in 2024 we have not heard much about Gears of War: E-Day, the prequel to the entire Gears of War franchise that will take us to the very start of the war with the Locust on Emergence Day. The game is being co-developed by The Coalition and People Can Fly, with the teams putting players in the boots of young Marcus Phoenix and Dominic Santiago.

All we really know is that will see a Sera in the immediate aftermath of invasion rather than a fallen planet suffering from years of conflict. It’s also currently only announced for Xbox Series X|S and PC, even if last year’s Gears of War Reloaded remaster brought the series to PS5 for the first time with a day and date release. Anyway, for now, enjoy looking back at the reveal and its Mad World trailer above.

Did any of these games resonate with you? Come back tomorrow and we’ll have five more as we break into the top half of our list.

We did it, people. We made it to the end of 2025. December is always an interesting one for games. Plenty of folks will be picking up new titles thanks to holiday gifts and those glorious end-of-year sales, but it’s also one of the quieter months for actual releases.

Even with the slowdown, we’re still getting some incredible-looking games. A few of these might even catch you off guard. But let’s stop beating around the bush (presents need wrapping, food needs digesting) so let’s dive into the list. Consider this your cheat sheet for what to ask for money to buy when someone has absolutely no clue what to get you.

MARVEL Cosmic Invasion – 1st December

Marvel Cosmic Invasion is the latest beat ’em up from the powerhouse genre publisher Dotemu. Instead of reviving a single beloved classic, this one comes swinging with 15 different heroes to choose from. Then? It’s time to throw down against the forces of evil with pure comic-book chaos. Look, we’re not expecting the story to rewrite our world views, but the action and artwork look ridiculously good.

LET IT DIE: INFERNO – 3rd December

Let It Die has been a weird ride ever since 2016. The second game ditched the hack-and-slash to go battle royale, but Let It Die: Inferno looks like a return to its roots: ridiculously over-the-top roguelike brawling. Both earlier entries had potential but never quite delivered. So yeah, we’re hoping this one finally sticks the landing and gives us something satisfyingly chaotic to bite into.

Night Swarm – 4th December

Night Swarm is a vampire-flavoured Survivors-like, which is hilarious considering the genre’s most famous entry avoided vampires for an uncomfortable amount of time. The formula should feel familiar, but the twist here is more character interaction between the carnage. There’s a stronger emotional throughline and deeper character building. It’s different, it’s bold, and we genuinely can’t wait to see if it actually works.

Cloudheim – 4th December

Cloudheim is an absolute looker. It throws you into a post-Ragnarok world where your job is to beat back ancient gods and creeping corruption. Sure, there’s plenty of action, but there’s also a ton of crafting to sink time into. The heavy combo focus should make character-action fans very happy, and the fact it’s co-op? That just sweetens the deal.

FEROCIOUS  – 4th December

FEROCIOUS is a survival-FPS set on a hostile, uncharted island full of jungles, ruins, and carnivorous problems. The twist? Dinosaurs don’t just chase you; you can hijack their brains with the Dino Control Device and make them work for you, too. Attack, scout, haul gear, sneak past mercs — it’s basically prehistoric freelance labour, but with teeth. It’s tense, loud, violent, and looks like pure holiday wish-list fuel.

Skate Story – 8th December

Skate Story drops you into a surreal Underworld as a glass-bodied demon on a skateboard. Ollie, grind, and blast through warped streets, rescue tortured souls, and skate your way to freedom. Dreamlike visuals, psychedelic soundtrack, and chaotic skating make this one a wildly stylish, existential ride.

UNBEATABLE – 9th December

In Unbeatable, you play as Beat, leading her band toward freedom in a world where music is rebellion. It blends rhythm gameplay with story-heavy decisions, and the soundtrack is genuinely stellar. If you want to stick it to authority without real-world consequences, this is your moment.

Death Howl – 9th December

Death Howl is a dark, turn-based card-battler where you play Ro, a grieving mother fighting through the afterlife to save her son. Battle spirits, summon totems, and make every move count in a grim, atmospheric world. Tactical, haunting, and full of weight – this one hits hard.

The post Indie Video Games Round-Up – December 2025 appeared first on Green Man Gaming Blog.