It’s that time of year again, ahead of MWC, where smartphone brands are making announcements left and right. Slightly ahead of the pack comes Samsung Galaxy Unpacked, which I was lucky enough to attend live and in person in San Francisco this year. 

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked is where they reveal all there is to know about the latest devices, and this year it was the Samsung Galaxy S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra smartphone line-up. 2026 has not brought many major changes to the lineup, but every phone in this series will be powered by the newest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, which packs serious power.

This year, the Samsung Galaxy S26 series has made some slight changes to its design, mirroring a phone I loved last year, the Z Fold7. The camera bump on the S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra will see this design change, making it more prominent and highlighted. On the Galaxy S26 Ultra, two additional lenses are featured to the right, which aren’t present on the S26 or S26+. 

The Samsung Galaxy S26 series also features slightly more curved edges, and the S26 Ultra is 3mm thinner than the previous Galaxy S25 Ultra and four grams lighter. Samsung has stayed with very similar colours since last year’s Galaxy Unpacked, launching each phone in Cobalt Violet, Sky Blue and Black. There will be online exclusive colours, Silver Shadow and Pink Gold, across the lineup, along with the Galaxy Buds 4 and 4 Pro, which also come in Pink Gold.

Of course, I know you’re all eager to hear more about the internal components in the Samsung Galaxy S26 series. I think a lot of people have been thinking (or hoping) that Samsung would be moving away from their 5000mAh battery that has been with the brand for years. I am here to report that, unfortunately, that is one miracle users will not be seeing from Samsung this year.

Though the S26 base model has seen a battery increase from 4000mAh to 4300, the S26+ remains unchanged from last year at 4900 mAh, and the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is still rocking that 5000 mAh battery. With that, though, comes some good news. The S26 Ultra has seen an upgrade to charging, now allowing for 60W Super Fast Charging 3.0 and 25W Fast Wireless Charging, up from 2025’s 45W and 15W.

As mentioned, the entire series is powered by the latest Snapdragon chip, which has already proven powerful in other devices since its launch. RAM and storage configurations remain mostly the same, with the base S26 and S26+ coming in 256GB or 512GB with 12GB of RAM (gone is the 128 GB option for the S26), and the S26 Ultra comes in 256GB/12GB, 512GB/12GB or 1TB/16GB. You can find a full list of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Series specifications below:

Samsung Galaxy S26 Smartphone Series Specs:

On first glance, it looks like Samsung didn’t do much with the cameras in the Galaxy S26 series, and though the MP look largely the same, the sensors have changed on the S26 Ultra. Last year saw a 200MP, f/1.7 wide lens, a 10MP, f/2.4 telephoto lens, a 50MP, f/3.4 periscope telephoto lens, and a 50MP, f/1.9 ultrawide lens. 2026 brings a 200MP, f/1.4 wide lens, a 50MP, f/1.9 ultrawide lens, a 50MP, f/2.9 periscope telephoto lens and the 10MP telephoto lens remains unchanged.

During a briefing, Samsung revealed that these new sensor sizes allow for 37% brighter photos with the telephoto lens and 47% brighter images with the 200MP wide lens. These sensor sizes support one of the new features Samsung is bringing this year: Nightography Video. Thanks to its wider aperture, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra will capture more light in darker environments, resulting in brighter, clearer video. 

Samsung has also continued the push into AI image editing, taking their previous Sketch to Image feature a step further, allowing you to use text or voice commands to make changes to your photos. At a preview event before Samsung Galaxy Unpacked, I used my powers for good: I added cake to several photos and turned an S26 pink, and in practice, it was flawless. Samsung’s Photo Assist also sees an update with several new styles you can add to pictures, too.

Of course, AI is where every brand wants to focus its time, and the Samsung Galaxy S26 series is no different. Beyond just the photo capabilities mentioned above, 2026 is bringing a few updates to AI features we are already familiar with. Now Brief has received an update to allow fewer steps for users. Where you would have to create an event in the past for Now Brief to monitor, it can now pull that information, like reservations or a meeting, directly from your notifications.

Now, Nudge is a feature embedded in your keyboard, so apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, etc., can display prompts to streamline certain processes. For example, if someone suggests a meeting, it may prompt you to create an event, or if a friend asks you to find a photo from a specific event, your S26 will be able to find it for you instead of searching yourself.

Samsung is also rolling out new partnerships with third-party apps. Your AI Agent will be able to actually order an Uber for you. The device will recognize your location and where you need to go and take the steps to get you there. Right now, Uber is the only option, but they are hoping to move to more rideshare apps and even options like DoorDash or Uber Eats.

Ordering food isn’t an entirely out-there idea, either, as Circle to Search has made shopping for items you see online extremely easy already. This year’s update allows you to search for multiple items at once now, and you can even use a photo image to try the items on yourself.

One of the most interesting features coming to the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is the new Privacy Screen. Samsung boasts that this is the first of its kind in a smartphone. When turned on, the screen works much like a privacy screen protector you would buy separately, blocking visuals from the sides, top or bottom of your smartphone. There is also the option to toggle this feature on only under certain circumstances, like when text notifications pop up or when you open a specific app, like your banking. In practice, Privacy Screen is incredibly easy to use and works very well.

We will have a lot more to say once we go hands-on with the Samsung Galaxy S26 series for an extended period, but for now, the hardware changes seem minimal. With rumours and hyper surounding the S26 series, I was expecting bigger surprises from the smartphone brand this year; however, Samsung consistantly makes solid devices, and has an extremely loyal following. The Samsung Galaxy S26 series will continue that trend, even if they aren’t making any major breakthroughs year over year.

Make sure to check out more of our Samsung coverage from Samsung Galaxy Unpacked, including news about their latest laptops, earbuds and more.

At CES 2026, ASUS made a unique announcement: it was teaming up with Kojima Productions for a special version of its ROG Flow Z13, the ROG Flow Z13-KJP. This new version of the ROG Flow Z13 would keep all the features people loved about the original convertible tablet and give it a very special facelift inspired by Kojima and Death Stranding. 

It was an announcement I did not expect when I walked into the ASUS tech showcase a few weeks before CES 2026, but I was interested. I have now spent a few weeks with the ROG Flow Z13-KJP, and while it does not offer any new hardware features compared to the standard Flow Z13, the Kojima touch makes it an excellent option if you have been sitting on the fence about jumping on this unique portable computer. 

Unboxing the ROG Flow Z13-KJP is an experience in itself. This is one of the coolest tech unboxings I have done in a long time. Seeing the ROG Flow Z13-KJP quickly while at the preview did not do the hardware justice; there is a lot at work here that makes this device truly special. First, the skinning of this device is elaborate. ASUS has gone all out to give the Flow Z13 the Kojima treatment, with every aspect of the laptop, from the keyboard, look of the back of the device, and even down to the startup animation, having gotten some attention. 

If you ever wanted to feel like you were using a device pulled from the world of Death Stranding, this would be that device. The subtle details and even the keyboard’s shape feel intentional, working together to make a device that feels incredibly unique. Given how many people love Hideo Kojima’s work, I have no doubt this device will sell out pretty quickly once it launches. And, given that the Flow Z13 was an impressive portable computer when it launched, this facelift only adds to that appeal.

But I do have to reiterate, while this is a major change in the design of the device, the ROG Flow Z13-KJP is below the surface, the same computer as the 2025 ROG Flow Z13. The ROG Flow Z13-KJP features the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor at its core, a chip that integrates 16 Zen 5 CPU cores with Radeon 8060S graphics. This Strix Halo design utilizes a unified memory architecture, allowing the system to allocate up to 64GB of LPDDR5X RAM as video memory. This setup removes the need for a discrete graphics card inside the chassis while still delivering performance capable of handling modern games and local AI workloads.

We talk about it in our review of the original ROG Flow Z13, but this little computer is incredibly powerful, and despite its size can do things many bigger laptops simply can’t the ridiculous amount of memory at its disposal (128GB LPDDR5X 8000) means it can take on AAA gaming, be a power house when it comes to video editing and 3D modeling, and it is even more than capable of taking on AI work, if you ever wanted to run an LLM locally.

It is crazy to think this is all packed into a relatively portable device, but ASUS somehow made it all fit. And with this version of the Flow Z13, it all fits and looks like it is pulled right from a science fiction universe at the same time.

“While the internal hardware remains unchanged, ASUS has included several exclusive touches for the ROG Flow Z13-KJP.”

On the display side, the ROG Flow Z13-KJP features a 13.4-inch ROG Nebula Display that balances portability with high-end specs. The panel features a 2.5K resolution (2560 x 1600) in a 16:10 aspect ratio, offering extra vertical space for productivity. It supports a fast 180Hz refresh rate and covers 100 per cent of the DCI-P3 colour gamut, ensuring smooth motion and accurate hues for content creators. With 500 nits of brightness and Dolby Vision support, the touchscreen remains visible and vibrant even in brighter environments.​​

I have seen the ROG Flow Z13 in person and spent some time using it. However, having it in the office and testing it more thoroughly gave me a clearer understanding of how it performs, whether watching media or playing games on this tablet PC. It delivers deep blacks and vibrant colours, making everything I tested look sharp, even at lower brightness levels. While the Kojima Productions edition does not introduce any exclusive display technology, ASUS set a high standard with the original model, and it continues to impress here.

I was also struck by how many ports ASUS has incorporated into the device. Despite its compact tablet form factor, the ROG Flow Z13-KJP offers an impressive selection of connectivity options for peripherals and external displays. It includes two USB4 Type-C ports with support for power delivery and DisplayPort, as well as a dedicated USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port for legacy accessories. An HDMI 2.1 port allows for direct connection to a television, and a UHS-II microSD card reader provides expandable storage. The system is powered by a 70-watt-hour battery and cooled by a vapour chamber designed to keep its high-performance components running efficiently within the slim chassis.

While the internal hardware remains unchanged, ASUS has included several exclusive touches for the ROG Flow Z13-KJP. The device features a custom startup animation showcasing Ludens when powered on. Unlike the standard ROG Flow Z13, this edition also includes a themed version of Armoury Crate designed specifically for the Kojima Productions collaboration, complete with a distinctive visual style.

The package also includes a custom briefcase designed to carry and protect the ROG Flow Z13-KJP. Is it more practical than a traditional laptop sleeve? Not particularly. It is bulkier and less convenient, but undeniably stylish. The design feels inspired by Death Stranding and is sturdily constructed, even if many owners may ultimately display it rather than use it daily. It is fully functional, though for everyday commuting or travel, placing the device in a standard messenger bag may prove more convenient than carrying the dedicated case.

Despite its bulk, the ROG Flow Z13-KJP feels distinct and genuinely special. It is a powerful PC that can handle a wide range of demanding tasks, from gaming and content creation to AI workloads. Like the standard ROG Flow Z13, it retains its tablet-first form factor, meaning it does not offer the traditional keyboard experience found on most laptops.

Given the performance hardware inside, battery life does not match that of more efficiency-focused laptops released in 2026, particularly those built around Intel’s Panther Lake platform. Even so, the device remains undeniably compelling and may prove especially appealing to fans of Hideo Kojima and Kojima Productions.

At a starting price of $2,799.99 USD, this is not one that will come cheap, but it compares pretty closely to the standard ROG Flow Z13, so if you are a Kojima fan and were on the fence about jumping onto that laptop, this could be your time. Also, ASUS is releasing a selection of accessories that complete the experience, with a mouse and headset releasing with a unique Kojima Productions-inspired aesthetic to complete your overall computing experience. It may not be for everyone, but for “For Ludens Who Dare”, this could be a fun addition to your mobile gaming experience.

'90s fun for everyone - I've been enjoying a lot of retro fun lately thanks to Limited Run Games so let's see what these swanky new collections have to offer. Hooray! Read more: Play These 4 Retro Compilations from Limited Run Games

Kyoto-based developer 17-BIT has released a fresh demo for their upcoming physics-fueled co-op brawler AWAYSIS as part of Steam Next Fest. The game, which was featured in Day of the Devs – The Game Awards Edition 2025, promises a chaotic blend of momentum-based movement and slippery melee combat that’s bound to test friendships.

Players take control of a group of small critters on a mission to save the floating paradise of Awaysis from encroaching darkness. The gameplay combines momentum-based movement with both melee combat and ranged magic attacks, creating what the developers describe as inherent slapstick comedy. Battles against the Dark Lord’s “Grimlins” form the core of the adventure, which spans environments from lush grasslands to lava-filled underground caves.

The Steam Next Fest demo includes the first three campaign missions, giving players a taste of what’s to come when the full game launches with 24 levels. Beyond the main campaign, AWAYSIS offers various multiplayer modes including competitive minigames like King of the Hill and the football-inspired Brawly Ball. The game supports both local and Remote Play co-op, with online multiplayer modes also planned for the complete release.

AWAYSIS is heading to PC via Steam, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5, though no specific release date has been announced yet. The full game will support nine languages including English, Japanese, French, German, Spanish, Korean, Portuguese, and both Traditional and Simplified Chinese, though the current demo is English-only.

More information about AWAYSIS and 17-BIT can be found on the developer’s official website, with updates available through their social media channels on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

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ProbablyMonsters has revealed Crimson Moon, a Gothic High Renaissance action-RPG that casts players as a powerful half-angel warrior fighting to save a fallen city. Set for release in 2026, the game promises intense combat and replayable missions as players take on the role of a Nephilim, a being caught between human and angelic nature, sworn to protect humanity as a Knight of the Crimson Moon.

The game’s story centres around reclaiming the city of Gildenarch from the Infernal Legion, battling through districts filled with demons, vampires, and undead gods. Players can tackle this challenge alone or team up with a friend in optional co-operative play, unlocking devastating combination attacks that make the most of both players’ divine abilities. The combat system emphasises precision and timing, blending brutal melee combat with explosive celestial transformations that promise to make each battle feel suitably epic.

What sets Crimson Moon apart is its focus on replayability through dynamic level design and evolving enemy compositions. No two runs through the city will play out identically, and difficulty modifiers allow players to increase the challenge in exchange for better rewards. Between missions, players will return to the War Table hub to upgrade their angelic powers, craft new equipment, and plan their next assault on the demon-occupied districts.

The game made its debut during PlayStation’s State of Play showcase, giving viewers their first glimpse of its dark fantasy world. Mark Subotnick, Head of Studios at ProbablyMonsters, highlighted the unique power fantasy of wielding both angelic abilities and powerful weaponry in the fight for Gildenarch. As players progress, they’ll uncover the truth behind the city’s fall and discover a destiny that only they can fulfil.

Crimson Moon will launch in 2026 for PC via Steam and Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, carrying an M for Mature rating. Those interested can follow the game’s development through its official website and social media channels, or join the ProbablyMonsters Discord community for updates.

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Indie developer Chashu Entertainment has announced that their post-apocalyptic Soulslike adventure Sands of Aura will launch on Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 on 26th February 2026. The game transports players to the devastated world of Talamhel, where ancient wars have buried civilisation beneath endless sandseas, leaving only mountaintop refuges for humanity’s last survivors.

Players take on the role of a newly inducted member of the Order of the Remnant Knights, humanity’s final line of defence against both the harsh elements and hordes of undead that roam the sandy wastes. The game promises exploration across this desolate landscape aboard a vessel called a grainwake, as players uncover secrets that might hold the key to restoring their dying world. Combat features seven distinct fighting styles alongside an extensive crafting system that lets players create weapons and armour with magical enhancements.

The open world of Talamhel offers freedom to explore at your own pace, with side quests and optional challenges scattered throughout the sandseas. A central hub called the Starspire serves as both sanctuary and base of operations, where players can build communities, unlock story elements, and gain access to unique services and perks through their leadership choices.

This console release includes all the improvements and updates from the original PC version, plus console-specific enhancements such as a new targeting assist system and reworked exploration interface. The developers have also tweaked combat mechanics and the in-game economy specifically for the console experience.

Sands of Aura is available to wishlist now on all console platforms ahead of its 26th February 2026 release date.

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Note: This is an in-progress review after one week of playtime. I’m still discovering online multiplayer dynamics and will continue to update as I spend more time in the arena.

Growing up, my little brother (and my mates) used to play Speedball 2 on the Amiga absolutely religiously. They’d gather around the screen for hours, screaming at each other as they battered through matches with the kind of intensity usually reserved for actual sports. That game was legendary, and honestly, after a run of attempts (Speedball Tournament, Speedball 2100 and even Speedball 2 HD which was just weird), I never thought we’d see a proper return to the arena. HOWEVER… Speedball has arrived, and it’s doing something genuinely promising.

The Soul Is Still There

Speedball’s return isn’t some diluted modern interpretation. This is brutal, uncompromising, and unapologetically violent. Two cybernetically enhanced teams clash in enclosed arenas packed with hazards, traps, and environmental chaos. The crowd roars, mega-corporations run the show, and victory is earned through speed, precision, and raw aggression.

From a top-down perspective reminiscent of the original, you’re immediately thrust into fast-paced matches where split-second decisions matter. Passing, tackling, shooting, dodging—it all feels responsive on the controller. That “flow state” moment where you’re chaining hits, ricocheting the ball off multipliers, and steamrolling toward the goal is satisfying in the way only Speedball can be.

The visual style updates the franchise for modern hardware whilst keeping the industrial, sci-fi brutality that made the original special. It’s loud, relentless, and designed to keep your heart rate elevated from kickoff to final buzzer. There is a certain Fortnite influence here in the character style.

Multiple Ways To Play

There’s genuine variety here. League Mode lets you tackle a full season against AI opponents. Online multiplayer pits you against other players worldwide. Prefer the classic approach? Couch multiplayer is here for settling scores the traditional way, with local co-operative options as well. For a game launching at £24.99, the range of modes is impressive.

The tactical layer sits beneath the arcade action. Team composition matters. Player traits matter. Whether you build an aggressive wrecking crew or a disciplined defensive unit impacts how you’ll perform. Each player has strengths and weaknesses based on their cybernetic augmentations. Understanding your squad and exploiting opponent weaknesses creates strategic depth that transcends the immediate chaos.

The Early Access Reality

Here’s where complete honesty is essential: Speedball is still evolving. The game launched following a lengthy Early Access period on PC, and whilst Rebellion has clearly listened to community feedback, there’s still content coming. Arena variety is somewhat limited currently, which can make matches feel repetitive after extended sessions. The level of team customisation will expand further in future updates.

This isn’t a criticism, more an observation. Rebellion has committed to ongoing development, gradually introducing new features, improved progression systems, and expanded content. Early adopters literally watch the game evolve as it develops, which is either genuinely exciting or frustrating depending on your patience for “works in progress.”

The community has been integral to development. Rebellion set up a dedicated Discord server where players share ideas, report bugs, and contribute to shaping the game. That collaborative approach avoided previous Speedball revival missteps. This time, it genuinely feels like the developers are listening.

What Currently Shines

The core gameplay is absolutely solid. Matches are short, chaotic bursts of action that demand your full attention. The control scheme is intuitive enough that you can dive straight in without excessive tutorials. The “Slam Cam” slow-motion moments capturing bone-rattling hits, crunching tackles, and medical bots carting off injured players add theatrical brutality that celebrates impact.

Online multiplayer latency has been smooth in my early sessions. Arena hazards like flamethrowers, ice shotguns, grind rails, and environmental traps keep matches unpredictable. No two games play out identically, which is crucial for long-term engagement.

The soundtrack and sound design capture the industrial sci-fi atmosphere perfectly. The crowd noise, the crunch of impacts, the roaring intensity—it all reinforces that you’re in a corporate-controlled future sport where violence is entertainment.

Some Growing Pains

With only a week of playtime under my belt, I’m still learning matchmaking nuances and online dynamics. Initial matchmaking can occasionally feel imbalanced, pairing new players against experienced ones, though this may settle as the playerbase stabilises. The limited arena variety is noticeable but not gamebreaking at this stage.

Learning the optimal team compositions and player positioning requires more time than I’ve had. Some mechanics still feel like they need explanation—the instruction manual could be more comprehensive for newcomers unfamiliar with the original series.

Visually, the game is solid without being stunning. Character models are clear and functional, arenas are detailed enough, but it’s not pushing graphical boundaries. That’s absolutely fine for a sports game where clarity matters more than cinematic fidelity.

A Genuine Revival With Potential

After years of failed Speedball revivals, Speedball 2100’s awkwardness, and various half-hearted attempts, this feels different. Rebellion has treated the franchise with respect, understanding what made the original special whilst delivering the speed and spectacle modern players expect.

This isn’t a nostalgia cash-grab. It’s a confident revival that recognises the original’s legacy whilst building something that works today. The commitment to ongoing development based on community feedback is genuinely encouraging.

First Thoughts (not Final)

My early verdict is that Speedball is a promising return to the arena that captures the brutal essence of its heritage. The core gameplay is solid, the multiple play modes offer genuine variety, and the commitment to ongoing development feels authentic. Yes, it’s still evolving. Yes, there’s limited arena variety currently. But what’s here is genuinely fun, and the trajectory is heading in the right direction. I’m continuing to play daily, and I’ll likely revisit this review after more online multiplayer time.

For fans of the original, this is a genuine homecoming. For newcomers, it’s an excellent entry point into a unique brand of brutal, fast-paced sports action. At £24.99, it’s reasonably priced for the content on offer, especially considering Xbox Play Anywhere means you’re getting console and PC versions.

Whether you’re reliving old rivalries or stepping into the arena for the first time, Speedball hits hard. I’m genuinely excited to see where it goes.

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There’s something instantly appealing about the promise of running your own tavern. That age-old fantasy of starting in a run-down establishment and building it into a thriving hub for adventurers and townsfolk? Tavern Manager Simulator delivers exactly that. It’s a cosy management sim wrapped in fantasy charm, and despite some minor rough edges, it’s a genuinely satisfying experience that captures the essence of hospitality work without the actual exhaustion.

The Charm Is Immediate

Tavern Manager (we’ll drop the “Simulator” part, as it feels somewhat bolted on) starts you in a crumbling shack that you’ll need to clean and restore. The visual style is whimsical and vibrant, reminiscent of classic fantasy illustrations. Everything has a hand-crafted quality that makes the world feel lived-in and inviting. The developers have leaned into fantasy aesthetics brilliantly, creating an atmosphere where you actually want to spend time.

The game respects your time by letting you set the pace. You can open your tavern when you’re ready, work at your own speed, and close up whenever you’ve had enough. There’s no Kitchen Nightmares-style pressure where you’re failing if you’re not constantly busy. This flexibility is genuinely refreshing.

The Management Loop Actually Works

The core gameplay revolves around multitasking. You’ll be cooking meals, pouring ale, serving customers, maintaining cleanliness, ordering stock, and managing your finances. Each task is represented by a minigame with varying complexity. Some are simple point-and-click actions, whilst others feature moving-target gauges that reward precision with higher quality items and better tips.

Pouring ale is a perfect example. You hold a tankard beneath a keg, turn the handle, and stop in the sweet spot. Get it right, and you’ll have a beautifully crafted pint with a perfect golden body and frothy head. Get it wrong, and you’ll either have an underfilled glass or an overflowing mess. These minigames are satisfying enough that you won’t mind repeating them dozens of times, and there’s a genuine skill element that keeps things engaging.

As your tavern grows, you hire adorable fairy assistants who gradually improve their skills at assigned tasks. This is brilliantly designed because the fairies retain their expertise even when reassigned to different duties. Early on you’re doing everything yourself, which teaches you all the systems. Once fairies arrive, you can choose your playstyle. Do you want to focus on cooking whilst fairies handle service? Or would you prefer to work the floor, greeting customers and building relationships?

The Simulation Has Real Substance

Customer satisfaction matters. Greet guests warmly, seat them promptly, and anticipate their needs. Conversations with patrons earn polite customer points and build your reputation. Your tavern’s cleanliness and decoration directly impact customer satisfaction. A filthy establishment with cobwebs and scattered crates won’t attract quality clientele, whilst a well-maintained tavern with thoughtful décor becomes a destination.

Stock management adds strategic depth. Run out of ingredients mid-service, and customers will leave unhappy. Overstocking ties up capital you could use for upgrades. There’s a balance to strike between preparation and financial efficiency.

The narrative unfolds gradually through quests and interactions with quirky characters. It’s a slow burn, but that suits the game’s pacing. You’re uncovering the tavern’s history, forging alliances, and building a reputation that genuinely matters within the game world.

Some Minor Roughness

Tavern Manager isn’t without its issues. Some aspects can feel repetitive after extended play sessions. The lack of energy consumption mechanics, whilst allowing for seamless night-time preparation, does feel slightly at odds with the “simulator” branding. You can prep through entire nights without fatigue, which is convenient but not particularly realistic.

Visually, there’s some jankiness. The delivery cart sometimes drifts into position oddly, and conversation text could be significantly larger within its oversized text box. These are minor presentation issues rather than gameplay problems, but they’re noticeable.

The sound design, whilst mostly excellent with satisfying audio for pouring drinks and sweeping floors, does have one repeating element that becomes mildly annoying. The whirling cogs of the well, when you’re grinding through water collection, can feel tedious after the hundredth time.

The Hospitality Authenticity

Having worked various hospitality jobs from university bars to proper establishments, Tavern Manager captures something genuine about the work. It’s the rhythm of service: prep during quiet periods, execute when customers arrive, clean and reset afterwards. That cycle of building a station, delivering service, then breaking it down for the next shift is authentically represented.

It’s satisfying in a way that real hospitality work often isn’t. You get all the satisfaction of managing a busy service without the actual aching feet, stress-induced headaches, or genuinely rude customers. The game removes the suffering whilst keeping the accomplishment.

Creative Freedom and Replayability

You can decorate and expand your tavern however you wish. Place tables at multiple angles, buy decorations that reflect your personality, and shape the aesthetic to match your vision. Experiment with different management styles, prioritise different aspects of the business, and create a truly unique establishment. The depth here ensures no two playthroughs feel identical.

Worth a Pint!

Tavern Manager Simulator is a charming, engaging management experience that delivers genuine satisfaction through its well-designed systems and cosy atmosphere. The minigames are satisfying, the progression feels meaningful, and the flexibility to play at your own pace is genuinely refreshing. Yes, it has minor rough edges and some aspects can feel repetitive, but these don’t significantly diminish what is fundamentally a delightful game. If you’re drawn to management sims, fantasy settings, or simply enjoy the idea of building something meaningful, Tavern Manager deserves your attention. It’s a warm, inviting experience that respects your time and rewards your effort.

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Valentine’s Day is nearly here, and if your other half would rather save the world than sit through a candlelit dinner, we’ve got you covered. Whether they’re a casual player or a hardcore completionist, here are some cracking gift ideas that’ll earn you serious bonus points.

A Co-Op Game You Can Play Together

Nothing says romance quite like teaming up to solve puzzles, survive the apocalypse, or argue about who’s pulling their weight. It Takes Two remains the gold standard for couples gaming, it won Game of the Year for good reason, and Hazelight Studios’ follow-up Split Fiction is another brilliant shout. Both are designed specifically for two players and offer hours of entertainment you can share from the same sofa. If your partner has Game Pass, there’s a good chance one or both are already waiting to be downloaded, too.

A Voucher For Uninterrupted Game Time

Sometimes the greatest gift isn’t something you can wrap, it’s permission. Write up a proper voucher (or get fancy and print one) promising your gamer an evening of completely uninterrupted game time. No asking them to put the bins out. No “are you still playing that?” Just pure, guilt-free gaming. It costs absolutely nothing and yet it might be the most appreciated gift on this entire list.

A Displate of Their Favourite Game

If your gamer has a favourite title they never shut up about, a Displate metal poster is a fantastic way to bring it into the real world. These magnetic metal prints look brilliant on a wall and come in hundreds of gaming designs from The Legend of Zelda to Dark Souls and everything in between. They’re easy to mount without drilling holes, which is a bonus if you’re renting. A subtle, stylish nod to what they love.

A Custom Keyboard

For the PC gamer in your life, a custom mechanical keyboard from Cherry is a gift that’s both practical and personal. Choose their favourite colours, pick the switch type that suits their style, and you’ve got something they’ll use every single day. It’s the kind of thing most gamers would love but would never buy for themselves. That’s what makes it a perfect Valentine’s gift.

A Game Character Phone/Controller Stand

These little device holders shaped like game characters from EXGPro are genuinely useful and look great on a desk. You can find stands featuring characters from Minecraft, Sonic, Pokémon, Halo, and dozens of other franchises. They hold phones and controllers alike, and they double as a mini figurine. Practical, fun, and surprisingly affordable.

A Game Time Hamper

Put together a hamper filled with everything your gamer needs for the ultimate session. Think their favourite snacks, a few cans of their go-to drink, a comfy pair of gaming socks, maybe a cap from their favourite franchise, and perhaps a gift card for their platform of choice. Present it all in a nice box or basket and you’ve got something that feels properly thoughtful without breaking the bank. Bonus points if you include a handwritten note promising to leave them alone while they enjoy it.

Gamer Clothing

Gaming fashion has come a long way from oversized novelty t-shirts. Brands like Qlutch (qlutch.cc) offer stylish, subtle clothing that nods to gaming culture without screaming it. Hoodies, tees, and accessories that your gamer can actually wear out in public and feel good about. It’s streetwear with a gaming twist, perfect for someone who wants to represent their hobby without looking like a walking advert.

A Sandwich Toaster

Stay with us on this one. A sandwich toaster might not scream “romance,” but any gamer will tell you that a perfectly toasted cheese sandwich during a late-night session is one of life’s great pleasures. Chuck in some steak, add a bit of onion, go wild. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it means they don’t have to pause the game to cook a proper meal. Honestly, this might be the most underrated gift on the list.

Gaming Figurines

A quality figurine of their favourite character makes for a brilliant display piece. Sites like Hobby Figures (hobbyfigures.co.uk) stock a huge range of gaming collectibles, from detailed statues to more affordable options. Whether they’re into Resident Evil, Final Fantasy, The Witcher, or something else entirely, there’s almost certainly a figure out there that’ll make them light up. Just make sure you know which character is their favourite, getting it wrong could be worse than no gift at all.

Perfume or Aftershave

Let’s be honest: long gaming sessions don’t always lead to the freshest of environments. A nice bottle of perfume or aftershave is a classic Valentine’s gift for a reason, and it works just as well for gamers as anyone else. It doesn’t need to be gaming-themed (please, no Axe body spray). Just pick something they’ll enjoy wearing. Think of it as a gentle, fragrant reminder that personal hygiene and gaming can coexist.

A Retro Console or Handheld

If your gamer has a nostalgic streak, a retro mini console or handheld could be the perfect shout. The Analogue Pocket is a premium option for someone who loves their Game Boy-era classics, while the various mini consoles from Nintendo, Sega, and others offer a plug-and-play trip down memory lane. Even something like a Powkiddy or Anbernic handheld can open up an entire library of retro games for under £50. Great for playing together in bed, too, if that’s not romantic, what is?

A Gaming Cookbook

Yes, these exist, and some of them are genuinely excellent. Official cookbooks inspired by The Elder Scrolls, Final Fantasy, World of Warcraft, Street Fighter, and Destiny let your gamer recreate dishes from their favourite worlds. Even if they’re not the most confident cook, following a recipe for Sweetrolls or Ignis’s favourite dish from Final Fantasy XV is a fun activity you can do together. Dinner and gaming, sorted.

A Pair of Gaming Glasses

If your gamer spends hours staring at screens (and let’s face it, they do), a pair of blue-light filtering glasses from a brand like GUNNAR can make a genuine difference. They reduce eye strain, help with headaches, and some of them actually look quite stylish. It’s a thoughtful gift that says “I care about your wellbeing” rather than “I think you play too much”, and that distinction matters.

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Whatever you choose, the best Valentine’s gift for a gamer is one that shows you understand what they love. You don’t have to be a gamer yourself to get it right, you just have to pay attention. Happy Valentine’s Day!

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The post Valentine’s Gifts For Your Gamer appeared first on Gaming Debugged | Gaming Site Covering Xbox, Indies, News, Features and Gaming Tech.

Sci-fi survival fans have a new challenge heading their way next month, as ICARUS: Console Edition prepares to land on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles on 26th February. The game, originally created by Dean Hall (known for DayZ and Kitten Space Agency), throws up to four players onto the hostile alien world of Icarus, where they’ll need to extract valuable resources whilst battling the planet’s deadly wildlife and harsh environments.

The console version comes packed with content, including both the original base game and the New Frontiers Expansion right from launch. This means players get access to a massive 128km² of alien terrain to explore, spanning two different maps. The New Frontiers content adds the dangerous Prometheus region, complete with three new biomes, mutated apex predators, and over 100 craftable items to help players survive the unforgiving conditions.

One interesting twist is the animal companion system, where players can tame creatures that were left behind from Earth’s failed terraforming attempt. These animals, including wolves and boars, provide useful buffs like health regeneration or reduced oxygen consumption. Pre-order customers will receive the Pet Companion Pack DLC, which adds 11 additional domesticated animals including cats, dogs, and horses, each with their own progression system and care requirements.

The game promises a challenging PvE experience where every element of the planet actively works against human presence. Players start with basic equipment and gradually advance to more sophisticated technology, forging permanent upgrades using exotic matter they collect during their expeditions. The New Frontiers Expansion also includes six story-driven missions that reveal more about the planet’s mysterious secrets.

Pre-orders for ICARUS: Console Edition are now live across both PlayStation and Xbox platforms. Publisher GRIP Studios has released a new trailer showcasing the console version, which can be viewed on their official channels.

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The Carmageddon franchise is making a comeback with Rogue Shift, a new post-apocalyptic combat racer set for release on 6th February 2026. Developer Stainless Games is promising a refined take on the series’ signature vehicular mayhem, combining the classic destruction derby formula with modern roguelite mechanics and an extensive progression system.

Set in 2050, players will navigate a world overrun by zombie-like creatures called the Wasted. By day, racers compete in deadly Carmageddon events for parts and upgrades, but when night falls, the streets become hunting grounds for nightmare creatures. The ultimate prize is a chance to reach the last remaining spaceport and escape the dying planet. Players start with basic rust bucket vehicles and scavenged weapons, gradually building their arsenal through successful races.

The game features 15 upgradeable vehicles ranging from heavy tanks to nimble hot rods, each with distinct handling characteristics across front, rear, and all-wheel drive configurations. Combat comes courtesy of 13 weapon classes including shotguns, missile racks, lasers, and railguns, all fully customisable. An ambitious perk system offers over 80 different upgrades that can be combined to create devastating synergies for maximum destruction.

Rogue Shift incorporates dynamic weather and day-night cycles that directly impact gameplay, with rain creating treacherous driving conditions and fog providing cover for ambushes. The roguelite campaign structure means each playthrough offers branching event maps and dynamic challenges, whilst permanent progression allows players to spend earned “Beatcoins” on new vehicles, weapons, and perks between runs. Elite boss battles will pit racers against corrupted enforcers, mutated creatures, and massive war machines.

More information about Carmageddon: Rogue Shift is expected to be revealed in the coming months ahead of its February 2026 release date.

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Mountain biking enthusiasts can finally hit the trails on console as MAVRIX launches today on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The open-world mountain biking game, created by professional rider and Red Bull athlete Matt Jones, promises to deliver an authentic riding experience shaped by real-world expertise.

MAVRIX offers players a massive 100km² open world to explore, packed with downhill racing, freeride exploration, competitive events, and creative trick-based riding. The console launch introduces Slopestyle Mode, a new discipline focused on big air tricks and stylish riding, alongside fresh trails, expanded freeride areas, and improved bike physics that aim to capture the true feel of mountain biking.

The game’s authenticity credentials are impressive, with every aspect from suspension behaviour to trick execution developed by professional riders who compete at the highest level. Players can experience what it’s like to be a Red Bull sponsored athlete, complete with unique rewards and real-world brand integration. The career-style progression system mirrors the journey of professional mountain bikers, giving players a taste of life on two wheels.

Priced at £30, MAVRIX arrives on console with all previously released PC content, including the MAVRIX Cup competitive event series. The game supports six languages and will continue evolving through regular updates based on community feedback during its Early Access and Game Preview phases.

MAVRIX is available now digitally via the PlayStation Store and Xbox Store, as well as on PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store.

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A mysterious new metroidvania has landed across all major platforms, promising players a haunting journey through the depths of a derelict spaceship. MIO: Memories in Orbit, developed by Douze Dixièmes (the studio behind Shady Part of Me), is now available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, PC, and day one on Xbox Game Pass.

Players take on the role of MIO, a nimble android who awakens alone aboard the Vessel, a massive abandoned spacecraft drifting through space. The ship’s corridors have been overrun by vegetation, whilst malfunctioning machines pose constant threats. According to the developers, the game combines precise platforming with dynamic combat, challenging players to master an evolving arsenal of abilities whilst uncovering the ship’s dark secrets.

The visual design draws inspiration from graphic novels, classic sci-fi films, and anime, creating what the studio describes as an atmosphere that’s “as beautiful as it is unsettling.” Supporting this striking art direction is a 75-track soundtrack composed by Nicolas Gueguen, featuring ambient melodies, layered synths, and live choir recordings. The complete soundtrack will be available on major music platforms from 20th January.

Sarah Hourcade, Co-founder of Douze Dixièmes, explained the team’s vision: “We wanted to create an experience that brings together everything we love: a genre we’re passionate about with challenging mechanics, a mysterious sci-fi world, and a strong visual identity made possible by our own custom engine.” After five years in development, the studio is eager to see how players respond to their handcrafted adventure.

MIO: Memories in Orbit is priced at £19.99 with a 10% launch discount available across all platforms (PlayStation 5 discount requires PS Plus membership). The game is fully compatible with Steam Deck, and Nintendo Switch owners will receive a free upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 version when available.

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Coffee Talk Tokyo, the highly anticipated standalone sequel in the beloved café simulation series, has been pushed back to 21st May 2026. Developer Toge Productions announced the delay during their anniversary showcase, explaining that whilst the core game is complete, they want extra time to perfect the final details and ensure the cosy atmosphere fans expect.

The new entry takes players to a late-night Tokyo café where they’ll serve as barista to both humans and fantastical creatures. Like previous games in the series, the drinks you craft will influence conversations and shape branching storylines with an entirely new cast of characters. This time around, players can experiment with hot and cold beverages, create latte art using sprinkle stencils, and explore “Tomodachill”, an in-game social media feed that reveals hidden insights about customers.

Andrew “AJ” Jeremy returns to compose the soundtrack, promising a fresh collection of lo-fi tracks inspired by Tokyo’s summer nights and urban atmosphere. The game will launch simultaneously on Steam, PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, with full localisation across ten languages including English, Japanese, Korean, and several European languages.

A Deluxe Edition will include bonus content such as a 10-track City Pop album, a Seattle Prologue chapter, and a digital artbook. The development team has confirmed this is the final release date, with no further delays expected.

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