FTS: NAUTUS Opens Its Steam Beta with Four-Player Underwater Co-op

NAUTUS Opens Its Steam Beta with Four-Player Underwater Co-op

Magic Design Studios, the team behind Have a Nice Death, and publisher Arc Games have opened the Steam beta for NAUTUS. Revealed during the October 15 Galaxies Showcase, the beta lets players explore its island-and-undersea adventure solo or with up to four players in online co-op.

Something Is Wrong at the Research Station

Arriving at the remote N.A.U.T.U.S. research station, players discover that its scientists have developed a mysterious fear of the ocean. That leaves the dangerous work to you and your crew.

Below the waves, an upgradable submarine provides a way to explore and confront mutant creatures. Back on land, players develop a tropical sanctuary base, meet the island’s unusual residents and prepare for further expeditions.

Life Above and Below the Water

The beta introduces the game’s two connected sides: developing a foothold on the surface and venturing into the depths. Different zones, quests and island NPCs give players an early look at the progression loop while the underlying mystery begins to unfold.

Its mix of cozy surroundings and unsettling discoveries gives the adventure a different tone from the studio’s previous roguelike. Players can investigate alone or coordinate with friends as a four-person crew.

How to Join

Visit the NAUTUS Steam page, find the playtest section and follow Steam’s prompts to request access and download the beta build. The developer’s announcement says testing is expected to continue until November 2.

This is an early testing opportunity, with the full game planned to enter Steam Early Access in 2027. Availability and the test schedule may change as development continues.

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FTS: FROSTHAVEN Launches PC 1.0 with Its Complete Campaign and 17 Heroes

FROSTHAVEN Launches PC 1.0 with Its Complete Campaign and 17 Heroes

Snapshot Games and Arc Games have released FROSTHAVEN version 1.0 on PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store. Launched on October 15, 2026, the full release brings the complete campaign and all 17 playable heroes to the digital adaptation of Isaac Childres and Cephalofair Games’ tabletop RPG.

The Complete Campaign

The 1.0 release completes the story, including its final chapter, and opens the full roster of 17 heroes. Each class brings a different set of abilities, making party composition, resource management and the balance between risk and reward central to the adventure.

Players can tackle the dark fantasy campaign alone or team up through online co-op. The release also includes multiplayer and networking improvements developed during the game’s Early Access period.

More Ways to Learn and Play

• Road to Frosthaven: a digital-only introduction designed to ease players into the game’s systems.
• Hero videos: unlockable introductions to the different characters and their playstyles.
• In-game Codex: a reference for the mechanics and information players need along the way.
• House Rules: customizable settings that let groups adjust the experience to their preferred style.

Available on PC

The publisher lists a standard US price of $39.99. Its launch announcement also offered 30% off on Steam beginning October 15 and on the Epic Games Store beginning October 19. Check the storefront for current regional pricing and promotion availability.

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FTS: Flipping Is Hard Launches October 16 with Up to 16-Player Co-op

Flipping Is Hard Launches October 16 with Up to 16-Player Co-op

VILNIUS, Lithuania – October 9, 2026 – Elegant Horse Studios has announced that Flipping Is Hard, its physics-based co-op rage platformer, launches October 16, 2026 on PC via Steam for $14.99. The studio says more than 100,000 players tried the demo, and the full game is now one week away.

A Brick Phone with a Long Way Up

You are Flippy, a Flippia brick phone thrown into the trash. Your irresponsible owner Jeff is stranded atop the Trashlands, a bizarre mountain of forgotten toys, gadgets and childhood memories. Unable to walk, Flippy must flip end-over-end through 10 increasingly perilous levels, from storm drains and candy hills to neon grids and refrigerators.

The climb introduces strange residents, including a foul-mouthed Tamagotchi, an anarchist gummy bear, a rave-DJ gingerbread man and a scrapped-game alien. A friendly Narrator guides the journey, but the higher you climb, the more the Trashlands begin to resemble a carefully designed trap.

Chill, Hard or Chaotic Co-op

• Two difficulty options: Flipping Is Chill targets around five hours, while Flipping Is Hard targets eight or more. Actual playtime depends on platforming skill.
• Solo play: Take on the full climb with every success and failure resting on your own timing.
• Up to 16 players online: Climb together with proximity voice chat, the Help Beam, teleporting Microwaves and Pings.
• Extras along the way: Collect coins, achievements, challenges and phone skins, and play retro mini-games such as Fnake, Floppy Road and Flippy Bird.

The same climb becomes a shared social challenge in co-op, where players can recover together—or send a plan sideways through bad timing. The game has a proper ending, although reaching it may take a few more attempts than expected.

Release Details

Flipping Is Hard launches October 16 on Steam for $14.99. Developer Elegant Horse Studios is based in Lithuania and previously created Sheep Sweep and Driving Is Hard.

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FTS: Windrose Reveals Ashlands Update for This Winter with New Missions, Factions and a Ship

Windrose Reveals Ashlands Update for This Winter with New Missions, Factions and a Ship

Oct. 8, 2026 – Kraken Express has revealed a new teaser for Windrose’s first major content update, Ashlands, during the Triple-i Initiative showcase. The pirate survival-adventure’s update is due this winter, bringing new main and side missions, new factions, a new ship to command and a challenging new boss.

A New Destination on the Horizon

Ashlands expands the map with new locations, including a long-abandoned Spanish colony. Alongside its additional missions and factions, the update promises improvements to combat, gameplay and NPC behavior, plus further enhancements.

Kraken Express says Windrose sold more than two million copies in its first month of PC Early Access. The current version offers dozens of hours of content, with its feature set continuing to grow through community feedback.

Life on Land and at Sea

Explore, sail and plunder through the Age of Piracy, moving between your ship and a settlement on shore. Trade cannon fire, board enemy vessels, craft equipment and challenge bosses with an arsenal of weapons.

Venture into uncharted lands, fight for rare treasures, recruit NPCs for your crew and grow your base. You can build your pirate life alone or team up with friends to take on the high seas.

Where to Play

Windrose is available in Early Access on Steam and the Epic Games Store. Ashlands is scheduled for this winter; an exact release date has not been announced in this update.

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Centipede Swarm crawls onto Amazon Luna for Game Night... you ready?

 

One of the best things about SDGT Entertainment's Summer of Gaming is discovering games that bring people together, and the latest addition to Amazon Luna's Game Night lineup does exactly that.

Now available for Amazon Prime members, Centipede Swarm takes Atari's legendary arcade classic and transforms it into a colorful, fast-paced cooperative experience built for modern families and friends. Instead of a lone player battling bugs across a simple screen, this new version turns the action into a chaotic multiplayer adventure where up to four players work together to survive waves of glowing insect enemies and take down a massive evolving Centipede boss.

For parents who grew up feeding quarters into arcade machines, Centipede Swarm offers a wonderful opportunity to share a piece of gaming history with their children. The original Centipede was one of the defining arcade experiences of the early gaming era, and this modern reimagining keeps the spirit of that classic alive while making it more accessible and exciting for today's players.

What makes Centipede Swarm especially appealing is how easy it is to jump into the action. As part of Amazon Luna's Game Night collection, Amazon Prime members can start playing without purchasing additional hardware or the game itself. Players can use their smartphones as controllers and join in on the fun, making spontaneous family game nights easier than ever.

And if your little gamer doesn't have a cellphone yet, don't worry. Amazon Luna also supports the Amazon Luna Controller, allowing younger players to join the fun without needing their own mobile device. That means parents, kids, siblings, and even grandparents can all jump into the same game and enjoy the experience together.

The gameplay itself strikes a nice balance between accessibility and excitement. Players move freely around a dynamic battlefield, blasting through swarms of enemies while coordinating with teammates to survive increasingly difficult encounters. The result is a roguelike game that's simple enough for newcomers to understand but hectic enough to keep experienced players entertained.

In an age where entertainment often pulls family members into separate rooms and separate screens, Game Night titles like Centipede Swarm remind us that gaming can still be a shared activity. Whether you're introducing your kids to a classic arcade franchise or just looking for a fun way to spend an evening together, this is the kind of title that feels right at home during Summer of Gaming.

So if you're already an Amazon Prime member, gather the family, grab a controller (or a phone), and see how long your team can survive the swarm. You might come for the nostalgia, but you'll stay for the laughs, teamwork, and memorable moments that happen when everyone plays together. Game on, and don't forget the snacks!

*Play Centipede Swarm on Fire TV or Fire TV Stick through the Luna app.

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LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight — A Brick‑Built Hero’s Journey

PC | Playstation | Xbox | Switch

When you first step into LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight, it’s clear this isn’t just another brick‑by‑brick adventure. It’s a celebration of Gotham’s most iconic protector — a journey that captures the humor, heart, and heroism that LEGO and DC fans have come to love.

 🦇 The Adventure 

The story unfolds as a cinematic tribute to every era of Batman, from his comic origins to modern interpretations. You don’t just play Batman — you become him. The game’s narrative builds momentum as you rise from a rookie vigilante to the fully realized Dark Knight, with each chapter unlocking new layers of Gotham’s mystery. The pacing is fantastic, allowing the experience to flow naturally while keeping you hooked from start to finish. It's play time!

 🎮 Game Mechanics 

The gameplay blends smooth action with clever puzzle design. Each Batsuit introduces unique mechanics — stealth, flight, combat, and detective work — that make every mission feel fresh. The co‑op system lets friends jump in seamlessly, while solo players can enjoy fluid controls and responsive combat that make every punch, glide, and gadget deployment satisfying.

Exploration is key: Gotham is alive with secrets, side missions, and villains waiting to test your skills. The transitions between story beats and gameplay are seamless, creating a rhythm that keeps you engaged whether you’re chasing down the Joker or gliding across rooftops under the moonlight.

 💥 Why It’s Worth Adding to Your Library 

Rated Everyone 10+, this is one of those rare titles that bridges generations. Kids will love the humor and colorful world, while teens and adults will be drawn into the story’s emotional depth and polished gameplay. My hands‑on experience left me wanting more after I put the controller down — I had to force myself to stop, especially once I suited up as the Bat. The journey to becoming him was a treat, and the way the story unfolds makes it one of the most replayable LEGO adventures to date.

If you’re looking for a game that balances fun, storytelling, and craftsmanship, LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight deserves a spot in your collection. It’s not just a game — it’s an experience that reminds you why we love heroes who rise from the shadows.

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Deadzone: Rogue – The Ultimate Summer Co-op Thrill Ride?

(Transmission begins: Space Pod 7, orbiting the gaming galaxy. Snacks? Check. Controller? Check. Let’s talk about Deadzone: Rogue.)

The Perfect Summer Kickoff? Possibly... There’s something magical about finding a game that pulls you in for hours without realizing it. Deadzone: Rogue is exactly that kind of experience. It’s a sci-fi roguelite FPS that throws you into the depths of the ISS-X, a derelict spaceship crawling with rogue machines and deadly threats. The moment you boot it up, you’re in... no fluff, no filler, just pure roguelite action. You get blips of information as you progress, but it isn't presented to you in a fully laid out story in the beginning. Let's dive in!

At $24.99, this game is a steal. But here’s the catch... it’s still in Early Access, and the price might change when v1.0 drops. If you’re even remotely interested, now’s the time to jump in before the final pricing decision is made. The same thing happened with Starnaut. Not sure whether it will increase in price or if they'll change their mind... but I appreciate when developers understand that their game isn't done done so in turn they give early supporters the hook up. This support helps them be able to reach the finishline financially, and just so you know... you aren't obligated to play it ahead of the official release if you'd prefer to wait.

Co-op Gameplay – The Real Test of Skill Solo runs are fun, but co-op mode? That’s where the chaos truly shines. Grab a friend, squad up, and tackle the harder modes together. The game’s difficulty scales beautifully, meaning teamwork is essential. You’ll need to coordinate attacks, share resources, and strategize to survive the relentless waves of enemies.

The fluid movement and gunplay make every firefight feel exhilarating. Whether you’re dodging enemy fire, chaining elemental attacks, or blasting through hordes, every action feels responsive and rewarding. The only thing missing? Rumble feedback in the controller. But hey, the devs are still working on the game and are open to feedback... so who knows what future updates might bring?

Replay Value – One More Run, Just One More Deadzone: Rogue is the kind of game that keeps you coming back. Every run is different, thanks to its procedural generation and deep progression system. You’ll constantly unlock new weapons, perks, and upgrades, making each session feel fresh. The challenge missions add another layer of depth, ensuring that even seasoned players have something to strive for.

And let’s be real... this is the perfect game to lose yourself in. My last session? Nearly two hours flew by before I even realized it. That’s how easy it is to jump in and lose track of time. The controls make this game even better, it doesn't feel stiff... which has turned me off with some games (especially if there is no reason for it.)

Get in While the Getting Is Good Deadzone: Rogue is still evolving, and the devs at Prophecy Games are listening to the community. The FAQ section even hints that the price may change based on how the game performs and player feedback. Similar things have happened with other games, so if you like what you see, snag it now before v1.0 drops.

So, Space Cadets, if you’re looking for a fast-paced, co-op-friendly, endlessly replayable FPS to kick off the summer, Deadzone: Rogue is one worth considering. Grab your weapons, upgrade your abilities, and dive into the chaos... because in Deadzone, survival is the only mission.

(Transmission ends. Space Pod 7 drifting into the next gaming adventure. Snacks? Running low. Time for a resupply at the Space Snack Shack. "Computer"... autopilot to the nearest Space Snack Shack. Time for a nap.)

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Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap: A New Chapter in the Action-Packed Tower Defense Franchise! + OMD History!

The "Orcs Must Die!" series has been a beloved franchise in the tower defense genre since its debut in 2011. Developed by Robot Entertainment, the series combines action-packed gameplay with strategic trap placement, creating a unique and engaging experience for players. The latest installment, "Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap," continues this tradition while introducing new features and improvements that enhance the gameplay.

A little OMD History

The original "Orcs Must Die!" game was released in 2011 and quickly gained popularity for its innovative blend of third-person action and tower defense mechanics. Players took on the role of a War Mage, tasked with defending rifts from waves of orcs and other creatures using a variety of traps and weapons. I logged plenty of hours in the game via the Xbox 360. The game's success led to the release of "Orcs Must Die! 2" in 2012, which introduced cooperative multiplayer and expanded the arsenal of traps and weapons.

In 2020, "Orcs Must Die! 3" was released, bringing the series to a new generation of consoles and adding large-scale "War Scenarios" that allowed players to defend against massive armies of orcs using oversized traps. The game also introduced new characters, traps, and enemies, further enriching the gameplay experience.

Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap: What's New?

"Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap" builds on the foundation laid by its predecessors while introducing several new features that enhance the gameplay and provide fresh challenges for players. Here are some of the key additions:

1. Roguelite Elements: Unlike previous installments, "Deathtrap" incorporates roguelite mechanics, offering a gauntlet of randomly selected stages with various modifiers. This adds a layer of unpredictability and replayability to the game.

2. New War Mage: The game introduces a new War Mage, Master Gabriella, who brings Arcane magic back into the series. Her unique abilities and tricks add new strategic options for players.

3. New Enemies and Maps: Players can expect to face new enemy types, such as the Unstable Orc, which requires more effort to defeat. Additionally, new maps like the Resort Canal offer unique challenges, such as defending two rifts simultaneously.

4. Enhanced Progression Systems: "Deathtrap" features deeper progression systems, allowing players to unlock and upgrade traps, weapons, and abilities in more meaningful ways. The introduction of "Threads" offers players choices that can significantly impact their gameplay strategy.

5. Co-op Gameplay: The game supports up to four-player co-op, allowing friends to team up and tackle the orc hordes together. This cooperative element adds a social dimension to the game and makes it even more enjoyable. The co-op action has spring break written all over it!

6. New Game Modes: In addition to the traditional tower defense gameplay, "Deathtrap" includes new game modes that challenge players in different ways. These modes provide variety and keep the gameplay fresh.

"Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap" is a worthy addition to the "Orcs Must Die!" series, offering new features and improvements that enhance the gameplay experience. I haven't played an OMD game in a long time, but I was able to jump right back in. Not crazy about the reload mechanic, but... it adds to the challenge. With its roguelite elements, new characters, enemies, and maps, as well as deeper progression systems and co-op gameplay, "Deathtrap" promises to keep players engaged and entertained for hours with ease. My first gameplay session run over an hour before I even noticed the time. Whether you're a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer, "Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap" is definitely worth checking out if you're a tower defense fan. If you're not sure, check out the first 30 minutes of gameplay below and... game on!

Get... Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap for $29.99! | Available Now!

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My Nerve-Racking Experience with No More Room in Hell 2

In No More Room in Hell 2, you and up to seven other players must work together to survive against hordes of zombies. During early access... you're able to play in a massive map in rural Pennsylvania, and your objective is to complete various tasks assigned by the CRC (Civilian Response Corps) to progress and escape the nightmare. Considering the fact that the game is still in early access, keep in mind the gameplay seen in this article is not the final results. Updates with improvements continue to roll out.

One of the aspects I found challenging was coming into contact with allies. In my first run, I didn't encounter any, which made the experience even more intense. While I appreciate the need to work for such a thing, I believe it should be optional. Starting with an ally by your side might not be as rewarding as finding someone after going through hell, but... not everyone will be able to manage alone before coming across allies on such an expansive map. I have to keep it real, especially with so many zombies on deck. They aren't the type where you hit them once and they drop, it's going to take effort  to take one down unless you use a firearm. So when it comes to taking on a slew of them... you can't just slug it out.

When the gang's all together, you feel a lot more confident because eight people fighting for survival instead of a one-man army is a no-brainer in this permadeath co-op horror game. You aren't just fighting zombies; you have various objectives from the CRC to... progress and escape. The zombies react to every sound they're close enough to hear, so you have to be careful and strategic. Sounds can draw them near you, but you can also use sound to your advantage.

I can't lie, playing No More Room in Hell 2 with hi-res headphones (i.e. 1More Sonoflow Pro) was incredibly nerve-racking. The game, developed by Torn Banner Studios, is a co-op horror experience that places you in a world overrun by the... undead. The immersive sound design is as important to the gameplay as other features, and playing with headphones amplifies this aspect to a whole new level when you aren't playing with a surround sound system. Grab popcorn for this first run + commentary!

With surround sound... you can hear zombies coming from various angles. This is beneficial because it gives you a heads-up on what's coming, but it also adds one helluva layer of paranoia. I found myself tucking my neck and feeling constantly on edge during the entire gameplay. Torn Banner Studios is headed in the right direction with this second installment.

Overall, my intial experience with No More Room in Hell 2 was both entertaining and nerve-racking. And I highly recommend something more than standard stereo speakers to enjoy the game's sound design. It adds a layer of immersion that makes the horror elements even more effective. While there are some aspects that could be added, such as the ability to start with an ally, the game shows great promise and is definitely worth considering if you're a fan of FPS multiplayer horror games.

You can get... No More Room in Hell 2 for $29.99 on PC now!

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