FTS: DON'T NOD's Wholesome Adventure Game "Koira" Releases Today (PC, PS5)

 

DON’T NOD Releases Koira, a Wholesome Adventure Game from Studio Tolima, Available Today on Steam & PlayStation 5

Watch the launch trailer now and begin your journey through an enchanted forest with an adorable puppy companion!

PARIS – April 1, 2025 – DON’T NOD and Studio Tolima are excited to launch Koira on Steam and PlayStation 5 today, with a launch discount of 10% on Steam until April 14. Koira is a heartwarming, hand-drawn adventure featuring a lost forest spirit and her new puppy friend. Together they must journey to safety in the heart of the enchanted forest, solving puzzles, finding friends, and avoiding the hunters lurking along the way.

Koira is a beautifully crafted experience, brought to life with hand-drawn animations and an atmospheric soundtrack that enhances its emotional depth. The game tells a touching story without the use of text, relying instead on visuals, sound, and animation to create a universally accessible narrative. As players explore the enchanted forest, they will uncover hidden secrets, solve environmental puzzles, and build a deep connection between the forest spirit and her puppy companion.

Support the Devs Bundle

Players have the option to support the developers at Studio Tolima by purchasing the Support the Devs Bundle on Steam, which contains the game and 10 pieces of concept art which can be used as wallpapers.

“Bringing Koira to players has been an incredible journey for our team. From the very beginning, we set out to create a universal and emotional adventure and we’re pleased to finally share it with the world. We hope Koira resonates with everyone and leaves a lasting impression, just as it has on us while making it,” said Ben Lega, Founder and Director at Studio Tolima.

Game & Bundle Pricing

The Koira base game is priced at $17.99 / €17.99 before discounts. A 10% launch discount is available on Steam until April 14.

The Support the Devs Bundle, which includes the base game, is priced at $19.99 / €19.99. Since the bundle includes the game, the 10% launch discount also applies on Steam until April 14.

Introducing the Adorable Koira Puppy Plush!

In collaboration with Makeship, a plush of Koira’s puppy will be available to purchase starting April 3! Players can have a cute companion of their very own for $29.99 USD from Makeship’s website.

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Howard the Duck: Sleuth Series - The Comeback We Didn’t Know We Needed

Alright, hear me out on why... Howard the Duck deserves a full-on comeback, and not just in some blink-and-you’ll-miss-it cameo in Guardians of the Galaxy or a What If...? episode. No, I’m talking about a full-blown, mind-bending, noir-style detective series where Howard isn’t just a punchline... he’s the feathered Sherlock Holmes we never knew we needed.

Now, I get it. Some of you might only know Howard from that infamously weird 1986 movie (yeah… that one), but trust me... he has some serious potential. Imagine a gritty, yet hilarious detective show where Howard navigates the bizarre corners of the Marvel Universe, solving crimes too weird for even Doctor Strange to bother with. It can either be live action or CGI. Give it some True Detective energy, but with talking ducks, interdimensional conspiracies, and the kind of sharp, sarcastic humor that keeps you hooked. It's different enough to not feel like a carbon copy of another series'.

 Here’s why this could work: 

For the mystery lovers – If you’re into detective stories that actually make you think (Sherlock, Knives Out, Cased Closed, The Batman), a well-written Howard series could deliver those same who-done-it thrills with a Marvel twist. If cases cover multiple episodes, with a massive case for each season... it would keep us hungry for more. It doesn't have to be along running series until it ceases to make sense, unless they're able to make it make sense. I believe it's possible to keep the party going, but it makes more sense to wrap it up before it loses steam.

For the comedy fans – Howard’s humor is dry, sarcastic, and perfectly self-aware. A show that leans into the absurdity of a talking duck detective without making it ridiculous could be comedy gold, but... they have avoid the risk of lame from creeping in. This would really increase the interests of the show, especially with a solid hosts of writers and cast members that can set it off.

For the Marvel diehards – He’s already been teased in the MCU. Imagine the crazy Marvel characters he could cross paths with... maybe even running into Blade, Moon Knight or Jessica Jones on a case? He can go anywhere, let someone else be his cameo for a change.

For anyone who loves something different – We’ve had superheroes, time travel, and multiverses... why not a noir-style, intergalactic detective story starring a cynical duck with a knack for solving the impossible? He can take cases throughout the galaxy and beyond, but... he can return home after cases to keep things grounded.

It’s time for Marvel to stop... ducking around and give Howard his moment. This isn’t just nostalgia bait... it could be a coool opportunity to bring something fresh, clever, and genuinely unique into the MCU lineup on Disney+. Whether you’re a longtime Howard fan or just looking for something different from the usual superhero formula, this is a series that could quack—I mean, crack—the case wide open.

 + Sophi 

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Assassin's Creed Shadows: The Second Coming of Tenchu? Check it out!

Ubisoft's latest release, Assassin's Creed Shadows, marks a fresh yet nostalgic chapter in the long-running Assassin's Creed series. Shadows stands apart from its predecessors by diving deep into the covert artistry of feudal Japanese assassins, an era beloved by fans but never fully explored in this franchise... until now. But for gamers like myself... who grew up with stealth-action classics like Tenchu, Shadows feels eerily familiar in the best way possible.

Tenchu, a series that graced consoles decades ago, is remembered as the blueprint for stealth games set in Japan. It was a franchise where shadows were your allies and silence your weapon. Players infiltrated fortresses, crept across rooftops, and eliminated targets with graceful precision... all while avoiding detection. Fans of Tenchu have long yearned for its revival, and while Shadows isn’t a direct continuation, it feels like spiritual successor territory.

One thing that still cracks me up to this day... is the fact that targets would just go eat the poisoned onigiri/rice balls that you'd throw on the ground. There's a random meal sitting in the dirt, and they wander over like, "Oh great, dinner has arrived."

Anyway, Ubisoft has successfully captured Tenchu-like elegance within the expansive Assassin's Creed framework. With features such as grappling hooks, traditional Japanese weaponry like shurikens and kunai, and terrain that challenges your agility, it seems to pay homage to the classic Tenchu mechanics while modernizing them. The thrill of sneaking past patrolling samurai and infiltrating dimly lit castles will certainly ignite nostalgia for those who played Tenchu back in the day. That's coming from a Tenchu VET.

Of course, Ubisoft didn’t strip away the Assassin's Creed soul to make Shadows. Instead, it evolved the series’ signature elements to complement Japanese aesthetics. Parkour remains fluid but is adapted to steep temple roofs and bamboo forests. The immersive storytelling, filled with conspiracies and historical intrigue, intertwines perfectly with the code of the ninja. It’s a marriage of two worlds... Tenchu’s stealth and Assassin’s Creed’s vast, open-world adventure.

Additionally, Shadows dives deeper into the morality of being an assassin. Like Tenchu’s moral undertones of protecting innocents while dismantling corruption, Shadows incorporates Japanese honor and the balance between justice and vengeance. It's a thoughtful approach that fleshes out its protagonists as more than just killers.

For longtime Tenchu fans, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a bittersweet experience. It evokes fond memories of a bygone franchise while paving the way for something fresh, although I'd support a new Tenchu entry in a... heartbeat. Ubisoft has masterfully blended nostalgia with innovation, delivering a stealth game that feels timeless yet modern. If Tenchu was the Jonin of Japanese stealth gaming, Shadows may well be a Genin carrying on its legacy.

So, as players don their hoods and embrace the shadows, one thing is certain... Ubisoft has crafted not just a game, but a title that feels like an homage to the art of stealth. Assassin's Creed Shadows reminds me of why I fell in love with sneaking through feudal Japan all those years ago.

In addition to the stealth action of Assassin's Creed Shadows, you also experience the intense, up-close combat of the blade-wielding real-life legend, Yasuke. This combination adds the perfect variety to the gameplay. And if you check out the map once you venture out and you spot pictures by "Baby Fury," that's me! That said, snap some cool pictures, get creative, and add to the fun! By the way, Assassin's Creed Shadows has achieved overwhelming success right out of the gate, and I’m excited to dive even deeper into the action to take on... The Shinbakufu. Anyway, if you get your hands on the game, stay on alert... and game on! (POOF!) [Vanished leaving behind a bag of gummies]

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FTS: Graffiti's Monster-Taming RPG "Creature Keeper" Launches May 8 on Steam

 

MONSTER-TAMING RPG CREATURE KEEPER LAUNCHES ON STEAM MAY 8

Befriend dozens of lovable Creatures and restore balance to Thera in this charming, retro-inspired, RPG adventure

VANCOUVER, British Columbia – March 17, 2025 – Publisher Graffiti Games and developer Fervir Games are thrilled to announce that the new monster-taming RPG Creature Keeper will launch on Steam on May 8, 2025! The news was revealed with a new trailer in the online MIX Spring Game Showcase. Befriend unique Creatures, customize your playstyle for battle, and save the world in this retro-inspired action-RPG adventure!

To keep players excited between now and then, starting tomorrow, March 18, Graffiti Games will begin unveiling a Creature each day on Twitter/X until the game's launch on May 8!

Today’s announcement is a full-circle moment for solo developer Fervir and Graffiti Games, having originally revealed their partnership at the MIX Showcase in 2022. A true labor of love, the game started as a Kickstarter campaign that raised over $50k from over 1,800 backers. The game has built a notable community since, having been featured in showcases like The MIX, Future of Play, Tiny Teams, and most notably the 2023 OTK Games Expo, where Creature Keeper took home the “Staff Pick” prize and a $25k development grant from the OTK team.

About Creature Keeper

Welcome to Thera, a magical land filled with fifty fantastical Creatures to train and fight alongside in epic tactical combat. Embark on an adventure to restore balance and stop a sickness from bringing calamity to the world. You can’t save Thera alone though – you’ll need to form a team of unique Creatures to help you on your journey!

To take on the Corruption, you’ll have to level up your party, discover new skills and buffs, and learn all about Creatures through your battles and experiences. Befriend various Creatures like the adorable Amphibiole, the powerful Molectus, the gigantic Lutras, the jacked Swolfe, and the almighty Bep - it’s up to you to build your team and power it up if you hope to overcome the challenges ahead!

Key Features

• Build Your Team & Fight: Assemble your dream team by befriending a variety of unique Creatures to fight alongside you in real time. Choose your Creatures wisely to best handle any challenge that stands in your way!
• Customize Your Creatures: Create powerful, diverse, and stylish playstyles through gameplay-altering skill gems, perks, weapons and more while looking the part with tons of hats to dress your Creatures up in.
• Potent Plant Power: Use your Pocket Garden to grow food and create helpful Connection Bonuses for your Creatures in an engaging organization mini-game.
• Knowledge Is Strength: Fill out your Bestiary on the fifty unique Creatures in Thera to unlock powerful buffs and items for your party.
• An Epic Journey Awaits: Explore the vast world of Thera and all its secrets as you take on your quest of destiny.

Creature Keeper is available to wishlist now on Steam. The game is also in development for Nintendo Switch.

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Hey Blu: Is it safe to... Uninstall Origin now that I have the EA app?

If you're unsure about whether you should uninstall EA's Origin app, no need to worry... it's safe to get rid of the Origin software now that you have the EA app. Regular EA supporters may look at this and wonder why someone would ask this, but... some gamers don't play EA games regularly and may have purchased a game recently (through another platform) like, Split Fiction.

You know how EA is, you have to open their software in order to play their games purchased through other platforms (Ubisoft is also in this boat), so this is a clear as day answer to put an end to the confusion some have.

EA designed the EA app to replace Origin (duh of the day), but the cool thing is that your game library, progress, and settings should have carried over seamlessly. Open the EA app + Sign in before you uninstall Origin... just to make sure (and put your mind at ease). If you don't see your games, it may be a different account that you're signed into, but if you're already signed into your EA account with Origin it should automatically detect it.

Opening Origin should give you a prompt to help you move on to the new EA app.

Buying a new game via an app like the Epic Games Store app or Steam, should prompt you to install the EA app. Origin won't come up at all, and there won't be any parts of Origin that the EA app will require in order for it to run and play your older EA titles. You may see the warning from Origin about this, but that's based on that being the primary platform at that time. It's safe to let it go and recover the space on your drive. By the way, EA will discontinue Origin in April 2025.

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Level Up Your Date Nights: The Unexpected Perks of Arcade Fun!

Date nights are essential in any relationship. While traditional outings like dinner and a movie have their charm... for sure, why not add a twist and embrace the vibrant world of video game arcades? Here are some unexpected benefits that couples can enjoy by including an arcade visit to the mix to level up their date nights:

 Rekindle Childhood Joys 

Stepping into an arcade can transport you back to simpler times, tapping into the pure joy and excitement of childhood. Sharing this nostalgic experience with your partner can create a unique bond, reminding you both of the fun and carefree moments that first brought you together. I know there is always someone in the room who will say that they've never been too an arcade or they've never played a game, but... there's nothing wrong with going out to enjoy quality time by way of a new experience!

 Friendly Competition 

A little friendly competition can be incredibly invigorating for a relationship as well. Whether you're battling it out in... air hockey, playing pool, arcade basketball, racing against each other in a driving game, or teaming up to conquer a co-op mission, the playful rivalry adds a dynamic layer to your interaction, that may foster a... deeper connection.

 Stress Relief 

Life's daily stresses can take a toll on even the strongest relationships at times. Arcades offer a fantastic (or... funtastic) way to blow off steam and unwind. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the physical and mental engagement of the games, provide a nice escape. Sometimes that's all you need to take the edge off, along with some serious laughter. If you're going out to have fun... (actually) have fun!

 Communication and Teamwork 

Multiplayer arcade games increase their difficulty with every person who joins the action, requiring teamwork to succeed. Adding communication increases the chances getting further as well. Working together to solve puzzles, defeat virtual enemies, or achieve high scores can strengthen your partnership skills. It’s a fun and engaging way to improve your collaboration and understanding of each other... in some form by identify how you approach problems and solutions together in a fun way.

 Spontaneity and Adventure 

Arcades bring an element of spontaneity and adventure to date night. The diverse range of games and activities ensures that there's something for everyone, making each visit a new and exciting experience. This sense of unpredictability can keep your relationship fresh and exciting. Maybe the winner chooses where you go for dinner or dessert! Winner winner... steak for dinner?

 Physical Activity 

While not all arcade games are physically demanding, many do require movement and coordination. Dance games, interactive sports like arcade basketball, and virtual reality experiences can get you both moving and having a blast. It's a fun way to get active together without the formality of a gym. Nothing too crazy though... especially if the night is still young.

 Affordable Fun 

Compared to some traditional date options, arcade visits are often more budget-friendly. This means you can enjoy a fantastic night out without breaking the bank. Plus, the emphasis on experiences rather than material things can lead to more meaningful memories. Which is why some of us loved gaming in the arcades and with others via couch co-op.

Here are some places worth considering in Orlando, Florida if you want to add some arcade fun to your date night if want a break from the parks:

Dezerland Park Orlando

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games

Top Golf also has an arcade, but... our focus is launching balls into space! By the way, they have a new limited-time Block Party game based on Marvel Studio's Captain America: Brave New World. It gives you multiple areas to score as your balls move from tile to tile. See: Topgolf deals to save!

I didn't forget about you, consider checking out some of your local video game arcades! Wouldn't hurt to incorporate a visit into your date nights every now and then based on the fun and other benefits. Plus you may come across other fun loving couples as well. Game on!

 + Sophi 

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DRAGON BALL Z: KAKAROT - DAIMA - Adventure Through The Demon Realm PACK: A Vibrant and Fun Experience

The latest DLC for DRAGON BALL Z: KAKAROT, titled "DAIMA - Adventure Through The Demon Realm PACK," is a vibrant and fun addition to the game. Priced at over $30, the adventures in this DLC are based on the Dragon Ball DAIMA anime available on Netflix. If you have Netflix, it's definitely worth checking out. However, if you want to experience the story for the first time through gaming, this is your best bet. The adaptations are getting better and better aren't they? Bandai Namco can easily pop their collar in this anime-to-video game category.

In Dragon Ball DAIMA, Goku (Mini) and his friends embark on a rescue mission into the demon realm. During their adventure, they also work to regain their strength and return to their adult forms. Whether they should be thanking Dabura for hitting rewind on their age is debatable, but I digress.

The storyline for the DAIMA: Adventure is set between the events of Dragon Ball Z and the start of Dragon Ball Super, providing a unique narrative experience for fans.

"Immerse yourself in the Demon Realm! Experience the world of Dragon Ball DAIMA through the eyes of Goku (Mini). Walk through the intricate landscapes of the Demon World, meet new friends, fight new enemies, and discover new mysteries." - Bandai Namco Entertainment

The DAIMA: Adventure Through The Demon Realm Pack includes the following content:

• DAIMA: Adventure Through the Demon Realm Part 1 (July-Sep 2025)

• DAIMA: Adventure Through the Demon Realm Part 2 (Jan-Mar 2026)

• DAIMA: Adventure Through the Demon Realm Pack Bonus Items: Ultimate Meat Feast, Mega Sacred Water, Purple Dino Horn, and Awakening Water

This DLC offers a full-blown adventure that differs from the main Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot game. So, if you're a fan of the anime or a newcomer, strap in for some fun in the Demon Realm. Keep in mind that not all DLC are created equal—they vary by type and ofcourse pricing. Developers that serve up high priced fluff have another opportunity to take notes. (Yeah, I said it!)

There can be an argument that the experience is split into two parts forcing you to come back at later time to experience the full adventure, but... we'll see how this pays off. If you're a fan of TWD game franchise, then you're no stranger to this. Follow me into the business developer's realm for a second. While you can't just take it all in at once (mind out of the gutter), it could be a tactic for extended engagement thanks to a potential marketing strategy, and... it allows for the dev team to be able deliver the quality content we desire because the time is there to do so.

* You will need DBZ: Kakarot on Console or PC to play the DLC!

To the Devs: This could result in some gamer's waiting until its available in full.

Anyway, if you're a fan of Dragon Ball DAIMA, power up and... game on!

 + Sophi 

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Blu39 - Let's Go! (Clarissa Vibes)