Showing posts with label Indie Games. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Indie Games. Show all posts

FTS: Rami Ismail & Mystic Forge Reveal "Australia Did It," a Genre-Bending Action-Strategy Game Coming This Year (PC)

 

RAMI ISMAIL AND MYSTIC FORGE UNVEIL AUSTRALIA DID IT, A GENRE-DEFYING ACTION-STRATEGY GAME

Tower Defense and Reverse Bullet Hell collide in this radical new creation – the Tactical Reverse Bullet Hell – launching on Steam later this year!

UTRECHT, Netherlands - Sept. 3, 2025 - In a time when risk-taking in the video game industry feels increasingly rare, Australia Did It crashes through convention with a new genre all its own: the Tactical Reverse Bullet Hell. Published by boutique label Mystic Forge, this unique new game, coming to Steam later this year, enhances the thoughtful play of Turn-Based Tower Defense with a unique unit-merging system and explosive on-rails Reverse Bullet Hell combat. Carefully strategize to withstand relentless enemy waves, then unleash sensory overload as you become the Bullet Hell, mowing down thousands in dazzling chaos.

Designed as a compact, experimental take on the strategy genre, Australia Did It challenges genre conventions and industry caution in equal measure. Created by acclaimed designer Rami Ismail (Nuclear ThroneLuftrausers) and co-developed by Aesthetician Labs, the game marks a return to small-team innovation and genre-pushing ambition at a time when the industry sorely needs it.

The project began with a challenge: stay small, take risks, and build something that doesn’t need to fit a mold.

“I believe the games industry has been failing at supporting developer innovation and experimentation,” said Ismail.

 “Publishers, investors, and shareholders fund the same few safe bets, later and later in development - forcing even the most creative developers to make safe games with predictable ideas, and force in the latest flavour-of-the-day. That continues until someone does manage to break the mold and creates something truly new - and then the money chases that until that is replaced again. I had very low hopes for this odd prototype I’d been playing with, but when I showed it to Mystic Forge, they didn’t even flinch at the experimental genre mix, wrote the check for a small development cycle, and supported us throughout development. No guardrails, no caveats, just a firm belief that games need new ideas, and that it is worth chasing that.”

Mystic Forge, the new indie publisher created by founding members of Good Shepherd Entertainment, veterans behind titles like Monster TrainFriday the 13thJohn Wick Hex, and the Transport Fever series, was launched to do exactly that - support bold projects by teams they believe in. With Australia Did It, the publisher took a deliberately hands-off approach.

“From the very start, I knew that Mystic Forge had to run with Rami going up to bat and taking a big creative swing with this game. Once we chatted about design intent with the focus on high-tension moments and heard his full pitch with the proposed title name, we were ALL IN,” said Randy Greenback, Portfolio Director at Mystic Forge. “Mystic Forge exists to support ideas that deserve to be seen and played, especially if they don’t follow the rules. Australia Did It is experimental, there isn't anything else like it.”

Set in a drained Atlantic Ocean basin following a mysterious catastrophic event, Australia Did It casts players as hired mercenaries defending a cargo train as it navigates through a monster-ridden drained seabed. Your mission? Escort precious cargo across this hostile terrain by holding off endless waves of enemies at every station. If the shipment arrives intact, we’ll call it a win. Whether you survive or not.

Game Features:

  • Defend Your Station: Before the train departs, strategically deploy and position your limited units to hold off relentless waves of enemies. Think chess, but faster and with potentially explosive mistakes.
  • Evolve Your Units: Merge units on the fly to unlock 1,500+ combinations across 30+ unit types. Create ridiculously powerful new units or niche specialists. Experimentation is key….. just try not to blow yourself up.
  • Survive The Reverse Bullet Hell: Once the train’s moving, chaos begins. Engage in intense real-time battles where you become the Bullet Hell, mowing down thousands in sensory-overload shootouts. Remember, only the cargo’s survival is mandatory.
  • Customize Your Strategies: After each successful station, choose from special Reward Cards that grant substantial perks and boosts. Craft unique builds by mixing cards with your evolving crew for creative new strategies.

Australia Did It will be available on PC via Steam later this year.



Wuchang: Fallen Feathers – Survive the Madness, Level Up Like a Legend!

Wuchang: Fallen Feathers for PC + Console!

Curious what it’s like to survive in a plague-ridden nightmare teeming with spiritual corruption? Enjoy the gameplay below. Get a raw look at combat by way of... enemy encounters, and the eerie beauty of Shu's cursed world.


 Welcome to Shu, Where Every Step Could Be Your Last 

The world of Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is no stranger to despair. Set in the late Ming Dynasty, its version of China has been disfigured by the mysterious “Feathering Disease,” a supernatural plague that distorts bodies and fractures minds. From shadow-infested alleys to sunken temples, Shu is as treacherous as it is beautiful—and every corner feels like it’s watching you.

You take on the role of Bai Wuchang, a memory-fractured pirate with a brutal edge and a spiritual burden. But don’t expect overpowered heroics. The game’s design is punishing by nature. Combat demands tactical reflexes, whether you’re testing one of five weapon types or triggering momentum-based perks like Skyborn Might. Layer that with the Madness system—where overexposure to corruption risks spawning a vengeful version of yourself—and some encounters become psychological warfare. My progress orb is waiting down in an area that I'm unsure I can reach. I fell over while fighting an enemy... so you know what my mission is. This happened right after beating a boss character!


 Leveling Up in a World That Wants You Dead 

In Wuchang, leveling up isn’t just about grinding—it’s about surviving smarter. The currency you need is Red Mercury, and one of the best ways to farm it is in the Mt. Zhenwu region, specifically the Avian Marsh.

Here’s how to make it rain Red Mercury:

  • Target the Giant Pearl Oysters: These sneaky swamp dwellers hide in water and ambush you. But if you strike first while they’re dormant, you can pop them out and go full seafood chef on their exposed pearls.

  • Each oyster drops ~2,750 Red Mercury, and you can take down two per run.

  • Add in regular enemies, and you’re looking at 8,000+ Red Mercury every 2 minutes.

  • Boost your Madness stat to earn even more—but beware, you’ll take more damage too.

  • Pro tip: Use ranged magic to trigger oysters safely, then rush in for the kill. Rinse, repeat, and watch your stats climb.

For late-game players, the Zhenwu Antechamber offers even juicier rewards. Mutants and bird monsters clash in the courtyard—take out both sides for 10,000+ Red Mercury per run. It’s tougher, but the payout is worth the sweat.

Wuchang: Fallen Feathers doesn’t hold your hand—it throws you into the fire and dares you to breakdance. But with the right strategy, you can rise above the madness and carve your legend into the cursed soil of Shu. So gear up, farm smart, and... game on!


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PC Gaming Show 2025 Recap: A Celebration of PC Gaming Excellence

The PC Gaming Show 2025 has once again delivered a spectacular showcase of upcoming titles, thrilling announcements, and jaw-dropping surprises. Hosted by Mica Burton, Sean “Day” Plott, and Frankie Ward, the event was packed with over 70 games, ranging from indie gems to blockbuster franchises. Whether you're into roguelikes, co-op shooters, survival sims, or rhythm action, this year's show had something for almost everyone. Before we dive into the biggest reveals, experience the excitement firsthand:

 The Big Reveals: Showstoppers That Stole the Spotlight 

Ambrosia Sky

A haunting sci-fi adventure that blends action with deep storytelling. Players take on the role of Dalia, a deep-space disaster specialist tasked with cleaning up an alien fungus infestation in a crumbling space colony. This game promises a unique mix of survival mechanics and emotional depth.

Far Far West

Think Left 4 Dead meets the Wild West—this 4-player co-op FPS lets players blast spectral bandits, sling spells, and complete daring contracts. With a mix of gunslinging and magic, this one is shaping up to be a chaotic, action-packed ride.

Spirit X Strike

flashy, fast-paced action game where players chain free-flowing combos to defeat enemies. With Early Access launching June 20, this title promises intense combat and stylish visuals.

Ratatan

From the creators of Patapon, this vibrant rhythm roguelike action game brings colorful visuals, wild multiplayer, and infectious beats. With online co-op supporting up to 4 players, expect fast-paced battles and strategic rhythm-based gameplay.

Den of Wolves

From the minds behind Payday and GTFO, this co-op heist FPS is set in a techno-thriller future. Players take on high-stakes missions, navigating a world of corporate espionage and cybercrime.

 Additional Eye Catchers: Games That Left a Lasting Impression 

Moonlighter 2

The sequel to Moonlighter, this dungeon-crawling shopkeeper sim adds Soulslike elements and expanded management mechanics. The original game, released in 2018, was praised for its blend of action and economy simulation.

Neverwinter Nights 2: Enhanced Edition

The legendary Dungeons & Dragons RPG returns with a full 3.5e ruleset and enhanced visuals. Originally released in 2006, this classic has been a staple for RPG fans, offering deep storytelling, tactical combat, and endless modding possibilities.

Stars of Icarus

A spiritual successor to Guns of Icarus, this game focuses on anime-inspired ship combat in space. The Guns of Icarus series, known for its team-based airship battles, has been a fan favorite since 2012.

Anno 117: Pax Romana

The latest entry in the Anno series, this city-building strategy game takes players to the Roman Empire. The Anno franchise, dating back to 1998, has been a cornerstone of economic simulation and historical strategy.

Paralives

A life-sim challenger to The Sims, featuring detailed building tools, curved walls, and emotional depth. With a December 8 release date, this indie darling is shaping up to be a must-play for simulation fans.

The PC Gaming Show 2025 was a wild ride of creativity, chaos, and unforgettable reveals. From AAA expansions to off-the-wall indies, there’s something for every kind of gamer to look forward to. Add these games to the list of others revealed in previous showcases where PC gamers are also getting the love. Whether you're wishlist-ing your next favorite game or diving into fresh demos, this year's showcase proved that PC gaming is still as great an option as ever!

Stay tuned as Summer of Gaming continues here at SDGT Entertainment! In the mean time, here are the lastest free games! Game on! 🎮🔥


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Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – A Stunning RPG Powered by Unreal Engine 5

In the world of gaming, visuals and storytelling go hand in hand, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is... a prime example of how Unreal Engine 5 can bring a dark fantasy world to life with breathtaking detail. Developed by Sandfall Interactive, this turn-based RPG blends strategic combat with real-time action mechanics, delivering a cinematic experience that feels both fresh and familiar.

A Game That’s as Beautiful as It Is Brutal

Set in a fictionalized Belle Époque France, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 follows a group of warriors fighting against the Paintress, a mysterious entity that erases people from existence every year. The game’s rich environments, intricate character designs, and fluid animations showcase the power of Unreal Engine 5, allowing players to immerse themselves in a world that feels alive.

The Role of Unreal Engine in Modern RPGs

Game engines like Unreal Engine 5 have revolutionized RPG development, enabling studios—big and... small—to craft high-fidelity worlds with dynamic lighting, realistic textures, and seamless animations. Sandfall Interactive has leveraged Nanite technology for ultra-detailed environments and Lumen lighting to create atmospheric scenes that enhance the emotional depth of the story.

        

A Soundtrack That Sets the Mood

The original soundtrack of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is undeniably a quality piece of work in itself and fits the game’s tone... well. The music serves up something different for your ears to absorb, complementing the high-stakes battles and melancholic themes of the story.

Whether it’s the haunting orchestral pieces or the pulse-pounding battle tracks, the OST adds another layer to the experience. As an indie developer, they really knocked this out of the park... especially for their first title.

Overall, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a testament to what indie studios can achieve with cutting-edge software as tool to wield with those skills. Sandfall Interactive has crafted a visually stunning, emotionally gripping RPG that stands out in a genre full of giants. Whether you’re drawn in by the art direction, the combat mechanics, or the soundtrack, this game is a must-play for RPG fans looking for something bold and unique.

Check out - Inside the development journey of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33


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