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"12-Month Balatro Calendar Featuring Ben Starr as Supportive Jimbo"
“12-Month Balatro Calendar Featuring Ben Starr as Supportive Jimbo”
11:33 pm

**Ben Starr Returns to Portray Jimbo in New Balatro Calendar**

In a delightful homage to the Balatro realm, Ben Starr has reprised his legendary role as Jimbo, the cherished mascot of the game, in a fresh 12-month calendar. This distinctive calendar, showcasing an array of Jokers from the game, is a partnership involving LocalThunk, Playstack, Fangamer, and Starr himself. Recognized for his roles in various promotional content, such as the “Friends of Jimbo” trailer, Starr’s participation stems purely from his passion for the Balatro universe, as affirmed by LocalThunk and Playstack.

The calendar serves not only as a collector’s item for enthusiasts but also as a philanthropic effort. All proceeds from Playstack and LocalThunk will be allocated to SpecialEffect and Extra Life. SpecialEffect is acclaimed for its efforts in improving the lives of those with physical disabilities through technology, while Extra Life provides essential healthcare funding to local member hospitals. Furthermore, Fangamer will donate $5 for every calendar sold through its store.

Additionally, Balatro has embarked on a crossover with the popular title Vampire Survivors. The update, named “The Ante Chamber,” is available at no cost and brings four new characters, including Jimbo, into the roguelike mayhem of Survivors.

The Balatro calendar can be exclusively purchased on Fangamer for $19 and is currently available. Fans of the game and advocates for the charities can buy it to relish a year of Jimbo and the Jokers while supporting significant causes.

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Early Access Sneak Peek of The Last Caretaker: A Steady Engagement
Early Access Sneak Peek of The Last Caretaker: A Steady Engagement
3:13 pm

When I initially encountered *The Last Caretaker*, I found myself a bit uncertain about its nature. From the trailers I had seen, I presumed it was a game focused on mechanical optimization—something akin to *Factorio*—but then it took a bizarre survival-horror turn that seemed more aligned with *The Forest*. Intrigued, I had to explore further.

I was taken aback by how deeply *The Last Caretaker* captivated me. It’s a title that conveys a tremendous sense of scale, yet it maintains a serene and carefully constructed atmosphere that almost becomes background noise, and before you realize it, you’ve invested hours into it. There’s plenty to appreciate about *The Last Caretaker*, along with a few issues that need addressing—fortunately, it remains in [Early Access](https://www.cgmagonline.com/tag/early-access/).

*The Last Caretaker* presents a relatively straightforward narrative. Players assume the role of a robotic assistant who awakens on a forsaken rig adrift in a vast ocean. With no obvious signs of life around, the player is charged with mending a docked vessel and venturing into the sea in hopes of re-establishing connections with any remaining functional systems—and potentially saving the life that exists on this submerged planet.

It’s a remarkable introduction, adeptly capturing the atmosphere and essence of the game while unveiling aspects of its narrative through player interaction. The player is solitary in a realm that is both unwelcoming and barren, laboring diligently to maintain some small portion of it. There’s nothing particularly terrifying about the experience, yet an unremitting sense of obligation prevails—because you are, quite literally, the last remaining entity to act.

As a robot, the player swiftly comprehends the methodical, repetitive cadence of the story through gameplay, but in a manner that feels tranquil and fulfilling. Although players technically operate under a time constraint, there’s no real urgency—robots are ageless. The tasks of exploration, building, and restoration come effortlessly, as if they are merely part of the Caretaker’s inherent design. Players are, in essence, fulfilling its purpose. There are mysteries to uncover regarding what transpired in the world, and outcomes for tasks performed well or poorly, but everything progresses so seamlessly that I eventually ceased to focus intently—without ever experiencing detachment.

The gameplay presents a rewarding blend of exploration, mining, and crafting, albeit in a somewhat unconventional fashion. Players traverse extensive oceans in search of structures containing items that can be dismantled into scraps to craft more valuable and efficient tools. Certain locations necessitate electricity to operate machinery or unlock doors, and players can either scavenge for old batteries or develop sophisticated systems to facilitate exploration.

At its essence, *The Last Caretaker* revolves around connections. One of the key items players can discover or create is cable, available in various types. Establishing energy sources and efficiently running cables enhances the game’s technical complexity, but it also aligns thematically. I couldn’t help but chuckle when I realized I was losing health because my battery level had plummeted, necessitating that I connect to a power source.

“The Last Caretaker is the first explorative crafting game in a long time that resonated with me as *No Man’s Sky* did.”

Nevertheless, *The Last Caretaker* centers on building connections throughout a waterlogged world—gradually reviving it by energizing abandoned structures, discovering means to create artificial life, and eventually launching that life into space to provide it an opportunity for sustainable growth. The gameplay loop is so engaging that it becomes almost instinctual; it transforms into a part of your programming.

However, *The Last Caretaker* also incorporates combat, which is subpar. It leaves me wishing it were entirely absent. Players begin with a weak melee attack, which is inexplicably assigned to the C key on PC by default. Given that most enemies are merely puddles of goo, striking anything feels insubstantial and lacks impact. The melee hitbox is also deceptive, rendering exploration in hostile settings particularly unenticing.

It doesn’t take long before you can craft a firearm, yet the guns themselves feel nearly ineffective—the initial Electricity Gun you acquire depletes batteries so rapidly that you’re fortunate if you can defeat one goo pile before it’s entirely drained. I feel that if *The Last Caretaker* aims to emulate anything from [*No Man’s Sky*](https://www.cgmagonline.com/articles/features/learned-stop-worrying-love-no-mans-sky/), it should provide players with some form of ranged weapon from the outset or SIGNIFICANTLY downplay combat.

In terms of visuals, there isn’t much to elaborate on regarding *The Last Caretaker*. Its graphics are striking yet fairly conventional.

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Fortnite Unveils Collaboration with The Simpsons Featuring New Battle Pass and Disney+ Shorts
Fortnite Unveils Collaboration with The Simpsons Featuring New Battle Pass and Disney+ Shorts
6:53 am

Epic Games has unveiled a thrilling new crossover event in Fortnite, enabling players to venture into Springfield from The Simpsons. This partnership, which commenced on November 1st, brings forth a cel-shaded map, a fresh Battle Pass, and exclusive Disney+ shorts. The event will continue throughout November, featuring numerous surprises.

The 80-player Springfield Island provides a distinctive Battle Royale experience, filled with legendary spots such as Moe’s Tavern and the Springfield Nuclear Power Plant. Players can look forward to massive donuts and new weapons inspired by The Simpsons. The enhanced map is crafted to fully immerse players in the Springfield universe.

The Springfield Battle Pass contains premium rewards including outfits for Homer, Marge, and Flanders, along with alternate styles like Evil Homer. The pass is priced at 1,000 V-Bucks and introduces Fortnite’s inaugural Sidekick, Peels. Additional rewards encompass the Kang and Kodos glider, a Twitch drop wrap, and the Fuel Rod and Tongs pickaxe.

Every week, a new Simpsons short will be launched, furthering the narrative where Homer misuses a component of the Zero Point. These shorts will be accessible on the Fortnite YouTube channel and Disney+. The event assures a month filled with excitement and nostalgia for fans of both Fortnite and The Simpsons.

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Yuji Horii is the inaugural game designer to be awarded Japan's Autumn Honors.
Yuji Horii is the inaugural game designer to be awarded Japan’s Autumn Honors.
10:33 pm

Yuji Horii, the visionary behind the cherished Dragon Quest franchise, has been recognized with Japan’s esteemed Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, making him the first game designer to achieve such an honor. This recognition celebrates Horii’s nearly four decades of contributions to the gaming sector, especially through his involvement with the legendary role-playing game series that started in 1986. At the age of 71, Horii conveyed his appreciation to his devoted team and steadfast fans, acknowledging their part in his accomplishments.

The Order of the Rising Sun serves as Japan’s third-highest distinction, granted for exceptional service across various domains, excluding military fields. The higher accolades are the Order of the Chrysanthemum and the Order of the Paulownia Flowers, which are usually reserved for leaders and politicians.

Horii’s impact goes beyond Dragon Quest, as he was also instrumental in the development of the renowned 1995 title Chrono Trigger. This venture assembled a “Dream Team” of creators, featuring Hironobu Sakaguchi, famed for Final Fantasy, and the late Akira Toriyama, recognized for character design in Dragon Quest and the Dragon Ball manga series.

The newest installment in the Dragon Quest series, Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, has recently been released on various platforms, following the triumph of Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake, which became Japan’s top-selling game last year. This ongoing success highlights Horii’s lasting influence on the gaming industry.

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How Neural NPCs Are Elevating Player Engagement in Video Games: The Next Generation of AI Allies
How Neural NPCs Are Elevating Player Engagement in Video Games: The Next Generation of AI Allies
5:03 pm

Video games have consistently incorporated some level of artificial intelligence, evolving from basic enemy behaviors in early arcade games to sophisticated opponents in contemporary strategic titles. However, what we’re witnessing now transcends previous expectations. Neural networks, machine learning, and expansive language models are revolutionizing the thinking, actions, and dialogues of non-player characters (NPCs). Once mere background elements, they are now transforming into emotional, interactive companions capable of remembering, learning, and evolving alongside players.

Just as seeking a free $75 chip with no deposit in an online game introduces an element of unpredictability, AI companions inject a similar excitement into storytelling, making every dialogue and decision feel fresh and vibrant.

## From Written Lines to Real People

NPCs in classic games adhered to rigid scripts. A merchant would consistently welcome you in the same manner, and a party member’s loyalty would only shift at specific plot developments. These constraints rendered narratives straightforward but lacked surprises.

Neural networks are reshaping that paradigm. Developers are now able to instruct NPCs on behavior and emotional modeling, endowing each character with a distinctive personality. They don’t operate on a singular dialogue tree; they generate responses that consider the present context in real time. Neural Love Story, Inworld Origins, and AI Dungeon experiments demonstrate how players can engage in authentic conversations with digital entities that reply in a natural and sometimes humorous way.

It’s not merely about choosing from three dialogue options anymore; it’s about engaging in a conversation that feels genuine.

## The Emotional Level of Connection

Enhanced graphics won’t deepen your immersion; emotional reciprocity will. Neural companions can now discern tone, intent, and even past interactions. They remember your kindness, feelings of betrayal, and moments of silence.

Imagine a survival game where your AI partner recalls your previous disregard for their warnings and feels hesitant about trusting you again. Or a role-playing game where your partner reacts differently based on your consistent sarcasm. These subtle emotional interactions blur the line between coding and consciousness.

Affective computing is a sector of AI focused on identifying and imitating human emotions through voice, text, and gameplay behavior. Developers are experimenting with this concept. By integrating facial animation technologies such as MetaHuman or Unreal’s Live Link, you achieve companions that move and respond in a strikingly lifelike way.

## Learning Outside of the Script

Neural NPCs adapt based on player actions, unlike fixed code. They refine their responses using memory models and reinforcement learning. A character who battles alongside you in 50 conflicts may begin to anticipate your strategies or automatically shield your vulnerabilities.

It’s not solely about enhancing AI intelligence; it’s about genuine co-adaptation. Players learn to rely on their partners, and those partners shift to become essential. Games are evolving from “you control them” to “you collaborate with them.”

In systems like Shadow of Mordor’s Nemesis AI, we’ve observed early indications of enemies recalling past encounters. Neural companions extend this further, remembering everything about you, including successes, failures, and personality traits.

## The Storytelling Revolution

Dynamic AI characters elevate storytelling to unprecedented heights. Writers no longer need to predict the outcomes of every potential conversation. Instead, they instruct the AI on the game’s narrative, emotions, and ethical considerations, allowing it to establish its own parameters.

This narrative approach can lead to each player’s experience being distinct. In one playthrough, your best friend might be your adversary, while in another, your foe could become your closest ally. Developers aren’t required to script these scenarios manually.

Organizations like Inworld AI and Latitude are currently collaborating with narrative designers to strike the right balance between autonomy and coherence. This ensures the AI remains “in character” while still exuding spontaneity. In the near future, games might come with a disclaimer: “This story may differ for each player.”

## Problems on the Way

Naturally, this new level of immersion presents ethical and technical challenges.

Constraints on memory and performance: Monitoring intricate player-AI interactions demands significant resources. Developers must find a balance between realism and efficiency.

Narrative consistency: Without careful boundaries on AI improvisation, it can lead to dialogues that misalign with the overarching story or disrupt established rules.

Emotional dependence: Players may form deep attachments to their companions when they seem authentic. This can be heartwarming, but it can also complicate understanding.

The voice and text data utilized to enhance AI behavior raises concerns over how much a game should “know” about its players.

Studios will need robust ethical guidelines to manage these relationships responsibly. The industry has gleaned insights from the emergence of toxic online behaviors and social AI, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining boundaries, even in digital friendships.

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Essential Variations in Testing Android Compared to iOS for Novices
Essential Variations in Testing Android Compared to iOS for Novices
12:23 am

In the rapid-fire digital age we live in, mobile apps have woven themselves into the fabric of our daily lives. Whether it’s for social interaction, communication, banking, or shopping, every sector has been embraced by mobile applications. Our everyday activities have shifted to digital formats, and for each one, there exists an app in today’s marketplace. The speed of our technological adoption has been so swift that we scarcely noticed our growing reliance on it. Contemporary applications have unveiled a broad spectrum of opportunities for every task we undertake.

However, when considering the operating systems that support these applications, there are primarily two contenders: Android and iOS. Any mobile app targeting consumers must perform effectively on these two platforms. Therefore, app testing is crucial for success. If you’re engaged with this article, we presume you are in the process of developing an app for your business and looking into various ways to elevate its quality.

If your goal is to cover the entire market, you need to test your app on the aforementioned systems, Android and iOS. Yet, the testing methodologies differ significantly. What proves effective for one may not necessarily be suitable for the other. This is the insight we will delve into in this article, helping you grasp the distinctions between testing apps on Android versus iOS.

Overview of Android and iOS Platforms

Android is the most popular operating system worldwide for mobile devices, crafted by Google. It powers devices from manufacturers like Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus. Its ability to operate on various brands of devices has made it more popular than any other mobile OS currently available. It offers flexibility in hardware requirements and compatibility with numerous devices. If you are developing an app, it must function on Android while accommodating various devices, operating system versions, screen sizes, and resolutions. This diversity adds complexity to testing.

Conversely, iOS is a proprietary operating system created by Apple specifically for its devices, the iPhone and iPad. It operates within a closed ecosystem, as Apple produces its own hardware that runs this platform. It is not compatible with any devices outside of Apple’s lineup. Due to this specialized environment, testing on iOS tends to be less complicated. The hardware requirements are consistent, and regular updates and operating system versions are the norm.

Recognizing the fundamental contrasts in the features of these two operating systems aids developers and testers in aligning their testing strategies. Android necessitates a more fragmented testing approach, while iOS demands testing within a controlled environment.

Key Differences between Android and iOS Testing

While the compatibility of devices has been addressed, which influences testing directly, several additional factors must be taken into account when testing on these two platforms.

Testing Environments

The primary difference in testing strategies for both platforms lies in the environments where the apps are tested. For Android app testing, one may utilize emulators or actual devices. Emulators can manage basic test scenarios by mimicking various configurations of devices. However, no emulator can fully substitute the necessity of testing on real devices.

Conducting testing on Android in real-world circumstances brings forth additional insights. With the multitude of devices running Android, emulators alone may not suffice for all scenarios. Android Studio stands as one of the most prevalent tools for developing and testing apps available to you.

In the case of iOS testing, simulators might appear adequate due to the limited range of devices that run iOS. This simplification eases the tester’s job. A notable tool for this is Xcode, Apple’s official Integrated Development Environment (IDE), which provides integration with testing frameworks and debugging utilities.

App Installation and Deployment

There exists a notable difference in the installation and deployment processes for apps on Android compared to iOS. Android applications are deployed via APK files contained in a package. Testers can either install an app on their personal devices or distribute it through Google Play’s internal testing channels. Through these channels, testers can verify the success of the deployment and ensure that others can access the apps appropriately.

In contrast, iOS has a more limited deployment process.

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Ghost of Tsushima Launches Free DLC and Major Steam Deck Compatibility Enhancement
Ghost of Tsushima Launches Free DLC and Major Steam Deck Compatibility Enhancement
4:03 pm

Sucker Punch’s *Ghost of Tsushima* is gaining attention this week due to a major update on Steam, which boosts the game’s performance and introduces complete Steam Deck verification. This update distinguishes the single-player and online multiplayer modes, permitting players to obtain the *Legends* mode as a complimentary DLC. This adjustment aims to enhance stability and compatibility across devices. Existing players will experience no changes, while new players must activate the free *Legends* DLC to access the online multiplayer mode, which necessitates an active PlayStation Network Account.

The update, referred to as patch 8, also features numerous crash and bug resolutions, together with performance improvements for the Steam Deck. Sucker Punch has fine-tuned the graphics and modified the UI scaling for the platform’s more compact display. By separating *Legends* from the single-player campaign, the update addresses issues in certain regions where access to single-player content was impeded by the PSN ID requirement. Now, fans can enjoy the single-player mode without needing a PSN ID.

For additional information, fans can check the complete patch notes on Steam.

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Microsoft Broadens Gaming Initiatives with Extensive Showcase Calendar
Microsoft Broadens Gaming Initiatives with Extensive Showcase Calendar
7:43 am

Microsoft and Xbox have announced forthcoming showcases, creating opportunities to glimpse their future plans. The gaming green team has been scrutinized intensely over the past few months, especially after the recent launch of the new ROG Xbox Ally/X. Microsoft and Xbox have announced upcoming showcases, creating opportunities to glimpse their future plans. Their first-party studio lineup has been at its peak with *Ninja Gaiden 4*, *Keeper*, *The Outer Worlds 2*, and others meeting acclaim from both critics and gamers. Despite these recent successes, the lingering question remains: are the foundational Xbox principles and ideas obsolete?

Since Microsoft took over Activision Blizzard, both Microsoft and its gaming division have been grappling with a challenging situation in the gaming realm. Extensive layoffs, studio closures, price increases, speculation about aggressive and possibly unsustainable profitability goals, and rumors that they will cease producing traditional consoles have dominated Xbox’s recent headlines. These compounding issues have continued to erode public trust, yet the company persists in its tough journey—not providing any clues about *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*.

Tomorrow marks the start of several confirmed showcases slated for the next few months. IGN’s ID@Xbox showcase is scheduled for **October 28, 2025, at 10:00 am PT / 1:00 pm ET / 6:00 pm CET**—a significant venue for indie gaming. The 50-minute stream will feature gameplay, new trailers, and insights from some of the most cherished publishers as well as independent studios. Below is a list of confirmed studios and speculated games they will showcase tomorrow:

– **Cult Games** – *Blood Reaver, Awaysis*
– **Don’t Nod** – *Aphelion*
– **Hooded Horse** – *Whiskerwood, The Way of Wrath*
– **Pathea** – *My Time at Evershine*
– **PlaySide** – *MOUSE: P.I. For Hire, Game of Thrones: War for Westeros*
– **poncle** – Updates on *Vampire Survivors*
– **Raw Fury** – *The Séance of Blake Manor, ROUTINE, The Last Night*
– **Serenity Forge** – *Fractured Blooms*
– **Skybound Games** – *Goodnight Universe, Invincible VS*
– **Thunder Lotus Games** – *At Fate’s End*
– **Thunderful** – *REPLACED, Planet of Lana II*
– **Wired Productions** – *Beneath, Task Time*

Next, Windows Central’s Jez Corden disclosed that Microsoft is planning an Xbox Partner Preview showcase for sometime in November. They indicated that the “showcase will center on third-party titles from Microsoft’s publishing collaborators of various sizes, aiming to feature nearly entirely (if not completely) Xbox Play Anywhere titles.” Corden also speculated that Microsoft is attempting to encompass as many developers within its PC ecosystem via Xbox Play Anywhere since that “will likely become the standard environment for releasing titles on Xbox hardware moving forward.” This speculation is rooted in the intended uses of the ROG Xbox Ally and its higher-than-expected sales.

Moreover, Microsoft is anticipated to announce some news at The Game Awards on December 11th, 2025. At this point, no sources have disclosed what Microsoft might have in store for the largest gaming event of the year, whether it involves gameplay, ecosystem, or hardware announcements. Regardless, there are reportedly over 40 first-party titles currently in development. This could suggest that they will showcase some gameplay for major titles like *Fable, State of Decay 3,* and/or titles still under wraps.

Heading into January 2026, an Xbox Developer_Direct is expected to be broadcast at some point during the month. This is poised to be Microsoft’s largest reveal showcase to launch the new year, focusing on *Fable, Forza Horizon 6, Gears E-Day,* and *Halo: Campaign Evolved*. Microsoft has also utilized the Developer_Direct to occasionally display third-party titles from close partners. Notably, 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of the console.

As Microsoft adapts its strategies in the gaming industry, it demonstrates that the company is in a state of evolution. From the perspective of consumers, this evolution may not align with all players’ interests, but it is indeed occurring. Corden’s observations also emphasized, “Xbox has arguably the strongest games lineup in its history, coupled with what could be Xbox Game Pass’ best content year to date.” Regardless of whether individuals can still afford Game Pass or deem it worthwhile, the data indicates that gamers find it valuable.

In summary, the green team appears to be on the upswing again. They are the first console company to embrace the united PC and console ecosystem. Setting aside all the

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A Decade of TwitchCon: An Analytical Reflection
A Decade of TwitchCon: An Analytical Reflection
6:22 am

Last weekend, I participated in TwitchCon 10, a pivotal moment for the platform, representing my first encounter with the event. TwitchCon initiated its path in San Francisco, attracting an original audience of 20,000 visitors. Throughout the years, it has moved to various venues including Long Beach, San Jose, Las Vegas, and presently San Diego, while also branching out to Europe in 2019, evolving into a biannual event. Despite these transitions, TwitchCon has continually honed in on nurturing relationships within its community, both face-to-face and virtual.

The first TwitchCon showcased a keynote address by then-CEO Emmett Shear, with the firm streaming all panels live on Twitch, a practice that persists for specific events due to the significant amount of content. In 2017, TwitchCon launched Esports tournaments, and by 2019, TwitchCon Berlin became an over-18 gathering with familiar aspects from the American counterpart, including a memorable appearance by David Hasselhoff.

The pandemic resulted in the cancellation of American and European TwitchCons, which were substituted by a virtual event named GlitchCon. During this time, Twitch experienced remarkable growth as individuals sought entertainment while remaining indoors. GlitchCon included four virtual stages and featured 425 streamers, attracting over 6.7 million viewers worldwide.

In 2023, TwitchCon in Las Vegas presented product demonstrations, linking streamers with upcoming gear from companies such as Elgato, along with panels and meet-and-greets. The 2024 gathering in San Diego replaced the standard concert with a block party in the Gaslamp Quarter, providing food, beverages, and entertainment.

Mary Kish, Twitch’s Head of Community, reflected on the progression of TwitchCon from her unique viewpoint as both a staff member and seasoned streamer. She highlighted the event’s enchanting ambiance and the obligation to guarantee attendees a memorable experience over the past decade.

TwitchCon has acted as a platform for revealing significant developments, such as AutoClips, a collaboration with Meta, and new responsibilities. Mike Minton, Twitch’s Chief Product Officer, underscored the significance of engaging with the community during the event to share and deliberate on these changes.

The educational facet of TwitchCon has evolved, offering streamers resources to refine their skills and market themselves effectively. This year featured improv lessons designed to assist creators in showcasing their best selves onscreen. Kish stressed Twitch’s dedication to supporting affiliates, acknowledging them as the main attendees and providing programs to encourage growth and connections.

Reflecting on a decade of TwitchCon, both Kish and Minton expressed pride in witnessing the bonding and expansion within the community. They recognized the constructive insights received and the community’s enthusiasm for the platform.

TwitchCon has strived to maintain the community’s spirit across continents for ten years, successfully navigating challenges and controversies. As Twitch’s future continues to be influenced by its community’s voices, the event remains a testament to the platform’s lasting influence.

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Preview of Dragon Quest Smash/Grow (Android) — An Enjoyable Spin on the Well-Known Game
Preview of Dragon Quest Smash/Grow (Android) — An Enjoyable Spin on the Well-Known Game
9:53 pm

**Dragon Quest Smash/Grow: A Fresh Roguelite Bullet Heaven Adventure**

Dragon Quest Smash/Grow marks an exhilarating new entry in the mobile gaming sphere, presenting a distinctive fusion of roguelite and bullet heaven styles. With its recognizable Akira Toriyama/Bird Studio visual appeal, this game offers a novel interpretation of the cherished Dragon Quest series, rendering it a must-experience for both fans and newcomers.

**Gameplay Features**

The gameplay is crafted for effortless one-finger engagement, featuring stages with extended vertical paths and outdoor settings filled with challenges like water and rocks. These components serve not just as obstacles but as opportunities for tactical play, enabling players to utilize the Smash mechanic to bounce enemies off surfaces for optimal damage.

Combat is initiated by moving your character close to adversaries, with a meter filling up to unleash devastating attacks. These strikes are vital for defeating bosses, propelling foes into confined areas and triggering chains of destruction.

**Physics-Driven Special Attacks**

The notable aspect of Dragon Quest Smash/Grow is its physics-driven special attacks. These introduce a fun and unpredictable dynamic to the game, resonating with the series’ playful spirit. Furthermore, the game incorporates mobile gaming staples like gacha mechanics, allowing players to earn or buy items that enhance their gameplay experience.

**Narrative and Roguelike Features**

Though the narrative is light-hearted, it provides enough intrigue to engage enthusiasts of Dragon Quest lore. Players take on the roles of knights or guild members embarking on time-travel quests. The roguelike features offer an array of power-ups, including homing missiles, magical orbs, and restoration items, ensuring an engaging and addictive gameplay experience.

**Boss Fights and Team Strategy**

Boss encounters highlight iconic Dragon Quest creatures, beginning simply but increasing in difficulty with time constraints and formidable foes. Players can enlist additional heroes, each possessing distinct combat abilities, adding layers to their strategy.

**Visuals and Aesthetics**

In terms of visuals, Dragon Quest Smash/Grow encapsulates the spirit of the franchise with its cel-shaded art style, performing seamlessly on mobile devices such as the Samsung S24 Ultra. The game honors the Dragon Quest brand, providing a visually delightful experience.

**Final Thoughts**

Dragon Quest Smash/Grow is set to be a notable mobile roguelike, merging the beloved Dragon Quest universe with groundbreaking gameplay features. Its launch in 2026 on Google Play and the Apple App Store is eagerly awaited, promising an exhilarating adventure for mobile gamers.

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