It would be no exaggeration to assert that *Resident Evil Requiem* is among the most eagerly awaited games scheduled for release in the upcoming months. Following eight years of development in gameplay mechanics and environments, the *Resident Evil* franchise is intentionally returning to its survival horror origins with this installment, and it is completely spine-chilling. At gamescom 2025, Capcom provided journalists and fans with an enticing 20-minute sneak peek into what promises to be one of the most immersive entries in the series since *Resident Evil 7*, and my excitement couldn’t have been greater.

The demo unfolds within the cramped setting of the Rhodes Hill Chronic Care Center, where FBI technical analyst Grace Ashcroft finds herself after being kidnapped by an unidentified assailant. Right from the outset, you don’t feel as empowered as in earlier titles. This is not a return to the *Resident Evil 4* power-fantasy style. You are exposed, and the creatures pursuing you are terrifying. This clear limitation instantly reinforces the game’s dedication to vulnerability rather than empowerment, a design principle that has shaped the franchise’s most unforgettable moments.

As the child of investigative reporter Alyssa Ashcroft from *Resident Evil Outbreak*, Grace’s ties to Raccoon City are profound. Remarkably, it manages to connect the larger universe and previous games while still providing an experience that feels refreshingly unique. The demo was short, offering just a glimpse of what the full game could present, but it effectively sets the tone and atmosphere. I haven’t genuinely been startled by a *Resident Evil* game in years, yet I must confess this one is deeply unsettling—and it will certainly make you flinch.

*Resident Evil Requiem* is a breathtakingly beautiful game that portrays the franchise’s universe in gruesome detail. Even in the brief demo, I felt a strong impression of its tone, visual aesthetics, and character dynamics. Running on an RTX 5090, Grace’s performance expresses both emotion and fear with striking realism. When she extracts a needle from her arm, the precision is disturbingly acute, and when she cowers in dread, you can sense the weight of her anxiety.

This version introduces a notable new feature: the option to switch seamlessly between first- and third-person perspectives at any time through the menu. It may appear trivial, but it can significantly modify the gameplay experience—especially when being pursued by something genuinely terrifying.

Yet, the true highlight of the gamescom demo is *Resident Evil Requiem*’s unnamed stalking enemy, which upholds the franchise’s legacy of relentless pursuers, tracing back to Nemesis and evolving through Mr. X and Lady Dimitrescu. What distinguishes this new menacing figure is its three-dimensional hunting behavior, capable of emerging from walls, ceilings, and surprising vertical angles. Its intelligence seems more sophisticated than that of its predecessors, adjusting to player actions and creating a truly unpredictable atmosphere of fear. I won’t deceive you—it is intense. When the creature seizes you, it is unrelenting in consuming you, in all its graphic horror.

Fortunately, this is where the upgraded stealth mechanics in *Resident Evil Requiem* come into play, marking the first time in the series that stealth feels like a thoroughly developed system rather than a temporary escape. As Grace, hiding often feels like your only option aside from becoming prey. Players can utilize environmental cover and shadows, and can even execute silent movements when the chance arises.

The lighter you discover early in the demo serves a dual function: it offers illumination but also poses a risk, as its light can attract the stalker’s attention. This risk-reward dynamic transforms every decision regarding the use of light into a strategic gamble. Even moving when you believe you are safe can result in being caught. It is intense, but also incredibly thrilling.

As seen in many recent *Resident Evil* titles, environmental interaction plays a crucial role in gameplay in *Resident Evil Requiem*, featuring destructible environments and interactive objects that can be weaponized during encounters. We have not experienced this level of intricacy before in a *Resident Evil* game, and it feels like a welcome enhancement.

What truly shines through, however, is how completely realized the world is. *Resident Evil* has consistently provided nail-biting experiences, but the immersion here is stronger than ever. Being drawn into this universe, with its increased interactivity, amplifies the experience—both positively and negatively.

Naturally, given that this is a Resident Evil game, the puzzle aspects are more closely woven into the narrative framework. Rather than acting as arbitrary obstacles to progression, the puzzles in *Resident Evil Requiem* seem crafted to disclose story elements and character histories. The demo’s progression adheres to classic survival horror reasoning—locating item A to unlock item B to gain access to item C—but the execution feels more natural within the game’s universe.

The visual presentation showcases the RE Engine

Exploring the extensive realm of indie games frequently entails overlooking hidden treasures such as “Crushed in Time.” Prior to a preview, I had no idea it served as a pseudo-sequel to the unconventional “There Is No Game: Wrong Dimension.” The sheer quantity of indie titles can occasionally result in a few being missed.

Thankfully, CGM was able to preview “Crushed In Time,” a distinctive point-and-click adventure developed by Draw Me A Pixel. Associate Producer & Communication Manager, Freddi Malavasi, showcased a fifteen-minute demonstration, highlighting a game that stands apart from the rest.

“Crushed In Time” takes place within a game, as a new “Sherlock Holmes” entry is set to release, only for a principal character to disappear, leading to confusion. Players engage with the game world by manipulating its flexible components.

“Crushed In Time is not your typical point-and-click game,” Malavasi noted. Instead of conventional clicking, players swap elements, fostering a novel kind of interaction. The game promotes creative utilization of characters, items, and the environment to unravel puzzles.

During the demonstration, Malavasi illustrated retrieving a key by shifting Sherlock, dislodging his hat, and propelling the key into a keyhole. The game preserves classic point-and-click logic but introduces a refreshing twist, reminiscent of the interactive “Super Mario 64” title screen.

Although still undergoing development, “Crushed In Time” promises to be an enjoyable take on a timeless genre. Instead of solving mysteries throughout various eras, Sherlock and Watson traverse the stages of game development, infusing meta humor into its comedic antics. The humorous dialogue also acts as a hint system, guiding players while keeping them entertained.

“Crushed In Time” aims to build upon the creative concepts from its predecessor, crafting a unique and enjoyable experience. Draw Me A Pixel is set to deliver an exceptional production.

Today, I/O Interactive presented an enticing preview of the forthcoming 007-themed video game, *007 First Light*, during the Sony State of Play livestream. Enthusiasts were given a comprehensive look at the gameplay, demonstrating how the legendary MI6 agent, James Bond, will maneuver through one of the game’s missions.

The segment opens with Bond and his handler, Mom, cruising through a scenic countryside en route to a castle-like hotel that Bond must infiltrate. The developers have painstakingly designed the surroundings, with verdant landscapes and cobblestone paths contributing to the immersive experience. The level of detail is apparent as the car jolts over the cobblestones, intensifying the authenticity of driving in *First Light*.

Inside the vehicle, Bond and Mom engage in witty exchanges, discussing the strategy for when Bond reaches his objective. A suspicious scenario unfolds as Bond spots a hotel staff member disposing of an enigmatic piece of luggage into the water, prompting him to investigate, despite Mom’s warnings.

As Bond nears the hotel security, players face entry obstacles, reminiscent of I/O Interactive’s *Hitman* series. Bond can utilize environmental elements, such as activating a water hose for distractions, allowing him to evade security. Climbing walls and employing stealth strategies, Bond sneaks into the hotel, displaying fluid movement mechanics and the use of ‘Instinct’ to pinpoint significant objects and targets.

The gameplay also showcases Bond’s interactions, such as gathering intelligence from a bartender, leading to an exhilarating car chase across the countryside. Bond’s driving abilities are put to the test as he takes shortcuts and executes stunts, reminiscent of the adrenaline-fueled action found in the Daniel Craig Bond films.

The tension escalates as Bond encounters foes, with the game paying tribute to the classic gun barrel opening scene. Players are reminded of Bond’s “License to Kill,” a nod to the film franchise, as they partake in combat. The gameplay humorously features Bond tossing his gun when out of ammunition, a quintessential Bond gesture.

The mission culminates with Bond boarding a cargo plane to find Agent 009, concluding with a dramatic drop from the plane and the reveal of the film title screen, wrapping up the gameplay showcase.

I/O Interactive highlights the diverse strategies players can employ in *007 First Light*, drawing similarities to the *Hitman* series. Whether sneaking, negotiating, or engaging in combat, players are provided multiple methods to address scenarios.

The game boasts a star-studded cast, featuring Patrick Gibson as Bond, Lenny James as Greenway, Priyanga Burford as Mom, Alastair McKenzie as Q, Kiera Lester as Moneypenny, and Noemie Nakai as Ms. Roth.

Slated for release on March 27, 2026, on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC, *007 First Light* is currently available for pre-order. A collector’s edition, the 007 First Light Legacy Edition, offers exclusive content and memorabilia for avid fans. For further details, visit the official I/O Interactive website.

Hideo Kojima, the celebrated video game designer, has once more provoked the gaming community with a recent post on social media that may have unintentionally validated enduring fan speculations regarding his title, “Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain.” Kojima disseminated an article from Inverse entitled “10 Years Later, Hideo Kojima’s Unfinished Masterpiece Is Still Influencing Today’s Games,” implying that he accepts the game as an “unfinished masterpiece.”

This disclosure emerges alongside Kojima’s ongoing triumphs with “Death Stranding 2: On the Beach” and his publicly noted severance from Konami following his exit in 2015. In a 2025 interview with Ssense, Kojima jokingly refused to play the remastered “Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater,” despite developer Noriaki Okamura expressing enthusiasm for Kojima to experience the updated version and a desire to collaborate once more.

Kojima’s latest post has reignited debates among fans, who have speculated for years that “MGSV” was not complete. A devoted Reddit community persistently investigates what the game could have evolved into had Kojima remained with Konami. An article from Inverse likened “MGSV” to the contentious final season of “Game of Thrones,” underlining the difficulties of concluding a narrative without its creator’s participation—a sentiment Kojima seemed to reflect by sharing the article.

Although Kojima has signaled a wish to move past the “Metal Gear” series, his social media presence indicates persistent emotions regarding the incomplete state of “MGSV.” This situation adds another dimension to the intricate relationship between Kojima, his works, and his former associates at Konami.

The eerie season is nearly here, as Spirit Halloween outlets start to reopen their doors once more. CGMagazine had the privilege of conversing with Georgie Farmer and Joy Sunday regarding Netflix’s *Wednesday*. Farmer, Sunday, and Isaac Ordonez stopped by Toronto for Fan Expo 2025, snapping photos around the Toronto skyline and heralding the upcoming portion of Season 2. While we avoided discussing any spoilers for *Wednesday Season 2 Part 2,* Farmer and Sunday offered a more profound insight into their characters Ajax and Bianca. For anyone still trying to catch up on the latest episodes of this coming-of-age mystery series, our summary might reveal a few spoilers. So, feel free to skip the immediate recap paragraph below or just get back on track!

*Wednesday Season 2 Part 1* resumes with Wednesday Addams returning to Nevermore Academy. Upon her return, she finds herself reluctantly becoming a campus celebrity and the focus of a mysterious avian stalker. She investigates this stalker, unearthing a secret “Lois” program that performs unethical experiments on outcasts at the Willow Hill Psychiatric Facility, discovering that the stalker is the bird-controlling daughter of the program’s leader. The season reaches a climax when Wednesday infiltrates Willow Hill to rescue her Uncle Fester, confronting the program’s creator, Augustus Stonehurst, and ultimately suffers severe injuries after battling a liberated Tyler.

A pivotal moment from Season 1 was the demise of Principal Weems (Gwendoline Christie), and this new season introduces a new principal—Principal Dort (Steve Buscemi). We inquired about the experience of working with Buscemi on *Wednesday Season 2 Part 1,* and Sunday remarked, “He’s incredibly sweet and kind. It was fantastic to learn from him. [You can] see how he transforms every scene into a piece of art.” “He’s one of the most gracious individuals I’ve encountered. He was so generous with us, offering advice. That scene we share in Episode Four, where he enters and states, ‘but that’s what leaders do,’ had me laughing constantly. He’s remarkable.” Farmer echoed the sentiments about Buscemi.

Whether you have watched *Wednesday Season 2 Part 1* or not, the characters are destined to evolve. “For Ajax, discovering himself in high school is significant. It mirrored my journey to understand who I was,” Farmer reflected on the distant yet endearing Gorgon, Ajax.

Sunday delved into Bianca’s growth both as an individual and a Siren: “I’d say embracing vulnerability is a substantial aspect for Bianca because she’s not accustomed to relying on others. It’s a luxury she never experienced before, so she must learn to accept it. That’s her journey, and of the community too. She has always been a solitary figure, a lone Siren, without the chance to truly feel at home. Thus, in Season 2, being welcomed into the Addams family home and relying on her classmates has been crucial for her.”

Farmer also discussed some of the deeper themes woven throughout *Wednesday*’s narrative. “Even though this is a fantastical realm and these characters possess powers, each character is rooted in humanity. They are each grappling with very human issues. Hopefully, that’s why audiences relate to them.” These themes resonated with me as well, given that outcasts must navigate their human emotions alongside the challenges of typical teenage hormones and angst.

The best way Farmer and Sunday characterized *Wednesday Season 2 Part 2* is with the term “teamwork.” As in the earlier season, teamwork truly brought the dream to fruition for Wednesday and her friends in their quest against formidable foes. Farmer, Sunday, and Ordonez put teamwork to the test while responding to fan inquiries at their Fan Expo 2025 panel.

Thanks to Netflix and Touchwood PR for facilitating the interview. Netflix’s *Wednesday Season 2 Part 2* launches [streaming](https://www.netflix.com/watch/82051649) on September 3rd, 2025, at 3:00 AM ET.

Paramount and Activision have unveiled an innovative alliance to adapt the legendary video game series, Call of Duty, for the cinema. This partnership signifies a major growth for the franchise, which has been a leading presence in the gaming world for over 16 years, with sales exceeding 500 million units globally. The live-action film will be created, produced, and distributed by Paramount, with the objective of embodying the spirit of Call of Duty’s rich storylines and unique flair. David Ellison, Chairman and CEO of Paramount, conveyed his excitement for the venture, underscoring the duty to respect the franchise’s heritage while providing an exhilarating movie experience. Rob Kostich, President of Activision, shared this perspective, highlighting the aim of crafting a memorable blockbuster that appeals to both veteran fans and fresh viewers. Though production is still in its formative stages, enthusiasts can anticipate the possibility of favorite characters like John “Soap” McTavish appearing on the big screen soon.

**Fortnite’s Frantic Battles and the Tactical Benefit of NPC Hires**

Fortnite’s frantic battles and ever-evolving metas are well known. However, many players fail to recognize a surprisingly tactical resource that is right before them: NPC hires. These AI-driven allies may appear to be gimmicky companions, but when utilized properly, they can shift the outcome of a match in your favor.

So, how can you convert these assisting bots from mere targets into pivotal allies? Here’s an overview of the concealed strategy behind hiring NPCs — and how to enhance their effectiveness.

**Why Engaging NPCs Is Not Just for Casual Gamers**

At first glance, bringing an NPC into Fortnite seems like a novelty. You pay a small gold fee, and instantly, you have an AI ally following you. However, do not underestimate them. NPCs can shoot, distract foes, and even absorb damage that would otherwise hit you. In critical moments, they serve as additional health bars on legs.

Numerous casual gamers overlook NPCs, believing they are too cumbersome to assist. Yet, experienced players understand that in a hectic endgame, a single distraction can provide the opening required for a clutch victory. Therefore, grasping their behavior and positioning them wisely is essential to extracting the maximum value from a hire.

Just as redeeming a rare Fortnite skin code completes your gear, adding an NPC to your team offers your strategy an unexpected twist.

**Optimizing Your Hired NPCs Like a Pro**

Simply hiring an NPC isn’t sufficient. To truly leverage their potential, you must treat them as an extension of your team. Here’s how:

1. **Utilize Them as Damage Absorbers**

When moving through open spaces or advancing on enemies, send your NPC in front. They’ll draw attention, granting you valuable seconds to reposition or take shots while opponents focus on your AI decoy.

2. **Manage Their Aggression**

NPCs move into combat automatically, but you can influence this. Stay nearby when you want them to engage, or pull back slightly to avoid unnecessary confrontations.

3. **Conceal Their Limitations**

NPCs struggle with height and structures. Maintain confrontations in flatter areas where your bot won’t become stuck. Additionally, refrain from guiding them through intricate structures that could cause them to lose sight of enemies.

4. **Endgame Disruption Agent**

In late-game circles where everyone is entrenched, an NPC hire can unsettle rivals. Suddenly, there’s an additional target they must consider. Use your NPC’s aggression to leverage surprise edits or unexpected angles.

**Why Many Players Overlook This Strategy**

The majority of Fortnite players consider NPCs as background elements, resulting in a significant advantage for those who utilize them. Particularly in solos and duos, a timely NPC hire operates like having a third player without the threat of friendly fire.

With NPCs appearing in various locations each season, scouting the map and memorizing hire spots provides clever players with yet another layer of control over every match.

As Epic continues enhancing AI behaviors in updates, anticipate NPCs to become even more effective in future seasons. Astute players are already adjusting.

In a game where every advantage matters, Fortnite’s NPC hires are an undervalued yet potent resource. Whether absorbing damage, creating chaos, or supplying backup in crucial moments, these AI companions can easily influence battles in your favor when deployed correctly.

Just as selecting the ideal Fortnite skin code can help you stand out on the battlefield, mastering NPC hires enables you to excel strategically. While most players disregard them, you’ll be the one transforming hired bots into hidden champions.

**Monsters Are Approaching! Rock & Road: A Gamescom 2025 Feature**

At Gamescom 2025, “Monsters Are Approaching! Rock & Road” stood out as a notable title, merging the compelling dynamics of “Vampire Survivors” with fresh tower defense features. The game enchanted attendees, myself included, with its original concept and captivating gameplay, securing a place on my Best of Gamescom 2025 selection.

**A Journey on Wheels**

In this game, players are tasked with guiding their town hall through a realm teeming with eerie creatures to reach the safety of the Arch. The expedition is a series of trials, requiring participants to fend off swarms of foes while overseeing their moving town.

**Engaging Gameplay Dynamics**

The game features automatic combat mechanics akin to “Vampire Survivors,” where players can level up to acquire new skills, firepower, and speed. However, “Monsters Are Approaching! Rock & Road” also presents a unique tower defense element. Players are able to enhance their town hall using a grid layout, adding both offensive and defensive features such as AOE ice assaults and buildings that increase damage.

**The Town Hall as the Central Figure**

In contrast to conventional games, the town hall serves as the real main character. Should the player’s character perish, a gravestone takes up a grid position, and a new character materializes. The game concludes only if the town hall is annihilated, underscoring its pivotal role.

**Resource Management and Tactical Play**

Players need to remove trees and rocks that obstruct paths and yield materials. Trees boost attack velocity, whereas rocks heal the town hall. Additionally, the game presents arena challenges for extra resources, demanding players survive 45 seconds unscathed.

**Delightful Art Style and Varied Environments**

The game features an appealing art style, showcasing cute yet intricately designed minions and structures. The procedurally generated world comprises four difficulty tiers and biomes, creating a range of challenges. Players can transport up to 10 distinct town halls to the Arch, each offering its own advantages and disadvantages.

**Re-playability and Future Opportunities**

“Monsters Are Approaching! Rock & Road” provides substantial re-playability, with the possibility of a co-op mode in forthcoming updates. At present, players must defend their town halls individually, but the allure of chaotic fun with friends is intriguing.

In conclusion, “Monsters Are Approaching! Rock & Road” may have an unusual title, yet its engaging gameplay and original mechanics render it a game worth experiencing. As we look forward to its launch, the excitement for this distinctive gaming adventure keeps growing.

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**Navigating the Depths: A Journey into “Life Below”**

In the constantly changing landscape of gaming, certain genres frequently witness a rise in popularity, captivating both developers and gamers alike. Recently, charming farming simulators and extraction shooters have taken center stage. Now, city builders are gaining traction, with “Life Below” from Megapop emerging as a remarkable addition to this saturated genre.

**A Fresh Take on City Construction**

“Life Below” delivers an exciting twist on the conventional city builder by emphasizing marine ecosystems. Rather than creating standard urban environments, players are challenged to establish a complete underwater habitat. This creative approach turns the game into an engaging educational experience, merging factual marine biology with imaginative storytelling.

**Insights from Lise Hagen Lie**

Game Director Lise Hagen Lie’s enthusiasm for the ocean shines through in every facet of “Life Below.” Her expertise in marine biology, combined with her passion for gaming, has culminated in a project that is both informative and enjoyable. The development team worked alongside marine biologists to guarantee the game’s authenticity, crafting a universe where even imaginary creatures draw inspiration from actual species.

**Restoring Harmony to a Troubled Ocean**

The storyline of “Life Below” is both engaging and relevant. Players are tasked with restoring harmony to a declining ocean, utilizing the enigmatic reef heart to create thriving habitats for marine life. This narrative echoes real-world environmental concerns, adding significance and urgency to the gameplay.

**Strategic Biodiversity Development**

“Life Below” demands that players thoughtfully arrange habitats, food resources, and lures to entice and support diverse marine species. The game also presents environmental challenges, such as regulating water temperature and acidity, along with addressing human-induced dilemmas like oil spills. This complexity adds strategic depth to the gameplay, elevating it beyond a mere city builder.

**Inviting Aquatic Guests**

To promote a rich variety of marine life, Megapop introduced a visitor system. This feature allows animals like dolphins and turtles to explore player-crafted habitats, creating dynamic interactions and chances for strategic gameplay. Players can employ lures to draw these visitors in for specific objectives, improving the ecosystem’s equilibrium.

**A Visual and Strategic Gem**

With its stunning hand-drawn visuals and sophisticated gameplay mechanics, “Life Below” is a city builder that necessitates meticulous planning and strategy. The game presents multiple biomes, each featuring distinct environmental conditions, and promises forthcoming expansions to maintain player engagement.

**Final Thoughts**

“Life Below” by Megapop stands out in the city builder category, offering an exceptional mix of education and amusement. Its emphasis on marine ecosystems and environmental restoration introduces a unique viewpoint, urging players to strategize while gaining insights into the ocean’s fragile habitats. As the gaming industry continues to advance, “Life Below” establishes a new benchmark for innovation and creativity in game development.