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10 Essential Games to Experience from Steam’s Bullet Fest

**The Emergence of the Bullet Heaven Genre: A Celebration at Steam Fest**

With the addition of the “Bullet Heaven” tag on Steam in May, the gaming world has experienced a notable transformation, signaling the rise of a genre that draws significant inspiration from the hit game *Vampire Survivors*. This fresh genre complements the well-known bullet hell category, delivering an exhilarating and chaotic experience for gamers. Valve’s Steam Fest has embraced this trend, unveiling a sale that showcases a variety of games from both genres, featuring beloved titles such as *Returnal* and *Megabonk*. This article highlights ten remarkable games in the Bullet Heaven and Bullet Hell categories that you absolutely should check out.

### 1. TerraTech Legion
Payload Studios, famed for their sandbox adventure game *TerraTech*, has astonished fans with *TerraTech Legion*, a bullet heaven title rooted in the same universe. This game gives players the opportunity to construct their vehicles and enhance them with new weaponry and tools as they navigate through levels. This distinct feature provides players with a greater sense of freedom, merging the *Survivors* concept with the vehicle-building aspect that *TerraTech* enthusiasts adore.

### 2. Sektori
Brought to life by independent developer Kimmo Lahtinen, *Sektori* has emerged as a major success, offering a thrilling twin-stick shooter experience that echoes *Geometry Wars*. With a diverse gaming portfolio, Lahtinen delivers a challenging yet uniquely captivating bullet hell adventure, filled with stunning visuals and depth.

### 3. Minishoot Adventures
Gaining renewed attention upon its launch on the Switch 2, *Minishoot Adventures* is a twin-stick shooter that deftly blends exploration, puzzle-solving, and bullet hell action. Players embark on an epic quest, battling a purple plague while freeing friendly ships and enjoying exploration akin to classic 2D *Zelda* games.

### 4. Enter the Gungeon
A decade after its debut, *Enter the Gungeon* continues to be a cornerstone of both bullet hell and rogue-lite genres. Renowned for its distinctive style and character, the game delivers an immersive dungeon-crawling experience. With an 80% discount during the Steam Fest, it’s an ideal opportunity for both newcomers and seasoned players to revisit this classic.

### 5. BoneCraft
*BoneCraft* offers a darker, lo-fi interpretation of the bullet heaven genre, focusing on reflex-driven gameplay paired with an intriguing unlocking system that allows players to create minions from collected bones. It reflects the initial wave of post-*Survivors* titles, mesmerizing numerous players with its unique approach and mechanics.

### 6. Glyphica
Presenting an inventive twist, *Glyphica* turns typing into a survival challenge. Surrounded by encroaching words, players must type them out to protect against incoming messages. Although in Early Access since October 2024, the game continues to receive significant updates, ensuring a fresh and compelling experience for players.

### 7. Halls of Torment
*Halls of Torment* serves as a superb option for fans of *Vampire Survivors*-inspired gameplay, characterized by rich visuals and dynamic enemy encounters. The game introduces a novel mechanic where players can discover armor and weapons during levels, introducing an element of strategy by allowing them to teleport collected items back to a base for later use.

### 8. Xenotilt
From the makers of *Demon’s Tilt*, *Xenotilt* boldly adopts a gothic theme while integrating bullet hell mechanics. The latest installment, *Hostile Pinball Action*, amplifies the intensity and enables players to unlock upgrades and rescue survivors, fine-tuning the experience for Steam Deck.

### 9. Arms of God
Recently launched in Early Access, *Arms of God* distinguishes itself with its high-fidelity graphics and a metal soundtrack reminiscent of *Doom*. Players can combine weapons to boost their power, presenting an engaging mechanic that promotes creative builds amidst the chaos of combat.

### 10. Just King
A distinctive fusion of *Vampire Survivors* and *Slay the Spire*, *Just King* allows players to safeguard their king using a team of characters, each possessing unique attack styles. The game encourages experimentation and strategic planning throughout its levels, culminating in exhilarating boss encounters, all showcased in charming artwork.

The Bullet Heaven genre continues to thrive, accentuated by Steam Fest’s thematic celebration. As players delve into these varied offerings, it becomes clear that this genre is not merely a passing trend but an expanding facet of contemporary gaming. Whether you enjoy customizing vehicles, facing unending waves of foes, or immersing yourself in intriguing narratives, there’s something for everyone in Bullet Heaven and Bullet Hell.

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Valve Discontinues Physical Steam Gift Card Distribution to Retailers Citing Evolving Scammer Tactics

Valve have stopped producing physical Steam Gift Cards for retailers, meaning once the current stock runs out you won’t see them anywhere out in the wild. Valve say this is because no matter what protections they’ve added to the cards, “scammers have adapted”.

While Valve will continue to sell Steam Digital Gift Cards through their shop, this means the days of trading in old physical games and using the credit to buy a gift card are coming to an end.

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“Waterful: A Beautiful Puzzle Game About Creating Rivers in Arid Environments”

Waterful is that most appropriate and disquieting of things, a “nature-builder”. It’s a soft and colourful chillout game in which you cut rivers through procedurally generated landscapes with a cursor, drawing from a limited supply of water that is topped up by connecting springs.

Importantly, and perhaps dispiritingly, you can dig and refill the terrain as you please. Depending on the shape of the river and the depth of its bed, you’ll cultivate different vegetation. The vegetation, in turn, attracts a range of creatures, from butterflies to big-eared foxes. For each creature, you get a sticker. There are also machines you can build to, for example, carry the watercourse over hills. Comparisons given by Berlin-based solo developer Lenja Kaufmann include Dorfromantik, Tiny Glade, Islanders, Terra Nil and Townscaper.

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The transfer of Stellar Blade and other significant RPGs to Switch 2 has been verified.

### The Thrilling Surge of Ports for the Switch 2

The gaming community is abuzz with anticipation following Nintendo’s recent announcements concerning new ports for the eagerly awaited Switch 2. Featuring a blend of cherished classics and fresh adventures, a wave of titles is set to enrich the portable console experience.

#### Key Titles Arriving on Switch 2

During the June Nintendo Direct, multiple significant titles were unveiled with confirmed launch dates. Included are **Stellar Blade**, **Lies of P**, **Dragon’s Dogma 2**, and **Onimusha: Way of the Sword**. These games, initially crafted for more advanced consoles, are expected to utilize the Switch 2’s features, offering players an exhilarating portable experience.

1. **Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen** – This enhanced edition of Capcom’s RPG is slated for release on October 9, 2026. It aims to present a rich story and immersive gameplay, preserving the allure of its predecessor while introducing new elements and upgrades.

2. **Onimusha: Way of the Sword** – Set to debut on September 25, 2026, the revival of this iconic franchise on current-gen consoles is sure to captivate both nostalgic gamers and newcomers seeking an action-packed adventure.

3. **Lies of P** – This distinctive Soulslike RPG, inspired by the story of Pinocchio, will not only be available on Switch 2 but will also incorporate its previously released Overture expansion, enriching the content and depth of the experience.

4. **Metaphor: Refantazio** – Atlus’ fascinating medieval fantasy interpretation of the Persona formula will arrive on the Switch 2 on November 12, 2026, just a week prior to the much-anticipated release of **Grand Theft Auto 6**.

#### Beyond RPGs

The excitement extends beyond RPGs. The June Direct announced more ports that appeal to a wider audience:

– **Devil May Cry 5: Devil Hunter Edition** – Planned for release on June 23, this edition will bring high-octane arcade-action gameplay to the Switch 2 at 60fps, providing players with exhilarating combat experiences on the go.

– **Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2** – Another title set to elevate the Switch 2 library, this game promises grand battles and captivating lore for franchise enthusiasts.

– **Lords of the Fallen 2** – Expanding the action-RPG offerings on the platform, this addition will enhance the gaming landscape for players in search of darker, more challenging gameplay.

#### The Dawn of a New Era

Following a year-long wait, it seems third-party developers have finally obtained their development kits for the Switch 2, setting the stage for a flood of ports and new titles. This revitalization of the Nintendo platform showcases a strong dedication to delivering varied gaming experiences and ensuring that both developers and players can maximally utilize the enhanced hardware capabilities.

In summary, the forthcoming releases and the varied array of genres and gameplay styles indicate a bright future for the Switch 2, as Nintendo aims to compete more robustly in a continuously evolving gaming landscape. With these thrilling ports on the horizon, fans can anticipate an enriching and captivating gaming experience in 2026.

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Muramasa: Revenant Blades Launches on PC as an Expanded 4K Edition of the Acclaimed Japanese Action RPG by Vanillaware

For years, lovers of exquisite sprite designs have clamoured for Vanillaware to bring their action RPGs and strategy games to PC. Games like time-rewinding mecha soap opera 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim, or prancing kingdom saver Unicorn Overlord. The rationale for these games not appearing outside console has been nebulous, to date: at one point in 2024, Vanillaware and publishers Atlus appeared to blame each other for Unicorn Overlord’s absence from desktops.

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FromSoftware’s Duskbloods to Conduct Online Test This Summer; Release Date Yet to Be Revealed

### The Duskbloods: A New Chapter for FromSoftware

During the recent Nintendo Direct showcase, enthusiasts were given a glimpse of FromSoftware’s forthcoming online action RPG, **The Duskbloods**. Although a specific release date is yet to be confirmed, the game is projected for a broad launch window in 2026, with the much-anticipated first online network test set to occur this summer on the Switch 2.

#### Concept and Gameplay

First revealed in April 2025 as a Switch 2 exclusive, **The Duskbloods** aims to make a noteworthy impact on the RPG category, featuring support for up to eight players online. This multiplayer format is infused with unique **Bloodborne** visuals, as demonstrated in the short trailer unveiled during the Direct.

The mechanics of **The Duskbloods** are crafted to echo a battle royale style paired with Player vs. Environment (PvE) missions, prioritizing defined rounds instead of classic exploration. Players will begin in a central hub and participate in matches, striving to be the final player remaining. Nonetheless, cooperative components are integrated, allowing players to unite to confront bosses or fulfill various quests throughout these encounters.

#### The Future of FromSoftware

There have been worries concerning FromSoftware’s commitment to single-player RPGs, like the acclaimed **Dark Souls**, amid the development of **The Duskbloods**. Nevertheless, Hidetaka Miyazaki, the director of **Elden Ring**, assured fans in a previous discussion that the company has not forsaken its foundations. He remarked, “While **Duskbloods** is primarily an online multiplayer game, we have not resolved to pivot towards a more multiplayer-centric approach with future titles. We still plan to continue developing single-player oriented games that honor our more traditional style.”

#### What Lies Ahead

As **The Duskbloods** nears its launch later this year, uncertainties linger regarding its timing within a packed gaming lineup, especially during the pivotal months of September and October. Fans are left anxiously anticipating more updates on this exciting title, curious to see how it will integrate into the legacy of FromSoftware’s distinguished catalog of games.

With the imminent online network test, players will soon get the chance to sample what **The Duskbloods** has in store, offering a hint of a new trajectory for one of the industry’s most lauded developers.

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“Deltarune Chapter 5 Launch Planned for Later This Month”

### Deltarune Chapter 5 Release Date and Trailer Insights

The eagerly awaited Chapter 5 of *Deltarune* will be launched on June 24 as a complimentary update, igniting enthusiasm among fans of the beloved indie RPG. Crafted by Toby Fox, *Deltarune* acts as a spiritual successor to *Undertale*, continuing to expand its story across various chapters.

#### Confirmation of Fan Theories

During the latest Nintendo Direct presentation, glimpses from the forthcoming chapter were revealed, validating prevalent fan theories about the “Dark World.” The trailer suggests that this segment will be set in Asgore’s flower shop, as indicated by the recurring flower-themed foes and motifs that are prominently displayed in the visuals.

The trailer, albeit short, caused a buzz within the community by exclusively showcasing Dark World elements, leaving out teasers of the Light World segment anticipated to occur during a festival. This Light World scenario is expected to serve as a crucial juncture where major storylines intersect, heightening excitement for significant developments and emotional upheavals.

#### Understanding Deltarune

For those who are not acquainted, *Deltarune* is segmented into chapters, with the first two available at no cost. Players can buy the subsequent chapters, ensuring that future content will also be obtainable without extra charges. This framework invites both newcomers and long-time fans to participate in the episodic narrative.

What distinguishes *Deltarune* is its distinctive combination of a turn-based RPG style with elements that echo bullet hell mechanics. The game features a varied, endearing cast and a multifaceted plot filled with enigmas that stimulate thorough analysis and conjecture.

#### Community Engagement

Numerous players have opted to wait until all chapters are out to enjoy the game in its entirety. However, for those who take the plunge now, the existing chapters offer plenty of content, providing an enjoyable experience that mirrors the excitement of community-driven games like *Kentucky Route Zero*. The communal adventure amplifies the enjoyment, enabling players to collaboratively theorize and respond to every new twist.

#### Looking Ahead

As the countdown to June 24 commences, anticipation builds for Chapter 5. The blend of confirmed theories and the expectations of crucial story moments positions this release as a significant occasion for fans. Whether players are newcomers or seasoned veterans of *Deltarune*, the upcoming chapter is set to offer an unforgettable gaming experience.

Remember to mark your calendars; it’s going to be an emotional journey!