Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening

There’s 3 things I knew tryin to get into the DMC series: the chronology is all over the place, the reboot missed the whole point, and people opinion on the best and worst are pretty damn unanimous. 3 is the best by a popular majority. After my lukewarm experience with the original Devil May Cry , I skipped 2 (unanimously cited as the worst) and went to see what the series really had. Was I disappointed?

We join a very young, brash, cocky, arrogant Dante on his first foray into demon hunting. When a mysterious tower emerges from the ground near his unnamed business and demons start pouring into the streets, the half human son of legendary demon king Sparda jumps into action with his trusty sword and pistols. However, behind this outpouring of hellish forces is a familiar face- his twin brother, Vergil. Vergil craves his father’s power and wants to smash the barrier between worlds, leading to utter chaos. Can Dante defeat the only one who can match his supernatural skills?

Seriously, I wish I heeded the advice everyone gave me to just stat with 3. These games aren’t really my kind of game but I’d be lying if I didn’t say I didn’t have a blast with the game. Everything is improved dramatically from the first game. Combat is more fluid with plenty of variety. The story is both more engaging with better developed characters and is more fun and over the top in the best ways. Dante has more personality and I love his interactions with Vergil, who’s his total opposite. The cut scenes are impressive as hell, especially given the time period. The camera, which killed the first game for me, was rarely a problem. The game itself has a lot more quality of life improvements that I greatly appreciated like unlimited continues and the ability to quick change weapons without pausing to go to the inventory menu. The highlight howver was the boss battles which were epic, challenging, and rewarding; the fights against Vergil were truly the best of the whole game.

The only real complaint was the the path finding at times. There were a few times the game has you backtrack quite a ways back through a layout that can be super easy to get lost in, especially when you start twisting parts of the tower. The boss gauntlet at the end did feel a bit excessive and felt like padding. Of course too there are few times the platforming annoyed me but thankfully it’s never life or death kinda of platforming.

In the end, I’m on board with the masses. Start with 3, it’s the first game in the series story wise anyway. It’s a fun, fast, over the top hack and slash that was plenty of fun and has has a hell of a lot of value I’d gladly recommend. May the gaming gods bring you glory.

NASCAR 26 Debuts First Gameplay Trailer & Begins Pre-Orders

As many of you know, I was lucky enough for iRacing to send me a copy of NASCAR25, and I thought it was fantastic. The newest trailer looks just as good; feel free to check out what they have to say about it below.

“Our fans told us they wanted iRacing Studios to build the next NASCAR console game, and they delivered,” said Nick Rend, Vice President of Interactive & Emerging Platforms at NASCAR. “The response to NASCAR 25 reflected the momentum we’re seeing around NASCAR video games, and NASCAR 26 takes another meaningful step forward with improvements across the entire experience, from how the cars drive and tracks evolve to cross-platform play that brings the community together. This is the most complete and authentic NASCAR console game we have delivered.”

NASCAR 26 will build upon the success of NASCAR 25, developed by iRacing, which launched on PC and consoles last fall. This year’s game, which features NASCAR star Kyle Larson as its cover driver, once again includes four NASCAR series – the NASCAR Cup Series, O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, Craftsman Truck Series, and ARCA Menards Series – with real drivers from each series, along with a groundbreaking new dynamic track feature that evolves over the course of every race weekend.

Built in collaboration with NASCAR and powered by iRacing Studios’ industry-leading simulation technology, NASCAR 26 continues the franchise’s commitment to delivering an authentic representation of the sport both on and off the track.

Additional features include:

  • New and improved game modes including an enhanced career mode with a new facilities feature and team upgrades, a standalone mode featuring The Chase, a new training mode, and cross-platform multiplayer
  • Visual upgrades including improved graphics, skies, and dynamic lighting, plus better replay cameras
  • More realistic racing with the new dynamic track technology, enhanced calibration tools for controls and force feedback, an improved driving model with overhauled tire and braking models, better driver AI, a particle system that enhances smoke, debris, and rubber buildup, and a 750 HP package
  • New additions such as burnout celebrations, an all-new Ram truck, a new spotter (Freddie Kraft), and a trophy room
  • New tracks including the Qualcomm Circuit at Naval Base Coronado, Chicagoland, and St. Petersburg
  • A host of other improvements with updated driver ratings, an improved paint kit, safety violations, DNFs and much, much more

“NASCAR 26 isn’t just about adding new features, it is to continue our long-term approach to building the most authentic NASCAR console franchise ever created,” said Matt Lewis, Vice President and Senior Producer at iRacing Studios. “Dynamic track technology means conditions evolve throughout a race weekend, the improvements we’ve made to the driving model, the new modes we’ve added… it’s all rooted in one of the founding principles of iRacing; leading with an authentic experience for our fans. We’re excited for players to experience NASCAR 26 this September.”

Beginning today, fans can pre-order NASCAR 26 at www.NASCAR26.com and choose from a Standard Edition ($59.99) and Gold Edition ($79.99), with Gold Edition owners receiving three days of early access beginning on September 15, four monthly paint scheme DLC packs, 1,000 career mode rep points, a $10,000 career bonus, and more.

Launching on September 18, NASCAR 26 will be available for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam.

NASCAR 26 continues the sport’s expanding investment in interactive entertainment and fan engagement, bringing the latest innovations from the track to players around the world. For more information, to pre-order the game or watch the official gameplay trailer, visit www.NASCAR26.com.

Bread & Fred Scales New Heights with Exclusive Limited Editions from Atari and Strictly Limited

It is well established how much I love and respect both Atari and Strictly Limited Games, and at a time when physical games may be coming to an end in certain areas, I am happy to announce that Bread and Fred will have a limited-edition physical release on both PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch from Strictly Limited Games. This is not a code-in-a-box situation; these are true physical games. Feel free to click the links and place your pre-orders while supplies last.

In partnership with Atari and Strictly Limited, this fan-favorite co-op platformer is making its way to physical format, giving collectors and platforming fans the opportunity to add one of the most charming cooperative adventures of recent years to their shelves.

In this playful and challenging co-op platformer from Sand Castles Studio, players take control of two penguins tied together by a rope as they set out on the ultimate climb to the summit of a towering snowy mountain. Beneath its charming exterior lies a delightfully demanding challenge where every jump matters, every swing counts, and every hard-earned victory feels unforgettable. Whether playing side by side, online with a friend, or solo alongside a stone called Jeff, players will discover a unique platforming experience that rewards perseverance and skill.

This Limited Edition includes the complete Bread & Fred experience, featuring local and online co-op, the dedicated single-player mode with Jeff the Rock, Speedrun Mode for seasoned climbers, and the extensive Laboratory Update, adding new mechanics, fresh challenges, and hidden secrets to discover..

The physical release of Bread & Fred will be completed by the physical publishing experts at Strictly Limited as a Limited Edition for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. It will be available through the Strictly Limited Store, the Atari Store, as well as select retail partners and online marketplaces worldwide.

Resident Evil 2026 trailer 2

Ok guys, I just don’t see it. I’ve seen this trailer a few times and I’ve read the comments about how this looks so much like the games and is paying homage to the games and there is Easter eggs to the games all over but I just don’t see it. The movie looks fine. Knowing Cregger’s previous works (oh boy I got a lot to say about them), I can say it’ll be competently done but I feel like this is basically just his take on a RE story. And that checks out from all the interviews and posts I’ve seen regarding the story and characters. I also know it’ll be weird and off putting but literally nothing I’ve seen or heard says “Resident Evil” to me. I’m cautious as hell given it’s the 4th major attempt at a live action adaptation. May the gaming gods bring you glory.

“NASCAR 26” Launches Sept. 18 on PC, PS5 & XSX – Watch the First Dev Diary Now!

It is getting to be that time of year again; we all know how I felt about last year’s NASCAR game, and if not, feel free to check it out here. This year will, of course, have some new features that, if you don’t want to watch the dev diary, you can read about below.

NASCAR 26 looks to build on the success of NASCAR 25, the first standalone NASCAR console title produced by iRacing, which launched on PC and consoles last fall. This year’s game, which features NASCAR star Kyle Larson as its cover driver, once again includes all four premier NASCAR series – the NASCAR Cup Series, Xfinity Series, Craftsman Truck Series, and ARCA Menards Series – with real drivers from each series, along with a groundbreaking new dynamic track feature that evolves over the course of every race weekend. Players will also find an improved Career Mode, online cross-platform multiplayer, and a host of other new features and enhancements including burnouts, an improved driving model, and more features to be announced via the gameplay trailer next week.

Two editions of NASCAR 26 will be available this September, with a Standard Edition and Gold Edition coming to all platforms. More information about pricing, pre-orders, and Gold Edition content (which includes 3 days of early access starting September 15) will be released alongside the first gameplay trailer on July 29!

NASCAR 26 launches on September 18 on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5. For more information, visit https://nascar26.com, and follow along on Facebook, X/Twitter, and Instagram.

*Gold Edition owners will receive 3 days of early access starting September 15.

Avengers: Doomsday Trailer 1

It’s finally here! After months combing through leaks and being fairly underwhelmed by the mini trailers Disney released, we have our first taste at Doomsday. First, gotta say, I love RDJ’s voice as Doom. One of my biggest issues with every live iteration of Doom was that he never had the right voice- Dr. Doom isn’t a damn American. As for the look, I love it too. As a lifelong super nerd, I did get all fuzzy seeing the X men (rocking the actual comic accurate suits) fighting the Avengers.

Unfortunately, I’m also scared as hell for this movie. Doom had no build up and the sheer scope of the cast and characters alone could easily crush this movie. I love a lot of what I saw and I’m glad Dr. Doom is getting the gravity and nuisance he deserves but I feel like Disney’s desperation might’ve bit them in the ass. Either way, Savior and I will be there to watch it burn. May the gaming gods bring you glory.

The Long Walk

So I haven’t done one of these in awhile. Today I’m doing a double review much like i did with other King adaptations such as Pet Sematary , Misery , Cujo , Carrie and The Shining in the past. The Long Walk, is of course by Stephen King during his famous/ infamous Bachman era. It was the first book he ever wrote, but didn’t publish until much later in his career.

The premise is simple but intense: 100 young men (in the book) compete in the Long Walk each year for a huge cash prize as well as a special wish granted by the Major, a tyrannical figure who oversees the walk and possibly America’s dystopian regime. Walking is the name of the game. Walk. No stops, no sleep, no exceptions until the last man stands. Death awaits those that buckle under exhaustion and strain via the military’s cruel hand.

So let me talk about the book first. Honestly, I enjoyed it a lot more than I thought I would. King masterfully builds tension and dread throughout while rarely falling into the monotonous pitfalls you’d expect. I was invested with most of the characters, especially Pete McVries who becames a friend to Ray Garatty, the story’s overall main character. I’m no stranger to King’s writing, and I can say it was kinda cool getting a glimpse of him in his earliest years before hitting legendary status and mastering the craft. Thankfully, it’s a quick read at 310 pages roughly, just starting to wear out its welcome once it finally ends. I do have to say I never got invested in Ray much as a main character and even started finding him annoying after a bit when I should’ve found sympathy for him. His whole motivation for competing in the walk is flimsy compared to many of the other walkers. My other biggest complaint is the end: it feels abrupt as hell. There’s no satisfying conclusion to some characters I really cared about. No real climax. No catharsis really. Just ends. I get the choice, the futility and hopelessness of it all but I was left feeling let down instead of chilled. In the end, The Long Walk is a solid book. Not great but a good read, especially if you’re new to King and are weary of the sheer size of many of his popular books. I’d recommend checking it out.

The movie has the same basic premise so I won’t recap but I will say their are A lot of small changes I loved as well as fixing 2 of the biggest problems I had with the book. Ray has a new, more relatable motivation and a character arc that hit me like a brick at the end. The ending, by the way, is much different and so much more fulfilling. The actors do an incredible job of carrying the movie. David Jonsson and Mark Hamil especially steal the show but Jonsson comes out on top and is becoming one of my favorite modern day actors. The movie cuts the number of walkers in half which was wise, giving characters more time to flush out. The movie, like the book, is brutal and palpable- as someone who spent nearly a decade pushing carts for the real life Umbrella Corp, this movie and book had me relive some scary shit. In the end, I actually enjoyed the movie more the the book. The book was good, the movie is great and I’m willing to say it’s the best adaptation of King I have seen since IT (2017). May the gaming gods bring you glory, and keep walking.

Release Window Reveal For Retro-JIGRPG ‘Elements Destiny’ (PC & Consoles) ***BER 2026

You all know how much I love RPGs, and Deck 13 has made some fantastic ones. Coming sometime in ***ber 2026: Elements Destiny, and it is coming to all the consoles and PC, so pick where you like to play, and play it there. No word yet on a physical release that I have heard, but when I know, you will know. Check out more info below.

For fans of Elements Destiny, the highly anticipated 2D fantasy RPG is coming to PC, PlayStation 4, 5, XBOX One, Series S|X and Nintendo Switch and they have a reason to celebrate. The Release Window for the ambitious project has just been revealed in a newly released Trailer! As with previous games from Publisher Deck13 Spotlight, the pun must go on: Prepare for ***BER 2026!

The wait is officially over! Well, almost. Deck13 Spotlight and developer ShrooMoon are so excited to finally invite you to Solitas very soon. Later this year, on ***BER 2026 you will be able to join Erika, Lia, Maline and Karen in their fight against the evil Dark Foray and other powerful opponents. In tactical turn-based battles, you will have tons of powerful abilities at your disposal, vast and unique locations, and beautiful retro-inspired pixel graphics, with fresh and hand-drawn artworks for full immersion.

In Elements Destiny your journey starts in a small town which seems like a peaceful place that was once the site of unspeakable horrors and great sacrifice. You will play as Erika, a young huntress whose nightmares unexpectedly foreshadow great things to come. A stranger named Airic O’ Fory claims that only descendants of the Clans of Elements can stop demonic forces that are plotting in the shadows to strike back once again and conquer the Solitas. Are you really capable of saving the world from the powers that took your loved ones? Remember, you are not alone, others like you will accompany you to face all the challenges that lurk in Solitas.

As you carve your path deeper into the untamed world surrounding you, Erika, alongside her friends, will have to find cunning ways to emerge victorious from numerous challenges. Craft powerful weapons, become a skillful herbalist and master the unpredictable Elements to strike fear into the ranks of your opponents. Do whatever it takes to find the answers crucial for saving what you call home.

Elements Destiny is a love-letter to all those who cannot stop playing titles from the golden age of JRPGs, but are looking for a fresh and unique approach to them. A labour of love from the ShrooMoon team to deliver a one-of-a-kind JIGRPG, Japanese inspired German RPG, ​ with over 40 professional German voice actors that will breathe life into every single character you encounter. Immerse yourself in more than 100 different tracks. Enjoy the mechanics you know from your favourite retro JRPGs, but expect modern controls and QOL features that will let you enjoy Solitas conveniently.

Granblue Fantasy: Relink – Endless Ragnarok Review

Granblue Fantasy: Relink- Endless Ragnarok was sent my way by the great folks over at Cygames, which I appreciate for multiple reasons. First, having never worked with them before, I always like working with new companies. Second, being chosen to review a game even after close to a decade of doing this is still an honor, one that makes me feel as special today as it did the first time it happened. Last but not least, they hooked me up with not just the Ragnarok DLC, which is honestly MASSIVE in its own right, but the base game.

So you may be asking what is new here? Well, a ton of stuff; for example, to get started, there are new characters which you can enjoy right from the start of the base game. Six of them, to be exact, all of which can be bought with your crewcards; don’t worry, while you can buy certain characters for about $3 with a few extras, this isn’t some gatcha thing; you can earn them all in-game. You will find plenty of crewcards lying around, and you can earn more through missions. In fact, almost everything you can buy can be earned in-game, except certain cosmetic items.

Other new things include new summon mechanics and new transcendence and master levels for characters and weapons for more customization and stronger characters, which will be needed when you face the new Chaos and Chaos+ difficulty levels.

You may have noticed I haven’t touched on the story or the gameplay yet. Well i won’t touch on the story because I don’t want to spoil one moment of the beautiful bastard. You are here to know about the DLC, and if it is worth your money, and if you enjoyed the base game’s story and want to know if continuing that story is worth it, the answer is yes. The fate stories for the new characters are just as good as any of the original characters; some are even better. They are far from being an afterthought and truly add to the world.

Now, if you are wondering if the new content is worth the admittedly hefty price point ($30 if you own the base game), it absolutely is, as it is probably around the same size as the base game. Most of it kicks off after the base game ends, but the conflux actually starts around mid-game. This is solo content that acts as a sort of dungeon high-score challenge that allows you to collect different upgrade materials for weapons and sigils. This is DLC done right; it is a 9/10 DLC if I have ever seen one, with my biggest complaint being there isn’t much here for newcomers, with it all basically being for people that have run out of stuff to do in the base game. Best wishes, and may the gaming gods bring you glory.

MXGP 26 Revealed With New Gameplay Trailer

Unreal Engine 5: a photorealistic technological leap

Thanks to the transition to Unreal Engine 5, MXGP 26 achieves a historic visual milestone. The trailer showcases this striking photorealism through wide environmental shots, ultra-detailed mud textures under the rain, and precise mechanical close-ups (suspension, exhausts).

Redesigned physics and total helmet-cam immersion

Immersion is taken to the next level, notably through a gripping first-person helmet view, fully rewritten motorcycle physics, and completely reworked rider animations. The rider reacts dynamically to the track’s terrain, adopting realistic body movements during jumps, flat or banked turns, and while navigating ruts. Furthermore, the bike and gear progressively get dirty throughout the race, depending on the weather and soil conditions (dirt, sand, mud).

“Dynamic Deformation”: a living track that evolves in real time

The terrain in MXGP 26 is now alive. Dynamic deformation technology alters the track as riders pass through. As shown repeatedly in the trailer, the continuous passage of bikes digs deep, persistent ruts lap after lap, forcing players to constantly adapt their racing lines. Within just a few laps, the track is completely transformed from the start of the race!

Official 2026 season content in the spotlight

The trailer highlights a preview of the game’s rich official content and customization options:

  • Iconic Tracks: Including Bariloche in Argentina (volcanic soil), Riola Sardo in Sardinia (sand), Pietramurata in Italy (compact dirt), and Loket in the Czech Republic (hard-pack dirt).
  • Elite Riders: Across both MXGP and MX2 categories, players will find stars of the sport such as Romain Febvre, Maxime Renaux, Kay de Wolf, and Calvin Vlaanderen.
  • Full Customization: A comprehensive editor allows players to design their rider and customize official machines from championship manufacturers (Kawasaki, Husqvarna, Yamaha, KTM, Honda…) with gear from leading brands (Fox Racing, Alpinestars, Scott, Airoh, etc.).

Whether competing in intense online races (up to 10 players), engaging in Grand Prix, Championship, and Time Attack modes, or freely exploring the vast training grounds of The Compound, MXGP 26 stands out as the ultimate motocross experience.

MXGP 26 will be available in October 2026 on nacongaming.fr, PC, PlayStation®5, and Xbox.