Narrative
Ongoing coverage on Narrative.
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VIRTUA FIGHTER CROSSROADS™ Injects Cinematic Storytelling to Reinvent the Legendary Franchise
SEGA of America and RGG Studio have revealed Virtua Fighter Crossroads, a new installment in the fighting game series set to launch in 2027. The game will feature a narrative-driven action-adventure experience with a dynamic new combat system and an omnibus story told through four protagonists. Acclaimed writers David Hayter and Brad Kane are contributing to the narrative.
When Sirens Fall Silent – Day of the Devs: Summer Game Fest 2026 Edition developer presentation
Wired Productions and LKA released a developer presentation for their psychological horror game When Sirens Fall Silent. The presentation offers a deeper look into the game's mystery, characters, and world, detailing investigation mechanics, branching dialogues, and environmental puzzles. The game explores themes of trauma, addiction, misogyny, and human trafficking.
God of War Laufey director says Marvel humor won't infect the series through the big, silly cube: "He's…
Ariel Lawrence, director for the upcoming God of War Laufey, addressed concerns that the new companion character Phranque might introduce unwelcome humor akin to Marvel films. Lawrence clarified that Phranque's earnestness is integral to his character and that his role is to help Faye understand the world's current state, not to be a comedic relief. The developers aim to treat Phranque as a serious companion, similar to how levity was handled with characters like the Huldra brothers in previous God of War titles.
God Of War Laufey’s Director Talks Fan Skepticism, New Ideas, And Phranque The Cube
Ariel Lawrence, director of the upcoming God of War Laufey, discusses the game's focus on Faye, addressing fan skepticism about the shift from Kratos. Lawrence explains the studio's vision for exploring new narratives and characters within the God of War universe, emphasizing Faye's strength and unique combat style. The interview also touches on the introduction of new characters like Phranque and the concept of the 'Everywhen' setting.
Marvel’s Wolverine Has Already Won Me Over
Insomniac Games' Marvel's Wolverine has impressed the author with its approach to Logan's brutal nature and narrative. The combat system, which balances Wolverine's healing factor and rage with enemy damage, and the story focusing on mutant persecution and the Reavers, have addressed initial concerns. The game's depiction of Logan's relationships, particularly with Jean Grey, and the potential for visceral combat and set-pieces, have generated significant enthusiasm for the title.
God Of War Devs Explain Laufey’s Place In The Franchise
Santa Monica Studio developers have explained the narrative placement of God of War Laufey, a spin-off focusing on Kratos' late wife, Faye. The game's events are set to unfold shortly after Faye's death in the 2018 God of War, with Faye's story potentially running concurrently. The developers also confirmed that more Kratos stories are planned, alongside a remake of the original trilogy and a live-action TV series.
There Will Be More Kratos Stories, Sony Promises, After God Of War: Laufey Reveal
Sony announced God of War: Laufey, a new installment focusing on the character Laufey, Kratos's wife and Atreus's mother. Developers stated that while Kratos stories will continue, this game offers an expansion by exploring Laufey's pivotal role and her journey in the Everywhen. The game is set to release on PlayStation 5, with Deborah Ann Woll voicing Laufey and Jack Quaid as Phranque.
Former Forza Horizon Devs Announce Clutch, A “cinematic open-world action-driving game.”
Maverick Games, founded by former Forza Horizon developers, has announced its debut title, Clutch, a cinematic open-world action-driving game set for a 2027 release. The game will feature a strong narrative focus, extensive car customization, and detailed car damage modeling. The studio aims to offer a fresher take on the genre, differentiating itself from the Forza series.
Tattoo Removal Simulator is Out Now on Steam!
Tattoo Removal Simulator, a first-person simulation game developed by Uraga Studio, is now available on PC via Steam. The game allows players to manage and grow their own tattoo removal studio, featuring clients with unique stories and narrative elements. Future updates will include new clients, levels, and atmospheric improvements like an in-game radio.
Zero Parades: For Dead Spies Review | Giant Bomb
Zero Parades: For Dead Spies is a narrative CRPG from ZA/UM that builds upon the legacy of Disco Elysium while forging its own identity. The game focuses on espionage, regret, and forgiveness, allowing players to shape protagonist Hershel Wilk's redemption arc through meaningful choices. Despite some minor flaws in its clothing management system, the game is praised for its compelling characters, dense narrative, and unique world-building.
SOEDESCO® launches Truck Driver: The American Dream on Steam
SOEDESCO and developer Kyodai have launched Truck Driver: The American Dream on Steam for PC players. The release coincides with a major content update for all platforms, introducing new missions, steering wheel support, a hunger system, and graphical enhancements including hardware and software ray tracing, NVIDIA DLSS 4, and AMD FSR 4.
Hope in the City Reveals New Gameplay During Summer Showcases
Lofty Sky Entertainment will showcase new gameplay for their upcoming narrative mystery game, Hope in the City, across multiple summer events starting with the Insider Gaming Showcase. The game follows a teenage artist investigating her parents' disappearance in Northeast China, utilizing a sketchbook to gather clues. New gameplay, cutscenes, and details about the protagonist's role will be revealed during appearances at Clemmy's BIG Summer Showcase and the Women-Led Games Showcase.
RELEASE DATE ANNOUNCEMENT: EMBARK ON A NARRATIVE-DRIVEN PUZZLE ADVENTURE; ‘ECHOES FROM CIUDADELA’ COMING TO STEAM JULY 23RD
Kronos Interactive announced that their debut indie narrative puzzle game, Echoes From Ciudadela, will be released on Steam on July 23rd. An updated demo will be available during the Steam Next Fest from June 15th to 22nd. Players will step into the role of Katari, an adventurer seeking to uncover the mystery of his father's legacy through intricate puzzles inspired by historic inventions.
Schrödinger’s Call Review
Schrödinger’s Call is a visual novel where players embody Mary, the last confidant, who listens to the regrets of spirits. The game features abstract artwork, a sweeping soundtrack, and gameplay similar to Danganronpa or Ace Attorney, focusing on connecting narrative dots and using empathy to help callers. Despite some confusing dialogue options, the game is praised for its storytelling and multimedia integration, making it a definitive visual novel experience.
Talos Principle 3 will definitely be the last one in the series, because 'so many videogames just don't end, and then you have an endless kind of cliffhanger'
Croteam has confirmed that The Talos Principle 3 will be the final installment in the series, aiming to provide a conclusive narrative arc rather than an endless franchise. Writer Jonas Kyratzes and game director Davor Hunski emphasized the importance of a satisfying ending for the thoughtful puzzle game, contrasting it with other media that often leave stories unresolved. While a small spinoff is possible, the main story of The Talos Principle concludes with the third entry.
It Seems Most PS5 Fans Prefer Returnal Over Saros, But It's Not That Straightforward
A poll of PlayStation 5 owners indicates a preference for Returnal over Saros, with 43% favoring Returnal overall. However, Saros received higher marks for gameplay, while Returnal was preferred for its story and main character, Selene. Both games are developed by Housemarque.
Three gods - Free Online Browser Game
Three gods is a free online browser simulation game developed by happystoner5420 Games that requires no downloads and runs offline. The game features a dark, atmospheric narrative where players interact with three ancient, all-knowing gods who remember all conversations. It utilizes a unique system for word learning, procedural audio, and real-time visual effects, all stored locally via localStorage.
ReStory Gets New Gameplay Trailer at Indie Live Expo
tinyBuild and developer Mandragora released a new gameplay trailer for their upcoming simulator, ReStory, during the Indie Live Expo. The game, set in early 2000s Japan, features players repairing retro electronics while uncovering customer stories. ReStory is planned for a 2026 release on Steam, with a playtest available now.
PS5 Getting Acclaimed 2026 Nintendo Switch Adventure Game
The acclaimed 2026 Nintendo Switch and PC adventure game Opus: Prism Peak is coming to PlayStation 5 in 2026. Developed by Sigono and published by Shueisha Games, the narrative-driven title will be playable at BitSummit PUNCH in Kyoto. Players explore an ethereal realm using a camera to uncover mysteries and find their way home.
All The Winners From The 2026 Canadian Game Awards
The 2026 Canadian Game Awards celebrated excellence in the Canadian video game industry, with South of Midnight taking home Game of the Year and Best Art Direction. Digital Extremes was awarded Studio of the Year, while Victor Lucas received the Game Changer Award and Femme Gaming won the Community Award.
