Platformer
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PINAUT GX - Version and adaptation by ShaCPC for the GX4000
ShaCPC has released Pinaut GX, an adaptation of the original Minsoft game for the Amstrad GX4000. This version has been re-engineered for joystick and gamepad controls, removing the need for a keyboard. The game involves navigating mazes, avoiding traps, and outmaneuvering enemies within the Great Pyramid of Tutankhamun.
OG Gears of War lead says "wallbouncing in Gears" is like his cult classic platformer helping turn fans into furries: "It wasn't the intended nor desired effect, yet here we are"
Original Gears of War lead Cliff Bleszinski commented that the series' signature wallbouncing mechanic, while fun, was an unintended consequence that has dominated the competitive multiplayer meta. He compared this to his earlier platformer, Jazz Jackrabbit, which he believes unexpectedly became a gateway for fans into the furry community. Bleszinski feels wallbouncing breaks the game for players who don't master it, a problem Gears of War: E-Day aims to address.
Next Week on XBOX: New Games for August 17 to 21
This week's "Next Week on Xbox" feature highlights numerous game releases for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC between August 17 and 21, including titles available on Game Pass. Notable releases include S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl (DLC), Backyard Baseball, The Sinking City 2, and Mortal Shell II, alongside a variety of indie titles across different genres.
Gravity Paws Gives A Lost Dog The Power To Turn The World Upside Down
Gravity Paws, a new pixel art platformer developed by Joffre Macedo Neto and published by JM Neto Game Dev, is now available on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC for £4.19. The game features Duke, a lost dog who gains the ability to invert gravity, which players must master to navigate obstacles and defeat enemies on his journey home. JM Neto Game Dev also previously released the retro-styled title Paper Pixel.
The Eternal Life of Goldman Is a Challenging Platformer where You Kill a Deity
The Eternal Life of Goldman, a 2D action-adventure indie game developed by Weappy Studio and published by THQ Nordic, is set to release on PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. The game features hand-drawn visuals inspired by ancient fables and myths, where players embark on a mission to kill a mysterious Deity across a vast archipelago. A free demo is available for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
Ignore Your Growing Backlog–It’s Time To Play South Of Midnight On Steam
South of Midnight is now self-published by Compulsion Games on Steam, with Xbox no longer listed as the publisher. This change suggests that future sales will directly benefit Compulsion Games following recent layoffs and restructuring. The article praises the game's atmosphere, sound design, and visuals, calling it an affecting experience despite its familiar combat and platforming mechanics.
Review DuskFade PlayStation 5
DuskFade is a heartwarming platformer from indie studio Weird Beluga, featuring gorgeous visuals and fluid movement. While the combat outside of boss fights can be frustrating and the NPCs lack engaging personalities, the game offers a solid story and challenging boss encounters. It releases on August 13th, 2026, for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and Nintendo Switch, priced at £24.99.
How Planet of Lana became a hit through dogged determination after being rejected "hundreds" of times
Wishfully Studios' debut platformer, Planet of Lana, achieved success after hundreds of rejections by persevering through a naive development process. The team, with backgrounds in film, faced initial publisher skepticism due to an inadequate demo and unrealistic plans, but secured a deal with Xbox after a year of developing a vertical slice. This led to a partnership with Thunderful and a successful 2023 launch, with plans for a sequel and a Hollywood movie adaptation.
Knytt, one of 2006's most charming indie platformers, has a surprise Steam re-release - and it’s still free
The charming 2006 freeware platformer Knytt has received a surprise re-release on Steam as Knytt Classic. Developed by Bit Kid, Inc. with the original creator Nifflas' blessing, this version offers a pixel-perfect port with added controller support, optional time tracking, and new difficulty modes, including one by Baba Is You developer Arvi Teikari. Knytt Classic is available for free on PC and is compatible with handheld devices like the Steam Deck.
Sonic Generations: Feet in the Present, Eyes on the Future
This article analyzes the gameplay evolution of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, contrasting his classic 2D side-scrolling adventures with his more modern 3D iterations. It discusses how Sonic Generations represents a blend of these styles, looking towards the future of the series.
Cryptical Path Review | TheXboxHub
Cryptical Path attempts to blend platformer and roguelite genres with a unique concept where players design their own path through challenges. Despite a strong presentation and an intriguing premise, the game suffers from a lack of variety in its mechanics, combat, and stage design, leading to repetition and ultimately falling short of its potential.
Yoshi and the Mysterious Book developers talk difficulty
Developers for Yoshi and the Mysterious Book discussed the game's intentionally low difficulty in an interview with Nintendo Dream. Producer Etsunobu Ebisu, director Masahiro Yamamoto, and producer Hisashi Nogami stated the design choice was made to ensure players feel capable while enjoying the 2D platformer.
These devs have been building the perfect platformer for 22 years, and the Steam apocalypse won't stop them now: "Video games have always been about a small team of sickos doing something"
Metanet Software, led by Mare Sheppard and Raigan Burns, is releasing N Plus Infinity Times Two, a new multiplayer-focused platformer, after 22 years of developing the N series. The developers discuss the challenges and evolution of the indie game scene, including the impact of digital distribution and the 'indiepocalypse,' while highlighting the enduring appeal of small teams creating unique experiences. They also touch upon the importance of government funding in Canada for supporting indie development.
Weekend PC Download Deals for Aug. 7: Steam Cyberpunk Fest
This weekend's PC gaming deals include a Steam Cyberpunk Fest featuring discounts on titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Deus Ex games. Several storefronts like Epic Games Store, GOG.com, and Humble Bundle are also offering significant sales on various games, with some titles available for free. Additionally, Ubisoft is celebrating 25 years of Ghost Recon with deep discounts and a free trial for Ghost Recon Wildlands.
Frog - Amiga classic SuperFrog goes Ultrawide in this unofficial re-release by Almost There Games
The classic 1993 Amiga platformer Superfrog has received an unofficial re-release for Windows and Linux by Almost There Games. This new version features high-definition, widescreen graphics, controller support, checkpoints, and save slots, while preserving the original artwork and gameplay. The release requires legally obtained original game disks.
Rick Dangerous DX - Rick Dangerous remastered is now coming to the NEOGEO via Z-Team
Rick Dangerous DX, a remastered version of the classic 1989 platformer, is coming to the NEOGEO hardware. Developed by Domkid of Z-Team using the Scorpion Engine, this port is a backport of the 2008 Nintendo Wii remake and features remastered visuals adapted for the NEOGEO. The game will support standard NEOGEO AES, MVS, and NEOGEO CD setups, as well as modern flashcards.
Co-op climber Peak finally reaches the summit, with its last major update bringing two foreboding new biomes next week
The co-op climbing game Peak will receive its final major update, titled 'Final Ascent,' on August 11th. This update introduces two new biomes, Gloom and The Citadel, which will replace the Caldera and Kiln maps. The update aims to conclude the game's narrative by having players rescue a scout master with a mysterious link to the island.
On Any Journey Is an Upcoming Couch Co-Op Game with a Lot of Other Elements
On Any Journey is an upcoming couch co-op adventure game from indie developer Funbrew Games, set to launch later this year on PC and consoles including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. The game features a narrative-driven, wordless cinematic experience with arcade gameplay elements like platformers and beat 'em-ups, focusing on two players solving puzzles and overcoming challenges together.
The Giants Are Coming – Shards of Mistfrost Lands On Xbox
Shards of Mistfrost, a retro-inspired 2D action-adventure platformer, has been released on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC. Developed and published by Synnergy Circle Games, the game features Hrok Thorgril battling giants and winter crystals with a throwing axe. It is available at a budget price of £4.19.
Coming to XBOX Game Pass: Gears of War: E-Day Open Beta, Cricket 26, Date Everything!, and More
Xbox Game Pass is adding several new titles throughout August, including an Early Access Open Beta for Gears of War: E-Day, Beast of Reincarnation, Bounty Star, and Cricket 26. Several games are also leaving the service on August 15, including Atlas Fallen and Firewatch. Additionally, classic original Xbox games are now available on PC and handheld devices.
