Activision revealed via their Call of Duty blog that several multiplayer modes, including Zombies, will be free for Call of Duty MW3 this weekend. The free access event kicks off on December 14 and will last through December 18. Players will be able to jump in and have free access to six maps, four multiplayer modes, Modern Warfare Zombies, and three of the Ground War maps.

Those interested in checking out the multiplayer will have??? plenty to try out. Here are the maps and modes that are part of the free event:

• 6v6 Core Multiplayer Maps: Terminal, Rust, Highrise, Shipment, Afghan, Meat
• Ground War Maps: Popov Power, Orlov Military Base, Levin Resort
• Core Modes: Team Deathmatch, Hardpoint, Domination, Kill Confirmed, Ground War, War
• Playlists: Rustment 24/7 (Shipment and Rust), War Mode, 6v6 Moshpit (featuring Highrise, Meat, Afghan, Terminal), Ground War, Modern Warfare Zombies

Overall it's a nice mix of maps. Terminal, Rust, and Shipment are fan favorites, whereas the map Meat is a brand new map. Players ??will be able to level up very quickly via Rustment 24/7 which will allow them to check out some of the later-level unlocks to see if they like what is there.

It appears the full Modern Warfare Zombies mode will be included in the free access as well, which is worth checking out. Instead of traditional Zombies maps, MW3 features a DMZ/Warzone style open-world Zombies map.

The Call of Duty MW3 Free Access event begins on December 14 at 1 p.m. ET ??and will run through December 18 at 10 a.m. ET.

The post Call of Duty: MW3 m??ultiplayer and zombies are b?oth free this weekend appeared first on Destructoid.

Perhaps the most underrated entry in the Assassin's Creed franchise, Assassin's Creed Syndicate, is free on PC through December 6. Those interested in living out the life of an Assassin in London during the Industrial Revolution can do so at the Syndicate giveaway page. As long as you claim your free copy before December?? 6, you will be able to play even after the promotion ends. Unfortunately?, it looks like the promotion is only available on PC via the Ubisoft Connect launcher.

At the time Assassin's Creed Syndicate was released, I was very much feeling the AC franchise burnout. I purchased Syndicate but never actually got around to playing it for more than just a few minutes. However, a little over a year ago I had some free time and played through the whole game and was very pleasantly surprised. In fact, I think Syndicate may be one of the best Assassin's Creed titles in the franchise.

Syndicate was the last classic Assassin experience in the franchise before it started exploring more open-world narratives in Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla. The series recently returned to its roots with Mirage, but I'd still argue that Syndicate was? overall the most polished assassin simulator we've ?gotten so far.

The post Very underrated Assassin’s Creed Syndicate is free on PC appeared first on Destructoid.

The Homeworld Remastered Collection is coming to the Epic Games Store. And, to celebrate its arrival, it will be free for all players who claim it on their Epic Games Store account between July 27 and August 3. Previously the collection was only available on Steam, where it has over 10,000 reviews ??and a "Very Positive" co??nsensus.

As per usual ??with weekly free games on EGS, once you've added a title to your account ?it is always available to you.

The Homeworld Remastered Collection includes:

• Homeworld Remastered Edition 
• Homeworld 2 Remastered Edition 
• The Homeworld Remastered Multiplayer Beta (including cross-store play between Epic and Steam users)

As a bonus, Homeworld Remastered Collection also includes access to:

• Homeworld Classic 
• Homeworld 2 Classic

The two bonuses are the original classic versions of Homeworld in its purest form without remas?tered visuals an?d systems.

[caption id="attachment_393702" align="alignnone" width="640"] Image via Gearbox Publishing[/caption]

A fun tactical Sci-fi RTS epic

If you haven't had the chance to play Homeworld, this is a great opportunity to do so. It's a very formidable entry in the RTS genre with over 100 unique spaceships and more than 30 single-player missions. Those interested in multiplayer can also access the improved Homeworld Remastered Multiplayer beta. This new version of the multiplayer mixes the two, so Homeworld races can compete against Homeworld 2 races with up to eight players on 23 maps. Furthermore, the new multiplayer includes b??rand-new game modes.

Gearbox recently delayed Homeworld 3 to February 2024, so you have plenty of time to cat?ch up on the series before it releases.

If you're interested in grabbing Homeworld Remastered Collection for free, simply head to its listing between Jul??y 27 and August 3 on the Epic Ga?mes Store. You will be able to add the game to your ?library and download it right away.

The post Grab Homeworl?d Remastered Collection free on Epic Games Store July 27 appeared first on Destructoid.

Competitive multiplayer Temtem battles

Humble Games announced today that their battle focused Temtem: Showdown is now available to download for free on Steam. The game is essentially a standalone variant of the Pokémon-like Temtem that released out of early access last year. You do not need to purchase the previous Temtem game in order to access Temtem: Showdown.

[caption id="attachment_388841" align="alignnone" width="640"] Image via Humble Games[/caption]

Gotta battle em' all!

Temtem: Showdown takes out the taming and leveling from the base game, and focuses purely on the combat. Dubbed a "free multiplayer battle simulator", players can build a team in seconds and dash into ranked matches with players from all over the world. At its core, Temtem's battle system features action-packed 2v2 battles. It'll feel familiar to anyone who's played a bit of doubles in online Pokémon matches.

Competitive play seems to be ??a huge part of the game, featuring a climbable ranked ladder system. Furthermore, the game will have community-run tournaments as well as an official esports circuit called TemCS. According to to the Steam page, the circuit will reward huge prizes?.

Seasons will also be a thing in Temtem: Showdown. There will be?? a new season every few months, changing up the met??a and introducing new combinations to play with when doing battle.

I haven't got a chance to play Temtem yet, though it's in my backlog to play on PS5. I have heard great things about its battle system though, so this seems like the right idea to make it accessible to more players. While Temtem is available on PC, Switch, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, it looks like Temtem: Showdown is only available via Steam for now.

If you want to give the game a try, you can check out Temtem: Showdown now for free on Steam.

The post Temt??em: Showdown is a free, batt??le-focused Temtem game out now appeared first on Destructoid.

Comical RPG available for all next week

Epic Games Store has revealed the next title that it will be offering up gratis to all of its users next week �So grab your sword and knapsack, as we're delving into the silly fantasy adventure of The Dungeon Of Naheulbeuk: The Amulet Of Chaos, which is available to download f??or free fro??m June 29.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6o7m6XIq-k

Developed by Artefacts Studio and released in the fall of 2020, The Dungeon Of Naheulbeuk is a tactical RPG that features all of the castle-running, monster-slaying, loot-gathering action one would expect from the genre, but with far more comical and dopey thematic than the standard grimdark fare. Based on an audio s??eries by French author John Lang, this adaptation has players guide a party of hapless heroes through a series of quests, winning the day because of, rather than in spite of, their clumsy nature.

If you're a fan of tactical role-playing action, or fantasy dungeon crawlers, and want to check out a fun twist on a familiar favorite, then be sure to bag yourself The Dungeon Of Naheulbeuk: The Amulet Of Chaos when it becomes free to download between June 29 - July 6. Before then, you still have the opportunity to pick up current freebie, immersive grim sim theHunter: Call of the Wild.

The post Dungeon of Naheulbuk is the next Epic Gam??es Store freebie appeared first on Destructoid.

Traverse the wastelands of Fallout New Vegas for free

The official Epic Games Store Twitter revealed today that the Ultimate Edition of the hit 2010 action role-playing game Fallout: New Vegas is currently available for free via the Epic Games Store platform. You can download it now on the EGS here or b??y clicking on Free Games on t?he client. Be sure to add the game to your account soon, as it is only free through June 1.

Every week a game is free on the EGS, but typically they are indie titles. Occasionally though, a AAA title like Fallout: New Vegas is the freebi??e of the week. Once cla??imed you will have access to the game permanently through the client, even after June 1.

[caption id="attachment_252388" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

The best Fallout

Many devout Fallout fans regard Fallout: New Vegas as one of the best entries in the series to date. Praised for its sto??ry, the game features a well-crafted narrative that has become a staple for developer Obsidian Entertainment. Even though the franchise is known for being sandbox in nature, this one takes it to the next? level.

The world feels alive and the freedom to explore the Mojave Des??ert however you want is second to none. All of the quests are extremely well-written and feel meaningful, especially the side quests. Almost every quest has a branching path you can take that impact and changes the world in som??e way. Every playthrough is truly unique. Few games achieve the goal of creating a realistic and living breathing world, but this one succeeds in every way.

Furthermore, a lot of the best systems from Fallout 3 not only make a return but are improved upon. Gam?eplay wise there are ways to make almost every build viable, including brawler and melee characters, whereas in the rest of the franchise you typically have to build around gun??play in some way. The game features some of the franchise's coolest weapons and armor, like the Desert Ranger armor set.

Also, every piece of DLC for the game is worthwhile and features even more in??credible story.

Playing on PC is also probably the best way to enjoy the game as it has incredible mod support. Even though there is plenty to enjoy in th?e base game, mods add hundreds if not thousands of hours of content to the experience.

There's no better time to break out your Pip-Boy and freshen up on some Fallout in anticipation for the upcoming TV series releasing early next year.

The post Fal??lout: New Vegas is currently free on the Epic Games Store appeared first on Destructoid.

Week of cool freebies reportedly incoming

Usually on a Friday morning, I take the time to give you all a heads-up ??on the next free title being offered on digital dashboard Epic Games Store �But this week, the publisher is keeping its cards close to its chest, and will be offering up a "Mystery Game" to all u?sers as of Thursday, May 18.

This same date will see EGS launch its Epic Mega Sale, which will offer a range of discounts on a wide variety of PC releases, old and new. According to frequent spoiler Billbil-kun , the EGS will be giving away two free games every week for the duration of the sale period, not dissimilar to the generous offerings dropped during the publisher's annual winter sale. As such, the identity of the first title will likely remain a myste?ry until the da?y it becomes available.

//twitter.com/billbil_kun/status/164393??7?657062412288?s=20

These games could, frankly, be anything, ranging from old-school indie hits to some prestige AAA titles. Let's not forget the Epic Games Store has previously offered up major releases such as Rockstar's magnum opus, Grand Theft Auto V, when it has been feeling particularly generous. Regardless, it'll be worth stopping in on Thursday and checking out the c??atalog for some discounted hits, bec??ause I'm sure your PC backlog is incredibly small right now.

The Epic Mega Sale takes place from May 18 - June 15. The current free title, which is a chunky Sims 4 expansion pack, can still be picked up grati?s until the sale begins.

The post Next week’s Epic Games Store freebie is a ‘Mystery Game’ appeared first on Destructoid.

Dare to be Daring

Epic Games Store has revealed the next free items that it will soon be offering up to its userbase gratis �And this time around it's something a little more specific, as The Daring Lifestyle Bundle for EA's popular simulator The Sims 4 will be available to download from May 11.

The bundle contains a total of three pretty chunky expansion packs. The Jungle Adventure Game Pack will allow your Sims to venture into the land of "Selvadorada", and features Indiana Jones-esque items such as temples, treasures, cursed relics, and ju?ngle fineries. Also included are new foods, dance moves, and clothing, reflective of the Selvadorada communities.

//www.youtube.com???/watch?v=9VD84EMCtWs&ab_channel=TheSims

The second include expansion pack is titled Luxury Party Stuff and, as the name denotes, is filled with i??tems to allow your Sims to t?hrow the mother of all classy bashes. Fashionable dresses and evening wear, new decor and party decorations, and a veritable banquet of new food items and table dressings. See how the other half live and pretend to be part of such decadence.

The third and final expansion pack is Fashion Street Kit, and is packed out with a wardrobe full of trendy, modern clothing inspired by the vi?brancy and iconic designs of Mumbai, curated by artist Shruti Sitara Singh. With a focus on patterning and bold colors, the Fashion Street Kit brings brand-new looks to your Sims, along with new emotes and other additions.

While this EGS freebie is obviously only really relevant to Sims players, everyone still has time to bag the great line-up of current offerings, which include Against All Odds, Horizon Chase Turbo, and fun platformer Kao the Kangaroo. The Sims Daring Lifestyles Bundle will be available from May 11-18.

The post Sims 4 Daring Lifestyles Bundl??e will be the next Epic Games Store freebie appeared first on Destructoid.

Don't call it a comeback...

Epic Games Store has revealed the new titles that it will be offering up, free of charge, to all of the dashboard's users next week �And its a trio of titles this time around, with racer Horizon Chase Turbo, slapstick death match Against All Odds, and cartoonish platform adventure Kao the Kangaroo.

//??www.??youtube.com/watch?v=bQdVeknxAPQ&ab_channel=Destructoid

Developed and published by Tate Multimedia, and arriving on PC and consoles just a short year ago, Kao the Kangaroo is a legacy sequel to the '90s mascot platforming series, which debuted on PC and Sega Dreamcast in the twilight days of the decade. Tate Multimedia decided?? to give the punch-drunk Antipodean a fresh turn in the ring after a passionate online campaign from the character's cult fanbase.

This new sequel takes its cue from the Crash Bandicoot series, and sees Kao don the ??gloves once again on a globe-trotting mission to find his missing sister, while also treading a path to become the greatest fighter in the world. While the new tit?le is hardly a world-beater when it comes to platforming adventures, it's far better than folks were expecting, and a fine way for genre fans to spend the afternoon. Available for the grand price of nothing, its well worth picking up.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VomFV??NGgnA&ab_chan?nel=PlayStation

Released for PC and consoles back in 2018, Horizon Chase Turbo is a revamped edition of Aquiris Game Studio's racer Horizon Chase, and tasks players with put??ting pedal to the metal across a series of circuits, located?? in the far corners of the continents.

The action is particularly old-school and incredibly arcadey, with the player forced to gather fuel power-ups in order to keep themselves in the race. As such, Horizon Chase Turbo is something of a throwback to the classic arcade racers of yore, such as Top Gear, Pole Position, and Wec Le Mans.

//www.youtube.com/w??atch?v=SzE5_Lqh-E0&ab_channel=GameTrailers

Taking the concept of physical game shows such as Wipeout and Ninja Warrior to their ultimate extremes, Against All Odds presents chaotic, slapstick assault courses that require?? acroba?tic movement, deft adaptation, and incredibly quick wits in order to keep the contestants from meeting a particularly sticky end.

Developed by indie studio Microwave Games and launching with this Epic Games Store arrival, Against All Odds will allow groups of up to four players to battle it out in an effort to thrive, or merely survive, in a cartoonish-looking but ultimately deadly world of spike pits, buzzsaws, flamethrowers??, and anti-gravity leaps as they compete to become the champion of the dystopian "Slaughter League".

Remembe??r, you can't spell "Slaughte??r" without "Laughter".

Kao the Kangaroo, Horizon Chase Turbo, and Against All Odds will be available to download free from Epic Games Store from May 4-11. Until then, you still have time to pick up current freebies Breathedge and Poker Club.

The post The fun Kao the Kangaroo sequel is ??the next Epic Games Store freebie appeared first on Destructoid.

Enter the Abyss

Epic Games has revealed the next two titles that it will be offering up to all Epic Games Store users free of charge next week �And it looks like deep sea diving and mythic adventure is the name of the game, with the arrival of E-Line Media's Beyond Blue and Upper One Games' cutesy platformer Never Alone.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOAW??BCXpo?6k&ab_channel=BeyondBlue

Released on PC and consoles in the spring of 2020, Beyond Blue is an informative undersea adventure, inspired by the critically acclaimed BBC series The Blue Planet. As deep-sea researcher Mirai, the player will explore the fathoms of the deepest oceans, investigating the flora and fauna that dwells within this fascinating and sometimes alien universe. On release, Beyond Blue was praised by critics for its immersive atmosphere and heavenly vibes, though some were disappointed with its lack of activity and somewhat empty world. You can check out Jordan Devore's thoughts on the game right here.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=lM_80zVzwpI

Developed by Upper One Games and released way back in 2014, Never Alone is a wholesome puzzle platformer that is also an adaptation of the legendary Iñupiat tale of "Kunuuksaayuk?a". The story concerns the odyssey of a young Iñupiat girl, Nuna, and her arctic fox companion as they attempt to identify the source of a strange blizzard that has engulf?ed their community.

Synergizing the abilities of the two characters, players must negotiate the world, dodging hazards and traversing the environment, while pressing ever closer to the truth about the strange snowstorm. Never Alone received divisive reviews, with many praising the title's attractive art style and informative and historical nature, while others compla??ined about the game's controls and g??eneral mechanics.

Beyond Blue and Never Alone will be available to download from Epic Games Store from April 20 until April 27. Until then, players still have the opportunity to bag current freebies Mordhau and Second Extinction before their removal on Wednesday.

The post Beyond Blue and Never Alone are next week’s Epic Games Store freebies appeared first on Destructoid.

Welcome to the Jungle

Epic Games has revealed the next title that it will be offering up to all Epic Games Store users �From March 30, EGS customers will be able to bag themselves the charming and challenging brawler roguelike, Tunche, completely free of charge.

Released in the fall of 2021 and developed by Peruvian indie outfit LEAP Game Studios, Tunche is a unique blend of screen-based brawler action, married to a challenging roguelik??e format. It is the tale of an Amazonian tribe who must venture through the rainforest on a pilgrimage to meet the titular jungle god and learn the truth behind a strange and overwhelming aggression? that has become part of the flora and fauna of the green labyrinth.

?//www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAn7fPiyrZA&ab_channel=ID%40X??box

Choosing from one of five unique characters, including the sorcerer, Rumi; the balladeer, Pancho; scrappy bird-boy Quayru; and the beautiful warrior, Nayru �alongside a suspiciously quiet Kid wearing a large Hat �the player must complete run after run through the undergrowth, taking on armies of wild animals, bizarre creatures, and boss characters while progressing their chosen character's inate abilities. Tunche features beautiful hand-drawn animation, a distinct art style, and an evocative soundtrack, all while posing a meaty challenge for even hardened brawler fans. If you want the full lowdown, then be sure to check out my full review for Tunche right here.

Tunche will be available to download free from Epic Games Store from March 30-April 6. Until then, you still have time to pick up current freebiesChess Ultra and the WoW: Ishizuchi DLC.

The post Peruvian brawler Tunche is next week’s Epic Games Store freebie appeared first on Destructoid.

I get my kicks above the waistline, sunshine

One town's very like another when your head's down over your pieces, brother �And Epic Games Store users are getting set to find that out next week as Ripstone's tabletop release, Chess Ultra, will be availab?le to download for free from Thursday, March 23.

Released in 2017, Chess Ultra takes the timeless strategy game and glosses it up for a digital recreation. Chess Ultra offers a variety of traditional and ornate chess sets and pieces, as well as 10 levels of Grandmaster A.I. and online multiplay?er support. Players can choose from a variety of timed modes, or solve a litany of over 80 scenarios �some of which ar??e pulled from the intense climaxes of real-life chess tournaments. Additionally, Chess Ultra supports 4K resolution, as well as VR through Oculus and HTC Vive.

//youtu.be/FrONtYp6Pic

Alongside Chess Ultra, the new Epic Games Store update will also offer up free DLC for the long-running strategy title World of Warships. The World of Warships �Starter Pack: Ishizuchi features the titular Tier IV battleship, as well as 11 Epic camouflage patterns, five award containers, and a variety of in-game boosters and currency packs. The DLC usually retails for around $20, so if you're a WoW fan, be sure to?? jump on this bargain while you are able.

Chess Ultra and WoW: Ishizuchi will be available to download free from Epic Games Store from March 16-23. Until then, you still have time to pick up Warhammer 40,000: Gladius �Relics of War.

The post Chess Ultra leads next week’s Epic Game Store freebies appeared first on Destructoid.

The only 40K I'm getting for free anytime soon

Epic Games Store has revealed the next title that it will be offering up to its user base free of charge, and hopefully you have plenty of long afternoons to kill, as we're going 4X with Slitherine Software's deep strategy title Warhammer 40,000: Gladius �Relics of War?, which will be available to downl??oad from March 16.

Released on PC and Mac in 2018, and developed by Proxy Studios, Warhammer 40,000: Gladius �Relics of War is a Games Workshop take on the deep, turn-based, 4X action that fills the hours of strategy lovers everywhere. Players choose from one of four races �Imperial Guard, Space Marines,? Necrons, and Orks �before engaging in long-form combat in order to hold dominion over the titular world of?? Gladius. Unlike most 4X titles, there are no "Diplomacy" mechanics.

We??ll, it's not called Compromisehammer 40K, is it now?

//youtu.be/aMSsNRkvIMQ

On release critics praised the title's adaptation of 4X to the Warhammer universe, as well as the game's action, but specialist press noted that the title failed to truly capture the intricate nature of 4X titles, resulting in a release that was both engaging and enjoyable, but fails to break the upper echelon of more dedicated brands such as Age of Wonders, Alpha Centauri, or Civilization. For Warhammer fans, however, Gladius �Relics of War will certainly scratch that strategic 40K itch.

Warhammer 40,000: Gladius �Relics of War will be available to download free from Epic Games Store from March 16-23. Until then, you still have time to pick up Raw Fury puzzler Call of the Sea.

The post Warhammer 40,000: Gladius ??�Relics of War is the next Epic Games Store freebie appeared first on Destructoid.

Desert Island Miss

Epic Games has revealed the next title that it will be offering up to its customers free of charge over on the Epic Games Store �A delightful choice this time around, users will be able to pick up Raw Fury's period piece adventure Call of the Sea from March 9, for the grand price of Nothing.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=w39m?l-My7qM&??amp;ab_channel=Xbox

Developed by Out of the Blue and released in December 2020, Call of the Sea is a narrative-driven, first-person puzzle adv?enture, set against the fashion-forward backdrop of the 1930s. Players pick up the role of Norah Everhart, who ventures into a mysterious, uncharted island in the South Pacific in order to locate her husband Harry, who has vanished while on an expedition to uncover a life-changing new medicine.

As Norah explores the island, she will meet a party of strangers �friendly or otherwise �solve puzzles, negotiate traps, and piece together the mysteries of the isla??nd, its inhabitants, and the fate of her beloved. With luscious, classic comic artwork, a heartfelt narrative, and some pretty durn tricky, (borderline obtuse), puzzles, Call of the Sea is well worth a look for any puzzle adventure, and could prove to be a fine way to while away a coming weekend or two.

Oh, and be sure to check out our own CJ Andriessen's review.

Call of the Sea will be available to download from Epic Games Store from March 9 until March 16. Until then, players still have the opportunity to bag current freebie Rise of Industry, before its removal on Wednesday.

The post The charming Call of the Sea is next week’s Epic Games Store freebie appeared first on Destructoid.

20th Century Boy

It's F-F-F-Friday, so it's time to take a look at the next title that Epic Games Store will be offering up to its customer base free of charge �Next week, you'll be looking to get your entrepreneurial hat on, with the arrival of tycoon simulation Rise of Industry, available to download from March 2.

Released in 2019 and developed by the delightfully named Dapper Penguin Studios, Rise of Industry tasks the player with building and maintaining a thriving industrial economy, set against the backdrop of the money-busting 1930s. The player will be required to micro-manage a number of key factors of indust??ry, from sourcing the raw materials, to building factories and warehouses, to implementing sh??ipping routes and securing trade agreements with other towns, cities, and countries.

//www.yo??utube.com/watch?v=GUBk00oyVpU&ab_channel=DapperPenguinStudios

Of course, you are not the only ambitious entrepreneur on the block, and you must ensure that your rivals don't pull the rug out from underneath you, as you adapt to changing climates, offer competitive rates and deals, and ensure the speedy manufacture and delivery of over 150 different products. Rise of Industry features several scenarios with which to test your mandate mettle, or an endless sandbox mode with which the player can build, expand, and modernize their empire at will. With easy-to-learn mechanics and myriad management features, this looks to be a title to keep the?? ol' noodle occupied well into the wee small hours.

Rise of Industry will be able to download from Epic Games Store from March 2 until March 9. Until then, players still have the opportunity to bag current freebie Duskers, before its removal on Wednesday.

The post Rise of Industry is next week’s Epic Games Store freebie appeared first on Destructoid.

It's lonely out in space...

Epic Games Store has revealed the next game that it will be offering up to its community of customers free of charge next week �And for our next freebie we'll be looking at the desolate sci-fi strategy title Duskers, which will be ?available to download by all from February 23.

Developed by husband-and-wife indie studio Misfits Attic and released way back in 2016, Duskers sees players managing a small squadron of drones as they attempt to locate, explore, and salvage a series of lonely and haunting derelicts in the deep regions of space. The gameplay in Duskers is two-fold, with players tasked with maintaining, upgrading, and micro-managing their drone units, before taking them out into the field, where they are controlled wi??th rudimentary commands in a very "classic sci-fi" manner.

//www.youtube.com/w??atch?v=dux33m_7M6w&ab_channel=MisfitsAttic

It is the players' duty to maintain the drones' well-being, both on and off the field. This includes helping them to negotiate environmental hazards, avoid malfunctions and fuel loss, and ensure that the drones are kept routinely repaired and ready to rock from sector to sector. It's all very Silent Running, from a technical and aesthetic standpoint �Though I do not think Duskers features any actual gardening. Duskers would be critically acclaimed for its design and atmosphere on launch, even bagging several? independent game awards and nomi??nations.

Duskers will be able to download from Epic Games Store from February 23 until March 2. Until then, players still have the opportunity to bag current freebie Warpips, before its removal on Wednesday.

The post Lo-fi sci-fi title Duskers is next week’s Epic Games Store freebie appeared first on Destructoid.

Several official tournaments to be held February 18-19

Sony Interactive Entertainment has announced that it will be holding a free multiplayer weekend on PlayStation platforms this weekend, allowing users who do not ?have ??a PlayStation Plus subscription to experience online multiplayer titles without charge.

Players can enjoy online multiplayer action from Saturday, February 18 through Sunday, February 19. All you need is a PlayStation network account and you're ready to rock. To celebrate the mini-event, PlayStation has partnered with publishers to host a small selection tournaments on some popular multiplayer titles, including EA's FIFA 23, 2K Sports' NBA 2K23, and Arc System Works' Guilty Gear Strive. You can check out the details for these events over at the Festival of Play Competition Center.

PlayStation Plus members have their own weekend treats to look forward to. Premium and Deluxe subscribers can experience a three-hour trial of Sony Santa Monica's highly acclaimed God of War: Ragnarok, while all PS Plus users can also receive double savings on a range of discounted games including The Last of Us Part II. For more information pertaining to the PlayStation Festival of Play weekend, check out the official announcement over on PlayStation Blog.

The post You can play PlayStation multiplayer fo??r free this weekend appeared first on Destructoid.

Good God... Y'alllllll!

Tomorrow will see Epic Games Store offer up yet another free game for its army of users, with any and all EGS customers able to pick up Daedalic Entertainment's quirky strategy sim Warpips for the very agreeable pri??ce of A??bsolutely Nothing. Huh, say it again.

//youtu.be/hQRwUsxi2Pg

Developed by indie outfit Skirmish Mode Games and originally launched in spring 2022, Warpips is a fast-paced, tug-of-war strategy title, which offers players quick-to-learn, hard-to-master battles that choose to focus on the larger scale of chaos, rather than the time-consuming minutiae of most strategy sims. Warpips tasks players with building up a small army of infantry and vehicles, before diving into bombastic, fast-??paced warfare, with a heavy emphasis?? on damage and destruction.

Sam Fisher need not apply.

Warpips will be available to download, free of charge, from Epic Games Store from February 16-23. Until the end of today, users still have the opportunity to bag themselves current freebie Recipe for Disaster.

The post Skirmish sim Warpips i??s the current Epic Games Store freebie appeared first on Destructoid.

An idiot sandwich...

It's the end of another week, and that means Epic Games Store is ready to reveal the next game it will be offering up to all of its users free of charge �And its a matter of fires, fights, and fricassees, with the arrival of kitchen and restaurant management sim Recipe for Disaster, available from February 9.

Developed by the fantastically monikered Spanish outfit Dapper Penguin, and launched on PC in the summer of 2022, Recipe for Disaster tasks players with the smooth operation of a professional kitchen and its attached dining room, ensuring the quick, efficient, and accurate work of its chefs and waiting staff, delivering high-quality meals to customers while keeping everybody happy and safe �the former being something of a?n impossibility in the cateri?ng industry.

Yes, Chef.

//www.y?outube.com/watch?v=tokpkrCYvus&ab_channel=KasedoGames

Recipe for Disaster offers up customization and management goals on a huge variety of kitchen elements, from ensuring stock of quality ingredients, to purchasing top-tier equipment, and managing the distinct personalities of your staff to encourage team synergy and discourage inter-culinary brawling. You can also design the restaurant itself, and even conjure up your own recipes to really put your eatery on the map. Dapper P??enguin's release was well-received by critics on release, and is well worth a look for management sim fans or anyone who believes they'?re cut out for the non-stop, high-pressure world of foods and feuds.

Recipe For Disaster will be available to download, free of charge, from Epic Games Store from February 9-16. Until then, users still have the opportunity to bag themselves this week's freebies, Dishonored: Death of the Outsider and City of Gangsters.

The post Recipe f?or Disaster is the next Epic Games Store freebie appeared first on Destructoid.

New games up for grabs on February 2

It's Friday, and thus digital retailer Epic Games Store has announced two new titles that it will be offering up to all of its users next week, absolutely free of charge �And it's not a bad showing at all this time around, as EGS will be offering its customers Dishonored: Death of the Outsider and City of Gangsters.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nea82Rt5vRI&a??mp;ab_channel=BethesdaS?oftworksUK

Released by Arkane Studios as a standalone expansion pack, 2017's Dishonored: Death of the Outsider follows the events of the highly acclaimed Dishonored 2 as a former assassin, Billie Lurk, is call?ed out of retirement in order to track down and eliminate a strange, interdimensional being known only as "The Outsider". What follows is another short 'n' sweet blast of high-mobility stealth and stab action, set against the ba??ckdrop of an ornate steampunk world.

Originally conceived as DLC for Dishonored 2, Arkane decided to make Death of the Outsider a standalone expansion after deciding to experiment a little more with t?he core gameplay of the original release. In addition, the team found itself further attached to protagonist Lurk, and thought that she seemed deserving of a title in her own right as an engaging poste??r protagonist.

//www.youtube?.com/watch?v=Xs2eISCnQN0&ab_channel=KasedoGa??mes

Developed by SomaSim and released in 2021 by Kasedo Games, City of Gangsters is the latest in a long line of titles that take the underworld regime of the 1920s and transition it into a city-building, resource-managing, Tommy-gun firing simulation title. City of Gangsters sees the player grow their liquor-fueled?? empire against the backdrop of Prohibition.

From speakeasies and distilleries to hotels and casinos, become the kingpin of your swingin' 'berg while ensuring that you stay one step ahead of both the competition and the cops, by fair means or foul. Plan, execute and operate your businesses well and you'll be the talk of the town, slip up and you might find yourself in the gutter. Figuratively and literally.

Dishonored: Death of the Outsider and City of Gangsters will be available to download, free of charge, from Epic Games Store from February 2-9. Until then, users still have the opportunity to bag themselves this week's freebies, which are Mischief's Adios and A List Games' Hell is Others.

The post Dishonored: Death of the Outsider & City of Gangsters are the next Epic Games Store freebies appeared first on Destructoid.

World of Words

Epic Games Store has revealed the next title that it will be offering up gratis for its huge army of users �Available to download from January 19 to all users, it's the unique, narratively driven Epistory: Typing Chronicles.

Developed by Belgian studio Fishing Cactus and released back in 2016, Epistory is the tale of a young girl, who rides a three-tailed fox around a constantly evolving origami world, under attack from an array of paper spiders and other crease-tastic bugs. Epistory: Typing Chronicles is a particularly original title from both?? an aesthetic and gameplay standpoint. Not only is its delightful paper world incredibly cool and inviting, but the game's story and world ?unfolds, (quite literally), via the player's typing ability. It's a unique, smartly conceived concept, which you can see in action for yourself in the trailer below.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1qg_8JKojE&??amp;ab_channel=FishingCactus

The player follows on-screen typing prompts in order to control our hero, defeat their enemies, and advance the core story itself. Much like other word-based video games, such as The Typing of the Dead, speed and accuracy will be the tools necessary to progress through the adventure, accessing new areas, while protecting our foxy friend from an increasingly aggressive army of bugs. Epistory is a very nove??l relea??se, and almost worth the price of admission alone for its beautifully crafted origami universe.

Epistory: Typing Chronicles will be available to download from the Epic Games Store from January 19. Until then, you can still pick up murder mystery freebie First Class Trouble from the EGS dashboard.

The post Epistory: Typing Chronicles is the next Epic Game Store fre??ebie appeared first on Destructoid.

This game seem 'sus to you?

Epic Games has revealed the identity of the next title that it will be offering up to its users, free of charge, on its digital retail outlet Epic Games Store �Available to all as of January 12, the new f?reebie is Invisible Walls multiplayer mystery title First Class Trouble.

Launched on PC and PlayStation in November 2021, First Class Trouble sees a literal par?ty of players shipped about a top-tier, highly elite space cruiser �the ISS Alithea. While the guests sip sweet champagne and carouse with the locals, the ship's A.I. unit, CAIN, goes rogue and decides to shut down the party and its patrons, permanently. Manifesting several lifelike androids known as "Personoids", CAIN attempts to sabotage the vessel's mainframe, while our inebriated toffs mount a rebellion n order to identify the Personoids, crush CAIN, and get back to drinking the night away.

//www?.youtube.com/watch?v=3_uu_fZJxLQ&ab_channel=PlayStation

From a gameplay standpoint, First Class Trouble sees six players take the roles of guests and/or Personoids, with the former tasked with identifying and ejecting the latter, who themselves must disrupt the ship's mechanisms without being detected. If this all sounds suspiciously familiar �or should I simply say "'sus" �then that's by design, as First Class Trouble is essentially an alternate take on the party mystery genre popularized by InnerSloth's viral hit Among Us, albeit one sporting a bit more of a ??"Gatsby" vibe.

First Class Trouble will be available to download from the Epic Games Store from January 12. Until then, you can still pick up current freebies Kerbal Space Program and Shadow Tactics �Aiko’s Choice from the EGS dashboard. First Class Trouble is also available on PlayStation platforms via ?the PSN store.

The post ?First Class Trouble will be the nex?t Epic Game Store freebie appeared first on Destructoid.

Fly Kerbals to the moon, let them play among the stars

It's a new year, and a few more games are going free on Epic's PC storefront. Kerbal Space Program and Shadow Tactics - Aiko's Choice are free this week on the Epic Games Store.

From now until January 12, you can hop onto the Epic store and claim both Kerbal Space Program and the standalone Shadow Tactics expansion Aiko's Choice for free. These will add the games to your library for good, so e?ven if you're not looking to play either o??ne right now, just claiming it puts them both in your collection for later.

Kerbal Space Program is the infamous rocket-disaster simulator about launching small, unsuspecting Kerbals into orbit with your specially designed rockets. It's a straightforward concept on paper that's made more complicated when you realize it is, actually, rocket science. Playing Kerbal is a pretty fun way to learn about how hard it is to put a metal tube in space, while also cackling when your plans go spectacularly awr?y.

Otherwise, Aiko's Choice is a standalone expansion for Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun. The base Shadow Tactics is a fairly well-liked stealth tactics game, and Aiko's Choice is like a concentrated version of it. It's a campaign all its own, and doesn't require the base Shadow Tactics to play.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAa9Ao26gtM

Ground control to Kerbal Tom

It's a solid pairing of games for this w?eek's Epic giveaway. Both also sit in some interesting niches of gameplay, so this is really a good excuse to try them out without putting down any cash.

As for the next Epic Game Store freebie, the Store lists the impostor game First Class Trouble as its next upcoming game giveaway. That's expected to go live on January 12, and be ava??ilable to grab through Janua?ry 19.

The post Kerbal Space Pro?gram and some standalone Shadow Tactics are free on Epic this week appeared first on Destructoid.

Get Very Metal this winter

Epic Games Store is continuing its rollout of free video games for each and every day of the holidays, today's offering �still available for a few more hours �is dark action RPG Mortal Shell, which all users can d??ownload direct from the EGS dashb?oard.

Developed by Cold Symmetry and launched on PC and console platforms in 2020, Mortal Shell is fantasy adventure that takes extreme pride in its highly challenging, melee-focused combat. Inspired by the much-loved Dark Souls franchise, the development team set out to make a similarly t?oned adventure where every single swing of the blade mattered, where life and death rest on the edge of one right (or wrong) decision in the heat of battle, and where swift ada?ptation to each enemy is the key to victory.

//ww??w.youtube.com/watch?v=JSs0_PBGiLs&ab_channe??l=PlayStation

In Mortal Shell, players can inhabit the bodies (or "mortal shells") of the deceased, gaining access to their skills, weapons, and abilities. As such, the combat in the game has a natural evolution, as the player passes from body to body, learning new skills on the fly and adapting to the reconfiguration of their offensive and defensive maneuvers. Mortal Shell received plaudits on release for its smart combat and compelling challenge, with many noting that its unabashed love of the FromSoftware titles was readily apparent, with some reviewers noting that it felt like playing Dark Souls for the first time all over again.

Mortal Shell is available to download for free from Epic Games Store. It is also available on PlayStation, Xbox, ?and Nintendo ?Switch platforms.

The post Mortal Shel?l is free right now on Epic Games Store appeared first on Destructoid.

But move swiftly and efficiently if you want it

As Epic Games Store continues its holiday tradition of offering up a free game every day, today give sits users the opportunity to bag the high-speed, stunt-mechanic action-fest Severed Steel, ?which is available to claim f??or the next few hours directly from the EGS dashboard.

Developed by Chicago-based Greylock Studio and released in the spring of last year, Severed Steel is a first-person shooter of the speed 'n' style vernacular. That is to say, it occupies the same territory as games such as High Hell, Ghostrunner, and SuperHOT where the speed, accuracy, and efficiency of the player's mo?vement are equally as important as simply staying alive.

?//www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Yr9olh1yqk&ab_channel=Digerati

Set in a future-noir world, players control the vengeance-fuelled protagonist Steel, who has lost an arm to an accide??nt manufactured by the omnipotent corporation EdenSys. Outfitted with an energy cannon to replace the missing limb, Steel sets out on a? one-woman-vendetta against EdenSys, eradicating its operations and liberating those crushed beneath its metal heels. This translates to a slickly designed, hugely destructible environments and highly stylized and explosive FPS action, all backed by a fantastic, adrenaline-pumping score.

So If you fancy ringing a few ears as you ring in the new year, then head on over to Epic Games Store right now and bag Severed Steel gratis, you have just a few more hours before ??it will be replaced by the next o??ffering. Severed Steel is also available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch platforms.

The post Severed Steel is ?free on Epic Games Store right now appeared first on Destructoid.

Wascally Wabbit of Wor

Epic Games Store is continuing its Holiday campaign of rolling out a free game for each and every day of the season �And today's offering is an unsung doozy, as users can bag themselves a free copy of TiGames dystopian metroidvania F.I.S.T. Forged in Shadow Torch.

Released on PlayStation and PC in the fall of 2021, before being ported to the Switch earlier this year, F.I.S.T. is an anthropomorphic adventure set against the backdrop of a miserabl??e and repressed cityscape, battered and bruised by the hand of an omnipresent corporation known as "Legion". The working class civilians and fallen soldiers of war do what they can to keep their heads down and eik out a meager existence beneath the polluted skies and clanking machinery that rules with a literal iron fist.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngNZBo8r?pw8&ab_channel=F.I.S.T.%3AForgedInShadowTorch

But one ex-soldier, Rayton Rabbit, is ultimately fo??rced ??to take up arms once again when his dear friend is arrested by the state and taken to Forge Tower �a grim monolith that stands looming over the oily suburbs. Donning what is left of his aging, war-torn battle armor, Rayton sets out on a do-or-die mission to rescue his friend, smash the state, and return the city to its people.

F.I.S.T. Forged in Shadow Torch is a fine example of the metroidvania genre, boasting incredibly detailed and layered world design, a dramatic and immersive story, and a very deep combat system �utilizing, strikes, blocks, parries, combos, and all manner of fighting game mechanics. As an original IP, developed by a small Chinese studio, F.I.S.T. flew somewhat under the radar on release, but was easily one of my favorite gam?es of 2021, as well as being one of the most detailed metroidvanias ever.

Even if you don't have the intention of playing it right now, you would do well to bag yourselves this rock-solid title and the incredible price of nothing. F.I.S.T. Forged in Shadow Torch is free right now on Epic Games Store. But don't dally, as it will be switched out for another game in just ?a few hours' time. It is also available on PlayStation and Nint?endo Switch.

The post Great metroidvania F.I.S.T. is currently free on Epic G??ames Store appeared first on Destructoid.

Bless you

Project Lumina has some lovely news for fans of anime fighter Melty Blood: Type Lumina, as two new characters will be join?ing the roster as soon as Thursda??y, December 15 �Better yet, both Ushiwakamaru and The Count of Monte Cristo will be made available to all players absolutely free of charge!

In addition to the amusingly named two combatants, (guest stars from Fate/Grand Order) the new update will also add two new stages �the grim Prison?? Tower: Hall and the isolated Face of th??e Surging Waves �as well as brand new subtitle options for Spanish, French, Brazilian, and Portuguese players.

It's always surprising that in a world of expensive character passes and paid seasonal update, it's often the little guys (Melty Blood, Fighting EX Layer) who drop fistfuls of new content to their dedic??ated fanbases free?? of charge.

Ushiwakamaru

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1Lw5kTAj-I

Titled "The Charismatic and Flawless Beauty", Ushiwakamaru is a rapier-wielding warrior wearing a somewhat revealing kimono and sporting animalistic?? tendencies. This mysterious character's trailer offers up footage of a rushdown-heavy fighter, able to close down on her opponent at lightning speed, and equipped with standard strikes and specials both on the ground and in the air.

Even in a fighter as fast-based as Melty Blood: Type Lumina, it seems that Ushiwakamaru is on??e of the most agile and speediest characters on the roster, with easy maneuverability ?around zoning tactics and launching her attack from almost any direction. And in a blinding flash of steel, hair, and raccoon tail, our furry friend is done.

The Count of Monte Cristo

//youtu.be/NQz5A6qdBuo

"The Eternal Spirit of Vengeance from the Edge of Love and Hate", (which is just me, tbh), brings?? his s??avvy style and destructive powers to the Melty Blood arena. A balanced fighter, The Count is a formidable foe at both long range and close distance �equipped with powerful projectiles to lockdown their foe, as well as multiple command grabs when things get a little personal.

As you can see from the brief traile??r below, The Count? has just a touch of King of Fighters' Iori Yagami about him, dashing in with finger-slashing rekkas, while clutching his opponent to deliver a blast of power... Hmm... I'm seeing the "edge of hate" here, but not so much of the "love". Nice fedora, anyway.

Melty Blood: Type Lumina is available now on PS4, PC, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switc??h.

The post Ushiwakamaru and Mo?nte? Cristo join Melty Blood: Type Lumina next week appeared first on Destructoid.

It really is the most wonderful time of the year

I got the chance to review We Are OFK a few months ago, and it turned out to be one of the most pleasant surprises of the year for me. The music was fun, the visuals were beautiful, and it turned out to have some of the best-character focused writing I've seen in games in a long time. We Are OFK turned out to be more of an interactive mini series than a game, but if you're into that?? sort of thing like I am, it's definitely one to check out.

Now we just got our first update from the team behind We Are OFK since the game came out back in August, and it's kind of a free DLC, of sorts. The band is releasing a holiday song in collaboration with Sony Music Soundtracks -- their own cover of the seasonal classic "It's the Most Wonderful Time of th??e Year" -- which will be accompanied by an interactive music video like the ones from the base game. I love a good holiday single/album from musical artists I love, so it's fun to see OFK getting in on the action. The free update will? be available for all players on this Friday, December 9.

//twitter.com/OFKband/status/1598799498524098561

The next tweet in the thread following the announcement also says that OFK "got offered some special secret collabs." I have no idea if this is in regards to their music, games, or both, but it sounds like exciting news based on the emojis in said tweet. Based on the Steam reviews for We Are OFK, it looks like I wasn't the only one who thoroughly enjoyed the game, s?o I'm looking forward to seein??g what the team continues to put out in the future. And of course, I'd love to see other artists and game designers follow suit, because the industry needs more chill interactive narrative experiences.

The post We A??re OFK is releasing a new holiday-themed ??song/interactive music video appeared first on Destructoid.

Rock the Vote

It be Friday, and like clockwork Epic Games Store has revealed the next titles that it will be offering up to all of its users gratis in the coming week �This time around it's looking like you'll need a real appetite for destruction, with the arrival of Deep Silver's Saints Row IV: Re-Elected and Daedalic's Wildcat Gun Machine.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1CvOVmc-KY

Released in 2020, Saints Row IV: Re-Elected is the ultimate edition of Volition's over-the-top 2013 open-world crime sim. Essentially the very peak of Saints Row's 'no rules' design philosophies, the fourth mainlin??e edition of the increasingly eccentric franchise took the chaos to the point where it c??ould go no further. Now essentially the rulers of the United States, the player controls protagonist The Boss (now President) as they defend the Earth �essentially their own gang territory �from the ruthless intergalactic menace known as The Zin.

Re-Elected includes the initial release of Saints Row IV, alongside all previous expansion packs and additional DLC content. Given that the franchise had reached something of a dead-end with this release, Saints Row was rebooted earlier this year with the more down-to-earth, "Gen-Z-oriented" Saints Row, which launched to an incredibly divisive reception from both c??ritics and fans.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=qO3Zzna0DX0

Developed by Australian indie outfit Chunkybox Games, Wildcat Gun Machine is a frenetic twin-stick shooter that launched in May of this year. Combining dungeon crawling-action with the challenge of a bullet-hell shmup, players guide a gun-??toting badass as they barrel their way through a plethora of grim chambers, taking down battalions of enemies and grossly designed boss characters.

Wildcat Gun Machine offers up 40 unique weapons, from standard rifles and explosive launchers to laser guns and even mighty mech units, as well as a variety of skill-based power-ups to throw a little more favor into our hero's hands. Since its release, WGM has received a mixed reception from players, who enjoy the aesthetics and the challenge offered, but have also criticized the lack of both any form? of narrative and a compelling gameplay "hook".

Saints Row IV Re-Elected and Wildcat Gun Machine will be available to download from Epic Games Store on December 8. Until then, users can still bag current freebies Fort Triumph and RPG In A Box.

The post Saints Row IV Re-Elected and Wildcat Gun Machine are the next Epic Ga??mes Store freebies appeared first on Destructoid.

Stay on Target

Right on schedule, Epic Games Store has revealed the next title that it will be offering up to all of its users gratis in the coming week �And it looks like we're headed to a galaxy far, far away, with the arrival of Electronic Arts space flight dogfighter Star Wars Squadrons, available to download next week.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCcfJ9uEwvs

Developed by EA Motive and released on PC and consoles in the fall of 2020, Star Wars Squadrons is a dogfighter that aims to capture the majesty, splendor and visual style of the iconic movie series. Boasting an original storyline set after the events of Return of the Jedi, Star Wars Squadrons puts players in dual roles as members of both ?The New Republic and The Galactic Empire, both of which are tasked with the creation or destruction of a devastating new vessel known as Project Starhawk.

Star Wars Squadrons features a full story campaign as well as several multiple modes, and allows players to pilot an array of famous ships such as the X-Wing, the B-Wing, the TIE Fighter, and the TIE Bomber. Stars Wars Squadrons received moderate praise for its visuals and authenticity to the Star Wars universe, though some lauded the ti?tle's unfulfilling "work against yourself" story mode, as well as a g?eneral lack of content.

Star Wars Squadrons is available to download from Epic Games Store on November 24. Until then, users can still bag themselves current freebies Evil Dead: The Game and Dark Deity.

The post Star Wars Squadrons is the next Epic?? Games Store freebie appeared first on Destructoid.