IGN editor Michael Higham went hands-on with an early alpha build of State of Decay 3 at gamescom 2026 and found a survival experience that builds meaningfully on the series' fundamentals. The 30-minute demo showcases improved gunplay, deeper character systems, and expanded base management mechanics. A closed playtest is scheduled for late 2026 ahead of a 2027 release on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC.
The Alters: Last Variable arrives as a narrative-rich expansion that introduces fascinating new alter characters and a compelling planetary mystery, but it strips away the relentless sunrise threat that gave the base game its urgency. Without that ticking clock, decisions lose weight and survival mechanics become optional busywork.
Experience the uncharted territory of penguin life in Penguin Colony, where survival in Antarctica meets cosmic horror. This unique simulator, from the devs of Umurangi Generation, offers a short but intriguing demo on Steam, blending species-switching mechanics with a haunting narrative. With its release set for 2026, Penguin Colony promises a distinct gaming experience that critiques fascist ideology through an unlikely protagonist.
Eternity's Edge, a newly released open-world Soulslike game on Steam, combines the challenging gameplay of Dark Souls with the frantic survival elements of Vampire Survivors. This unique blend promises a fresh take on the Soulsborne genre. With its launch, players are diving into a world of intense combat and strategic survival.
Discover a unique gaming deal on Steam where downloading the free dog survival game, Pawprints in the Wild, unlocks a massive discount on the newly released whimsical cooking RPG, SavorQuest. This limited-time offer is a must-grab for fans of both survival challenges and culinary adventures.
Discover Join Us, a cooperative game blending GTA's open-world chaos with apocalyptic survival and cult warfare. Players must navigate a crumbling world, manage resources, and take down hostile cults in a dynamic, shared environment. With its unique blend of genres, Join Us promises intense co-op action amidst the end of the world.
Grounded 2, the miniature backyard survival game, is coming to PlayStation 5 on August 11, marking the end of its Xbox exclusivity. This launch coincides with the "Into The Abyss" update, an underwater-themed expansion hitting PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Players can expect a new aquatic adventure amidst the game's ongoing Early Access.
The developers behind the long-awaited survival game, boasting an impressive 1.2 million Steam wishlists, have issued a caution to potential players, advising them to ensure the game aligns with their expectations before diving in, as anticipation can escalate rapidly. This move comes as the community eagerly awaits the game's release. The warning highlights the challenges of meeting lofty player expectations.
PlayStation Plus subscribers are in for a treat this June with a lineup featuring Xbox's survival hit Grounded, the intense Warhammer 40,000: Darktide, and the chaotic Nickelodeon's All-Star Brawl 2. Available from June 2 to July 6, these titles offer something for every kind of gamer. Additionally, EA Sports FC 26 extends its stay on the platform until June 16.
Nintendo's bid to patent Poké Ball-style capture mechanics for touchscreen devices has been denied by the Japan Patent Office, dealing a blow to its lawsuit against Palworld, a monster-taming survival game set to release on phones and tablets later this year. The decision cites lack of an "inventive step." This setback continues the ongoing saga since 2024, highlighting the challenges Nintendo faces in leveraging patents to protect its intellectual property in the gaming space.
