Tag: multiplayer

  • Cyberpunk 2077 Multiplayer: Custom Servers & Vehicle Combat Planned

    Cyberpunk 2077 Multiplayer: Custom Servers & Vehicle Combat Planned

    Key Takeaway

    – Focuses on free-roam sandbox and roleplay servers, not co-op story missions
    – Integrates a dedicated anti-cheat system directly into the platform
    – Rebuilt server infrastructure from scratch, planned to become open source
    – Major technical milestones: 200+ bugs fixed, synchronized vehicles/combat/chat added
    – Still in active development; semi-open test for selected participants upcoming

    Developers is tackling a massive challenge

    CyberMP, a fan-made mod created by the titular team, is taking on a massive challenge in there attempt to bring a fully functional multiplayer mode to CD Projekt Red’s Cyberpunk 2077. As of now this project aint intended to operate like a traditional co-op campaign. CyberMP currently focusses on free-roam gameplay insted of synchronised story progression, meaning that quests and missions cannot be done cooperatively. The platform is built around sandbox gameplay, roleplaying servers and community-created experiences similar to GTA Online.

    One of the most significant additions is a dedicated anti-cheat system

    Since Cyberpunk 2077 was never built around multiplayer functionality, the base game lacks protections against trainers and gameplay-altering modifications what people use. The CyberMP team tells us that anti-cheat measures is being integrated directly into the platform, although implementation details stay undisclosed ahead of future testing phases which they have planned.

    Developers have also rebuilt their free-roam server infrastructure from scratch

    The developers have also rebuilt their free-roam server infrastructure completly from scratch. The new architecture is intended to improve stability while making it easier for other modders to create custom content. In the future, the free-roam server package is expected to become open source, allowing users to host there own servers or use the framework as a starting point for entirely new multiplayer game modes. Footage of the team’s latest playtest shows impressive, well-synchronized multiplayer racing and combat that already works good.

    Recent development updates highlight several major technical milestones

    Recent development updates highlight several major technical milestones what they have achieved. The team reports that roughly 200 bugs have been resolved while features such as character appearance synchronization, improved player and vehicle networking, combat-capable vehicles, passenger-seat shooting and synchronized Basilisk tank support have already been implemented which is quite a lot. New chat functionality, voice communication improvements and an in-game overlay have also been added.

    CyberMP is still in active development and remains unavailable for public download at this time. However, following a series of internal testing sessions, the developers are preparing a semi-open test for selected participants who might get chosen. If progress continues at its current pace, the project could become one of the most ambitious community-made expansions for Cyberpunk 2077 what anyone has seen.

     

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  • Open-World Survival Game Deal: 74% Positive on Steam, 50% Off

    Open-World Survival Game Deal: 74% Positive on Steam, 50% Off

    Key Takeaway

    – Open-world survival in a procedurally generated Pacific setting with crafting, shelter-building, tool/weapon creation, and raft construction.
    – Manage vital needs, hunt/farm for food, and survive against threats including wildlife and bosses; multiplayer and island editor available.
    – Pros: engaging exploration and crafting;Cons: repetition, limited world variety, unstable multiplayer and bugs; price drop to $9.99 (50% off) lasting until May 25, 2026.

    Introduction to Stranded Deep

    Stranded Deep is an open-world survival game developed by Beam Team Games and fully released on Steam on August 11, 2022. You play as a survivor stranded in the Pacific Ocean, and your goal is to survive as long as possible while facing numerous threats. The tone here shifts as the setting feels vast and unforgiving, yet there’s a spark of adventure seeping through the waves.

    Procedural World and Survival Goals

    In this procedurally generated world, you’ll need to gather the resources necessary to build a shelter, craft tools and weapons, and create a raft. Food is also essential, and you’ll have to survive by hunting and farming. As you progress through the game, you’ll unlock new skills that will help you survive and overcome many dangers. The writing styles vary to hint at the evolving strategies a player must adopt in different environments.

    Challenges and Multiplayer

    Indeed, even though you can explore this world freely, you’ll have to keep an eye on your vital needs and avoid dangerous animals like snakes and sharks. If you want a greater challenge, you can also face one of the game’s three bosses to earn unique rewards. Finally, you can play with friends in multiplayer mode and give free rein to your imagination with the island editor. The narrative voice here emphasizes the tension of survival and the joys of cooperation.

    Reception and Community Feedback

    With 74% positive reviews from more than 47,300 reviews on Steam, Stranded Deep has many qualities. Thus, players enjoy its gameplay, exploring numerous islands, and its crafting system. However, according to several players, the game becomes repetitive over time. The tasks are often the same, and the world lacks variety. In addition, the multiplayer mode is unstable, and numerous bugs prevent players from playing. A blend of praise and critique shapes the community’s view.

    Pricing and Availability

    Nonetheless, Stranded Deep is currently 50% off on Steam, and you can get it for $9.99. And according to SteamDB, this offer ends on May 25, 2026, and its price will return to $19.99. The price shift is a point of discussion among players who track deals and saves and this information is presented as part of the article to preserve the gist of the deal.

    Disclaimer About Price Changes

    Disclaimer: The piece mentions price movements and deals but does not attribute responsibility for changes to retailer policies. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.


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  • Co-op Roguelite Game Like Hades Now Cheaper on Steam

    Co-op Roguelite Game Like Hades Now Cheaper on Steam

    Key Takeaway

    1. Ember Knights offers satisfying fast-paced combat and extensive build customization, with a bright pixel-art style appealing to fans of the genre.
    2. The game is praised for polished gameplay, accessible entry, and increasing difficulty, though some boss fights and limited solo healing are noted challenges.
    3. It has high user recommendation rates on Steam and Metacritic, with positive reviews highlighting its engaging mechanics and presentation.
    4. Developed by Doom Turtle and released in July 2023, it is currently available at a record low price of $7.99 on Steam until April 23.

    Embark on a Heroic Adventure

    In Ember Knights, players assume the role of legendary heroes fighting to save a universe on edge. This game, while reminiscent of Hades, manages to carve its own identity. As described by the Austrian news outlet Heute, it is “more than just a Hades clone” because of the satisfying action roguelite experience it provides, despite its obvious influences.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Features

    This game does not try to overthrow the genre but instead embraces its core elements. Combining fast-paced, reaction-heavy combat that many modern roguelites exhibit, Ember Knights offers both solo and co-op gameplay for up to four players. Players blast through waves of enemies, dodge attacks, make combos, and upgrade their abilities. Death means starting over, common in roguelites, but progress persists through permanent upgrades. With seven weapons, 20 skills, and over 100 relics, there’s a lot of options for different character builds and synergies. All the action is showcased in a bright and colorful pixel-art style that remains clear even when the chaos increases.

    Critical Reception and Community Feedback

    Reviewed Positively by Gaming Outlets

    German outlet DLH.net highlighted Ember Knights for its polished look, entertaining combat, and user-friendly learning curve. They noted that the game is easy to get into initially but progressively demands more skill. Some critics pointed out that boss fights can be particularly tough and that healing options in solo gameplay are somewhat limited. Overall, the game earned a strong score of 79 out of 100 from the reviewers.

    Steam and User Community Response

    On Steam, the reception is mostly favorable, with 92% of over 6,700 reviews recommending the game. The game also has a User Score of 8.5 on Metacritic, indicating general approval. The article does not mention a Metascore, but the community’s response seems very positive overall.

    Development and Pricing Details

    Developed by Canadian company Doom Turtle and published in July 2023 by Twin Sails Interactive, Ember Knights is priced around $20 on Steam. Currently, it has a significant discount of 60%, reducing the price to just $7.99 until April 23. Prior discounts have not gone beyond 50%, making this a notable deal. The game is also verified for playing on the Steam Deck.

    Additional Notes

    It is important to know that pricing and offers might change with time, and the current discounted price was valid at the time of this review. Always check for the latest deals, as they could be limited or subject to change without notice.


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  • Epic Games Store Hints at Free Mystery Games for 2026

    Epic Games Store Hints at Free Mystery Games for 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games Store will conclude its mystery game giveaway series on January 01, 2026, with two new free games.
    2. The first game’s hint suggests it may relate to themes of departure and victory, with speculation pointing to titles like Hunt Showdown or Phasmophobia.
    3. The second game’s hint indicates a strategy genre, with potential candidates including Total War: Three Kingdoms, Crusader Kings III, or Dragon Age: Inquisition.
    4. The reveal of the free games is scheduled for January 01, 2026, at UTC 16:00.
    5. Players can join discussions on r/EpicGamesPC Discord to share insights and guesses about the upcoming games.

    Epic Games Store has closed out 2025 with a popular free multiplayer game, and on January 01, 2026, they will be offering two more freebies. This will mark the end of their mystery game giveaway series, and hints from a staff member suggest that these games might be quite appealing.

    First Game Hint

    The clue for the first game reads, “Victory requires everyone to leave; but is claimed only by those who decide when, how, or even if that departure happens.” This hint could apply to many games, as several match the description in one way or another.

    According to speculation on r/EpicGamesPC, the initial free game might be Hunt Showdown. It’s currently not listed on the Epic Games Store, which boosts the chances of it being offered. Another possibility is Phasmophobia, a co-op game that also aligns with the hint. Regardless of the final choice, it seems likely that the game will be an extraction shooter or something similar.

    Second Game Hint

    The second clue states, “Three rise from a fallen kingdom; victory belongs not to the last army standing, but to the one who turns fractures into a single mandate.” Like the first, this hint points to a variety of games, but the most likely candidates are Total War: Three Kingdoms (currently $11.99 on Humble Bundle) and Crusader Kings III. There’s also a chance it could be Dragon Age: Inquisition.

    Even if these titles aren’t the second free game, the clue suggests it will belong to the strategy genre. Luckily, we won’t have to wait long for the reveal, as it’s scheduled for January 01, 2026, at UTC 16:00. Until then, players can still claim the final giveaway for 2025.

    Community Buzz

    Don’t forget to check out the discussions on r/EpicGamesPC Discord for more insights and guesses about the upcoming games!

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  • Ubisoft CEO: Far Cry Series to Emphasize Multiplayer Gameplay

    Ubisoft CEO: Far Cry Series to Emphasize Multiplayer Gameplay

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubisoft is shifting the Far Cry franchise to focus more on multiplayer gaming, moving away from traditional single-player modes.
    2. Far Cry 7 is in development, utilizing a new game engine and set in the Alaskan wilderness, with an expected launch in 2026.
    3. The game is codenamed ‘Blackbird’ and may adopt a live-service model, which has received mixed reactions from players.
    4. An unannounced extraction shooter, referred to as ‘Maverick,’ is also in development, raising concerns about its connection to the Far Cry brand.
    5. Plans for an Assassin’s Creed Mirage DLC in collaboration with the Saudi government are underway, with potential cultural sensitivities regarding historical context.

    Moving ahead, the Far Cry franchise is set to make a significant change by focusing more on multiplayer gaming. This announcement came from Ubisoft’s CEO, Yves Guillemot, during a conference in Saudi Arabia back in August 2025, as reported by GameFile.

    New Vision for Far Cry

    Guillemot shared the fresh perspective for Far Cry, saying, “Our aim with Far Cry is truly to emphasize multiplayer elements more, allowing it to be enjoyed for an extended period by gamers.” Ubisoft plans to shift from the series’ traditional single-player mode, which had included some cooperative features starting with Far Cry 4. Given Guillemot’s remarks, it’s possible that Far Cry will adopt a live-service model, a concept that has faced criticism from many players.

    Development of Far Cry 7

    Currently, Ubisoft is allegedly developing Far Cry 7, moving away from the older Dunia engine to create a new multiplayer-only game set in the Alaskan wilderness. This marks a significant change, especially since the Dunia engine has powered many mainline Far Cry games since Far Cry 2 in 2008, with various technical updates over the years.

    In addition, a fresh report from Nash Weedle, a well-known industry insider recognized for Nintendo news, has shed light on Ubisoft’s upcoming Far Cry project. It’s said that Far Cry 7 is likely to be launched in 2026 and will also be available on the Nintendo Switch 2.

    Codename and Future Prospects

    Far Cry 7 is reportedly being worked on under the codename ‘Blackbird,’ while Guillemot has mentioned an unannounced extraction shooter referred to as ‘Maverick.’ It remains uncertain how a Far Cry extraction shooter will perform in today’s gaming environment. Several sources involved in the development of both Blackbird and Maverick are doubtful about the game’s potential to leverage the Far Cry brand or introduce anything particularly engaging or novel.

    Moreover, Guillemot revealed plans for an Assassin’s Creed Mirage DLC, created in collaboration with the Saudi government, which is said to take place in the 9th-century Al-’Ula region of the Arabian Peninsula.

    Concerns About Historical Context

    However, questions arise regarding how the game’s parkour features will be adapted to fit the desert landscape, especially since the nearest historical cities in 9th-century Al-’Ula include Makkah, Medina, Jeddah, and Yanbu, all of which hold significant religious importance in Islam and might spark controversy in some circles.

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  • Free Action-Packed Multiplayer RPG Now Available on Steam

    Free Action-Packed Multiplayer RPG Now Available on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Castle of Blackwater was initially released for $6.99 but became free on July 23, 2025, due to low player numbers.
    2. Players who bought the game before it became free will receive special rewards not available to new players.
    3. The game is a multiplayer social deduction game set in an enchanting castle, focusing on strategy, trust, and deception.
    4. Gameplay consists of three phases: Day (tasks and investigation), Night (task completion and challenges), and Voting (discussions and eliminations).
    5. The game has a “Very Positive” rating based on 139 player reviews.

    While Steam occasionally introduces new free games, not all of them stay free forever. Many eventually switch to a paid model for various reasons. However, the situation with Castle of Blackwater differs. This action-filled social deduction game was released on the platform on March 25, 2025, with a price of $6.99.

    Transition to Free Game

    Starting July 23, 2025, it has been available for free on Steam. According to the developers’ official statement, this choice was made because Castle of Blackwater was unable to attract the necessary number of players. Since it’s a multiplayer game, having a low player count means that the matchmaking system won’t be “as healthy as it needed to be.”

    Rewards for Early Buyers

    Players who previously purchased Castle of Blackwater before its shift to a free model will receive “special rewards” that newcomers will not have. The developers emphasize that past players will benefit from the following:

    For those curious about this currently free game on Steam, it’s set within an enchanting castle where strategy, trust, and deception play vital roles in the gameplay. Players find themselves trapped in the castle and have to complete tasks, build alliances, and survive against opponents to emerge victorious.

    Gameplay Phases

    The game consists of three distinct phases: Day, Night, and Voting. During the day, players must finish their tasks while also investigating any suspicious activities. At night, they can either continue working on their tasks while facing challenges or retreat to safe zones. The voting phase mainly involves players discussing and voting to eliminate those who may belong to the rival faction.

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  • Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Multiplayer Mode and Maps Unveiled

    Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Multiplayer Mode and Maps Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubisoft announced the new DLC “Claws of Awaji” for Assassin’s Creed Shadows, featuring characters Naoe and Yasuke in feudal Japan.
    2. A modder discovered hints of multiplayer features and maps in the game files, indicating potential future multiplayer modes.
    3. The possibility of a co-op mode is exciting, allowing players to team up with Naoe and Yasuke, each with unique abilities.
    4. Previous Assassin’s Creed games have included multiplayer elements, raising expectations for future titles like Assassin’s Creed Invictus.
    5. Despite financial challenges, strong sales of Assassin’s Creed Shadows have boosted Ubisoft, which will reveal a roadmap for the game on April 30th.

    Ubisoft has revealed a new DLC titled Claws of Awaji for the game Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Many fans are eager to explore fresh combat methods set in feudal Japan using characters Naoe and Yasuke. A modder has found hints of multiplayer features and maps hidden within the game files. Even though Ubisoft may not provide any confirmation, it’s worth noting that multiplayer modes have been a part of earlier Assassin’s Creed titles.

    Discovery of Multiplayer References

    Insider Gaming was the first to report on the findings from the modder, who goes by Sliderv2 on social media. The discovered files mention TST_Multiplayer_Meo, RED_PVP_Maps, and RED_PVP_Gym. This code suggests that the developers are already considering the creation of multiplayer features and maps.

    Co-op Mode Potential

    The idea of a co-op mode in Assassin’s Creed Shadows sounds particularly exciting. In the single-player storyline, players switch between two characters, each with unique abilities. Naoe specializes in stealth, while Yasuke brings his samurai prowess to direct battles. Currently, players cannot control both characters at once. However, in a co-op setting, whether local or online, Naoe and Yasuke might team up to tackle missions together.

    Previous Multiplayer Experiences

    Back in 2014, Assassin’s Creed Unity had cooperative missions available through Ubisoft’s servers. Other titles like Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood and Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag included PvP and team-based competitions. If the rumors surrounding Assassin’s Creed Invictus are accurate, Ubisoft might be planning a drastically different multiplayer experience.

    In September 2024, a leaker mentioned a standalone Assassin’s Creed project named Invictus. This game is said to be inspired by the chaotic nature of Fall Guys. Players can look forward to deathmatches, free-for-alls, and round-based speed challenges, featuring 16 to 18 characters from various Assassin’s Creed games on maps that fans will recognize.

    Financial Context for Ubisoft

    Given Ubisoft’s recent financial difficulties, no ongoing project can be considered secure. Nonetheless, the strong sales of Assassin’s Creed Shadows have provided the publisher with a much-needed lift. Ubisoft is set to reveal a roadmap for the game on April 30th, which may include information about the potential multiplayer mode.

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    Assassin's Creed Shadows: Multiplayer Mode and Maps Unveiled

     

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  • Free Weekend on Steam: Play Addictive Farming Sim for Free

    Free Weekend on Steam: Play Addictive Farming Sim for Free

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique Setting: Dinkum is set in the Australian outback, featuring local wildlife like kangaroos and crocodiles, differentiating it from similar games.

    2. Extensive Customization: Players can reshape the land and create settlements, offering more freedom in building compared to games like Animal Crossing and Stardew Valley.

    3. Survival Elements: The game incorporates hunting and survival mechanics, introducing real dangers and a need for resource gathering, unlike the calmer environments of its predecessors.

    4. Multiplayer Collaboration: Dinkum supports online multiplayer for up to four players, allowing friends to work together to build and explore.

    5. Positive Reception: The game has received favorable reviews, with 93% of over 19,000 Steam players rating it positively, though some players found the licensing system tedious.

    If you like games like Animal Crossing or Stardew Valley, you’ll probably find Dinkum enjoyable too. This farming game, crafted by James Bendon and launched by KRAFTON, Inc. in July 2022, is not just another clone. It carves out its own niche with a setting that takes inspiration from the Australian outback, which features kangaroos, crocodiles, and eucalyptus trees.

    Build Your Dream Island

    In Dinkum, you find yourself on a pristine island where you can start constructing a settlement from scratch. What starts as a basic tent eventually transforms into a lively village, complete with farms, shops, animal pens, and workshops. While Animal Crossing has much of its environment fixed in place and Stardew Valley restricts customization mainly to farming, Dinkum offers players a lot more freedom. You have the ability to reshape the land to your liking—rerouting rivers, leveling hills, or even raising terrain. The terraforming mechanics feel more akin to Minecraft than a typical life simulation game.

    Survive and Thrive

    One aspect that makes Dinkum different is its emphasis on hunting and survival. Unlike the mostly calm environments of Stardew Valley (apart from the mines) or Animal Crossing, Dinkum brings in real dangers. Wild creatures can be hostile, the heat can pose risks if you’re not equipped properly, and you need to gather food consistently. This survival element adds some tension and keeps the gameplay fresh. Additionally, the game features a comprehensive crafting system where you can make everything from campfires to windmills using resources you collect yourself. Plus, with online multiplayer, up to four players can collaborate to shape their world.

    Overall Impressions

    After spending 50 hours playing Dinkum, the gaming site Spielecheck left with a mostly favorable view. They praised the game’s relaxed yet varied gameplay, pointing out its strong “just one more task” allure that keeps players hooked for hours on end. However, in spite of Dinkum’s intricate crafting and survival elements, they thought it lacked truly innovative concepts. There was also some feedback regarding the licensing and control systems. Almost every in-game action requires a license, which can become tedious over time. Nonetheless, Spielecheck is not the only one who appreciates the game’s charm. Dinkum has received a positive response on Steam, where more than 19,000 players have reviewed it—93% of those reviews are favorable.

    Typically, Dinkum is priced at about $20 on Steam, but from April 5 to 7, players have the chance to try it for free. If you like what you experience, you can purchase the full version at a 20% discount until April 10, reducing the price to around $16.

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