Tag: Steam

  • Iconic Action-RPG Launches on Steam as a Handheld Exclusive Port

    Iconic Action-RPG Launches on Steam as a Handheld Exclusive Port

    Key Takeaways

    1. Remastered Release: Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Battle Destiny Remastered is now available on Steam and Nintendo Switch, expanding its reach beyond Japan.

    2. Development and Localization: Originally launched in 2012 by Artdink, the remaster is developed by B.B. Studio and Bandai Namco, featuring improved visuals and complete English support.

    3. Gameplay Experience: Players can engage in real-time battles during the Mobile Suit Gundam Seed and Seed Destiny timelines, choosing factions and customizing Mobile Suits.

    4. New Features: The remaster includes enhanced character models, redrawn backgrounds, a revamped HUD, and extensive customization options for over 100 Mobile Suits.

    5. System Requirements and Pricing: The game is priced at $39.99 on Steam, with manageable system requirements for 1080p gameplay, and is compatible with the Steam Deck.

    A decade after its first appearance, one of the more obscure Gundam action RPGs is making a comeback – this time beyond Japan. Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Battle Destiny Remastered has launched on Steam and Nintendo Switch (curr. $299 on Amazon), allowing PC gamers to enjoy a title that was previously restricted to the PlayStation Vita and only available in Japanese.

    Development and Localization

    Initially created by Artdink and debuted in 2012, the game was never localized for the western audience – until now. This remaster is brought to you by B.B. Studio and Bandai Namco, featuring improved visuals, user interface changes, and complete English language support. Bandai has been working to bring more Gundam titles to contemporary platforms following the success of recent remasters and collections.

    Gameplay Experience

    The story unfolds during the timelines of Mobile Suit Gundam Seed and Seed Destiny, allowing players to choose a faction – Earth Alliance, ZAFT, or the Archangel group – and engage in battles alongside important pilots from the series. Combat occurs in real-time, incorporating third-person shooting, melee combat, and customizable Mobile Suits.

    New Features

    Amongst the new features in the remastered version are enhanced character models, redrawn backgrounds, and a revamped HUD that aligns with today’s display resolutions. The game also accommodates various control schemes and includes adjustments to the lock-on system, which should make it feel more like modern Gundam console games.

    There are over 100 Mobile Suits available for players to utilize, each one can be customized to fit your gameplay style. Whether you prefer speed, long-range weapons, or a more defensive build, the customization options are extensive enough to keep even seasoned players interested.

    System Requirements and Pricing

    Steam’s system requirements are quite manageable – an Intel Core i3 with 4 GB of RAM and a GTX 950 can achieve 1080p at 60fps on low settings. For those seeking a better experience, a GPU with 4 GB of VRAM, like the GTX 1650 Super, is suggested for consistent high performance.

    Upon launch, the game is available for $39.99 on Steam, and while there’s no initial discount, prices may differ by region. Currently, there’s no information regarding future updates or downloadable content.

    For Gundam enthusiasts who overlooked this title during its initial release, this remaster should be a delightful addition – and more accessible than before. Steam Deck users will be pleased to learn that the game is also compatible with that platform.

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  • New Free Games Available on Steam – Latest Releases You Can’t Miss

    New Free Games Available on Steam – Latest Releases You Can’t Miss

    Key Takeaways

    1. The selection of free games on Steam has increased recently.
    2. Several new free games were launched in early May 2025.
    3. The X account @SteamGamesPC is highlighting new free game titles.
    4. Price changes by retailers are not the responsibility of Notebookcheck.
    5. Users are encouraged to stay updated on new additions to enhance their gaming experience.

    The free game selection on Steam has grown once more. Reflecting on the past, several newly launched free games appeared during the initial weeks of May 2025. Recently, additional free titles have been highlighted by the X account @SteamGamesPC. Here’s further info about a few of them:

    Important Note

    Please note that Notebookcheck holds no responsibility for any price alterations made by retailers. The sale price or promotional offer mentioned here was valid at the time this was written and may have time limits and/or limited stock.

    Social Media Update

    The X account @SteamGamesPC has shared some exciting news about the latest free games available. Keep an eye out for these new additions to the platform, which continue to enhance the gaming experience for users.

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  • Microsoft Tests Steam Integration in Its Store, Leak Suggests

    Microsoft Tests Steam Integration in Its Store, Leak Suggests

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is testing the integration of Steam into the Microsoft Store, aiming to bridge the gap between Xbox and Steam.
    2. This integration may allow for syncing libraries, shared achievements, and improved cross-platform multiplayer, but does not mean a full Steam client on Xbox.
    3. Concerns arise that this could deter third-party developers from using the Xbox Store.
    4. The move may reflect Microsoft’s strategy for a more open gaming ecosystem, possibly linked to a new Xbox handheld device.
    5. If successful, this integration could challenge Sony and Nintendo’s exclusivity, leading to potential demands for access to games across platforms.

    The long-standing divide between Microsoft’s Xbox ecosystem and Valve’s Steam store may be on the verge of disappearing. A recent leak from gaming insider @eXtas1stv suggests that internal trials are currently taking place to integrate Steam into the Microsoft Store. Reactions have varied from confusion to a cautious sense of hope, alongside some wild theories about what this could mean for the future of platform exclusivity.

    Clarifying the Situation

    To clear things up, this doesn’t imply that you will simply start your Xbox and access the Steam client directly. Most analyses indicate that Steam games might be offered in the Microsoft Store through backend connections, not by fully integrating the client. This could lead to numerous opportunities, like syncing libraries, shared achievements, and potentially more seamless cross-platform multiplayer. However, it also brings up several concerns.

    Potential Impacts on Developers

    Some users on Reddit have noted that this might push third-party developers away from the Xbox Store entirely. Others speculate that this could be part of a bigger strategy: Microsoft’s aim for a more open and platform-independent future, especially with the buzz around a possible upcoming Xbox handheld device.

    The Bigger Picture

    But let’s not forget about the big question: if Xbox embraces Steam, how can Sony or Nintendo prevent access to games purchased on their systems? Just as Nvidia had to comply when Sony requested them to block GeForce Now for PlayStation titles, Valve might face similar demands. Should this leak prove accurate, we can expect official confirmation in the near future.

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  • Steam’s Schedule I Restrictions in Australia Explained

    Steam’s Schedule I Restrictions in Australia Explained

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Removal: The indie game Schedule I was taken down from the Australian Steam store due to a lack of classification by the Australian Classification Board, which is legally required for all games sold in Australia.

    2. Developer’s Clarification: Tyler, the developer, indicated that the game is not banned but is awaiting classification, as he assumed the classification law only applied to console or physical copies.

    3. Legal Compliance: All video games, including those on digital platforms, must be classified under Australia’s National Classification Scheme before being distributed, which highlights the importance of legal compliance for developers.

    4. Challenges for Developers: The situation underscores the difficulties independent developers face in understanding and navigating international legal requirements, as seen in similar cases with other games and platforms.

    5. Comparison with Other Platforms: Unlike Steam, Google Play includes specific prompts for regional legal compliance during the app submission process, emphasizing the need for developers to be aware of local regulations.

    The indie game Schedule I, which features an open world, has been taken down from the Australian Steam store due to a problem related to its classification. Tyler, the developer from TVGS, confirmed that the game hadn’t been submitted to the Australian Classification Board, which is a legal requirement.

    Developer’s Explanation

    In a message posted on Reddit and referenced in the discussions on Steam, Tyler shared, “I just found out that all games sold in Australia need to be classified before they can be available. I thought this only applied to console or physical copies. It seems like this law is not enforced consistently since there are many unclassified games available in Australia. We are starting the classification process today and are hoping to fix this in the next few days. I apologize for the trouble! To sum it up: not banned—just waiting for classification.”

    Legal Requirements

    The Australian Classification Board states that all video games available through online stores must be classified prior to being distributed. This rule covers digital platforms on PCs, mobile gadgets, and gaming consoles as part of Australia’s National Classification Scheme.

    Current Availability

    SteamDB shows that the store package for Schedule I is labeled as “Not in AU,” which confirms that it is currently unavailable in Australia. However, the game can still be played in all other regions where it is supported.

    Schedule I was taken off sale in Australia after achieving over 459,000 simultaneous players on Steam, due to the classification compliance issue. Its removal has highlighted the ongoing difficulties independent developers face in navigating international legal requirements.

    Industry Comparisons

    Similar challenges have cropped up in other instances, like Sega pulling more than 60 classic games from various digital stores and Amazon taking down the EmulationStation app, which helps organize and launch emulated games. These cases highlight how platform compliance and local laws can influence game accessibility.

    Steam’s onboarding documentation seems to lack prompts for region-specific legal compliance, such as the necessary classification in Australia. Developers are responsible for ensuring their games meet local legislation, but it’s unclear if Steam conducts automated legal checks during the submission process.

    In contrast, Google Play includes regional compliance steps within its app submission process, requiring developers to submit documentation for legal approval in countries with strict national regulations. These prompts are visible in the Play Console and are essential for distribution in those areas.

    TVGS has stated that it is now working on getting the classification to restore access for Australian players. As of now, the game is still available in all other supported areas.

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  • Free Retro Platform Game on Steam Deck Going Paid Soon

    Free Retro Platform Game on Steam Deck Going Paid Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Wild Castle is a nostalgic 2D platformer that will change to a pay-to-play model, priced at $1.
    2. The pricing change aims to fund future updates and new content for the game.
    3. The game features 15 levels with challenging obstacles, appealing to fans of classic gaming.
    4. Wild Castle offers replay value through a scoring system that encourages players to improve their scores.
    5. The game has a “Positive” rating from players and is verified for compatibility with Steam Deck.

    Wild Castle is a nostalgic 2D platformer that hit Steam for free in June 2019. But it looks like this won’t be free forever! The developer has recently shared that the game will soon shift to a pay-to-play model, and after this update, the game will be priced at $1.

    Developer’s Plans

    In their announcement, the developers mentioned that this pricing change is intended to help fund upcoming developments for Wild Castle. They also hinted at exciting new content, additional features, and thrilling updates that are planned for the game’s future.

    Game Features

    Wild Castle is designed for lovers of classic gaming, especially fans of Game Boy and NES titles. The game includes 15 distinct levels, where players encounter various challenging obstacles. Although the controls are straightforward, as players progress, maneuvering through the platforming challenges can get a bit tough.

    Replay Value and Aesthetic

    One thing that stands out about Wild Castle is its replayability. Every level comes with a scoring system that motivates players to return and aim for higher scores. The game’s soundtrack and sound effects are also inspired by retro styles, complementing the visuals perfectly.

    Currently free on Steam, the game has a “Positive” rating based on 30 player reviews, and it has been marked as “Verified” for Steam Deck compatibility.

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  • Doom: The Dark Ages Launch Struggles vs. Doom Eternal Player Count

    Doom: The Dark Ages Launch Struggles vs. Doom Eternal Player Count

    Key Takeaways

    1. Doom: The Dark Ages launched on May 15th, but its player count on Steam is significantly lower than Doom Eternal’s during its launch period.
    2. The game’s peak player count is 30,812, compared to Doom Eternal’s 104,891 and Doom 2016’s 44,271.
    3. The higher price of Doom: The Dark Ages ($69.99) is a barrier for players, especially when compared to Doom Eternal’s launch price of $39.99.
    4. The lack of a multiplayer mode and limited replayability may deter players from purchasing the game, especially given the trend of cheaper AAA titles on Game Pass.
    5. High system requirements for Doom: The Dark Ages could also limit its audience, even though those who do play it generally enjoy the game.

    The launch of Doom: The Dark Ages appeared to be very promising, as it received good review scores. However, the praise has not yet resulted in a strong player count on Steam. Currently, the new game from id Software is having a hard time reaching the player numbers seen during the launch of Doom Eternal in 2020. The situation might improve as the weekend approaches, but there are several reasons that could be hindering sales of Doom: The Dark Ages.

    Launch and Player Count

    After its early access period, the game officially launched for everyone on May 15th. Some players in certain time zones could start playing on the night of May 14th. With over 24 hours of data available, the highest Steam player count recorded is 30,812. In contrast, Doom Eternal had already gathered 104,891 players by this time. The Doom reboot from 2016 reached a peak of 44,271 players.

    Comparison to Doom Eternal

    Doom Eternal was released on a Friday, giving it a boost going into the weekend. Doom: The Dark Ages might see an increase in player numbers in the coming days. However, it faces challenges that its predecessor did not encounter. A significant factor is the price difference: Doom Eternal’s Standard Edition launched at $39.99, while the cheapest version of Doom: The Dark Ages is priced at $69.99. Players outside the U.S., particularly in the UK, are paying even more than what is typical for PC games.

    Game Pass and Replay Value

    Unlike Doom Eternal, which was not available on Xbox Game Pass at launch, the higher price of $69.99 might be hard for players to justify for a campaign that can be completed in about 12 hours. There are currently no indications of a multiplayer mode being added. Replayability is essential, especially since many AAA titles can be accessed on Game Pass for a lower monthly cost.

    Despite receiving positive reviews, the Steam ratings are not enough to boost the new Doom’s sales. Additionally, the high system requirements for Doom: The Dark Ages on PC could be another barrier. Many players who do own the game enjoy it, but encouraging a broader audience to buy it is proving to be a challenge.

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    Doom: The Dark Ages Launch Struggles vs. Doom Eternal Player Count
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  • Valve Confirms No Steam Data Breach, Accounts Remain Secure

    Valve Confirms No Steam Data Breach, Accounts Remain Secure

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve investigated rumors of a data breach involving 89 million Steam accounts and found that the leaked data only included older one-time codes and phone numbers, with no links to account details or personal information.

    2. The company assured users that the leaked older text messages cannot compromise account security, and users will be notified if any changes are made to their account via SMS.

    3. Users do not need to change passwords or phone numbers, but Valve recommends setting up an authenticator for added security.

    4. The initial breach report originated from a LinkedIn profile claiming a dataset for sale on the dark web, but Valve clarified it does not use Twilio for authentication, despite claims of 2FA logs being involved.

    5. Valve has not confirmed the source of the leak or how the 2FA logs ended up on the dark web, as Twilio denied any breach.

    No, your Steam account hasn’t been compromised. Valve has addressed the latest rumors and leaks concerning a data breach that allegedly involves over 89 million accounts available for purchase on the dark web.

    Company’s Findings

    Valve took a look at the leaked data and discovered it only included “older text messages that had one-time codes valid for only 15 minutes, along with the phone numbers they were sent to.”

    More crucially, the company stated, “The leaked information did not link the phone numbers to any Steam account, nor did it contain password details, payment information, or other personal data.”

    Security Assurance

    The company emphasized that older text messages “cannot be used to compromise the security of your Steam account.” Additionally, they noted that “whenever a code is utilized to alter your Steam email or password via SMS, you will receive a notification via email and/or secure messages on Steam.”

    You don’t need to change your passwords or phone numbers, but it’s always smart to set up an authenticator for extra security. For more details on how to set up and activate Steam Guard, check out the guidance on Steam’s support website.

    Origin of the Report

    The initial report about the hack can be traced back to a LinkedIn profile, Underdark.ai, which asserted that a malicious actor named Machine1337 had uploaded a dataset containing 89 million Steam user accounts on the dark web.

    According to the report, these accounts were being sold for $5000 (€4463.50 or £3766) and required buyers to have a Telegram account to complete the transaction. The report also mentioned internal vendor data in the leak, suggesting there might be some admin access involved.

    Updates and Clarifications

    The report has been revised to indicate that the leak included “real-time 2FA SMS logs routed through Twilio.” Interestingly, Twilio has denied any breach, and Valve clarified that it does not use Twilio for authentication services.

    Currently, Valve has not yet confirmed the origin of the leak or how the two-factor authentication (2FA) logs made their way onto the dark web.

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  • Steam Deal: Only $2 for Top-Rated First-Person Shooter Game

    Steam Deal: Only $2 for Top-Rated First-Person Shooter Game

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Content: The Anniversary Edition features a new fifth episode and introduces new enemies and weapons, including the Incinerator flamethrower.

    2. Enhanced Audio and Visuals: The game has improved audio with new music and voice lines, and its visuals have been upgraded from 2.5D to real 3D, maintaining the original charm.

    3. Thrilling Storyline: Players follow Duke Nukem as he fights aliens invading Los Angeles, with fast-paced action and open-level design, while modernized controls enhance gameplay.

    4. Positive Reception: The game has received praise for its fun gameplay, level design, and humor, with a good score of 72 on Metacritic and positive reviews on Steam.

    5. Points of Improvement: Critics noted flaws like a less refined new episode, simplistic enemy AI, and the absence of local split-screen play, affecting some fans’ satisfaction.

    To mark its 20th anniversary, one of the most memorable first-person shooters from the 90s made a return in 2016 – Duke Nukem 3D. The Anniversary Edition is more than just a trip down memory lane; it introduces a variety of new content that should excite both old fans and newcomers. At its heart is a completely new fifth episode, designed by the original creators Allen Blum III and Richard “Levelord” Gray. Players will also encounter new foes, including the annoying Fireflies, and a powerful weapon: the Incinerator, a flamethrower that delivers a heavy blow.

    Enhanced Audio and Visuals

    The sound experience has been improved as well: composer Lee Jackson is back with fresh tunes, and Jon St. John, the iconic voice of Duke, offers new one-liners. Visually, the game has received a significant upgrade – its classic “2.5D” style has been transformed into real 3D, keeping the charm of the original engine intact. Modern features enhance the experience, including Steam achievements, trading cards, Workshop support, and full compatibility with the Steam Deck.

    The Thrilling Storyline

    The plot is simple yet effective: aliens have invaded Los Angeles, and their favorite hobby appears to be abducting women. Duke Nukem, a tough lone wolf with sunglasses and a massive ego, is not going to let this happen – he’s ready to unleash everything that shoots, burns, or explodes. In the new fifth episode of the Anniversary Edition, Duke embarks on a worldwide rampage, from Amsterdam to Egypt, always on the lookout for the next alien to eliminate. The gameplay remains faithful to the original: fast-paced action, open level design, and a vast array of weapons provide classic run-and-gun excitement. The controls have been slightly modernized for today’s players while still keeping that retro vibe. Fans of multiplayer can join online matches with up to eight players for some wild fun.

    Positive Reception and Criticism

    In their review, 4Players highlighted that Duke Nukem 3D continues to offer a high level of fun, even many years after its debut. They praised the game’s varied level design, filled with hidden spots and interactive features, along with its crude humor and numerous pop culture references. The testers were also impressed by the eclectic mix of quirky weapons and gadgets. Optional developer commentaries were well-received too, providing interesting insights into the level design process. The gaming magazine WayTooManyGames took it a step further, calling Duke Nukem 3D “one of the most enjoyable and well-crafted first-person shooters in history.”

    Points of Improvement

    Though the game was lauded for its entertainment value, reviewers pointed out a few flaws. The new episode was seen as less refined than the original chapters and somewhat lacking in depth. The simplistic enemy AI and a lack of tactical challenge were also considered drawbacks. Furthermore, some fans were unhappy about missing content found in previous versions like the Megaton Edition, and the absence of local split-screen play was another disappointment. 4Players rated the game a commendable 7 out of 10. On Metacritic, critics awarded it a score of 72, while users rated it at 7.2. On Steam, the Anniversary Edition has garnered about 4,600 reviews, with 85% being positive.

    Duke Nukem 3D: 20th Anniversary World Tour typically retails for about $20 on Steam, but until May 26, it is being offered at a huge 90% discount, reducing the price to just $2. As per SteamDB, the game has fallen to this price multiple times before – most recently in early April – but has never been available at a better discount.

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  • Tim Sweeney: Epic Games Launcher Clunky but Offers Unique Benefits

    Tim Sweeney: Epic Games Launcher Clunky but Offers Unique Benefits

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games launcher struggles with navigation and speed compared to Steam, affecting user experience.
    2. Content delivery network location impacts loading times and resource usage for Epic Games Store.
    3. Sweeney is optimistic about cross-platform functionalities as a future advantage for Epic Games.
    4. Epic engages users with free AAA games and attracts new developers with better revenue shares.
    5. Despite improvements, slow performance remains a challenge for users exploring new titles.

    The Epic Games launcher has had a hard time keeping up with Valve’s Steam marketplace in terms of popularity. While Steam offers an unrivaled variety of games, many users find the Epic option somewhat annoying. In a recent podcast with Lex Fridman, CEO Tim Sweeney made some unexpected remarks about this situation. He acknowledged that, despite the company’s attempts, the Epic launcher is not as smooth to navigate as its competitors. Still, he highlighted the software’s benefits across multiple platforms and is hopeful for its future development.

    Navigation Challenges

    Sweeney pointed out that one major problem affecting the launcher is the location of content delivery networks. If users are situated far from the nearest server, it takes longer to load store pages and download content. Even when the launcher is accessed from an ideal spot, it seems to use more system resources compared to Steam. The design of the Epic Games Store is more modern, featuring bigger graphics that can strain lower-end computers.

    Future Outlook

    Despite these issues, Sweeney remains optimistic about the future of the marketplace. He pointed out that while Steam’s user base is predominantly on PCs, Epic Games has rolled out cross-platform functionalities. Games like Fortnite and Rocket League enable users to carry over their progress and purchases to Xbox, PlayStation, and mobile devices. Sweeney thinks this will become a major advantage in the coming years. Additionally, Microsoft is also making efforts to merge platform boundaries, which could help both Epic and Steam thrive with a new Windows-based Xbox console that expands access to their games.

    Competitive Landscape

    Generally, Steam still boasts a much larger user base compared to the Epic Games launcher. However, Epic keeps users engaged by offering free games, often including AAA titles, which dissuades them from uninstalling the application. Furthermore, the marketplace is becoming more attractive to new developers, especially after recent updates. These game creators will now benefit from a larger share of the revenue generated by the Epic Games Store. Nevertheless, the slow performance continues to be a hurdle for gamers eager to explore new titles.

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  • Discounted Tough Platformer with Nostalgic Art Style on Steam

    Discounted Tough Platformer with Nostalgic Art Style on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cuphead became a major hit in 2017 due to its challenging gameplay and unique cartoon-style graphics, receiving over 160,000 positive reviews on Steam.
    2. Players can choose to play as Cuphead or Mugman, who must recover their souls by defeating various bosses after losing them to the Devil.
    3. Gameplay includes boss battles, aircraft segments, and running challenges, with bosses having multiple phases and attack patterns.
    4. The game features two difficulty levels: Simple (easier, no soul rewards) and Regular (more challenging), allowing players to choose their experience.
    5. Cuphead is currently on sale for $13.99 on Steam, which is the lowest price since its release, while the DLC, The Delicious Last Course, costs $18.89.

    In 2017, Cuphead made a huge impact in the gaming community. What seemed like a simple cartoon-style platformer quickly became known as one of the most challenging games released that year. It received rave reviews from both players and critics, and to date, it boasts over 160,000 positive reviews on Steam.

    Characters and Storyline

    In Cuphead, you can take on the role of either Cuphead or his brother, Mugman, who reside on Inkwell Isle. The game offers both solo and cooperative play options. After losing their souls to the Devil due to gambling, the brothers must retrieve the souls of other debtors. Players navigate through various regions, facing off against enemies and collecting their souls.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    Most levels feature confrontations with bosses (or multiple bosses) in an arena setting, while other segments involve piloting an aircraft, which comes with its own unique controls. Additionally, there are sections where players run through areas, eliminating any foes encountered. As previously mentioned, Cuphead is challenging, and it often takes several attempts to complete a level. Boss battles typically consist of multiple phases, each introducing new attack patterns and combos.

    Difficulty Settings and Pricing

    Cuphead offers two difficulty levels: Simple and Regular. As the names indicate, Simple is the more forgiving option. However, completing a level on Simple does not reward players with a soul, which is the main goal of the game. This mode is designed for players to get accustomed to the level before transitioning to Regular. Alternatively, players can choose to jump straight into the fray.

    At the moment, Cuphead is available at a 30% discount on Steam, reducing its price to $13.99. According to SteamDB’s price tracker, this is the lowest price since its release. While it frequently goes on sale, it usually does not drop below 30% because it remains a highly regarded game. If you’re interested in the DLC, The Delicious Last Course, it will cost you $18.89.

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