Unbeatable: new song and immersive PS5 gameplay detailed for the rhythm-based anime adventure

Unbeatable is a stunning hand-drawn anime-inspired rhythm adventure game. Experience what it means to be a band on the run – music is illegal in this world, but you won’t let that stop you. Follow Beat & her bandmates through their journey of self-discovery blending live song performances, spectacular set pieces and quirky rhythm challenges.

Explore a detailed open world and engage in branching conversations with several unique characters. Featuring a 100% original soundtrack alongside guest tracks and musical collaborations.

After revealing the game this summer with the memorable track “Memorize” (You see what we did there?) We are now excited to highlight a brand new track here on the PS Blog.

Introducing “Future People”


Unbeatable: new song and immersive PS5 gameplay detailed for the rhythm-based anime adventure

How do we even come up with new songs like this? Well, best to ask Clara Maddux, who is one half of the band Peak Divide who provides all the music for the game.

Has anyone seen Clara?

Oh there she is!


“Hi hi!! I’m Clara! I focus on a lot of the songwriting for Unbeatable. Since the music for the game is inherently intertwined with the narrative, the sound team has made an effort to squeeze as much emotional juice as we can from our collective musical brains to compliment it.

For me personally, I’ll try to find something in my life that parallels a story beat I’m writing music for. Most of the noodling I do before a song takes form is honestly just figuring out what that connection is, but once I’m able to picture it in my head, it’s much easier to relate to a character and tap into what they might be feeling.

Sometimes I’ll even just make a song to process emotions and then suddenly, oops, it’s an Unbeatable song because we’ve found a way to tie it into the story. Hopefully that just means the songs turn out all the more meaningful!!”

Clara Maddux, Composer & Musician, D-Cell Games


See! Clara knows about this stuff.

Anyway, Unbeatable isn’t just about cranking up the tempo and shredding through tracks—it’s about getting you into the rhythm. The newly dropped track “Future People” proves just that, by flipping the script with a slower, more melodic groove that expands the game’s killer soundtrack. This track isn’t just versatile—it’s a curveball that forces you to rethink your rhythm game strategy. Who says rhythm games have to be all speed and no soul? With “Future People,” it’s all about getting into the zone, savoring every note, and owning the moment.

That doesn’t mean you can’t kick it up a notch though, increasing the difficulty will keep you on your toes (and maybe make you break a sweat).

Just remember, playing on normal is perfectly fine, we’re not here to judge, we’re here to make you bob your head and make you feel something.

The world pulses to (the) beat

In Unbeatable, music isn’t just the soundtrack—it’s the lifeblood of the world. As Beat, the game’s relentless protagonist, you’re not just moving through a city— you’re completely in tune as every step is in sync with the underground rhythms that defy the silence imposed by the no-fun-allowed regime. The world around you doesn’t just echo with the beat; it drives you forward, like a rebellious marching band, that refuses to be silenced.

Sense the beat

You want special features? We’ve got special features! Feel the heartbeat of the city in your hands with the haptic feedback features of the DualSense controller.

Feel the heartbeat of the city in your hands with the haptic feedback features of the Duel Sense controller. You can literally (figuratively) keep your finger on the pulse during your playthrough for that extra level of (music notes emoji) Immersion (Music notes emoji).

The adaptive triggers also come into play during some of the mini-games, to really make you feel like you’re sticking it to the man. Or wall, like, when you stick posters on the wall, specifically.

This is of course only a glimpse of what we have in store for Unbeatable so keep an eye out for more killer (news) beats.

Unbeatable will launch on PS5 in 2025.

Silent Hill 2 hands-on report

Silent Hill 2, a remake of the iconic 2001 PS2 survival horror game, takes players on a journey as the main protagonist, James Sunderland. Venture through the mostly deserted town of Silent Hill, a place filled with memories of his late wife Mary, as he comes to terms with these memories while encountering monsters and a cast of characters. The remake launches on PS5 October 8.

I recently had the opportunity to play the highly-anticipated remake. Join me for a chilling recap that stretches from the opening scene to the imposing boss encounter with Red Pyramid Thing (a.k.a. Pyramid Head).


Silent Hill 2 hands-on report

The story begins in a grimy public restroom

The game begins with James recollecting the content of the letter he received from his deceased wife in the dimly lit public restroom of the observation deck at the outskirts of Silent Hill. Back in 2001, the level of dirt and detritus in this bathroom was a high-watermark for realistic, atmospheric visuals in games.

At first glance, I noticed that although the public restroom was almost proportionally identical to the original, it looked more detailed and realistic, with graffiti and scribbles on the walls, dirty floors, and a filthy toilet bowl. This instilled eeriness as if to foreshadow the grueling journey that James was about to embark on.

A new, immersive over-the-shoulder perspective

The first thing that struck me when I started the game was the new over-the-shoulder perspective. While the original’s overhead perspective felt like I was watching a movie, the remake’s updated view put me closer to James’ point of view, supporting greater immersion and the feeling of being in Silent Hill. 3D Audio also deepens the immersion, making swishing leaves and James’ footsteps feel audibly real.

Thickening fog shrouding James’ state of mind

In the original game, the observation deck in the opening scene was shrouded in fog, whereas in the view is clear in the remake. At first… As James approaches the town the fog grows denser, almost symbolizing his state of mind and evoking anxiety in the player.

The first area that James visits is the eastern district of Silent Hill. At first the in-game map didn’t look much different from what I had remembered in the original, but I was soon proven wrong. The houses, apartments, shops, and other buildings are dramatically improved, with intricate details that were not present in the original. The detailed chairs, flowerpots, abandoned trash, and other props all faithfully recreat the ambiance of the fog-shrouded streets of Silent Hill.

The more explorable buildings add more fun

As I was exploring the town, I was surprised to find that the remake boasted more buildings James could go into compared to the original. In some instances, he had to smash window panes to break into the building. Ammunition and recovery items were hidden inside, making exploration vital and, at the same time, more rewarding. However, the monsters lurking inside these buildings meant I had to stay vigilant and engaged, adding an extra layer of challenge to the game.

Intense, up-close-and-personal combat

Fighting the terrible creatures of Silent Hill feels entirely different from the original. Monsters in earlier stages of the 2001 original are rather passive and can bludgeoned to death without much recourse.  In the remake, some enemies can now counterattack between player’s attacks. Successfully dodging these counterattacks and timing retaliation have adds a new engaging later to gameplay. The new, over-the-shoulder perspective also gives players a closer look at the grotesque foes.

Puzzles that challenge your wisdom and observation skills

The Silent Hill series is celebrated in the Silent Hill series, and that aspect of gameplay is present in both the 2001 original Silent Hill 2 and the remake. I had a chance to play new puzzles where I had to collect multiple items to combine in order to solve them. Still, I encountered puzzles with clever references to the original, so I’m sure this will bring joy to fans of the original Silent Hill 2 and offer them something new to solve. It is also good to know, for those who are not avid puzzle solvers, that the difficulty level for puzzles can be set separately from that of game action elements such as combat level.

Newly renovated apartments

Remember the Wood Side Apartment and the Blue Creek Apartment from the beginning of the story? Well, their layouts have changed significantly from the original version. While the overall story remains the same, the locations where James finds items and puzzles and encounters enemies are entirely different, consequently challenging returning players to come up with a new approach for the remake.

Fans of the 2001 original remember loading screens when traversing between rooms. In the remake James can seamlessly move around the building. But be careful when dashing into a room. I was so focused on making progress that I was ambushed by a monster that made me jump.

Frantic Pyramid Head

The Pyramid Head encounter at the end of the apartment has also evolved significantly. James confronts the humanoid monster in a larger, more intense warehouse-like area than the original’s small room. Watching the iconic villain stalk towards you while dragging his massive, sparking blade across the ground is still an intimidating sight.

Pyramid Head’s movements and attacks are fairly slow. Staying calm is key to dodging its attacks or maintaining a safe distance. However, each blow from Pyramid Head is devastating, as I discovered when it swung its arm and sent James flying through the air.

As my time at the event was limited, I’m sure there must be some highlights that I missed. But for now, I will have to wait to explore every nook and cranny of the streets and buildings of Silent Hill until it launches on PS5 October 8.

Share of the Week: Essential Items

Last week, we asked you to dive into your inventory to share essential items from your favorite games using #PSshare #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights:

call_me_xavii shares Alan holding the angel lamp light clicker from Alan Wake II.

laya_photo shares a detailed close up of Kratos’ weapons in God of War Ragnarök.

sorathluna shares Jin’s katana blade held out near a butterfly in Ghost of Tsushima.

Valkyrion126 shares Eve holding a master core from Stellar Blade.

RhodWulfLeon shares a close up shot of Aloy’s Focus being used in Horizon Forbidden West.

horace0816 shares the P-Organ from Lies of P.

Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week?

THEME: Teachers
SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on August 21, 2024

Next week, we’re going back to school and shining a light on gaming mentors. Share moments with characters that teach or impart knowledge from the game of your choice using #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured.

Genshin Impact welcomes the sixth major nation of Teyvat with version 5.0 going live August 28

Greetings, Travelers! As Genshin Impact approaches its fifth year, we are excited to welcome the sixth major nation of Teyvat — Natlan, in the upcoming version 5.0 Flowers Resplendent on the Sun-Scorched Sojourn going live on August 28. Known as the Nation of War or the Nation of Pyro where Saurians have lived alongside humans since time immemorial, Natlan and her people are distinguished from other nations not only by their unique tribal traditions and natural environments, but also by their agility and their unparalleled movement capabilities blessed by the power of Pyro. Today, we’ll share some useful tips to help you explore this new region like a local or in the form of a Saurian!

We would also like to invite all Travelers who have completed Archon Quest Prologue: Act III Song of Dragon and Freedom in Mondstadt to visit Natlan using an unlocked Teleport Waypoint located at its entrance. Travelers who reached Adventure Rank 28 or above who have completed the Archon Quest Chapter I: Act III A New Star Approaches in Liyue can move on to the Archon Quests in Natlan without having to first complete the prerequisite quests of other nations.

Become a Saurian

The dragons in Natlan are called Saurians, and they are the result of a long evolution and coexisting with humans. Located west of the Desert of Hadramaveth in Sumeru, Natlan has a varied panorama ranging from canyons and cliffs to flowing waters and hot springs, and even dangerous volcanoes. Version 5.0 will offer the opportunity to meet three of the six local tribes, the Children of Echoes, the Scions of the Canopy, and the People of the Springs, to discover how their members move in steep and difficult-to-cross landscapes thanks to their respective Saurians.

For reasons that are still unclear, Travelers are unable to unlock the power of the Pyro element upon their arrival in Natlan, but you will be able to transform yourself into a Saurian temporarily by indwelling them or their Spiritsconce to roam around during your adventure!

The first Saurian you may indwell is a Tepetlisaurus. They are faithful companions taken in by the Children of Echoes, the tribe known for its expert miners and talented dancers inside the canyon. Transforming into a Tepetlisaurus allows you to burrow underground and climb cliffs. By indwelling a Yumkasaurus, you will be able to move travel through mid-air swiftly, reach high places with ease, and experience for yourself why the Scions of the Canopy that hang from steep cliffs with ropes, adore these Saurians as extreme sports enthusiasts. If you approach the People of the Springs, a laidback tribe who is known for their hot springs, try indwelling the Koholasarus to take a dip in the water, hot springs, and even the flowing Phlogiston streams in the air.

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Use a new resource

In the Nation of Pyro, the Pyro element can materialize as a unique resource known as Phlogiston. Phlogiston comes in different forms and can be utilized by the locals as a brand-new resource in movement or combat. Once you indwell a Saurian, you may notice that your skills will consume a separate Phlogiston bar located to the right of your Saurian form. Natlan’s characters also have a Phlogiston bar which appears above their HP bar. Throughout your journey, you may come across Phlogiston, either as harvestable resources, or useful tools such as the Spiritways of flowing Phlogiston, offering fast tracks to the Koholasarus and warriors from the People of the Springs to travel.

Warriors of Natlan can further enhance their abilities through the ancient ritual of Phlogiston Engravings, and thus gain the Nightsoul’s Blessing. Glowing patterns will appear on characters under the influence of the Nightsoul’s Blessing, granting them an advantage in combat.

Team up with local warriors

As the Nation of War, Natlan has experienced countless crises and dangers in numerous battles in which both locals and Saurians have fought valiantly. The Ancient Names of brave warriors are passed down from generation to generation to honor their legacy. At the Stadium of the Sacred Flame, each of the six tribes designates a Champion from among the greatest warriors who make up its ranks, and we will have the opportunity to recruit three of them from the Children of Echoes, the Scions of the Canopy, and the People of the Springs. Each of these Champions is distinguished by unique traits and abilities reflecting their tribe.

Our first companion from Natlan is Kachina, a four-star Geo polearm wielder from the Children of Echoes. Not only will we meet her from the very beginning of our journey, we can even recruit her for free as a reward for completing Act I of Natlan’s Archon Quest. Kachina is able to summon Turbo Twirly and ride it to scale walls and cliffs in daily exploration, and also unleash ground-slam attacks to deal AoE Geo DMG in combat.

Kinich, famous for his hunting skills in the Scions of the Canopy, is a five-star Dendro claymore warrior who wields the grappling hook expertly, so as to swiftly swing through the air and easily reach great heights, or link to enemies and perform Loop Shots to deal significant damage. Interestingly, Kinich is accompanied by the Almighty Dragonlord, Ajaw, who is capable of unleashing dragon-breaths at intervals to deal AoE Dendro DMG when Kinich casts his Elemental Burst.

If you’re visiting the People of the Springs, Mualani, the owner of a watersports equipment store and a renowned local tour guide, is your ideal companion. Fond of watersports including swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball, this five-star Hydro catalyst wielder can mount her Sharky Surfboard and quickly move across water, liquid Phlogiston, and flat ground. In combat, as Mualani surfs around on her Sharky Surfboard, she can mark enemies in her path and inflict Sharky’s Bites on them, dealing increased Hydro DMG after multiple hits.

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Natlan’s three playable characters are able to locate and mark local specialties, which benefits their entire party while interacting with certain harvestable items: Kachina can restore Stamina, Kinich can increase Movement Speed, and Mualani can restore Phlogiston. In version 5.0’s Event Wishes, Mualani and Kachina will debut in the first phase along with Kaedehara Kazuha’s rerun, and Kinich’s debut will come with the Raiden Shogun in the later phase.

Try the Tribal Chronicles

To better unveil the history and heroic tales of each tribe, the Reputation System returns to Natlan through the Tribal Chronicles, a new series of three-act narrative quests for each tribe that weaves together traditions, stories, and people that replaces the Story Quests in Natlan. Visit each tribe’s Obsidian Totem Pole to unlock their Tribal Chronicles, as well as their Bounties and Supply Notices. Completing these Tribal Chronicles not only provides a deeper and immersive understanding of the customs and culture of different tribes but also earns Tribe Reputation EXP and rewards for the corresponding tribe.

In addition, World Quests, exciting stories, as well as Archon Quests await you in Natlan with many surprises and rewards. However, we will leave Travelers to explore all this new content at their own pace. The Sacred Flame burns with an incandescent glow, and ignites the hearts of the brave! We look forward to seeing you in-game when Genshin Impact version 5.0 goes live August 28!

Full details on Marvel x Fortnite Battle Royale Chapter 5 Season 4: Absolute Doom, live today

Marvel’s diabolical despot Doctor Doom has seized a foothold on the Battle Royale Island after obtaining the devastating power of Pandora’s Box. Whatever it takes, Doctor Doom and his army of loyal henchmen must be defeated! Join Marvel Heroes Gwenpool, the Wakandan royal Shuri, and War Machine to defend against Doctor Doom’s legions in Fortnite Battle Royale Chapter 5 Season 4: Absolute Doom available today!


Full details on Marvel x Fortnite Battle Royale Chapter 5 Season 4: Absolute Doom, live today

Battle against Doom’s domain

Take on Doctor Doom’s domains, and the legions guarding them, in new POIs stationed around the map.

Castle Doom emerges

Castle Doom casts dark shadows over the island, with its forge burning hotter as Doctor Doom’s empowered armor inches closer to completion. Time is of the essence, Heroes.

The nearby Doom’s Courtyard Landmark.

Battle at The Raft

Doctor Doom has summoned The Raft to the Island, in a bid to recruit like-minded allies amongst a prison of extraterrestrial threats and supervillains.

Inside of The Raft.

Explore Doomstadt

Doctor Doom governs over the Latverian village of Doomstadt from his castle on high, surveilling all within his dominion.

The nearby Fractured Four Landmark.

Doctor Doom’s henchmen have begun excavating the Island in search of artifacts. When downed, they can be persuaded to change their minds and fight alongside you. Everyone deserves a second chance.

Suit up, Heroes

Our heroes brought a whole lot of firepower to stop Doctor Doom’s assault.  

Gauntlets vs Shield

Rain havoc from the palms of your hands with Doom’s Arcane Gauntlets, back and better than ever. A suitable counter is charging into battle with Captain America’s Shield, now unvaulted and updated with new capabilities.

Grab the Dual Micro SMGs

Embrace the spray to make quick work of foes with the Dual Micro SMGs, which comes in a potent pink Mythic version after a rendezvous with Gwenpool. Two guns are definitely better than one. 

Equip War Machine’s Arsenal, Auto Turret & Hover Jets

Discover the latest in human-platform weapon systems. Unleash a hailstorm of bullets and rockets at your enemies with War Machine’s Arsenal, shoulder-mount War Machine’s Auto Turret for supporting fire, and turn the tide of battle from above with War Machine’s Hover Jets. 

Let loose a missile barrage to blast through enemy defenses.

Stock up on firepower and Medallions

Your rivals best prepare for their… doom. Hit them with pinpoint precision by taking aim with the Monarch Pistol. Track down and eliminate the Doombot in the Castle Doom throne room to get your hands on the Mythic version. Be sure to also grab the Siphon Medallion, which grants health and Shield Siphon from eliminating opponents.

Thaw out the Striker Burst

The Striker Burst Rifle returns in moddable form. Recapture the Raft prison and claim victory over the pristine Emma Frost to earn the Mythic version and her Reveal Medallion. This Medallion occasionally reveals the location of nearby enemies!

Blast-away Shotgun 

Also surgical when aiming down sight is the Sovereign Shotgun, a trusty boomstick for the mid-range fight. Defeating Mysterio in Doomstadt will reward you the Mythic version and his Stealth Medallion, which gives temporary invisibility while crouched.

Carry-over weapons cache

Several weapons have been unvaulted for Absolute Doom. The Striker Burst Rifle, Shockwave Grenade, and more are at your disposal. 

Jump into the action with the Absolute Doom Battle Pass

Earn XP across Fortnite Battle Royale, creator-made islands, LEGO Fortnite, Rocket Racing, and Fortnite Festival to unlock rewards in the Absolute Doom Battle Pass, available for 950 V-Bucks. You can earn up to 1,500 V-Bucks back by leveling it up, as well as some pretty super Outfits: 

  • Gwenpool (unlocked right away!): “I played the Galactus Event. That makes me an Avenger, right?”
  • War Machine: Ace pilot, military veteran, and trusted armored ally of Tony Stark.
  • Peelverine: Nanamantium-infused skeleton with a ripen-eration mutant ability.
  • Emma Frost: A devious and brilliant mutant psychic with an unbreakable will.
  • Captain Jonesy: Take up the shield of justice.
  • Mysterio: An inventive supervillain with illusions of grandeur.
  • Shuri: The genius Princess of Wakanda and current Black Panther.

Doom’s Outfit will be earnable from Battle Pass Quests starting in September, where you can take up the mantle of the mad Doctor himself. The Absolute Doom Battle Pass will be available to progress in until November 1 at 11PM PT / November 2 @ 2 AM ET. 

Hardcore survival shooter Into The Radius hits PS VR2 Sept 19

Ready your gear, check your ammo count and prepare to head Into The Radius on PlayStation VR2 on September 19. We at CM Games are immensely proud to be bringing our hit VR survival shooter to the PlayStation platform for the first time ever.


Hardcore survival shooter Into The Radius hits PS VR2 Sept 19

We believe VR is a powerful medium that allows you to immerse yourself further into the gaming experience. And, like many of you, we want deep experiences with rich gameplay, intense action, and smart interactions that get the best out of VR. Our goal with Into The Radius was to deliver exactly that kind of experience.

But, wait, what is Into The Radius? We’re glad you asked!

An intense survival FPS, built for VR

Into The Radius is a grueling, hardcore VR survival shooter set in a mysterious, supernatural wasteland known as the Pechorsk Anomaly. This desolate, surreal landscape is filled with mysterious and deadly anomalies. To explore its mysteries and return home with loot, players must carefully manage their inventory, and use their tactical skill and situational awareness to overcome, outsmart or outrun various dangers in the Radius.

Besides using a variety of weapons with realistic handling, different ammo, attachments and upgrades, you need to clean and maintain firearms in order to ensure they work well in the field. Neglect this maintenance and you’ll be putting yourself at risk, so make sure to check in on their status between missions.

Physical interactions with items are also core to the Into The Radius experience. We’ve gone to great lengths to make players feel like they’re really stepping into the harrowing world we’ve created. You’ll interact with a paper map and compass, audio cassettes and food as if you were really using them in the physical world. Never has survival gameplay felt so real!

New features for PS VR2

The PS VR2 version of the game will feature the entire original experience with 20+ hours of gameplay, but we’re also working hard to make sure this edition really reaches its full potential. That means a smooth, native 90FPS experience that uses the power of the PS5 console, combined with eye-tracked foveated rendering, to get the best balance of performance and visual fidelity.

It also means we’re utilizing many of the great features unique to PS VR2. Squeeze the adaptive triggers on the Sense controllers for dynamic feedback when firing weapons, and feel the impact of enemy attacks with headset haptics. These are features never before seen in our game, and we’re really excited to see how players react to the added immersion they provide.

You can also immerse yourself deeper into the world of Into The Radius with mesmerizing 3D Audio that truly roots you in wasteland. Never before has the Pechorsk Anomaly sounded so eerily convincing!

Arriving on PlayStation for the first time

When all combined together, these features make for one of our favorite versions of our game, and a powerfully immersive way to explore the wasteland. In fact, it’s been a dream of ours to bring Into The Radius to PlayStation for many years, having worked on the project for over five years now!

We’re confident that we’ve taken our time and done this version justice. For those of you that have been following our progress, rest assured it’ll be worth the wait!

There’s more to share about this version of the game but, rest assured, you’re not going to have to wait too long. Into The Radius reaches PS VR2 on September 19, and you can pre-order now to save 10% on the full price ahead of launch. We’ll see you in the wasteland!

Plucky Squire launches on PS5 September 17 as part of PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium 

Finally, the heroic tale of brave warrior Jot is ready to be told! We are thrilled to announce the release date of The Plucky Squire, which will be coming to PlayStation 5 on September 17. This means you’ll be venturing into the game’s colorful, adventure-filled storybook world – and beyond – in just a month. Woah! Here’s a shiny new launch trailer to tide you over until then.


Plucky Squire launches on PS5 September 17 as part of PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium 

But wait, there’s more big news! We’re also very excited to reveal that The Plucky Squire will be available for PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium members as part of the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog at launch. So, if you have a membership, you’ll be able to dive right into the game when it releases. We’re looking forward to inviting PlayStation players to the land of Mojo to help Jot embark on his incredible multi-dimensional quest.

In The Plucky Squire, Jot can leap from the pages of his storybook world into a three-dimensional realm beyond. But wherever he travels, danger awaits—whether it’s a terrifyingly huge insect in the 3D world, or one of cruel wizard Humpgrump’s monstrous minions in the storybook. Luckily, a friendly shopkeeper named Martina is here to lend a helping hand.

As you explore The Plucky Squire’s twin realms, you’ll encounter inspiration in the form of lightbulbs. Whack trees, cut bushes, or slay enemies, and these illuminating collectibles will drop, which can then be traded for stuff at Martina’s many shops. You’ll want to gather as much inspiration as you can, as they’ll let you unlock a series of super cool, and super effective, combat moves for Jot.

One of these moves lets Jot throw his sword at distant enemies—and if you spend more bulbs to upgrade it, you can throw it even further. This lets you attack foes from a safe distance, and if you lose your sword or get it stuck in a wall, you can draw it back to you—like magic!

Another move lets Jot unleash a powerful spin attack. He’ll swing his sword in a circular flurry and, if used at the right time, damage multiple enemies at once. Use this power in the midst of a group of foes for maximum damage—and if you upgrade it, you can even add a second spin to the mix.

You can also buy a neat jump attack for Jot, which lets him leap majestically into the air and come crashing down with his blade to devastating effect. Not only that, but you can upgrade your regular sword attack to deal more damage as well. Humgrump’s lackeys won’t know what hit ‘em.

Inspiration can also be spent on art scrolls, which reveal more about how the land of Mojo was created—including concept art, early versions of levels, and other artistic nuggets. Art scrolls can be found hidden around the game world too, but the ones you buy are exclusive to Martina’s store.

This is just a taste of what awaits you on the pages of The Plucky Squire. You can experience this dimension-hopping adventure for yourself when the game launches on PlayStation 5 on September 17.

Will brave Jot be able to defeat the wicked Humgrump and restore peace to the land of Mojo? The fate of the realm is in your hands…

PlayStation Plus Game Catalog for August: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Wild Hearts, Cult of the Lamb and more

Embark on a legendary dark fantasy adventure, mix tech and monsters for thrilling hunts, build a community of woodland worshippers, compete in two-wheeled races and more with August’s PlayStation Plus Game Catalog lineup! The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Wild Hearts, Cult of the Lamb, Ride 5 and more titles are playable from August 20 for PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium members*. We’re also announcing new classics – including the legendary TimeSplitters series – and PS VR2 game offerings coming to PlayStation Plus Premium.

Let’s take a closer look at each of the new game announcements. 

PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium | Game Catalog

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | PS4, PS5

You are Geralt of Rivia, mercenary monster slayer. Before you stands a war-torn, monster-infested continent you can explore at will. Your current contract? Tracking down Ciri — the Child of Prophecy, a living weapon that can alter the shape of the world. The PS5 version of the game has been enhanced with numerous visual and technical improvements, including vastly improved level of detail, faster loading times, a range of community created and newly developed mods for the game, real-time ray tracing, 3D audio support, and more. 

Wild Hearts Standard Edition | PS5

Wild Hearts is a unique twist on the hunting genre where technology gives you a fighting chance against fearsome beasts infused with the ferocious power of nature itself. Take on these creatures alone or hunt with friends in seamless co-op. Developed by Omega Force, the Japanese studio behind the Dynasty Warriors franchise and in partnership with EA Originals, Wild Hearts takes you on an epic adventure set in a fantasy world inspired by feudal Japan.

Cult of the Lamb | PS4, PS5

Cult of the Lamb casts players in the role of a possessed lamb saved from annihilation by an ominous stranger who must repay their debt by building a loyal following in his name. Start your own cult in a land of false prophets, venturing out into diverse and mysterious regions to build a loyal community of woodland worshippers and spread your Word to become the one true cult. Explore a sprawling, randomly generated world, fight off hordes of enemies and defeat rival cult leaders in order to absorb their power and assert your cult’s dominance.

Ride 5 | PS5

Rev up your engine and get ready to hit the track with RIDE 5. An adrenaline-filled gaming experience that is so authentic it will make you feel like you’re truly racing at break-neck speed. Find your favorite bikes and check out new ones in the ultimate motorcycle game! Race on over 35 tracks and collect more than 200 bikes from world-renowned manufacturers, each element is designed to feel like you’re riding a real bike.

Watch Dogs 2* | PS4

Play as Marcus Holloway, a brilliant young hacker living in the birthplace of the tech revolution, the San Francisco Bay Area. Team up with Dedsec, a notorious group of hackers, to execute the biggest hack in history take down ctOS 2.0, an invasive operating system being used by criminal masterminds to monitor and manipulate citizens on a massive scale.

*PlayStation Plus re-release.

Sword Art Online: Last Recollection | PS4, PS5

The culmination of the Sword Art Online game series, Last Recollection features the largest roster of SAO playable characters and sub scenarios! Based on Sword Art Online’s War of Underworld anime arc, a new story unfolds with tough challenges that await our beloved hero, Kirito, and his new friends. Players will unmask the Dark Knight and find out if Kirito and the crew will survive the relentless battling against the forces of the Dark Territory.

Naruto to Boruto: Shinobi Striker* | PS4

The Naruto franchise is back with a brand new experience in Naruto to Boruto: Shinobi Striker. This new game lets gamers battle as a team of 4 to compete against other teams online! Graphically, Shinobi Striker is also built from the ground up in a completely new graphic style. Lead your team and fight online to see who the best ninjas are!

*PlayStation Plus re-release.

Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris | PS4

Set in Underworld, an expansive world introduced in the Sword Art Online anime, Kirito sets out on adventure in the series’ latest RPG. Enjoy seamless, action-packed real-time battles using a combination of sword skills, sacred arts, and your favorite SAO characters. 

Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet | PS4

Experience an original story where you are the protagonist in the world of Gun Gale Online. Create your own avatar and explore devastated lands while experiencing exciting third person shooting in this action RPG. Encounter enemies and run into new and familiar faces from the Sword Art Online series. Journey through a world of guns where after a chance encounter you’ll gain the help of a very rare AI, ArFA-Sys.

Sword Art Online: Hollow Realization | PS4

2026, Sword Art: Origin, a new VRMMORPG has emerged. Kirito meets a mysterious NPC and receives a cryptic message. This game, though familiar to him, is not the same as the one he escaped years ago. Sword Art Online: Hollow Realization features a massive expansive world, multiplayer mode to enjoy the game with three other players online, and embodies its MMORPG origins thanks to its MMORPG-like interface, 16-character teams and fierce raid Boss battles.

PlayStation Premium | PS VR2 & Classics

Vacation Simulator** | PS VR2

The year is 2060. Following record enrollment in the Job Simulator, robots set out to uncover what else humans did besides ‘job’. After years of balancing buoyancy levels, cataloguing campfire chronicles, and securing ski slope safety protocols, their research led to the creation of a rough approximation of ‘not jobbing’: the Vacation Simulator. The latest VR sensation from the creators of platinum hit Job Simulator! Welcome to the Vacation Simulator: a rough approximation of vacation inspired by real human NOT JOBBING. Reallocate your bandwidth and get ready to splash, s’more, snowball, and selfie your way to optimal relaxation. 

**PlayStation Plus Game Catalog version includes the PS VR2 and PS VR versions of the game. 

TimeSplitters | PS4, PS5

TimeSplitters is a renowned PS2 first-person shooter series that plunges players into an epic battle against the malevolent TimeSplitters, a race dwelling outside of time and space. The game features a rich 18 level single-player campaign, taking players through pivotal historical moments, from ancient civilisations to futuristic landscapes, battling the TimeSplitters to alter history’s course. The game also includes an exhilarating local multiplayer mode for up to four players. 

TimeSplitters 2 | PS4, PS5

This PS2 sequel expands on every front, offering faster-paced action, richer storytelling, and diverse graphical styles across nine thrilling time-traveling adventures. From the lawless Wild West to the neon-lit streets of Neo Tokyo, each era boasts its own atmosphere and challenges. Choose from over 100 characters, including original favorites, historical figures, and new personalities bursting with charm. Immerse yourself in a captivating single-player and local cooperative story mode, and enjoy 2-4 player split-screen action. Engage in frantic battles across dynamic maps and game modes, whether cooperating in missions or competing in intense deathmatches. 

TimeSplitters: Future Perfect | PS4, PS5

Play as Sergeant Cortez, embarking on a time-bending journey across past, present, and future to thwart the sinister TimeSplitters in this PS2 sequel of the acclaimed series. Explore diverse environments from ancient temples to futuristic cities, each with unique challenges and visual splendor. Local multiplayer shines with cooperative and competitive modes, offering classic deathmatches, objective-based challenges, and innovative gameplay that tests strategy and reflexes. 

Sword Art Online: Lost Song*** | PS4

Journey into the world of ALfheim Online for the very first time! Join Kirito as he ventures online to explore Svart Alfheim, a brand-new area of ALfheim Online, the floating world comprised of continents led by The Floating City of Ryne. This PS3 title’s original storyline includes new and returning characters and exclusive environments in the ultimate Virtual Reality universe! Sword Art Online: Lost Song features all-new Aerial Battles and plenty of customization features. Link Start into the Sword Art Online world and join your favorite dual-wielding player, Kirito, on the greatest adventure yet!

*PlayStation Plus Game Catalog lineup may differ per region. Please check your PlayStation Store when the lineup releases.

***Sword Art Online: Lost Song is available as a streaming version only. 

PlayStation Store: July 2024’s top downloads

It’s time to see which PS5, PS4, PS VR2, PS VR, and free-to-play games topped the download charts last month. The collegiate gridiron made its glorious return with the newly released EA Sports College Football 25 snagging the most downloads on July’s PS5 list in the US region. The VR platformer Stilt bounced its way to the top of the PS VR2 chart in the US and EU regions. 

Check out the full listings below. What titles are you playing this month?

PS5 Games

US/CanadaEU
EA SPORTS College Football 25EA SPORTS FC 24
Grand Theft Auto VGrand Theft Auto V
ELDEN RINGELDEN RING
NBA 2K24EA SPORTS College Football 25
EA SPORTS FC 24The Crew Motorfest
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare IIIHogwarts Legacy
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six SiegeSea of Thieves
Mortal Kombat 1NBA 2K24
Sea of ThievesF1 24
MLB The Show 24No Man’s Sky
Hogwarts LegacyIt Takes Two
The Crew MotorfestCall of Duty: Modern Warfare III
UFC 5The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
No Man’s SkyTom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege
Baldur’s Gate 3F1 Manager 2024
It Takes TwoNobody Wants to Die
HELLDIVERS 2Baldur’s Gate 3
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2UFC 5
TEKKEN 8Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
Mortal Kombat 11Mortal Kombat 1
*Naming of products may differ between regions
*Upgrades not included

PS4 Games

US/CanadaEU
MinecraftMinecraft
Red Dead Redemption 2EA SPORTS FC 24
Grand Theft Auto VGrand Theft Auto V
Batman: Arkham KnightRed Dead Redemption 2
NBA 2K24Batman: Arkham Knight
Need for Speed PaybackNeed for Speed Payback
theHunter: Call of the WildNeed for Speed Heat
Need for Speed HeatKingdom Come: Deliverance
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice – Game of the Year EditionThe Forest
EA SPORTS FC 24Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice – Game of the Year Edition
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare IIIWatch Dogs 2
Watch Dogs 2Supermarket Owner Simulator: Business
Gang BeaststheHunter: Call of the Wild
Mortal Kombat XMortal Kombat X
The ForestThe Last of Us Remastered
Castle Crashers RemasteredNBA 2K24
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six SiegeOutlast
Dying LightDying Light
Injustice 2Unravel Two
Stardew ValleyHogwarts Legacy
         *Naming of products may differ between regions

PS VR2 Games*

US/CanadaEU
StiltStilt
Beat SaberBeat Saber
Towers and PowersHorizon Call of the Mountain
Among Us VRTowers and Powers
PavlovAmong Us VR
Horizon Call of the MountainOperation Serpens
Job SimulatorPavlov
Arizona Sunshine 2Job Simulator
Ultrawings 2Arizona Sunshine 2
Waltz of the WizardStar Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge – Enhanced Edition
 *PS Store purchases only. Game upgrades or games bundled with hardware not included

PSVR Games

US/CanadaEU
SUPERHOT VRSUPERHOT VR
ASTRO BOT Rescue MissionBatman: Arkham VR
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim VRSniper Elite VR
Job SimulatorJob Simulator
Creed Rise to GloryCreed Rise to Glory
Batman: Arkham VRBeat Saber
Beat SaberTitanic VR
Sniper Elite VRCooking Simulator VR
The Walking Dead OnslaughtGoalkeeper VR Challenge
Borderlands 2 VRAll-In-One Sports VR

Free to Play (PS5 + PS4)

US/CanadaEU
The First DescendantThe First Descendant
Zenless Zone ZeroAsphalt Legends Unite
RobloxRoblox
FortniteZenless Zone Zero
Asphalt Legends UniteFortnite
Call of Duty: WarzoneeFootball 2024
Fall GuysStumble Guys
Rocket LeagueFall Guys
MultiVersusRocket League
XDefiantCall of Duty: Warzone

Concord: Launch and the adventure ahead

With Concord’s launch next week on August 23, we wanted to take a moment to talk about the adventure that lies ahead. We see launch as just the beginning. The beginning of not only the vision we’ve set out for Concord, but also the beginning of how we support and grow the game with our players.

The base game is a foundation for us to build upon over time, through systems that will expand the universe, introduce new ways to play and master each character, give you hundreds of unique rewards to earn and unlock, and narratives to unfold week after week, alongside seasonal updates that will introduce new characters, new maps and worlds, new modes, new stories, new features, and more.*

As we look ahead to launch, here’s a glimpse of what’s to come in Concord:

Concord Season 1 launching this October

From the very beginning, we wanted Concord to be a complete experience, where all core content is available to you on day-one and moving forward—not gated behind paid expansions or a Battle Pass. We take your investment in the game seriously and want to ensure that we bring all players along for the journey.

Our first major content drop will arrive in October with the launch of Concord Season 1: The Tempest. Season 1 will mark the introduction of a brand new playable Freegunner, as well as a brand-new map, new Freegunner Variants, more earnable cosmetics and rewards, and a new season of weekly Cinematic Vignettes that will continue the story of the Northstar crew.

This image shows the season roadmap for Concord. On Aug 23, the game will launch with 6 modes and 12 maps, 16 Freegunners and 8 Variants. There will be hundreds of rewards to unlock and customise your Freegunners with and the ability to unlock Variants to expand your playstyle. Alongside this, there will be Solo Training and Time Trial modes. Build crews for every mode and mood, and stack crew bonuses round over round.Season 1 drops in October, Season 2 January 2025. Both will see a new Freegunner, new map, new Variants, QoL updates, new cosmetics and rewards, and new vignettes.

With season 1, we’ll also be introducing an in-game store for those looking to personalize their Freegunners further with additional customization items and to continue to support the game. These will supplement the hundreds of rewards earnable through progression and will be solely cosmetic, optional, and have no gameplay impact.

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We’re also hard at work on future seasons, beginning with Season 2 launching in January 2025 and more seasonal drops throughout year one of Concord. We can’t wait to fully unpack what we have in store for Season 1 ahead of its launch in October.

The continuous evolution of your crew

When we first formed Firewalk, we thought a lot about the type of game that we wanted to make and what we could add to the multiplayer FPS genre. We knew we had to focus on the fundamentals that can make an FPS game great: precise, responsive gunplay and fast, fluid mobility. Those qualities had to be the bedrock of everything.

However, we also wanted that special spice provided by character abilities. Beyond the impact their abilities, roles, and kits could have in moment-to-moment combat, we saw exciting opportunities to add strategic layers to how and when you choose to deploy them throughout a match. In effect, we wanted to infuse the theorycrafting of a deck builder with a PVP first-person shooter. This became the root of our Crew Builder system.

Crew Builder allows you to create Custom Crews of Freegunners that you bring into a match. Every Custom Crew offers 12 configurable slots, which you can fill with characters from what will become a growing roster of Freegunners and their Variants. Each Freegunner will have multiple Variants, which are unique versions of each character that have special modifiers to their base abilities and can be unlocked by completing various in-game challenges.

This image shows the Freegunner selection screen, with the list of Crew Bonuses that are now applied to your Freegunner running down the left of the screen.

Each Custom Crew must have five unique Freegunners, but you can stack up to three copies of any given Freegunner’s Variants, empowering you to really focus on specific characters that you like to play as and that align best with the broader makeup of your team, the modes you’re playing, or your general playstyle.

However, while Crew Builder enables you to hone your own unique approach to combat strategy, it’s also meant to inspire experimentation with different characters as well. Each Custom Crew comes with four Back Up slots, which are randomly populated with Freegunners not otherwise in your Custom Crew.

Crew Builder also incentivizes you to populate your Custom Crews with characters of different roles. Unlike traditional archetypes, like Tank or Support, each Freegunner in Concord is meant to deliver high-DPS and be effective in a gunfight. Instead, our characters are defined by one of six distinct roles and the impact they can have in combat—whether that’s locking down an area, dominating long sightlines, or flanking enemies.

This image the symbols and descriptions of the six distinct roles Freegunners fall into: Anchor, Breacher, Haunt, Ranger, Tactician and Warden. Each offers a unique bonus, which stack as you play different Freegunners during matches.

Balancing your crew with Freegunners of different roles can give you an edge through special in-match benefits called Crew Bonuses. When you deploy Freegunners of different roles for the first time during a match, you’re granted special bonuses that can increase mobility, improve weapon recoil, reduce cooldown times, and more that apply to any character you deploy from that point on.

When you combine all of these systems—Crew Builder, Back-Up Slots, Freegunner Variants, and Crew Bonuses—there’s so much depth to how you can craft, refine, and master your builds in Concord as your experience grows. It also allows the meta to evolve continuously in exciting new ways, as you unlock new Freegunner Variants and new Freegunners and Variants are introduced over time with each season.

Ultimately, when we step back and think about what drew us to make Concord and what we love most about multiplayer games, it’s exactly that: the potential for continuous evolution. It’s the thrill of the potential possibilities of where we can take the experience moving forward. And it’s the sense of adventure of finding out, together.

Prepare for launch

We can’t wait to welcome you to the Concord galaxy and see how you learn and master each Freegunner and all of our systems in new and exciting ways, beginning with Concord’s Early Access launch for Digital Deluxe Edition owners on Tuesday, August 20 and followed by our global launch on Friday, August 23. Pre-load for all editions on PS5 will begin today, Tuesday, August 13.

This image shows the launch times for the Early Access version of the game on Aug 20 on PS5 and PC10am PT, 1pm EDT, 2pm BRT, 6pm BST, 7pm CEST, 2am JST, 2am KST, 3am AEST.

This image shows the launch times for the standard edition of the game on Aug 23 on PS5 and PC:10am PT, 1pm EDT, 2pm BRT, 6pm BST, 7pm CEST, 2am JST, 2am KST, 3am AEST.

Servers for Concord’s Early Access launch on August 20 will go live at 10:00am PDT | 7:00pm CEST | 2:00am (August 21) JST.

For all the latest on Concord, be sure to follow us on Twitter/X, Instagram, and TikTok, as well as by joining the community in the Official Concord Discord.

*Account for PlayStation Network and internet connection required. Paid for PlayStation Plus membership (sold separately) required on PS5.