I’ve never been to Gamescom before. I’ve heard all the rumours, though. Gamescom is obviously an event I’ve been aware of for a very long time and it appears to have been growing in stature as of late – even Nintendo decided to return this year after skipping the show in 2024.
If you’ve been to the show before, then this piece isn’t for you. Attending for the first time, I thought I’d share my own experience for those who may want to consider attending in future.
Last week, we asked you to share moments from Senua’s harrowing journey in Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II using #PSshare #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights:
UkFemshepshares the top half of Senua’s head peeking out from water.
Photoingameshares a black and white profile shot of Senua looking up.
MdeavorVPshares Senua raising her torch in a field of darkness
LastGlass_VPshares a head-on portrait of Senua with ceremonial face paint and symbols.
JarrinWasHereshares a dual-toned side profile of Senua
Keng_consoleshares a macro shot of Senua’s wide-open eye
Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme, or be inspired by other great games featuring Photo Mode. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week?
THEME: Sword of the Sea SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on August 27, 2025
Next week, grab your sword! Share moments bringing sea life back to the deserts of Sword of the Sea (a recent August Game Catalog title) using #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured.
Donkey Kong: Bananza is a triumph, earning a rare IGN 10/10 and prompting our reviewer to call it “a brilliant successor to Super Mario Odyssey and a smashing return for a classic Nintendo character.” It’s high praise for a brand new Donkey Kong game, and one made seemingly without much input at all from original Donkey Kong creator Shigeru Miyamoto. But Miyamoto did still share some feedback on Bananza with the development team, and now we know a bit about what exactly that was.
We’ve already learned from past interviews that Miyamoto couldn’t stop digging around whenever he played the game in development. But now, thanks to a new interview with Nintendo Dream Web (independently translated by IGN), we also know a bit about what he thought about how digging worked. According to game director Kazuya Takahashi, it was Miyamoto who suggested that “B” prompt Donkey Kong to dig downwards, as opposed to being a jump button like in Super Mario Odyssey. As he puts it:
Takahashi: Mr Miyamoto also suggested the button assignments. Since the game was an extension of Mario, we initially had you jump with the B button. But Miyamoto pointed out, “If you’re digging down, wouldn’t B be more intuitive?” Indeed, when I tried it out, the key assignment felt intuitive, so that was based on Mr Miyamoto’s opinion.
Interviewer: I see. The Y button is to the side and the X button is to the top, which is in line with the Switch 2’s button layout, so even people who aren’t familiar with action games will find it easier to play if they keep that in mind.
Takahashi: Of course, there are people who are used to using B to jump with Mario, so for those people, we’ve made it possible to change this in the options.
But that’s not all. Miyamoto also apparently influenced a small but crucial element of the sound design, as related by producer Kenta Motokura and sound director Naoto Kubo:
Motokura: During development, both Mr Miyamoto and Mr Koizumi were constantly destroying the ground and the surrounding area. There were lots of options in the field to play with, so I thought that felt good. He made some adjustments to the sound, right?
Kubo: Yes. Miyamoto-san said something like, “Donkey Kong’s movements look a little light. Maybe his footsteps are a little too light as well.” When it comes to sound, footsteps are something you hear all the time, so we thought that if we made them too loud and heavy, the impact of the destruction sounds might feel weaker, so we had kept them quite subtle. We turned up the volume a little and had Mr Miyamoto listen to it, and we repeated this several times. In the end, I think we were able to strike a good balance that gives a sense of weight without losing the satisfying feeling of destruction.
So it’s also thanks to Miyamoto that Donkey Kong’s footsteps sound juuuuust right in comparison to all the digging and smashing sounds he’s making. Thanks, Mr. Miyamoto!
Rebekah Valentine is a senior reporter for IGN. You can find her posting on BlueSky @duckvalentine.bsky.social. Got a story tip? Send it to rvalentine@ign.com.
I did not expect to meet Mozart in Shovel Game, nor did I expect him to ask me to mine a pyramid of shit, with the helpful advice that I start at the top to avoid any floating shitbricks. Mozart is probably the least interesting thing about Shovel Game, actually.
It’s a shortform first-person oddity with Minecraft-style destructible voxels (yes I know Minecraft doesn’t really use voxels) and a touch of AHL_5am. The idea is to tunnel through “a sequence of strange and unfamiliar spaces”. Here’s a trailer.
Hollow Knight: Silksong began life as a DLC expansion, but then developers Team Cherry decided the concept was “too large and too unique“, and upgraded it into a full game. They spent six years working on the thing in almost total silence, while fulminating legions of the terminally online quietly drove themselves bonkers hunting for release date clues. We now have a Silksong release date – it’s just two weeks away – so in theory, the nightmare is over. Except, oh dear – Team Cherry are planning post-launch content for Silksong, and they’re already calling it “ambitious”.
If you’re into fighting games, chances are you’ve probably seen – or maybe even used – a bunch of leverless arcade controllers. They’re taking the fighting scene by storm, and now 8BitDo, one of the most consistent accessory manufacturers in the business, has launched its own Arcade Controller for the Switch, Switch 2, and PC, priced at $89.99.
But what the heck is a leverless arcade controller? Well, some folks call them Hit Box controllers, but Hit Box is actually just one of many branded products released over the years, so it’s kinda like calling a games console ‘a Nintendo’. In reality, they’re largely referred to as ‘leverless’ thanks to the obvious lack of a joystick / lever in favour of an all-button setup. If you’re dead set on a more traditional setup, 8BitDo also has its own Arcade Stick available for purchase.
Welcome to Next Week on Xbox! In this weekly feature we cover all the games coming soon to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Xbox on PC, and Game Pass! Get more details on these upcoming games below and click their profiles for further info (release dates subject to change). Let’s jump in!
Available on day one with Game Pass! The original Gears of War returns, faithfully remastered, natively optimized for more platforms than ever before, with full cross-play and cross-platform support. Gears of War: Reloaded delivers all post-launch content for the original title, including a bonus campaign act, multiplayer maps, plus characters and cosmetics — at no additional cost. Jump into Campaign Co-Op, fight with your squad in Versus Multiplayer, and enjoy cross-play across all supported platforms, allowing you and your friends to squad-up, regardless of where you play.
Enlist in the Helldivers and join the fight for freedom across a hostile galaxy in a fast, frantic, and ferocious third-person shooter. You will be assembled into squads of up to four Helldivers and assigned strategic missions. Watch each other’s back – friendly fire is an unfortunate certainty of war, but victory without teamwork is impossible. Rain down freedom from above, sneak through enemy territory, or grit your teeth and charge head-first into the jaws of combat.
The core experience of the original, evolved and more immersive than ever. A remake of the 2004 game Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, with the same gripping story and engrossing world, now with all new graphics and 3D audio that enhance the jungle atmosphere. Get ready for the ultimate survival stealth action experience. The story, characters, voice acting, gameplay, and music that made the original a sensation return, remade for modern consoles. This evolutionary leap breathes new life into every cutscene and rebuilds every corner of the world.
Play as the legendary Shinobi Joe Musashi, master of the ninja arts. After finding your village burned to the ground and your clan turned into stone, you must set off on a quest for vengeance, ready to face an unparalleled evil and avenge your clan.
UBOAT is primarily a crew management game, where your success depends on leading your men, not manually controlling the submarine. In UBOAT you control the crew in order to control the boat. You look after their physical and mental health, because if the sailors are hungry, tired and their spirit is low, there’s no chance of winning even a skirmish.
A 3rd-person adventure game where you explore a world made entirely of particles. Use special abilities to manipulate those particles, solve puzzles, avoid detection, and navigate this sinister and beautiful land.
Descend into the depths of madness and terror in this disturbing pixel-art graphic adventure. Explore a haunting universe through the eyes of Josef Petrescu, a man scarred by tragedy who awakens horribly burned, voiceless, and memoryless. As Vlad Petrescu’s brother and co-heir to Vlad Circus, Josef embarks on a harrowing journey to uncover the truth behind his past.
Play as Cobra, the space pirate, in an action platformer. Along with Lady Armaroid, your loyal partner, and equipped with your iconic Psychogun, you must solve a mystery that could threaten the entire universe. Pre-order the game and receive an exclusive bonus skin for Cobra, inspired by the iconic jacket he wore in the very first episode of the anime series.
In Axobubble you control a friendly axolotl in a world of platforms and creativity. Your main ability is to create floating bubbles that act as temporary platforms. Use these bubbles to jump higher, cross dangerous distances, and collect shells while advancing to the big star shell at the end of each level.
You are Captain Bones, a pirate captain who worked your way up from the bottom. In a world full of danger and opportunity, you must use your skills and determination to survive and thrive.
Embark on a unique journey in this 2D roguelike-survivor where you control a parade truck, a sound-powered carnival machine full of attitude. Your goal? Recruit musicians with unique abilities, each adding different powers and a new layer to the soundtrack that evolves as your band grows stronger.
Gold Goblin Hunt is a 2d casual platformer about collecting coins and treasures. Beat each level and collect every shiny thing you see, but taking damage will make you lose some coins. Reach the final levels while collecting everything you can and avoiding all the danger so you can get a high score!
Take the role of Maki as you explore a world of unique islands, meeting new friends and dashing through the waters using 3 different shark forms. Makis Adventure is a side-scrolling action platformer that lets you decide how to tackle its unique challenges. Whether you prefer to fight or focus on exploring, there’s plenty to discover and decide your play style.
Discover the most commonly used words in English with Mini Words, a unique mix of puzzle, word search, and hangman. Enjoy a minimalist and relaxing environment, free from distractions. Unscramble them by connecting all letters on the board, ensuring no paths repeat or cross.
On an unsettling night, Agent G awakens after a brutal car crash. Disoriented and alone, she notices two mysterious lights drifting into the forest. Compelled by an inexplicable force, G ventures deeper into the unknown. Only by reaching the end of this haunting path will she uncover the true reason for her adventure—and the secrets that await in the shadows.
Legends of Amberland II: The Song of Trees is a classic western dungeon crawler RPG. Using the classic first-person perspective, over grid movement, turn-based system to travel in an open world with fast travel options and a quick combat.
In a forsaken world of radiation and secrets, one AI stands between salvation and collapse. Explore Toska, a haunting nuclear labyrinth, where the echoes of the past meet an otherworldly twist. Can you outsmart the unknown and save us all?
Sir Lionstone, the most powerful knight and protector of the great city of Clesseia, hasn’t returned from his latest quest. As Sir Lionstone’s trusted knightling, it is up to you and the legendary shield he left behind to become the hero the people need and find Lionstone before lurking threats endanger the realm. Explore the many regions and secrets of the lands of Clesseia, fend off bandits and monsters, and uncover the truth of the shield’s unparalleled power and the realm’s illustrious past.
Welcome to Ash Pines – a peaceful vacation spot nestled deep among whispering pine trees… or so it seems. What begins as an ordinary night soon unravels into a terrifying mystery beyond imagination. Stranded at the eerie Ash Pines Motel, you’ll explore abandoned rooms, uncover cryptic clues, and slowly piece together the haunting secrets buried within the motel’s forgotten past.
On your quest to find a beautiful new home you will discover distant places, friendly calm animals, and amazing and dangerous habitats. You are a tiny bee in a giant environment and move continuously forward. You are free to fly wherever you want and explore the level to your heart’s desire.
A 2D platformer set in sunny Mexico. Fight enemies, use power-ups like flavor enhancements, and uncover the mystery of the kidnapping. Carlos is armed with ketchup and mustard tubes, as well as a stylish sombrero. Are you ready to help Carlos save his love and bring some spicy Mexican justice to those skeletons? Let’s go, amigo!
Use your head and arrange colored liquids to solve unique puzzles. Master the art of water sorting and rise to the top as a champion. Strategically move the water until every color is separated, proving your puzzle-solving prowess. Immerse yourself in the challenge of sorting water into tubes with the same-colored liquid on top.
A series of murders follows a mysterious ritual dance in rural China. A narrative mystery game set around rural Chinese religious rituals and serial murders. When ancient beliefs and modern horror collide, can you uncover the truth behind the mask? A rich and fully realized story unfolds like an interactive novel. Multiple choices and branching paths lead to dramatically different endings.
Compass of Destiny was created using meticulous research, to give you an authentic glimpse of the Ottoman Empire at its peak. But this realm is more than just violence: You’ll need to explore in depth, tackle challenging puzzles and show off your agility in platforming sections, if you want to learn the complete truth. The Compass will be your irreplaceable aid.
Detail Detective is the ultimate spot the differences game that combines stunning cartoon colorful visuals, mind-engaging puzzles, and captivating storylines. Explore diverse and vibrant environments, choose your difficulty level, and use hints strategically as you race against the clock. Uncover hidden secrets, and become the ultimate detective in this immersive, relaxing, and socially competitive experience.
Gang Blast – August 29 Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery/ Xbox Play Anywhere
Take to the skies and bring the boom in Gang Blast, an explosive arcade shooter that puts you in the cockpit of a heavily armed helicopter. Wipe out gangs across a stylized city teeming with chaos, where every missile, and explosion sets off satisfying destructions.
Enter the chilling world of Goosebumps in Goosebumps: Terror in Little Creek! Step into the shoes of Sloane Spencer, a young teen caught in a town of nightmares, as you unravel eerie mysteries, confront sinister monsters, and navigate haunted locations inspired by R.L. Stine’s legendary book series. Solve puzzles, evade creatures, and uncover the dark secrets lurking in the shadows.
Flee your fear and carve your story. Blaze a trail across mythic American highways, where choices twist your tale and danger’s always in the rearview mirror. With roguelike routes, limited resources, and breakneck chases, this isn’t just a drive—it’s your legend in the making.
You’re a humble genius scientist who gets invited to become the chief engineer at an abandoned Factory on Mars, designed to produce and sell exquisite goods for cats. It was conceived to learn everything about cats and make them happy, but it is desolated now, and cats are leaving Factory Stores unhappy and empty-pawed.
Funded on Kickstarter with backers including legend of the genre Ron Gilbert, The Mystery of Woolley Mountain is an otherworldly adventure game filled with strange beasts, evil witches, confused automatons and wacky ropemen. Join a renegade crew of time-travelling audio scientists on a hilarious and fantastical quest. A malevolent witch has captured a group of children, and it’s up to you to save them from the mysterious island of Woolley Mountain!
In this casual puzzle with a creative kitchen atmosphere, your mission is to organize the ingredients, or rather, toys, in pans styled like gift boxes. The objective is to fit all the pieces onto the board and meet demanding customer requests.
Double Fine is poised to release a brand new game called Keeper in October, but what comes after that? According to development chief Tim Schafer, he’s working on multiple projects at the Microsoft-owned studio, none of which are sequels.
Keeper is an atmospheric puzzle adventure in which a long-forgotten lighthouse is awakened and goes on a journey. It’s led by Double Fine’s Lee Petty, which means Tim Schafer is hands-off and free to work on other things.
What are those other things? Speaking to IGN at gamescom 2025, Schafer of course wouldn’t divulge Double Fine’s upcoming games, but did say the studio has multiple projects in the works and they’re all original IP.
“I’m working on other stuff,” he confirmed. “The studio is doing multiple projects right now and they’re all original IPs, because we did Psychonauts 2 and that will hold us for sequels for a while.”
So, that rules out Psychonauts 3 or — and this was always an unlikely one — Brütal Legend 2, at least in the short to mid-term. As game developers are fond of saying, never say never, but Schafer’s rather definitive comment gives us an idea of what to expect from Double Fine in the coming years — and that is the unexpected.
Psychonauts 2 eventually came out in 2021. Now, four years later, Double Fine is about to release its next game. Keeper comes out October 17, 2025, on PC and Xbox Series X and S.
Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images.
Wesley is Director, News at IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.
The Rogue Prince of Persia celebrated its 1.0 release yesterday with a remarkably honest behind-the-scenes video from developers Evil Empire, detailing the ups and downs of a year-long Early Access period, including the decision to completely overhaul the game’s art style and redesign its purple-skinned protagonist.
Stardew Valley developer Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone has revealed he doesn’t ask for any compensation when his fan-favorite farm sim collabs with other franchises, saying he only does them because “[he] was a fan of the other games, or because [he] genuinely thought players would like it.”
The statement comes as fans prepare for a crossover event between Stardew Valley and Infinity Nikki, which goes live on September 1. Although we still don’t really understand what this will involve, exactly, there are already some surprisingly mixed reactions coming from the community, with some players upset about the timing, suggesting it’s an all-too-convenient distraction from the recent controversy around leakers.
“There have been a few collaborations between Stardew Valley and other games over the years,” Barone posted on X/Twitter yesterday. “To be clear, I never receive any money from these collabs. I’ve only done them because I was a fan of the other games, or because I genuinely thought the players would like it.”
Interestingly, Infinity Nikki responded directly to Barone from its official X/Twitter account.
“We really appreciate you sharing your feelings on this. Any unintended stress was the last thing we wanted. It was our way of saying thanks — a free love letter to Stardew Valley from our team and for the community,” the message said.
“Working on it felt like we were all tending a little farm together. The care and detail you pour into your world is exactly why we want to make cozy games too. We’re still learning from you every day.”
To be fair, it feels as though the fallout from the Stardew Valley collab is just a matter of bad timing here. The Infinity Nikki community has been unhappy ever since update 1.5 added some controversial changes to the game, such as retconning Infinity Nikki’s story, and ramping up the money and time investments required to collect full outfits.
It’s not that Barone does this all that often, either. Stardew Valley has only ever worked with a handful of other games, such as Balatro and Terraria.
Back in May, Barone admitted that he “didn’t want to just be the Stardew Valley guy,” explaining that was why he’s currently working on Haunted Chocolatier. We shouldn’t expect a release date anytime soon, though — there’s “still a lot to be done,” Barone recently admitted, particularly as he feels it’s “got to be better” than Stardew Valley.
Vikki Blake is a reporter for IGN, as well as a critic, columnist, and consultant with 15+ years experience working with some of the world’s biggest gaming sites and publications. She’s also a Guardian, Spartan, Silent Hillian, Legend, and perpetually High Chaos. Find her at BlueSky.
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