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Epic Games CEO Confirms: Alan Wake 2 Will Not Be Coming to Steam

Solomon Thompson — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 17:06:33 +0000

Alan Wake 2 will not be released on Steam. This confirmation comes directly from Tim Sweeney, the CEO of Epic Games, the company that funded and made the game possible. As it stands, Epic Games appears to have the final say on where the game is published.

Sweeney addressed the matter in response to a Reddit user named Freaky_Ass_69_God. The user expressed interest in purchasing the game but stated they would only do so if it were available on Steam, citing their lack of enthusiasm for the Epic Games Store. They also inquired whether the game might be released on Steam within a year or two. Sweeney’s reply was straightforward and final: “It’s not coming to Steam.”

Some have questioned the authenticity of Sweeney’s email, but it seems he frequently responds to player queries, as noted in multiple accounts from the Reddit thread. The same user who raised the question also claimed to have received responses from Sweeney in the past.

In case you don’t know, Alan Wake 2 has not been a massive commercial success so far, reportedly selling about 1.8 million copies. According to financial documents from Remedy Entertainment, the game has yet to generate a profit. Epic Games fully financed the project, and without their investment, the game likely wouldn’t have been developed. While releasing it on Steam might boost sales, Epic Games might view the lost sales from Valve’s platform as an acceptable trade-off for drawing more users to the Epic Games Store.

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Top 10 Horror Games That Changed the Genre Forever

Srabana Aich — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 16:54:16 +0000

Horror gaming has evolved from pixelated scares to deeply immersive experiences, pushing the boundaries of what games can do. Certain titles have not only terrified players but also revolutionized the genre, leaving a lasting impact on how horror is experienced.

Here are the top 10 horror games that forever changed the industry.

1. Resident Evil (1996)

Capcom’s Resident Evil introduced the world to survival horror as we know it today and served as the blueprint for survival horror as a subgenre. Set in the eerie Spencer Mansion, the game combined limited resources, claustrophobic environments, and monstrous enemies to create a nerve-wracking experience. Its tank controls and fixed camera angles made even the simplest movements feel tense. Resident Evil established a formula that not only defined the franchise but inspired countless horror games that followed.

2. Silent Hill (1999)

Konami’s Silent Hill is the pinnacle of psychological horror in gaming and is effectively horror that gets in your head. Trading cheap jump scares for atmospheric dread, it delved into themes of guilt and trauma, creating a deeply unsettling experience. The town of Silent Hill, perpetually blanketed in fog, felt like a character in its own right. Its innovative use of sound design, cryptic storytelling, and disturbing visuals set a new standard for psychological horror that still resonates today.

3. System Shock 2 (1999)

System Shock 2 blended survival horror with RPG elements, placing players aboard a derelict spaceship where technology had turned against humanity. Its haunting atmosphere, combined with an unsettling AI antagonist and an innovative audio log system, created a narrative-driven horror experience. It laid the groundwork for later classics like BioShock and Dead Space, proving that horror could thrive in futuristic settings.

4. Amnesia: The Dark Descent (2010)

Amnesia: The Dark Descent stripped players of the ability to fight, forcing them to rely on stealth and strategy to survive. The sanity mechanic, which caused hallucinations and panic when exposed to darkness or enemies, added a psychological edge to the horror. Its minimalistic approach to storytelling and deeply immersive atmosphere inspired a wave of indie horror games and revitalized the genre for modern audiences. It was also a popular game for countless streamers back in the 2010s.

5. Dead Space (2008)

EA’s Dead Space elevated the horror genre by introducing strategic dismemberment and immersive sound design. Set aboard the USG Ishimura, the game’s blend of sci-fi and survival horror created a chilling atmosphere of isolation. Its grotesque enemy designs and relentless pacing ensured players were never comfortable. Dead Space became a cornerstone of the sci-fi horror subgenre, influencing titles like The Callisto Protocol and Alien: Isolation.

6. Five Nights at Freddy’s (2014)

Five Nights at Freddy’s took the gaming world by storm with its simple yet terrifying premise. While managing security cameras to fend off murderous animatronics, players faced intense jump scares and an overwhelming sense of dread. The game’s deep lore and viral appeal catapulted it into pop culture, proving that small indie titles could have massive impacts. It inspired countless imitators and redefined how horror games engage with fan communities.

7. The Last of Us (2013)

While not a traditional horror game, The Last of Us brought emotional depth to the genre. Its post-apocalyptic setting and infected enemies created tension, but the heart of the game was the relationship between Joel and Ellie. The narrative-driven gameplay demonstrated how horror could be used to explore human connections, setting a new benchmark for storytelling in the genre.

8. Outlast (2013)

Outlast innovated with its found-footage aesthetic, requiring players to navigate a nightmarish asylum using only a camcorder for light. The game’s relentless pacing and grotesque imagery created a deeply immersive and terrifying experience. By combining elements of Amnesia with intense chases and shocking visuals, Outlast cemented its place as a modern horror classic.

9. Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly (2003)

Fatal Frame II introduced a unique mechanic where players used a camera to fight off spirits, blending terror with creativity. Set in a cursed Japanese village, the game’s atmosphere was steeped in folklore and dread. The tension of having to face your enemies head-on with the Camera Obscura added a layer of vulnerability that few games have matched. It became a cornerstone of Japanese horror games and influenced titles like Project Zero and Phasmophobia.

10. Alien: Isolation (2014)

Creative Assembly’s Alien: Isolation captured the essence of Ridley Scott’s 1979 film, delivering a masterclass in tension and atmosphere. Playing as Amanda Ripley, players were hunted by a near-invincible Xenomorph that adapted to their strategies, creating an ever-present sense of dread. The game’s dedication to authenticity and its use of dynamic AI made it a standout, setting a new standard for survival horror in sci-fi settings.

These top 10 horror games didn’t just scare players — they changed the way we think about horror in gaming. Whether through innovative mechanics, groundbreaking storytelling, or atmospheric mastery, each of these titles left a lasting mark on the genre.

Which one still keeps you up at night? Let us know your picks in the comments.

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Leon Kennedy Confirmed as Resident Evil 9 Protagonist by Insider

Solomon Thompson — Sun, 26 Jan 2025 18:39:03 +0000

Dusk Golem, a well-known insider who has shared potential leaks and information about the Resident Evil series in the past, has revealed new details about the protagonist of Resident Evil 9. Despite previously stating his intention to step away from insider activities, Dusk Golem claims with 100% certainty that the main character of the upcoming game will be Leon Kennedy.

While this information might seem small on its own, it carries significant weight within the Resident Evil universe. Characters in the series are deeply tied to ongoing subplots and narrative arcs, and revealing the protagonist hints at potential connections to other characters and events within the storyline. The growing and diverse cast of Resident Evil makes predicting further details challenging, but Leon’s role as the protagonist opens the door for speculation about who else might appear in the game.

Dusk Golem also stated via Discord that Jill Valentine will not play a significant role in the game, further confirming that Leon will take the spotlight in Resident Evil 9. This announcement is exciting for fans, especially given Leon’s enduring popularity since the release of Resident Evil 4.

Adding to the speculation, Nick Apostolides, Leon’s official voice actor, recently mentioned that he is involved in a new AAA project. His comments align with the terminology he has used in the past to describe his work as Leon, fueling rumors that he is reprising his role. Another possible clue is the fact that Koshi Nakanishi, the director of the new installment, follows Nick Apostolides on Instagram. Notably, Nakanishi does not follow any other Western actors, which many see as a subtle hint about Leon’s involvement in the game.

If Leon is indeed the protagonist, other iconic characters like Ada Wong and Claire Redfield could likely join the cast, as their stories are intricately connected to Leon’s.

It’s also worth noting that this isn’t the first time rumors about Leon being the lead in Resident Evil 9 have surfaced. There has also been speculation that the game could be announced soon, with a release window expected to be revealed. However, no official announcements have been made as of yet. Fans will have to wait for more concrete details to confirm whether these rumors hold true.

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Resident Evil Set to Return to Theaters with a Horror-Focused Reboot by Barbarian Director

Solomon Thompson — Sun, 26 Jan 2025 16:40:56 +0000

According to a report published by The Hollywood Reporter, a Resident Evil reboot film is in development, intended to serve as a fresh start for the cinematic franchise and return to the horror roots of the original game, originally released in 1996.

The report reveals that the film will be directed by Zach Cregger, the actor and filmmaker behind the 2022 horror movie Barbarian. The screenplay will be handled by Shay Hatten, known for his work on John Wick: Chapter 4 and Army of the Dead. Additionally, the production will be a collaboration between Constantin Film, the company that has held the cinematic rights to Resident Evil since the 1990s, and PlayStation Productions, a studio established in 2019 to adapt Sony’s major gaming IPs into films and TV shows.

The previous Resident Evil film series consisted of six movies released between 2002 and 2016, grossing a total of $1.2 billion. Although loosely based on the stories and characters from the video games, the films focused on an original character named Alice, played by Milla Jovovich, and leaned heavily toward action-oriented storytelling.

Following the end of that series, Constantin Film attempted to reboot the franchise with limited success. This included a Netflix TV series and the 2021 film Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City.

Sources in the Hollywood Reporter claim that Zach Cregger’s vision for the new film will embrace the horror tone of the original games and stay much closer to their narrative and atmosphere. If confirmed, this direction could excite long-time fans of the franchise.

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Silent Hill f Resurfaces 2 Years Later With South Korean Rating

Srabana Aich — Sun, 26 Jan 2025 16:20:12 +0000

After over two years of radio silence, Silent Hill f has finally reappeared, and fans have reason to be cautiously optimistic. The highly anticipated game, which is set in 1960s Japan and penned by Higurashi When They Cry creator Ryukishi07, was recently rated by South Korea’s Game Rating and Administration Committee. This development could suggest the game is further along in development than many expected.

Silent Hill f was initially unveiled in October 2022 during Konami’s Silent Hill showcase. However, little has been revealed about the game since then beyond its haunting reveal trailer — no release window, no platform confirmations, and certainly no follow-ups. That is, until now.

The South Korean rating for the game was applied for on December 4th, 2024, and officially issued on December 12th. Unsurprisingly, the game has been deemed unsuitable for children, in line with the series’ notorious penchant for psychological horror and graphic content.

Silent Hill f and Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 have been rated in South Korea: https://t.co/VaVhU26b5X

Gematsu pages:https://t.co/j7Lw3FXGbl https://t.co/k9eeK7MHvf pic.twitter.com/jxz51aedq0

— Gematsu (@gematsu) January 22, 2025

While the rating doesn’t confirm a release date, it does suggest the game is alive and progressing behind the scenes — a relief for fans who feared the worst after years of silence. Whether this means Silent Hill f is on the brink of release or still months (or years) away remains to be seen.

Interestingly, this isn’t the only game to pop up in South Korea’s ratings list. Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 also secured its rating in late December. Unlike Silent Hill f, the action RPG has a confirmed release window of the first half of 2025, though its journey has been plagued by delays, including a recent pushback from fall 2024.

The reappearance of Silent Hill f on the radar has reignited intrigue for this enigmatic chapter in the Silent Hill franchise. With its unique historical setting and a script crafted by one of Japan’s most renowned visual novel writers, anticipation is mounting. Let’s hope this new rating is the first of many updates to come, and as always, continue to rely on us for coverage of all things Silent Hill.

[Source]

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SOMA, Amnesia: Rebirth, and Amnesia: The Bunker Announced for Switch

Solomon Thompson — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 15:27:13 +0000

Abylight Studios has announced an exciting collaboration with Frictional Games to bring the studio’s iconic horror games to the Nintendo Switch. This partnership includes SOMA, Amnesia: Rebirth, and Amnesia: The Bunker, as well as a physical edition of Amnesia: Collection.

Digital Releases:

SOMA: A horror and science-fiction video game set under the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Fight to survive in a hostile world that will make you question your own existence.
Amnesia: Rebirth: The sequel for Amnesia: The Dark Descent is a first-person horror adventure. Uncover your past and survive the Algerian desert. Fear is your enemy; stay calm to not succumb to an illness threatening you and your loved one. Avoid darkness, hide from monsters and solve puzzles.
Amnesia: The Bunker: Set in a WW1 bunker. In this 2023 release a relentless, AI-driven monster stalks you. Survival depends on finding tools, crafting items, and keeping the lights on.

Physical Release (already available digitally):

Amnesia: Collection: This package includes Amnesia: The Dark Descent (2010), Amnesia: A Machine For Pigs (2013), and Justine (2011), which originally debuted as additional content for The Dark Descent. The collection will be the first to receive a physical edition for Nintendo Switch, set to release in 2025.

Release dates for these titles on Nintendo Switch have yet to be announced. Currently, all games are available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.

Additionally, Amnesia: Collection is already available digitally on Switch, while Amnesia: Rebirth and Amnesia: The Bunker are also accessible on Xbox Series.

Nintendo Switch players have much to look forward to with these thrilling additions to the platform.

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Resident Evil 4: 20 Years of Redefining Survival Horror

Srabana Aich — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 18:24:50 +0000

Twenty years ago, on January 11th, 2005, Capcom released Resident Evil 4, a game that would forever change the landscape of horror gaming. Originally a Nintendo GameCube exclusive, this iconic entry in the Resident Evil franchise didn’t just elevate the series, it redefined an entire genre.

Two decades later, the gaming world still holds Leon S. Kennedy’s harrowing adventure in rural Spain as a gold standard of design, storytelling, and innovation.

The magic of Resident Evil 4 lies in its revolutionary approach to gameplay. At a time when third-person shooters were still finding their footing, Capcom introduced a groundbreaking over-the-shoulder perspective that transformed the player experience. Gone were the fixed camera angles of its predecessors. In their place was a system that allowed for precise aiming and seamless exploration.

This design choice not only modernized Resident Evil but also laid the groundwork for future classics like Gears of War and Dead Space.

But it wasn’t just the mechanics that made Resident Evil 4 unforgettable. Leon Kennedy, cool yet relatable, was the perfect protagonist to guide players through the game’s eerie atmosphere. The desolate Spanish countryside, populated by menacing villagers and grotesque creatures, became a character in its own right — equal parts haunting and captivating.

Add in memorable villains, like the unsettling Ramon Salazar, and relentless boss battles, and it’s easy to see why Resident Evil 4 earned its legendary status.

Of course, the game’s impact wasn’t without controversy. Its shift toward action-heavy gameplay, while praised, also marked a departure from the series’ survival horror roots. This change influenced subsequent titles like the divisive Resident Evil 5 and Resident Evil 6, leading to a brief decline in the franchise’s critical acclaim. Still, Resident Evil 4’s legacy as a masterpiece remains unshaken.

In 2023, Capcom honored the original with a stellar remake, proving that Leon’s tale is as compelling now as it was two decades ago. Yet, even as the remake garners praise, the 2005 version retains its own irreplaceable charm.

For both longtime fans and newcomers, Resident Evil 4, whether in its original or remade form, is a testament to the enduring power of bold and innovative game design.

[Source]

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Resident Evil Zero Remake and Movie Adaptation Rumored to Be in Development

Solomon Thompson — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 16:21:23 +0000

Capcom may be working on a remake of Resident Evil Zero and a movie adaptation of the title, according to rumors shared by the insider AestheticGamer aka Dusk Golem (thanks Twisted Voxel). If confirmed, these projects could play a significant role in celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Resident Evil series.

Reports suggest that Screen Gems/Constantin Films, the company holding the cinematic rights to Resident Evil, has a contractual obligation to release a movie tied to the franchise every five fiscal years. The last film, Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City, was released in the 2021 fiscal year, meaning a new adaptation must arrive by the end of 2026.

The upcoming film is rumored to be directed by Zach Cregger and will focus on the story of Resident Evil Zero. The plot will center around Rebecca Chambers and Billy Coen, exploring the origins of the T-virus and reviving one of the lesser-known but crucial narratives of the franchise.

Capcom is also reportedly developing a remake of Resident Evil Zero, which could coincide with the launch of the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. The game may initially be exclusive to Nintendo’s new console, providing an opportunity to introduce new players to the origins of the franchise. This remake would follow the success of previous reimagined titles like Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 4, potentially reigniting interest in Rebecca and Billy’s story.

Looking ahead, 2026 could also mark the release of Resident Evil 9. According to AestheticGamer, Capcom might celebrate the franchise’s anniversary with a theme that ties together the beginning and end of the series’ current era.

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Sequel Gal Guardians: Servants of the Dark Gets Spring Release

Steve Summers — Sat, 11 Jan 2025 00:50:39 +0000

Inti Creates and the publisher PQube have announced the details for the sequel to last year’s excellent Castlevania homage, Gal Guardians: Demon Purge titled Gal Guardians: Servants of the Dark, and also provided the date when we can expect to have the game in our hands in the near future.

Servants of the Dark promises to not only bring more of its cheeky gothic horror anime adventures into the new game but also states that this sequel will be a full Metroidvania-style game that’s closer to Symphony of the Night and other later titles, with a full map and exploration, unlike the old-school Castlevania: Rondo of Blood-style that the first Gal Guardians game featured.

Just like the first game, Servants will also have full co-op for the whole campaign, making it one of a short list of Metroidvania games to feature multiplayer for the entire experience, also adding online play to the co-op mode, which the first game didn’t have.

Servants has two new main characters, with different playstyles than the girls from Demon Purge, with fully upgradeable stats and abilities, offering lots of new gameplay possibilities between them.

The digital release for the game is due out on March 27th on all the major platforms, with details about physical editions for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 coming soon after.

Stay tuned for our review when Gal Guardians: Servants of the Dark launches in a few months. Don’t forget to check out the reveal trailer below:

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The House of the Dead 2 Remake Gets Trailer, Release Window

Steve Summers — Sat, 11 Jan 2025 00:22:13 +0000

Forever Entertainment has finally revealed more details and a trailer for the upcoming House of the Dead 2 remake, after being announced in 2019, sharing that we won’t have to wait very long to get the game in our hands.

The new teaser trailer shows a lot of footage from the game, clearly showing it’s using the same engine and visual style as the first House of the Dead remake, with a more realistic and dark tone compared to the original Dreamcast version.

The game will feature a handful of upgrades as well as some new modes, including things like a remastered soundtrack (with the classic soundtrack still available as an option), a boss rush mode, and a training mode, in addition to the classic campaign that stays faithful to the original game. The voice acting has also been updated, but is still awkward and cheesy, from what the trailer has shown so far, so at least we know they’re trying to keep it weird just like they did with the first remake.

As for whether the game will have relative light gun or mouse support on the different platforms is yet to be seen, but if the remake of the first game is any indication, we’ll likely be able to use gyro or mouse aiming on most platforms.

The House of the Dead 2 Remake will launch on Xbox One, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Switch, and PC this spring, with a specific release date yet to be given. Stay tuned for more updates and our comprehensive game review when it launches in the next few months. You can watch the trailer below for yourself.

Let us know what you think about the game and we’ll see you this spring with more coverage.

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