Microsoft Teams will introduce a feature allowing users to temporarily pause notifications for a designated period, aimed at reducing notification overload and enhancing focus. The rollout is expected to start this month, with full availability by early October, and will be accessible through the profile menu in the application. This feature responds to user feedback for better notification management and differs from existing mute functions and the Do Not Disturb mode by allowing users to maintain their current status. There are questions about whether the pause feature will sync across devices or operate on a per-instance basis.
The Tarnished Edition of Elden Ring has introduced new armor sets, weapons, and starting classes, prompting players to experiment with the game's mechanics. Notable player SaxSlaveGael demonstrated the effectiveness of a new sword's Muleta skill against the boss Gaius, while Ilamahradeys showcased the sword's power by nearly depleting the health of the Full-Grown Fallingstar Beast with a single jab. Players are also focusing on aesthetics, with the "fashion souls" concept thriving, as seen with admiration for a new chestpiece from the Idus starting class. Additionally, the heavy armor class introduced in the DLC has gained attention for its enhanced vigor and strength stats, beneficial for melee characters. The excitement for the Tarnished Edition reflects players' eagerness to explore the new content.
Nodusfall is a co-op action game developed by miHoYo, blending elements from Elden Ring and Monster Hunter. Players can pre-register for future beta opportunities. The game features dark fantasy visuals and co-op combat mechanics, allowing players to battle mythical creatures inspired by various mythologies. Players assume the role of a "Weaver," tasked with restoring order to a continent plagued by the "Dreadnodi." The game will include diverse landscapes and is designed for up to four players to collaborate against formidable bosses. Unique features include powerful "Divine Skills," cinematic finishing moves, and a focus on squad diversity. Players can switch roles and loadouts freely, enhancing gameplay variety. Nodusfall does not feature character gacha mechanics; characters are earned through gameplay, though cosmetic monetization may be included.
Red Art Games will release the Joe & Mac Retro Collection on October 29th, 2026, for Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam. Pre-orders are available on the Red Art Games website, including a special Rock Edition Collector’s Edition with additional items like a reverse cover, booklet, double-sided poster, prehistoric badges, an acrylic stand, and a sticker sheet. The collection includes three games: Joe & Mac Caveman Ninja, Congo’s Caper, and Joe & Mac Lost in the Tropics, along with features like a "Boss Rush" mode and local two-player co-op. The collection will also include modern enhancements for a better gaming experience.
Nodusfall is a new co-op action game from HoYoverse, distinct from their previous titles that featured gacha mechanics and collectible characters. The game does not currently confirm any gacha elements, focusing instead on cosmetic monetization. It was revealed at Gamescom, drawing initial comparisons to Elden Ring and Monster Hunter, but it offers a unique gameplay experience. Set in a world where divine authority has collapsed, players engage in contracts to hunt beasts and customize characters with different combat styles. The gameplay emphasizes fast-paced action, teamwork, and strategy, with players facing challenging boss encounters. HoYoverse plans to provide updates on beta access and further developments through their official channels.
Players in How to Fish face the challenge of defeating the Pufferfish boss, which requires multiple attempts and strategic upgrades to weapons, particularly the SMG. To obtain Pufferfish bait, players must find endangered fish and feed them to a swimmer in exchange for Carrot Bait. Tips for defeating the Pufferfish include maintaining constant movement, using trees for cover, avoiding its purple poison, and taking advantage of its size increase to dodge more easily. Players should not stop to shoot the Pufferfish but instead keep moving to succeed in the battle.
The Duskbloods is a multiplayer game exclusive to the Switch 2, which was tested in a closed network event. Players had access to only one map and six characters, with no build customization and significant input lag issues. The tutorial was incomplete, leaving many gameplay aspects unclear. The game features mechanics similar to MOBAs, where players collect Virtue points while battling AI-controlled enemies and other players. Players can recruit enemies as allies, adding a strategic element. The game has a nostalgic charm reminiscent of older titles, but it currently lacks the depth and cohesion seen in previous FromSoftware games. Director Hidetaka Miyazaki's comments suggest that the game may remain a Nintendo exclusive, similar to Bloodborne's situation.
Veteran Soulsborne YouTubers VaatiVidya and Oroboro have shared gameplay videos for The Duskbloods, an exclusive PvPvE title for the Switch 2. Hidetaka Miyazaki, the project lead, has discussed the game with IGN and Automaton. The design of Duskbloods resembles the level layouts of Nightreign, emphasizing verticality and exploration, contrasting with Elden Ring's landscapes. Visuals in Duskbloods evoke Bloodborne, featuring hooded ogres similar to Church Giants, a map reminiscent of Yharnam, a boss encounter in a cathedral, weapons akin to those in Elden Ring and Bloodborne, and thematic elements like a battle in a field of white flowers. The map's vertical density is compared to Shadow of the Erdtree and Nightreign. Concerns exist regarding FromSoftware's ability to maintain multiplayer balance and support, as well as the game's single-player content and potential PC release. The gaming community is eager for updates leading up to the network test.
Parry Frames Studio has announced their new project, Stray Dog: Nobody Cares, inspired by the Dark Souls series. The game features a four-legged protagonist, a devoted hound on a quest to rescue its captured master in a dark fantasy realm. It will include a combat system with multiple styles for parrying, backstabbing, and executing deathblows, along with stealth elements. The game gained unexpected popularity on social media after early test footage was released. Parry Frames' previous title, Crimson Oath, was released earlier this year and received a 'very positive' rating on Steam. The development of Stray Dog's combat framework is complete, but the release timeline is uncertain.
