IGN Fan Fest has kicked off, and it started with an ID@Xbox Showcase, featuring games from numerous indie publishers. Let’s take a look at what was featured and how we here at GCR feel about them!
// Revenge of the Savage Planet
Release Date:
May 8, 2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | Game Pass | PS4 & PS5 | Steam | Epic Games Store | GOG
Description:
In a future knocked off its axis by corporate greed and stupidity, you have been made redundant and abandoned on the far edge of space with little gear and no safety net. You must explore every nook and cranny, collect dozens of upgrades, and turn over every mysterious alien rock if you want to get revenge on your former employer and return to Earth.
Across multiple planets and through myriad challenges, you will be tasked with exploring and understanding these beautiful alien worlds. There are plants to scan, creatures to capture, lakes to swim, caves to spelunk, mountains to climb, upgrades to craft, and hundreds of secrets to uncover… (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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A little too “Rick and Morty” looking for me |
LF |
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Yeah, no. This just isn’t something I’d play. |
// Jump Ship
Release Date:
Early Access Summer 2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S| Game Pass | Steam
Description:
Jump Ship is a mission based co-op FPS for up to 4 players, where you are the crew of a spaceship. Transition seamlessly from crewing the ship to on-foot exploration and space walks. Engage in intense battles both on the ground and in space, and always keep your ship upgraded and intact. (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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Something about the pizza bit bothers me lol |
LF |
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Again, no, thanks. For the same reason as before, not something I’d play. |
// Echo Weaver
Release Date:
TBA
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S| Xbox One | Game Pass | Steam
Description:
A time loop metroidBRAINia where time is your best resource and secrets are your only upgrades. You’re the last of the Weavers, a remnant of a ruined society trapped in a glitching time loop. Explore what remains. Uncover the mystery. Perfect the loop. (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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Metroidvania’s are a hard sell so I likely won’t play this one, but the vibes and art earn it a heart from me. |
LF |
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I like the art style, but I don’t play side scrollers, so this one is also a pass. Unique character design, though. |
// Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault
Release Date:
2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | PS5 | Steam
Description:
Live the double life of a fearless adventurer and a crafty merchant! Dive into vibrant dimensions brimming with shiny loot and pesky enemies. Grow your shop, tinker with weapons and gadgets, as well as make your mark among a ragtag community of castaways. (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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The game looks great to me. I haven’t played the first entry in the series but this has piqued my interest! |
LF |
 |
I love the art style for this one! And it looks like something I’d play–reminds me of Rune Factory, where you have life sim elements but also combat. I have since learned it’s a rogue-lite, but I just like the way this one looks too much not to give it a try. It also made me go download Moonlighter on Game Pass so I can see what the first one is like. I guess this game really caught my eye. |
// Blue Prince
Release Date:
April 10, 2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | Game Pass | PS5 & PS+ Extra | Steam
Description:
Welcome to Mt. Holly, where every dawn unveils a new mystery. Navigate through shifting corridors and ever-changing chambers in this genre-defying strategy puzzle adventure. But will your unpredictable path lead you to the rumored Room 46? (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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Sweet style and premise, but I’m not one for these puzzle-solvey games because im an idjit. |
LF |
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I’m not sure if this is something I’d play. I like the art style for it and it looks unique. Considering I’ll get it both on Gamepass and PS+ Extra, I have no excuse on checking it out to find out if it is something I’ll play. I may even check out the demo on Steam, since there’s a demo out now! |
// Outbound
Release Date:
2026
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | Game Pass | PS5 | Nintendo Switch | Steam
Description:
Build your own home on wheels and live sustainably off-grid. Craft workstations and power supplies, source energy from the sun, wind, or water, upgrade and customize your vehicle, grow crops, and explore a colorful world with up to 4 players. (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
|
Now this is video games, people. You can tell people are craving escapism right now with the influx of cozy and relaxing sim games coming out. This one in particular really appeals to me. |
LF |
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Not sure about this one. I like the look of it and it’s definitely cozy, but it doesn’t seem like it’ll be my thing. Maybe I’ll check it out on Game Pass if I don’t have anything else to play. |
// Herdling
Release Date:
Summer 2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | PS5 | Steam
Description:
Herdling is a brand new adventure from Okomotive, creators of the atmospheric and acclaimed FAR games, and Panic, publishers of Firewatch.
Head out on a grand alpine expedition with a herd of loveable beasts, as you ascend a mountain path, encounter eerie dangers and surprising obstacles, and forge your way to the mystery at the summit. (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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What’s not to like about some big, fuzzy fellas. |
LF |
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I don’t know what those creatures are, but they certainly are adorable. I think I’m going to be checking this one out. Looks like an adventure game with animals. Plus, it just looks really pretty–even the image I found for the article is gorgeous. |
// Wax Heads
Release Date:
Summer 2026
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | Steam
Description:
Wax Heads is a cozy-punk narrative sim about managing a struggling record store. Chat to quirky customers with unique tastes, explore a handcrafted record collection, fall in love with bands (and their drama!), or just slack off with your colleagues – whatever gets everyone’s groove back! (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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Love the art style. I also thought that the minigames/activities shown felt a bit tighter than the kinda thing you often see in these sort of sim games. |
LF |
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The art style for this game is really unqiue but I’m not sure its one I’d play because it’s not a genre I enjoy. If you’re interested in checking out, there’s a demo available on Steam now! |
// The Lonesome Guild
Release Date:
Fall 2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | Steam
Description:
In a world consumed by loneliness, only friendship can save the day. Lead a quirky cast in this colorful single-player ARPG full of heart, battles, and bonds that change everything. (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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The teambuilding angle is a fun approach to this style of game. Looks solid. |
LF |
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Oh this is so cute! A game with animals and you play as a ghost? You get to build your team, explore the world together, fight together, and spend meaningful time with your companions to get closer to them?? Sign me up! |
// Buckshot Roulette
Release Date:
2025
Platforms:
Game Pass | Already available now on Steam
Description:
Play Russian roulette with a 12-gauge shotgun. Four enter. One leaves. Roll the dice with your life. Good luck! (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
|
I’m intrigued by this game because of how freaking weird it looks. The art style is also pretty interesting. I’d need to get my hands on it to see how it worksup. It feels like the kinda of thing that might wear out it’s welcome without too much gameplay variance. |
LF |
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Not for me. Sounds like it’s multiplayer and I do really play multiplayer games. |
// Hotel Barcelona
Release Date:
2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | PS5 | Steam
Description:
Evil serial killers from all over the US have been gathered up in a luxurious hotel that sits just outside of Pittsburgh, on the border of Pennsylvania and West Virginia…
Justine is a novice federal marshal who has an insane serial killer named Dr. Carnival living inside of her. Will she be able to exterminate all the evil serial killers and escape from this cursed hotel?! Find out in this 2.5D slasher film parody action game! (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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I’m with LF on this one, the style looks rad but I don’t know if I see myself sitting down to play it. |
LF |
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Sick art style but the genre and gameplay make it not for me. |
// Balatro: Friends of Jimbo (Pack 4) & Game Pass Release
Description:
Friends of Jimbo (Pack 4) releases on February 24 and features new collaborations with Dead by Daylight, Civilization 7, Critical Role, Assassin’s Creed, Fallout, Bugsnax, Slay the Princess, and Rust.
Balatro itself is releasing on Game Pass on February 24.
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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Bugsnax? Critical Role? LFG. This is a great excuse to pick up Balatro again. Being able to play on console and PC how as well is great (for a guy who bought in on mobile). |
LF |
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Really cool to see all those crossovers but I don’t play Balatro, so pass for me. |
// RockBeasts
Release Date:
2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | Steam
Description:
Lead a band of misfits on a roller-coaster ride to stardom in the age of MTV, rock anthems, and bad haircuts. ROCKBEASTS is a story-driven, role-playing management game that puts you in the shoes of a manager of an up-and-coming rock band. Your job – take them to the top.
A dark comedy story featuring the legendary Iggy Pop, crafted by the writer of Witcher 3, Cyberpunk 2077, and The Blood of Dawnwalker. (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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This one could be cool, it seems like a great direction for a game. I worry it veers too close to “trying too hard.” I’ll keep an eye on reviews when it drops. |
LF |
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Maybe I’ll check it out but not sold on it yet. |
// Ratatan
Release Date:
2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | PS5 & PS4 | Nintendo Switch | Steam
Description:
Ratatan is a rhythm roguelike action game that combines rhythm games and side-scrolling action, with online co-op gameplay supporting up to 4 players. An intense battle unfolds with over 100 characters fighting in a massive melee. Let’s defeat the enemies together! (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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This looks cute and like something I would enjoy, but the little person/creature singing was already annoying in the trailer and idk how I would hold up over a whole game. |
LF |
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Oh this so feels like a Patapon successor and I loved the Patapon games. The sound bites are still so cute. I’ll be keeping an eye on this one! |
// Tempopo
Release Date:
April 17, 2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | Game Pass | Xbox One | Nintendo Switch | PC
Description:
When Hana’s garden of musical flowers are scattered across a sky full of beautiful islands, she must turn to the magical Tempopo for help returning them. Chaotic and uncoordinated by nature, the Tempopo rely on Hana’s conducting skills to keep on the right track, and solve each island’s puzzle. (Souce: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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Not doing it for me, I felt stressed out just thinking about trying to solve these levels. |
LF |
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Looks cute but not the kind of cozy I look for. |
// Woodo
Release Date:
TBD
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | PS5 | Nintendo Switch | Steam
Description:
Woodo is a cozy 3D puzzle matching game based on simple diorama assembly mechanics with a beautiful visual style. It tells a heartwarming story that resonates with both adults and children immersing players in a peaceful, safe and creative world. (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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This looks super cute. I think I’m sold. |
LF |
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Looks cute and cozy and I love how everything is wood. So yeah, likely will check it out. |
// TANUKI: Pom’s Summer
Release Date:
2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | Game Pass | Nintendo Switch | Steam
Description:
The Tanuki Festival is just a month away, and the shrine is in disrepair. Follow Pon, a well meaning, if a bit lazy Tanuki with a part-time job at the Post Office, as he works to restore the shrine before summer ends. Deliver packages, make friends, and get the shrine ready for the big festival! (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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When the people of the world say they want video games, this is what they mean. Does it get any better than this? I don’t think so. |
LF |
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Really cute art style and I love the main character but I’m not sold on whether I’ll play this one. Since it’s coming to Game Pass, I’ll give it a shot. |
// Descenders Next
Release Date:
April 9, 2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | Game Pass | Steam
Description:
Grab your board and master the mountain! Descenders Next is the ultimate extreme sports game, with sprawling snowy peaks, winding dirt tracks, and tons of parks to conquer. Will you and your friends become the Next Ultimate Descenders (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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Snowboard? More like, NoBoard. (I’m sure it’ll be great for the shredders out there) |
LF |
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Sick music in the trailer but this isn’t something I’d play because I don’t enjoy these kinds of games. Pass. |
// TRON: Catalyst
Release Date:
June 17, 2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | PS5 | Nintendo Switch | Steam
Description:
TRON: Catalyst pulls you back into the world of Disney’s TRON to battle multiple opposing factions in the latest imaginative story from Bithell Games (Thomas Was Alone, Subsurface Circular, TRON: Identity). TRON: Catalyst is an all-new story-driven, isometric action adventure game, set in the immersive and diverse locations of the Arq Grid introduced in TRON: Identity.
Play as Exo, a highly resilient and resourceful program wielding an unexpected power known as the Glitch, gaining strength and abilities which the overlords of the Arq Grid’s crumbling society seek to bring under control. Ride Light Cycles, engage in Identity Disc combat, and more as you’re relentlessly pursued through the city and beyond by Conn, a malevolent program with an agenda of his own, while uncovering more about the glitches that threaten the stability of this world. (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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I was never a big Tron guy, so eh. |
LF |
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Another pass for me because I’m not into Tron. The character portrait art is really well done, though. |
// 33 Immortals
Release Date:
March 18, 2025 – Early Access
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S | Epic Games Store
Description:
33 Immortals® is a co-op action-roguelike for 33 players. Play a damned soul, and rebel against God’s final judgment. Pick-up and raid, cooperate to survive hordes of monsters, defeat massive bosses, and face the wrath of God in a fight for your eternal life. (Souce: Official Website)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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This one has been out in shows for a while now and it’s a pretty interesting concept. It’s from the Spiritfarer guys so I trust them to make something nifty. |
LF |
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This is another pass for me. Not the type of game I’d play. |
// Lies of P Overture
Release Date:
Summer 2025
Platforms:
Xbox Series X&S| PS5 & PS4 | Steam
Description:
Lies of P: Overture is a dramatic prequel to the acclaimed soulslike action RPG, Lies of P. It transports you to the city of Krat in its final days of haunting, late-19th-century Belle Époque beauty. On the brink of the Puppet Frenzy massacre, you follow a legendary Stalker—a mysterious guide—through untold stories and chilling secrets. As Geppetto’s deadly puppet, you’ll journey through Krat and its surroundings, uncover hidden backstories, and face epic battles that shape the past and future of Lies of P.
As Geppetto’s Puppet, you encounter a mysterious artifact that transports you back to Krat in its final days of grandeur. In the shadow of an impending tragedy, your mission is to explore the past and uncover its dark secrets—haunted by surprises, loss, and vengeance. The choices you make ripple through the past and present in the world of Lies of P, revealing hidden truths and leaving lasting consequences.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure where the symphony of steel clashes with the haunting melody of the unknown. Dare to unravel the mysteries of the past, for in the heart of darkness lies the key to unlocking the secrets of a timeless tale reborn. (Source: Steam)
Click here to view the trailer.
Reactions:
2R |
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As LF states, this seems like more of what we saw at the State of Play. Just another push for me to play this darn game. |
LF |
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// Final Reactions
2R |
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This was a solid showing. There are a good handful of games on my radar now that weren’t before! TANUKI: Pom’s Summer, Wax Heads, Woodo, and Outbound were all standouts to me. Pom and Outbound were the top two for sure and they’re both bound for Gamepass. Xbox is is really redeeming themselves with a hell of a lineup. |
LF |
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Overall, I enjoyed the ID@Xbox Showcase. There are plenty of games I’m very interested in and looking forward to play, and some I may not normally be into, but because they’re coming to Game Pass, are more accessible for me to try out. The only complaint I have, because this was being held by IGN’s Fan Fest, it was filled with far too many ads. There would be 3-4 trailers and then a break with at a minimum 5 ads. I wasn’t fan and I know I wasn’t alone. |
