The long-awaited sequel to Nine Dots Studio's survival RPG is finally on the horizon. Outward 2 will release in Summer 2026, giving fans plenty of time to prepare for another punishing adventure. The announcement came with the official Outward 2 release window trailer, showcasing gameplay that doubles down on the studio's signature design philosophy. Just like the original, players won't find quest markers or their position neatly marked on the map—immersion and discovery are left in their hands.
What sets Outward apart from many modern RPGs is its emphasis on cooperation. Split-screen and online co-op both return in the sequel, meaning players can explore, survive, and struggle together. The developers have promised that the new entry will refine the mechanics without softening the challenge, so expect harsh environments, tactical combat, and moments where every decision feels weighty. A playtest is also scheduled for Steam and the Epic Games Store, which will give early access to eager adventurers before the official release.
The next major adventure set in Middle-earth is officially in the works. According to Insider Gaming's report, a brand-new The Lord of the Rings game is being developed with a budget of nearly $100 million. The ambitious project is backed by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, signaling a major financial commitment to delivering a large-scale experience worthy of Tolkien's world.
While details are scarce, this upcoming title will join other recent adaptations such as The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria, revealed in PlayStation's announcement trailer. With a budget this substantial, fans are speculating whether the new game will aim to recreate the sweeping battles and deep lore of Middle-earth or carve out a unique narrative within Tolkien's universe. For now, we know it's big, it's expensive, and it's bound to draw huge attention once the first trailer drops.
Fans of stealth games got a surprise when gameplay for Thief VR: Legacy of Shadow was released, highlighting how the classic franchise translates into virtual reality. The reveal came through the official Thief VR gameplay trailer for PlayStation VR2, and it shows the iconic first-person stealth mechanics redesigned for VR immersion. For anyone who hasn't tried virtual reality yet, the experience is radically different: when you put on a headset, the screen disappears, and you step directly into the shadows of the game world.
According to IGN's impressions, the VR adaptation captures the soul of Thief by letting players physically crouch, peek around corners, and reach out to snatch loot. The extra layer of physicality means every action—from picking locks to silently knocking out guards—feels tactile and intense. The game is confirmed for Meta Quest, PlayStation VR2, and SteamVR, ensuring a broad launch across all major VR platforms. A release date hasn't yet been revealed, but this glimpse confirms the series' stealth legacy is alive and thriving in virtual reality.
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