Official PlayStation Podcast Episode 506: Marvelous Start

Email us at PSPodcast@sony.com!

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Howdy, folks! This week, the crew returns for the first show of 2025! Topics of discussion include Marvel Rivals and retro classics Final Fantasy 5 and the Contra series. Plus, Brett joins to close out the PlayStation 30th Anniversary discussion by sharing his favorite PS5 and PS VR2 games.

Stuff We Talked About

  • Next week’s release highlights:
    • Star Wars Episode 1: Jedi Power Battles | PS5, PS4
    • Synduality Echo of Ada | PS5
  • Dynasty Warriors: Origins hands-on details
  • Arken Age pre-launch details
  • Platformers of PlayStation Plus
  • Marvel Rivals
  • Brett highlights his top games on PS5 and PS VR2

The Cast

Sid Shuman – Senior Director of Content Communications, SIE

Tim Turi – Content Communications Manager, SIE

Brett Elston – Manager, Content Communications, SIE


Thanks to Dormilón for our rad theme song and show music.

[Editor’s note: PSN game release dates are subject to change without notice. Game details are gathered from press releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]

(For Southeast Asia) January Deals come to PlayStation Store

PlayStation Store’s extending the new year celebrations with the January Deals promotion, starting January 15 for a limited time*. You can enjoy steep discounts on a variety of titles, including Gran Turismo 7 25th Anniversary Digital Deluxe Edition, EA SPORTS FC 25 Ultimate Edition, The Last of Us Part I Digital Deluxe Edition and many more. 

Head to PlayStation Store to see the full list and find out your regional discount. 

*January Deals promotion available on PlayStation Store from 00.00am JST, Wednesday January 15 until 23:59pm JST Wednesday January 29. Game selection may differ by region. Check PlayStation Store for more details. Not applicable for Indonesia.

10 must-play platformers available with PlayStation Plus

Astro Bot took top honors at the 2024 Game Awards, and we couldn’t be prouder of the little guy and his many friends. But Astro Bot doesn’t exist in a vacuum – Team Asobi’s award-winning hero comes from an illustrious legacy of PlayStation platformers spanning way back to the original PlayStation, from first-party studios and third-party developers and publishers alike. 

If you’re looking to dig into the legacy of PlayStation platformers from the beginning to the current day, there’s no better way to do it than with the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog and Classics Catalog. Here’s a sampling of some noteworthy platformers you can play now.*

A Hat in Time | 2017


10 must-play platformers available with PlayStation Plus

The “collectathon” subgenre of 3D platformer, emphasizing the hunt for hundreds of assorted doodads in sprawling levels, was quite popular around the turn of the millennium. A Hat in Time is a loving callback to those days spent scouring every nook and cranny, as players control Hat Kid in her quest to retrieve Time Pieces in a large and exceptionally silly cartoon world. Find Yarn Balls to make new hats and earn new powers, battle foes to gather Pons for upgrades, search for hidden Relics and Rift Tokens, and figure out what Mustache Girl’s whole deal is.

Publisher: Humble Games | Developer: Gears for Breakfast

Ape Escape | 1999

Ready for some monkey business? Science gone wrong has created a gang of hyper-intelligent monkeys causing chaos through time, and it’s your job to bring these too-smart simians back home. As one of the first game series to use the DualShock controller’s dual-analog sticks to their full potential, Ape Escape lets you use careful movement and funky gadgets to sneak up on and nab these naughty simians. Be careful–you’ll want to pay close attention to the apes’ helmets to gauge their mood before you approach.

Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Celeste | 2018


10 must-play platformers available with PlayStation Plus

Ah, the humble dash: a truly beloved platformer maneuver. Indie-game pixel masterpiece Celeste elevates the act of using the simple dash to new levels to traverse huge screens packed with challenging hazards. Ground dashes, multidirectional mid-air dashes, dashes from a wall climb, items to grant multiple dashes–you’ll have loads of fun mastering the game’s fast movement to get around and snag all of its secrets. This is one mountain you’ll love to climb.

Publisher: Maddy Makes Games | Developer: Maddy Makes Games

Gravity Rush Remastered | 2016


10 must-play platformers available with PlayStation Plus

Gravity Rush is your game if you like your platforming with a dose of open-world adventuring and memorable world-building. Amnesiac Kat wakes up in the city of Hekseville in the middle of a disastrous storm, quickly discovering that her cat companion allows her to shift gravity. She’ll use these skills to navigate Hekseville’s stunning architecture, fight off mysterious monsters, and aid the populace–all while delving deep into the mysteries around her. 

Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Sony Interactive Entertainment 

Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy | 2001

This classic from Naughty Dog stars one of the most memorable platforming duos of the PS2 era. Jak’s buddy Daxter has a problem: he fell into a mysterious pool when the duo snuck onto Misty Island, and now he’s become small and very fuzzy. Now, the two are seeking out the Dark Sage Gol Asheron to fix things up and save the world in the process. Vibrant animations, colorful environments, and a then-revolutionary environment design that minimized load times keep Jak and Daxter feeling classic to this day.

Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Naughty Dog

Jumping Flash | 1995

Day-one PlayStation fans will talk your ear off about just how cool Jumping Flash was and how it wowed them as a showcase of original PlayStation power… but why not try to see what all the fuss was about? This unique first-person platformer starts Robbit, a mechanical rabbit who can jump really, really high. Explore surreal environments filled with bizarre foes, awesome weaponry, and plenty of floating platforms that give you space to hop up to absurd heights. There was nothing like it then, and it’s still a unique and fun game.

Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Exact, Ultra

Rayman Legends | 2013


10 must-play platformers available with PlayStation Plus

Who says you need limbs to perform astounding feats of platforming? Rayman, Globox, Barbara, and the Goth Teensy have to deal with the aftermath of a century-long nap, rescuing the Teensies and once again saving the Glade of Dreams from evil forces. Besides gorgeous hand-drawn HD visuals, Rayman Legends offers up to four-player local co-op, so gather friends for a fantastic sidescrolling adventure.

Publisher: Ubisoft | Developer: Ubisoft Montpellier 

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart | 2021


10 must-play platformers available with PlayStation Plus

Here’s the other well-known duo of PlayStation platforming, whose adventures have continued into the current generation. Rift Apart uses the PS5’s capabilities to give players the biggest and most graphically stunning Ratchet and Clank outing yet, with the new Rift Tether gadget allowing for very fast travel. Prepare for shooting, gadget-driven navigation, and interdimensional hijinks, and the introduction of Ratchet’s alternate-dimension lady Lombax counterpart, Rivet. 

Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Insomniac

Sackboy: A Big Adventure | 2020


10 must-play platformers available with PlayStation Plus

He might be made of fabric, but Sackboy’s as tough as nails when it comes to adventure. Our stuffing-filled hero comes to rescue his fellow Sackpeople and Craftworld from the wicked Vex, and he’s got a whole wealth of new skills to show off. You’ll be rolling, diving, fluttering, and smacking foes around as you search for precious Dreamer Orbs. It won’t be easy, and you’ll need some help along the way. Fortunately, you can play with up to three other adventurers in online and local co-op to surmount the toughest obstacles.

Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Sumo Digital 

Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus | 2002

Who’s the stealthy, suave thief with a family history of heisting and a bushy, ringed tail? Sly Cooper, that’s who, and he’s on a mission to get back the missing pages of the Thievius Raccoonus–his family’s book of secrets–from the shady paws of the Fiendish Five. Platforming and stealth combine as you slink through the Fiendish Five’s lairs, using Sly’s distinct sneaking and thieving abilities to avoid guards, security systems, and other traps to take back the precious pages.

Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment | Developer: Sucker Punch

Looking for even more platforming fun? Check out this in-depth feature on some of the best 3D platformers on PlayStation.

*The PlayStation Plus Game Catalog lineup may differ in certain regions.

World premiere of the Until Dawn movie trailer

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the release of the Until Dawn game, and I’m thrilled to share with you the world premiere of the trailer for Until Dawn the movie, coming to theaters.


World premiere of the Until Dawn movie trailer

PlayStation Productions and Sony Pictures have been working closely with director/producer David F. Sandberg (Annabelle: Creation, Lights Out) and writer/producer Gary Dauberman (It, Annabelle series, The Nun series) to translate Until Dawn to the big screen. In making that transition, we wanted to honor the spirit of the Until Dawn game – especially the idea of decisions with branching paths and deadly consequences – while adapting it in a way that maximizes both the entertainment and terror for moviegoers.

Though the movie’s story is set in the same world as the game, it was important to us that the movie wasn’t just a retelling. Instead, the film will feature fresh characters in a new, original story. If you’ve played the game, you know not everything is what it seems. With the movie we wanted to keep the audience guessing until the end. We can’t wait for fans to discover how the events of the movie connect to the Until Dawn game.

Peter Stormare, whom you know as Dr. Hill in the game, is one of those key connecting links. The film will delve into his character’s involvement in the events of the game, raising questions for fans to explore. Given Peter’s role spanning both projects, it’s only fitting he introduce the first Until Dawn movie trailer to the world:


“I have been lucky to be part of Until Dawn since the original, incredible, super terrifying game, and that’s why I’m so excited to be part of this film, because the whole thing is a love letter to horror, and it completely honors the spirit of the game. The movie is going to be full of fresh characters and victims in a brand-new story, loaded with twists. So whether you’re a longtime fan or you’re discovering it for the first time, get ready for Until Dawn like you’ve never seen it before.”

– Peter Stormare


Now, enjoy the world premiere of the trailer, and keep checking back, as there will be plenty more updates between now and when Until Dawn hits theaters later this year.

PlayStation Plus Game Catalog for January: God of War Ragnarök, Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, Atlas Fallen: Reign of Sand, and more

Explore the mythical snowy landscapes in God of War Ragnarök, Osaka’s vibrant underworld in Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, the vast, sandy expanses of Atlas Fallen: Reign Of Sand, and the futuristic mech-sized battlefields of SD Gundam Battle Alliance. These games and more form January’s PlayStation Plus Game Catalog lineup* and will be available to play from January 21.

Two timeless classics are also joining PlayStation Plus Premium: PS2 adventure epic adventure Indiana Jones and the Staff of Kings and PS2’s spooky Medievil II.

Finally, in case you missed it, PlayStation Portal released a system update that allows PlayStation Plus Premium members to test Cloud Streaming (Beta) for select PS5 games on Game Catalog. Learn more here.

PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium | Game Catalog

God of War Ragnarök | PS4, PS5

From Santa Monica Studio comes the sequel to the critically acclaimed God of War (2018). Embark on an epic and heartfelt journey as Kratos and Atreus struggle with holding on and letting go. Fimbulwinter is well underway. Kratos and Atreus must journey to each of the Nine Realms in search of answers as Asgardian forces prepare for a prophesied battle that will end the world. Along the way they will explore stunning, mythical landscapes, and face fearsome enemies in the form of Norse gods and monsters. As the threat of Ragnarök grows ever closer, Kratos and Atreus must choose between their own safety and the safety of the realms.

Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name | PS4, PS5

Once a legendary yakuza, Kazuma Kiryu faked his own death and abandoned his name for the sake of protecting his family. Now, he is thrust into conflict by a mysterious figure attempting to drive him out of hiding. Under the codename ‘Joryu’, Kiryu embarks on a gripping action narrative with bone-shattering combat in vibrant locations filled with exciting characters and activities.

Atlas Fallen: Reign Of Sand | PS5

In this action RPG, master the sands and explore a unique fantasy land teeming with secrets and dangers alone or in online two-player co-op, as you hunt colossal legendary creatures in spectacular combat. Reign of Sand is the ultimate version of Atlas Fallen: an expanded world, new enemies and challenges, revamped progression, new quests, reworked voice acting, additional difficulty mode and ‘New Game+’ modes! 

SD Gundam Battle Alliance | PS4, PS5

Mobile Suits and characters from across Mobile Suit Gundam history take center stage in this all-new action RPG. The story takes place in G: Universe, a world where Gundam canon twists and turns in ways no one can predict. To correct this world’s distorted history, you lead a 3-unit squadron consisting of Mobile Suits and pilots from across Gundam history – a true Battle Alliance. Experience Gundam history’s most famous scenes as you develop new Mobile Suits to add to your arsenal. In multiplayer, you can play through the game with up to 2 other players in a 3-person team. Enjoy this new SD Gundam action RPG solo, or with friends.

Sayonara Wild Hearts | PS4

Sayonara Wild Hearts is a dreamy arcade game about riding motorcycles, skateboarding, dance battling, shooting lasers, wielding swords, and breaking hearts at 200 mph. As the heart of a young woman breaks, the balance of the universe is disturbed. A diamond butterfly appears in her dreams and leads her through a highway in the sky, where she finds her other self: the masked biker called The Fool. Journey through a custom-written pop soundtrack, chase scores, and set out to find the harmony of the universe, hidden away in the hearts of Little Death and her star-crossed allies: Dancing Devils, Howling Moons, Stereo Lovers and Hermit 64. Let’s Pop!

ANNO: Mutationem | PS4, PS5

Welcome to the neon-covered, 2D-meets-3D Cyberpunk world of ANNO: Mutationem. In this Action-Adventure game with RPG elements, you become Ann: a highly-skilled combat-trained lone wolf on a personal mission in a giant Metropolis, full of sinister mega-corporations, mysterious fringe groups and creatures more bizarre than words can express. 

Orcs Must Die 3 | PS4, PS5

Orcs Must Die! 3 ushers orc-slaying mayhem to a previously unimaginable scale. Solo or with a friend by your side, arm yourself with a massive arsenal of traps and weapons. Slice, burn, toss and zap hordes of repugnant orcs in this long-awaited successor to the award-winning series. It’s everything fans loved about the first two games and more. More orcs, more traps, more weapons, more upgrades and even better looking. It’s cranked up to at least eleven.

Citizen Sleeper | PS4, PS5

You are a sleeper, a digitised human consciousness in an artificial body, owned by a corporation that wants you back. Inspired by Tabletop Roleplaying games, Citizen Sleeper uses Dice, Clocks and Drives to create a player-led experience, where you choose your path in a rich and responsive world. Thrust amongst the unfamiliar and colourful inhabitants of the Eye, you need to build friendships, earn your keep, and navigate the factions of this strange metropolis, if you hope to survive to see the next cycle. 

Poker Club | PS4

Welcome to Poker Club. Live the life of a poker pro in the most immersive poker simulation ever seen, with Ultra HD 4K visuals and breath-taking ray tracing. Join a community of online players on their way to the top and track your progress in more than 10 Texas Hold’em tournament modes including freezeouts, shootouts, super-turbos, bounties and more. Whether you’re a seasoned poker pro or brand new to the table, perfect your play style for the chance to win big. 

PlayStation Plus Premium

Indiana Jones and the Staff of Kings | PS4, PS5

Indiana Jones and the Staff of Kings, originally released in 2009 on PlayStation 2, takes you on a perilous, around-the-world quest for the staff of Moses. This classic third-person action adventure has been enhanced with up-rendering, rewind, quick save, and custom video filters. Grab your whip and get ready for a thrilling journey in true Indiana Jones tradition.

Medievil II | PS4, PS5

The sequel to MediEvil released on the original PlayStation in 2000. In this new and improved version, featuring up-rendering, rewind, quick save, and custom video filters, you’ll have to challenge the powers of darkness and untold magic as Sir Daniel Fortesque returns from the grave to thwart an evil sorcerer’s plans. Arm yourself with a mighty arsenal of weapons, including swords, daggers, crossbows, hammers, and even the occasional chicken drumstick. Solve fiendish puzzles and riddles, face ghoulish enemies that will strike fear into the bravest of souls, all of it set to a spine-tingling soundtrack.

*PlayStation Plus Game Catalog and PlayStation Plus Premium/Deluxe lineups may differ by region. Please check PlayStation Store on release day.

Arken Age – A new sci-fi fantasy adventure hits PS VR2

We’re back! My name is Blake Stone, Lead Designer at VitruviusVR, the development team behind Mervils & Shadow Legend VR on the original PS VR. We are very excited to launch our newest title Arken Age, a single-player VR adventure set in a terraformed sci-fi fantasy world. 

In the game you engage in full physics-based combat using Arkenite infused swords & guns; and can freely explore the densely filled environments under siege by Hyperion’s neural corruption. Arken Age has a full 15-hour story driven campaign, was built from the ground-up for PlayStation VR2, and is launching tomorrow, January 16.

10 years of developing for PlayStation VR 

In 2015, we were demoing an early version of Mervils: A VR Adventure, our third-person VR platforming game at the Immersed Conference in Toronto, Canada when we were approached by Richard Marks, Head of Sony’s Magic Lab at the time. He couldn’t tell us too much, but said that his team “had something really cool in works for VR” and that Mervils could be a great fit for it. He later sent us a prototype of the Project Morpheus headset which would later be renamed PlayStation VR, and since then we have never looked back.

We released Mervils in 2017 and later launched Shadow Legend VR in 2020, a first-person medieval sword-fighting game, and we learned a ton from the PlayStation VR community’s feedback on those games that we have directly applied to Arken Age. 

From Shadow Legend we learned that players loved the Climbing Picks both for their fluidity of movement in VR and haptics on impact. For Arken Age we took the Climbing Picks one step further and physically integrated them into the players forearms and added the ability to flick your wrists upwards to deploy them at any time during the game. 

The Climbing Picks is only one example, but there’s so much more included in the game. We further refined our custom VR inventory system, weapon crafting, character interactions, unique combat features, exploration elements, and our design philosophy behind building high-fidelity worlds in VR.

Dynamic Foveated Rendering & breath-taking HDR graphics 

In order to take full advantage of the PlayStation VR2 we worked hard to ensure Arken Age’s rendering, shaders, particle-effects, and post-effects were compatible with Dynamic Foveated Rendering (DFR) for the best image resolution possible. Although, image quality is not the only benefit of the PS VR2, with the vibrant world of the Bio-Chasm in Arken Age, it really showcases the importance of HDR graphics in VR with the bright blue waters, lush foliage, and emissive energy bloom from Arkenite weapons, buildings, & the robotic Hyperion soldiers in the world. 

VR weaponry & custom adaptive triggers

When developing Arken Age our biggest focus was on realistic physics-based combat and one-of-a-kind VR weaponry; each with their own unique Adaptive Trigger haptics.  In the game you begin with 3 fully customizable & paintable weapons and can collect over 30 unique weapon mods in total. Each attachment is custom designed for VR gameplay, ranging from the Hyperion God Axe; a throwing axe that uses PS VR2’s eye-tracking & can be recalled at your will, the Tempered Cutter; a deployable saw blade that dismembers enemy limbs, and the Astral Ballista; a high-powered chargeable bow, to name a few. In addition, eye-tracking is used to enable the sniper scopes in the game, just close one eye when your head is close to a scope and watch the magic happen!

Uncover the story of Bio-Chasm & your full VR alien body 

In Arken Age you are a biological alien creation, built with full locomotion and the ability to freely jump, crouch, climb, & swim. You can view your full body in first-person and holster all weapons physically onto your character. 

Your journey begins in Celestial Custodian’s Tower on the shores of the Bio-Chasm, a terraformed realm created to harvest Arkenite Energy. Its divine founder, the Grand Arborist, has ceased cultivation of your planet and every transmission sent to him has been met with abject silence. In Arken Age you uncover the truth behind the disappearance of the Grand Arborist, forge alliance with the Nara alien race, take up arms against Hyperion’s legion of corrupted soldiers, and learn how your character; who is part Nara and part Hyperion tech, fits into this world. 

Arken Age takes the player through a full 15-hour adventure, combines both physics-based sword combat with long-range gun combat, has a wide-range of custom VR interactions, epic VR boss fights, and gives the player full freedom to explore the dense environments of the Bio-Chasm.

We want to thank everyone in the PlayStation VR community for their support over the years and we hope Arken Age will be something PS VR2 fans can enjoy this Jan 16 and for the years to come!

New Year Deals come to PlayStation Store

PlayStation Store’s extending the new year celebrations with the New Year Deals promotion, starting January 15 for a limited time*. You can enjoy steep discounts on a variety of titles, including Gran Turismo 7 25th Anniversary Digital Deluxe Edition, Hitman World of Assassination, The Crew: Motorfest Deluxe Edition and many more. 

*New Year Deals promotion available on PlayStation Store from 00.00am PST/BST, Wednesday January 15 until 23:59pm PST/BST Wednesday January 29. Game selection may differ by region. Check PlayStation Store for more details.

(For Malaysia) Level Up New Year’s Play! Purchase PlayStation 5 and stand a chance to win rewards!

Hi everyone! Time to level up this Lunar New Year! Purchase a new PlayStation®5 and stand to win prizes such as PS5 Digital Edition – 30th Anniversary Limited Edition Bundle, PlayStation Portal Remote Player, PlayStation Store gift cards, Sony Bravia TV and more. 

(NOTE: please check campaign URL for promotion details in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand)

From 17th January to 2nd February, there will be discounts on PlayStation 5, PS VR2, DualSense wireless controllers, PULSE Elite Wireless headset and PULSE Explore wireless earbuds, applicable in participating retailers (https://www.playstation.com/local/retailers/). 

(NOTE: please check campaign URL for promotion details in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand)

From 17th January – 17th February 2025, purchase a PS5 console, submit the entry form and stand to win rewards in participating countries/regions* – including the grand prize of a Sony Bravia TV. Additionally, entrants who own PS Plus Membership during campaign period will qualify for special prizes that include PS5 Digital Edition – 30th Anniversary Limited Edition Bundle, DualSense Wireless Controller – Monster Hunter Wilds Limited Edition and PlayStation Portal Remote Player. 

You can find more details of the campaign here: https://www.playstation.com/en-my/local/campaigns/level-up-new-years-play.

* “Participating Countries/Regions” means South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand). 

Please see below for full details of Level Up New Year’s Sale 2025. 

Malaysia

PlayStation 5 ConsolesOriginal SRPPromotion SRP
PlayStation®5MYR 2,499MYR 2,260
PlayStation®5 console – Digital EditionMYR 2,069MYR 1,830
PeripheralsOriginal SRPPromotion SRP
PlayStation VR2MYR 2,799MYR 1,859
DualSense® wireless controller (White, Midnight Black, Cosmic Red, Nova Pink, Galactic Purple, Starlight Blue, Gray Camouflage)MYR 369MYR 309
DualSense® wireless controller (Volcanic Red, Cobalt Blue, Sterling Silver, Chroma Pearl, Chroma Indigo, Chroma Teal)MYR 399MYR 339
Pulse Elite Wireless HeadsetMYR 699MYR 609
Pulse Explore Wireless EarbudsMYR 999MYR 869

Honkai: Star Rail Version 3.0 “Paean of Era Nova” Arrives January 15

Dear Trailblazers: On behalf of the Honkai: Star Rail development team, I want to wish you a wonderful New Year! May your journey through the infinite cosmos continue to bring excitement as we embark together on this romantic space adventure. Today, I’m thrilled to share more about Version 3.0 “Paean of Era Nova,” launching January 15. This update introduces the long-awaited world of Amphoreus and begins an epic new chapter in our main story. The Trailblaze Mission in Amphoreus will be released in two parts across eight versions, from 3.0 to 3.7, making it the largest story arc in Honkai: Star Rail to date. Get ready to embark on the “Hero’s Journey” with new playable characters — Aglaea and The Herta, plus the Trailblazer: Remembrance unlocking a new Path!

Amphoreus, the Eternal Land

Leaving Penacony the Planet of Festivities behind, the Astral Express embarks toward Amphoreus under Black Swan’s guidance, seeking both to replenish Trailblaze Fuel and uncover the mysteries of this celestial body — a realm so enigmatic that even the Aeon of Trailblaze, Akivili, could not reach, its existence hidden from most of the cosmos. From the outside, Amphoreus appears as a chaotic vortex, its existence impossible to detect or understand. Similarly, its inhabitants remain completely unaware of the outside universe. Unlike other worlds, they do not know of the concept of “Aeons,” instead worshiping deities known as “Titans.” According to legend, twelve Titans created Amphoreus: Three who wove fate, three who shaped the heavens and earth, three who molded life, and three who brought calamity.”

Yet this realm’s history is steeped in tragedy. In ancient times, the arrival of three Titans — “Strife,” “Death,” and “Trickery” — sparked a civil war among the gods. Soon after, a mysterious force known as the “black tide” swept across the world. None know its origins, but all life touched by it loses sanity, with even the mighty Titans proving vulnerable. Over millennia, between the black tide gradually consuming Amphoreus and the gods waging endless war, the world fell into eternal night. Now, in humanity’s final sanctuary — the Holy City of Okhema — only the protection of Kephale, the Worldbearing Titan, stands as the last barrier against the black tide. And now, the Astral Express, arriving as an unexpected force from beyond this world, is destined to change the course of Amphoreus’s fate, but how? Well, that’s for you to find out, dear Trailblazers!

The Beginning of the Hero’s Journey

As mentioned earlier, the Trailblaze Mission on Amphoreus will span across eight versions, forming an epic and grand narrative. In the upcoming Version 3.0, you will officially set foot on this eternal land and embark on your own Hero’s Journey. Upon entering Amphoreus, the Trailblazer and Dan Heng first descend into a region known as the “Abyss of Fate.” Legend says three Titans — Time, Passage, and Law — once wove here the threads of time, space, and rules that would govern Amphoreus, determining the fate of all creation. Now this land lies in eternal night, with only emptiness echoing through its grand architectural remains.”

As the story unfolds, the Trailblazer’s group will return to the Abyss of Fate, pierce through the mists, delve deep into the temple, and finally gain audience with Oronyx, the Titan of Time. Through this encounter, the Trailblazer embarks on the Path of Remembrance, gaining the ability to “draw strength from the past.” Meanwhile, players will meet a new companion who, due to their mysterious origins and tendency to only make “Mem” sounds, is temporarily named “Mem.” Beyond their adorable appearance, Mem plays a crucial role in combat. The Trailblazer can summon Mem during battles, where it gradually charges Energy. Once fully charged, it provides Mem’s Support that allows a designated character to immediately takes action and deal additional True DMG, turning the tide of battle. Together with Mem, the Trailblazer will surely overcome the various challenges that await in Amphoreus.

Following the winding path beyond the Abyss, players will reach Okhema, the Holy City built into the mountainside. Bathed in the eternal dawn light of the Worldbearing Titan’s protection, this city will serve as a crucial base for the trailblazing expedition through Amphoreus. Among its most distinctive landmarks stands the Marmoreal Palace, a grand baths. More than just a place for bathing and relaxation, it functions as the city’s heart, a public gathering space fostering daily social connections among residents. And Okhema has much more to offer beyond its architectural marvels. Here, you’ll encounter a variety of fascinating creatures. Among them is the dromas, a loyal helper of the Amphoreans, known for their strength in carrying both people and goods. The Dromas is a creation of Georios, the Earth Titan, one of the Three Titans of Foundation. A specialized Dromas Workshop can be found within Okhema, dedicated to crafting and training these remarkable creatures. Scattered throughout the city, you’ll also find a host of chimeras, each with its unique traits. Their colors, personalities, and temperaments vary greatly—some are quick to anger, others delight in mischief, and still, others offer their help to humans in whatever way they can.

In these times of eternal night and chaos, Okhema, sheltered under the Worldbearing Titan’s protection, remains humanity’s final sanctuary and beacon of hope. Local legend tells a romantic tale: Kephale shall one day open their eyes, leading humanity to triumph over the black tide and forge a new world. From beneath this holy city, a group of human heroes known as the Chrysos Heirs embarks on a quest for flame, shouldering the mission to reclaim the twelve Titan Coreflames and restore Amphoreus to glory. In future stories, the Trailblazer will join their journey, fighting alongside the Chrysos Heirs in this legendary expedition.

In Version 3.0, Trailblazers will also explore the unique city-state of Castrum Kremnos. It was named after the Blade of Fury that dangles high above the city, and it is also where the Strife Titan resides, thus making it the place where the seventh Coreflame slumbers. In the second half of the Trailblaze Mission, players will borrow the power of the Oronyx to return to the past and experience Castrum Kremnos during its golden age. There, they will discover one of the mechanisms the Trickery Titan Zagreus left behind: The Hand of Zagreus. This mechanism can be used to lift heavy obtains, pick up items, smash open pathways, and obliterate enemies easily in special circumstances. It serves as a major aid to exploration. In Version 3.0’s climactic Trailblaze Mission, Trailblazers and the Chrysos Heirs will face numerous challenges before engaging in a final battle with Nikador, the Strife Titan, to reclaim the Coreflame of Strife. Known as the “Lance of Fury,” Nikador and its followers hold a fanatical devotion to war and combat. To defeat them, Trailblazers need to collect “Glory” stacks to shatter Nikador’s “Titanic Corpus.”

The final area of Version 3.0 unfolds in the Vortex of Genesis, the grand sanctuary and birthplace of Amphoreus. This sacred site, home to the primordial essence of the Twelve Titans, is said to be where the Miracle of Genesis will one day manifest. Here, the Chrysos Heirs will return the reclaimed Coreflames after overthrowing each Titan. Above, constellations light up the night sky, representing the journeys of those who came before. The Flame-Chase Journey, a thousand-year odyssey of trials and perseverance, has now reached its turning point. The road ahead will be forged by the Trailblazers, standing alongside the Chrysos Heirs to continue the legend!

Companions of the Flame-Chase Journey

Version 3.0 will invite two new and powerful 5-star characters to join the player’s teams. The first is the esteemed#83 member of the Genius Society, an Emanator of Erudition: Madam Herta. Since Herta first debuted, she made a deep impression via her unique Herta puppets and idiosyncratic behaviors on the space station. It is said that her true self resides in a place on the Cosmos’ edge, and she rarely reveals herself to others. It is only today that she has finally shown herself. The Herta is an Ice-Type Erudition character that is skilled at AoE DMG. In battle, she can apply Interpretation on enemies, and ally characters attacks can also further apply Interpretation. With the increase of Interpretation stacks, The Herta’s abilities can increase powerful hits of DMG based on their high Interpretation stacks on specific targets and multiple enemies besides. Additionally, The Herta’s Ultimate can also Transfer the highest Interpretation stacks to Elite or stronger enemies, before dealing Ice DMG to all enemy targets.”

The second character making her debut is Aglaea from Amphoreus. She bears the divine authority of “Romance,” and is one of the earliest Chrysos Heirs to embark on the Flame-Chase Journey. As Okhema’s dressmaster, Aglaea isn’t just a legendary hero of Amphoreus, but she is also a major figure in recruiting new Chrysos Heirs to embark on the world-saving journey after the Flame-Chase Journey was interrupted prior. As the first limited 5-star Remembrance character, Aglaea can summon her memosprite Garmentmaker in battle to fight alongside her. They demonstrate a duet dance aesthetic in combat. Additionally, through their cooperation, Aglaea and her Garmentmaker can synchronize attacks on enemies. This new joint attacking mechanism not only increases the Garmentmaker’s SPD, and also adds a new layer of rhythm and variability to combat, allowing an exquisite dance for two to unfold at a charming cadence.

In addition, in the first half of Version 3.0, there will also be a special Warp event. Limited 5-star characters Lingsha, Feixiao, and Jade will be making reruns. In the second half, the 5-star characters Boothill, Robin, and Silver Wolf will also be making a limited return. These characters will serve stronger reinforcements, walking side by side with Trailblazers to embark on a journey across Amphoreus. Aside from this, March 7th will gain a Preservation outfit. It can be claimed after unlocking the “Characters” function and logging in during the Version 3.0 period. Meanwhile, the Honkai: Star Rail Trailblazer Edition PS5® Physical Disc Bundle will soon be available for purchase, both online and in physical stores!

System Optimizations

Lastly, we’ve listened closely to player feedback and, in this major Version 3.0 update, have implemented several system optimizations to improve the gameplay experience! Among the new additions is the “Flying Amphora”. Smashing a Flying Amphora will grant you a boost in movement speed as you traverse the open world. Meanwhile, to ensure new players can easily enjoy the main storyline of Amphoreus, we’ve also made adjustments so that after completing the “Silent Galaxy” Trailblaze Mission, you can head directly to Amphoreus without difficulty. Version 3.0 also brings updates to the new Leveling Guide system that allows Trailblazers to evaluate their character’s strength, with recommendations on Character Level, Light Cone, Traces, Relics and more. We’ve also introduced the “Wishful Resin” and “Variable Dice”, allowing targeted modification and redistribution of a Relic’s Main and Sub Stats, offering more flexibility in developing companions. But that’s just the beginning — many more exciting improvements await your discovery!

These are just some exciting updates in Version 3.0 — there’s plenty more to explore and enjoy! We wish you all a year filled with adventure, growth, and great moments in Honkai: Star Rail.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins — hands-on report

January 17 will bring Dynasty Warriors: Origins, a thrilling new addition to the Dynasty Warriors series to PlayStation 5, and we recently had the opportunity to play the tactical hack-and-slash action ahead of its release. 


Dynasty Warriors: Origins — hands-on report

The gripping tale of a ‘nameless hero’ 

Dynasty Warriors: Origins follows the drama surrounding China’s Three Kingdoms period, from the Yellow Turban Rebellion to the Battle of Red Cliffs. At the beginning of the game, the protagonist gets caught up in a battle with Guan Yu against the troops of corrupt officials. The Yellow Turban Rebellion was never portrayed in detail in previous installments of the series. Still, this game goes into depth around the origins and woes of the Yellow Turbans, as well as the perspectives of each general belonging to the defeated troops.

The struggle of choosing sides amid a slew of enthralling warriors and heroes

The protagonist is a traveling martial artist suffering from amnesia. However, his body still remembers how to handle weapons, allowing him to wield his skills tactfully in every battle. Since he is not loyal to a specific kingdom or sovereign, he can deepen bonds with various forces and join them on the battlefield. However, the protagonist must eventually face a pivotal choice – whether he will serve and support the aspirations of Cao Cao, Suan Jin, or Liu Bei. All three are brilliant warriors, which makes the choice even more difficult. 

All three are intriguing, and you will develop special bonds with them throughout the story. Deciding who to support is made all the more difficult since each one will woo you to join their side. After thinking long and hard, I ultimately chose to support Liu Bei, as I had been fighting alongside him since the very beginning of the game. It is a difficult decision since choosing one side means you will have to cross blades with those you once fought with. 

An even more exhilarating and gratifying hack-and-slash action

In this game, players will not only enjoy the exhilarating ‘1 vs 1,000’ gameplay with easy to learn controls that is characteristic of the Dynasty Warrior series but also large-scale tactical battles that are equally thrilling and rewarding. 

As in the previous entries, you can dominate regular enemies by mastering the combo of swift normal attacks and powerful, strong attacks. However, renowned generals and leader-class officers are surrounded by a protective aura called Fortitude, which prevents you from dealing significant damage. To deplete enemy fortitudes, the player must target an opening after an enemy’s attack,  leverage Battles Arts, a set of unique moves available for each weapon, or Parries, a powerful counter that leaves the enemy vulnerable.

Dominate your foes with Musou Attacks and Companion attacks

Powerful Musou Attacks can be triggered when the Musou Gauge reaches a certain level, and they can eliminate enemies in a wide area. In addition, you can activate War God Rage mode when the Musou Gauge is built up to two levels, as well as the super-powerful True Musou attack. In some battles, you can bring an allied general as your Companion. You can directly control your companions by switching to them and unleashing their unique attacks. You can also trigger the Extreme Musou Attack in tandem with your companion, which is a blast to use. 

Experience unprecedented scale as thousands of soldiers clash on the battlefield

Dynasty Warriors: Origins takes full advantage of the power of PS5 to realize an unprecedented scale of battle in the series’ history. In some battles, you will witness massive groups of enemies clash on the field, which is a spectacle on its own. Every soldier on the battlefield employs their own strategy, whether under the command of their leaders or with their own volition, causing the state of battle to shift rapidly.

The importance of maintaining your troop’s Morale

Morale is an important factor during battles. Morale rises when enemy generals are defeated, or you seize enemy strongholds. When morale is high, your soldiers’ powers are bolstered to your advantage, but on the other hand, morale can fall when allied generals are defeated or your strongholds are captured. There were stressful moments when I was needed in multiple places at once, but overcoming those challenges was extremely satisfying. 

Command your Bodyguards with strategic Tactics and repel Grand Tactics deployed by Large Forces

Dynasty Warrior: Origins will bring back the Bodyguard system. Using Tactics, you can command these bodyguards to perform various actions, such as raining arrows or charging with spears. Also, when a massive number of soldiers gather, a Large Force will be formed. These large forces can deploy Grand Tactics, dramatically shifting the tide of battle. These intense group assaults involve troops charging in one after another with spears or stone throwers firing firebombs. Though these attacks are a spectacle to witness, they’ll inflict significant damage on your allies, so make sure you deal with them swiftly.

The story of this latest installment in the series offers a unique perspective into the historical drama from the eyes of a ‘nameless hero,’ and the intense battles and unprecedented scale of the battlefields are gripping and immersive. Dynasty Warriors: Origins is for the die-hard fans of the series, as well as those new to the franchise who are eager to explore the epic tales behind the Three Kingdoms and their heroes. Experience the grand battle on January 17 on PS5.