Dec 31, 20:00


Kotaku Wednesday, December 31, 2025 3:38 PM
    

Carotop5kotaku

This year, games that did traditional things very well and games that broke the mold completely rose to the top

The post Carolyn Petit's Top 5 Games Of 2025 appeared first on Kotaku.


Destructoid Wednesday, December 31, 2025 5:56 PM
    

The credit card is an essential item in My Winter Car, and you'll need to use it regularly for various tasks.

All financial transactions in My Winter Car primarily happen via the digital medium. While there's cash, you'll need to withdraw it at the ATM with the credit card. This guide will tell you all you need to know when it comes to using the card. There's also an element of setting your PIN for using the card at an ATM.

What's your credit card PIN in My Winter Car

When you start playing the game, your credit card won't have a PIN. The first four-digit code you use will be your PIN for the remainder of the save. To do so, go to any ATM and use the credit card (you can try the one at the Gas Station).

ATM in My Winter Car
Image via Amistech Games

It's highly important for you to remember the PIN because you can't change it directly from within the game. If you forget the PIN, you won't be able to access your money. Thankfully, there's a workaround available in case you forget the PIN.

How to change the credit card PIN in My Winter Car

This part is slightly tricky, so follow the instructions as mentioned here.

  • Open the LocalLow folder in AppData (can be found in the root directory of your PC).
  • Open the subfolder Amistech, and then go to the My Winter Car folder.
  • Inside, you'll find a SaveFile.txt. Open the file and load it into the MSCEditor.
  • Look for the entry creditcardpin, and you'll find your PIN. You can change the PIN from here and save to modify your older security code.

How to use the credit card in My Winter Car

Once you find an ATM, complete the following steps.

Withdrawal screen
Image via Amistech Games

  • Use the credit card and enter your PIN.
  • If you want to withdraw, choose Otto.
  • If you want to view transactions, choose Tapahtumat.
  • Select the correct amount.

Once done, pick your credit card and the cash (this will automatically reflect on top of your screen, along with other player attributes).

The post How does the credit card work in My Winter Car and how to change the pin appeared first on Destructoid.


Destructoid Wednesday, December 31, 2025 4:55 PM
    

Kekmet in My Winter Car

The Firewood Cutter, aka the Lumber Conveyor, is an exceptional tool if you're looking to sell and cut Firewood in My Winter Car.

This item can't be used on its own, and you'll need to use the tractor to do so. However, the job is easier said than done, and this guide will help you become a woodcutter in a few simple steps.

How to use the Lumber Conveyor in My Winter Car

The first task is to connect the Cutter to the Kekmet. It's impossible to move the Lumber Conveyor from its stationary position without attaching it to your tractor. Hence, drive the tractor carefully and place it very close to the Conveyor. Keep the distance as minimal as possible, or else the alignment will be loose, and logs will fall.

Rear hitch on the conveyor
Image via Amistech Games

You'll find the rear hitch lever on the right side of the Kekmet. Use it to lower the attachment arms from the rear of the tractor. Get down, and click the connection point on the cutter (once the attachment arms have been lowered). If aligned properly, the cutter will connect with the Kekmet.

Next, use the PTO lever located to the left of the steering wheel of the Kekmet. Activate it to start the sdrive shaft and the Conveyor. If you want the cutter to work fast, go for a higher RPM. However, that will be less conducive to a longer cutting session.

How to cut the Firewood in My Winter Car

Cutter in My Winter Car
Image via Amistech Games

Once you have completed all the steps mentioned earlier in the guide, take a log from the wood pile. Then, place it in the cutter slot. The log will automatically split the logs into pieces based on how high the RPM is. The Conveyor will automatically place the Firewood in the trailer (don't forget to attach it).

The post How to use the Firewood Cutter in My Winter Car appeared first on Destructoid.


Destructoid Wednesday, December 31, 2025 2:06 PM
    

Jude Bellingham Thundestruck in FC 26

The 1 of 3 86+ US/Primetime/Pro Live/Thunderstruck SBC is now live in FC 26 Ultimate Team, and you can get yourself a guaranteed promo card.

This is the latest version of the party bag SBC. For the first time, we can pick between different options. Let's look at all the cards that are available in the pool of rewards before you invest your resources.

Complete list of 1 of 3 86+ US/Primetime/Pro Live/Thunderstruck SBC rewards in FC 26

The list of rewards features the following promos: Ultimate Scream, UEFA Primetime, Pro Live, and Thunderstruck.

Ultimate Scream

  • Rafael Leao ST 86
  • Thomas Muller ST 86
  • Jeremie Frimpong RW 86
  • Beerensteyn ST 86
  • Juan Cuadrado RB 86
  • Joao Felix LW 86
  • Nathan Tella CAM 86
  • Bryan Mbeumo ST 87
  • Antoine Griezmann CAM 87
  • Cristian Pulisic CAM 87
  • Dybala ST 88
  • Karchaoui LB 88
  • Debinha CAM 89
  • Mariona CAM 89
  • Josua Kimmich RB 89
  • Ousmane Dembele RW 90
  • Vinicius Jr. ST 90

Primetime

  • Hamano CAM 86
  • Kone CM 86
  • Nmecha CDM 86
  • Simons CAM 86
  • Hollerbach ST 86
  • Zaroury LW 86
  • McGregor CDM 86
  • Ndour CM 86
  • Igor Jesus ST 86
  • Elimbi Gilbert LB 86
  • Dennis Man RM 86
  • Bonny ST 86
  • Estevao RM 86
  • Barcola LW 87
  • Gordon LW 87
  • Rios CM 87
  • Hojlund ST 87
  • Eder Militao CB 87
  • Haraslin LW 87
  • Pavlovic CDM 87
  • Maatsen LB 87
  • Gakpo LM 87
  • Le Tissier CB 88
  • Saliba CB 88
  • Lamine Yamal RM 89
  • Graham Hansen RW 90
  • Laudehr CM 90
  • Haaland ST 92

Pro Live

  • Timo Werner LW 86
  • Caufriez CB 86
  • Gilmour CDM 86
  • Nuno Tavares LB 86
  • Dan James RM 86
  • Teze RB 86
  • Federico Chiesa RM 86
  • Wijnaldum CM 86
  • Zikrzee ST 86
  • Hegazi CB 86
  • Fabio Vieira CAM 86
  • Fabian Ruiz CM 87
  • Alejandro Garnacho LW 87
  • El Shaarawy CAM 87
  • Tonali CDM 87
  • Ginter CB 87
  • Klostermann CB 87
  • Bremer CB 87
  • Giroud ST 87
  • Nunez ST 88

Thunderstruck

  • Yilmaz LM 86
  • Bah RB 86
  • Tapsoba CB 86
  • Perisic RW 86
  • Athenea LW 86
  • Andrea Medina LB 86
  • Vlahovic ST 86
  • Aubameyang ST 87
  • Woltemade ST 87
  • Bonansea LM 87
  • Dumornay ST 87
  • Olga Carmona LB 87
  • Gravenberch CDM 87
  • Zaccagni LM 87
  • Diogo Dalot RB 87
  • Timber RB 87
  • Geyoro CM 87
  • Brandt CAM 87
  • Greggi CM 87
  • Cerci ST 87
  • Mahrez RM 87
  • Calhanoglu CDM 88
  • Pedro Neto RM 88
  • Kerr ST 88
  • Hernandez LB 88
  • Stanway CDM 88
  • Oblak GK 89
  • Endler GK 89
  • Kante CDM 89
  • Musiala CAM 89
  • Russo ST 90
  • Raphinha LM 90
  • Rodri CDM 91
  • Jude Bellingham CAM 92
  • Alexia Putellas CAM 92

The post All 1 of 3 86+ US/Primetime/Pro Live/Thunderstruck SBC rewards and tasks appeared first on Destructoid.


Destructoid Wednesday, December 31, 2025 2:00 PM
    

Key art of a stylized battle where the player character attacks a monster.

It's that time of year again, folks; that time where we check back in on our 12-month-old New Year's resolutions and inevitably decide whether we're total failures or beacons of success.

This was the year I was finally going to show more dedication and discipline by completing more games than I left unfinished. I played a ton of games in 2025, including everything from longer RPGs like Avowed, Jedi: Fallen Order, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, to smaller indies like Aethermancer, Town to City, and Death Howl.

A grid battlefield with a woman in an orange cloak and blonde hair standing on one end of the tiles. Two snakes, a jellyfish, and a clam are dispersed across the other tiles.
Death Howl was a hidden end-of-the-year gem. Screenshot by Destructoid

Though my list is long—what I'd consider a commendable feat for any self-proclaimed game connoisseur—I have had for years what I've felt is a dirty secret: very rarely do I finish a game. And in 2025, I barely finished two. It would've been a devastating hit to my resolve at the beginning of the year. But now, as I stare down 2026, I've not only come to terms with this defeat, I've redefined it as my own form of victory.

Now, ironically, roguelikes are the exception to my years-long struggle. And I say "ironically," because, of course, you don't actually "finish" most roguelikes—that's sort of their thing. But I tend to do everything I can in them: defeating secret "final" bosses, unlocking all the cards or collectibles, or completing every achievement I can. Maybe it's the fact that with roguelikes, you can step away for extended periods of time without having to keep up with a story or track the side quest you wanted to complete before progressing the main narrative. Whatever the reason, the genre has become a safe haven for me, offering me the chance to play at my own pace and on my own terms.

But RPGs or any other narrative-focused title are another story. Over the years, I've roamed the hilly countryside of Red Dead Redemption 2, visited distant galaxies in Starfield, and fought to save feudal Japan from Mongol invaders in Ghost of Tsushima—all games I've said I'd one day finish only to add them to the list of games I never will. There's more on that list, too—a lot more, actually—but I'll save us both the trouble of naming them off. What's most disappointing about that list isn't the number of games on it, though; it's that I quite enjoyed a good chunk of them.

I wholeheartedly adored the fantastical world of Clair Obscur and its delicious world-building and character design. But did I finish it? Nope! I cut my playthrough short to review Octopath Traveler 0. Admittedly, my reasons were work-related, and I was a bit disgruntled at having to be pulled away from the eventual GOTY. But now, after over a month and a half away from the game, the notion of picking it back up feels daunting. I don't remember where I left off or what areas of the map I had planned to return to before further progressing the story, and the process of finding out feels like work. It won't stop me from trying, though, and that's exactly what I plan to do in my upcoming staycation, so wish me luck.

What I'm not going to do, though, is stress if I inevitably fail. It's a game. It's meant to be enjoyed. If I'm not enjoying it for whatever reason, whether I don't like the narrative's direction or if keeping up with a 70-hour title is too much for my schedule, it's time for me to move on.

In years past, I'd try to force myself to keep playing. As I mentioned earlier, my gaming New Year's resolution in 2025 was to see more games through to the end. It was the same thing for books, as it is every year. But inevitably, life happens, and my busy schedule pulls me away. And after a year of trials and tribulations—involving a burglary, multiple health scares, a series of unfortunate home ownership woes, and a car wreck (yeah, 2025 was rough)—I've learned life is too short to spend my free time on activities that don't bring me joy.

Characters in Expedition 33 standing against a flower-filled field.
There's so much to enjoy in a game like Clair Obscur, even if you don't reach the end. Image via Sandfall Interactive

At the end of this disaster of a year, I've realized finishing games was never the point; it was just the measuring stick I had used to track what I believed to be success. This may be a revelation some of you reached long ago, but the feeling of finally letting go is freeing.

Even though I never finished Avowed, I spent a solid 40 enjoyable hours in the world of Eora running around with the unflappable Kai and grumpy old Marius. My time in Jedi: Fallen Order gave me new insight into the Star Wars franchise, so I can better understand my George Lucas-obsessed friends. I burned nearly two whole days of play time on Clair Obscur, but I don't think I need to detail the benefit of experiencing a record-breaking, award-winning title as a games journalist—even if I still haven't unraveled the Paintress's secret.

There's so much joy to be had from simply playing a game without pressuring yourself to see it through to the end. I won't set a resolution in 2026 for that very reason, and with just how many games are coming out in the upcoming year, it'd be stupid to try. So yeah, I'm going to keep bouncing between games at my own pace and chasing the joy where I find it. And if it fades, I'll move on without guilt. Because if there's one thing 2025 taught me, it's that playing games should feel like freedom, not another obligation on an already overwhelming to-do list.

The post I bounced from more games than I completed in 2025, but I'm finally ready to say that's okay appeared first on Destructoid.


Destructoid Wednesday, December 31, 2025 1:27 PM
    

The player gives a thumbs up to an NPC driver in My Winter Car.

The map in My Winter Cap is relatively straightforward, but there are multiple points that you'll need to visit.

The POIs have different purposes. Some of them provide you with different resources, while other places will have jobs for you to participate in. This guide will pinpoint all important locations that can be found on the map.

All My Winter Cap map locations

Here's the complete map of My Winter Map, followed by what all the locations mean.

My Winter Car map
Screenshot and remix by Destructoid

  • H=House
  • F(in Red)=Flea Market
  • PN=Pub Nappo
  • F(in Black)=Futufon Office
  • FG=Fleetari's Garage
  • IT=Ice Track
  • KM=Kekmet
  • CR=Corris Rivett
  • G=Gas Station

You'll be spending a lot of time at your House, which will be your base of operations. The location has Pub Nappo, the Flea Market, and the Gas Station nearby. These three locations will provide you with all the necessary survival items, job opportunities, and more.

Most of the important POIs are huddled around your starting House. However, you'll need to travel to the western half to find Fleetari's Garage, which has plenty of valuable resources to purchase. Locations marked CR and KM feature the Corris Rivett and Kekmet, respectively. The former is the main project car in My Winter Car, while the latter is a tractor that has plenty of uses.

The map you see in this guide is the main one, but there's a smaller map that can be found inside the taxi. If you pick up the job that requires you to drive around town with passengers, you can drive the taxi. The smaller map you find in the taxi is a snapshot of the larger map (that you can see above).

I am expecting more POIs to be added in the future as part of updates. There are additional buildings around the town. However, you can't interact with them or enter them. However, they're there for a reason, so be on the lookout for how the map shifts in the next few months.

The post Complete My Winter Car map with all locations appeared first on Destructoid.


Destructoid Wednesday, December 31, 2025 1:27 PM
    

Winter Wildcards

The New Year's Kick Off Challenge SBC is now live in FC 26, and you can complete it in Ultimate Team to win a free pack.

The objective is to use lower-rated cards from your Ultimate Team inventory. The pack you get in return could even include a walkout/promo card if you're lucky. This guide will help you complete the challenge before it gets removed from Ultimate Team.

FC 26 New Year's Kick Off Challenge SBC task

The New Year's Kick Off Challenge SBC has just one task, and here are its requirements.

New Year's Kick Off Challenge SBC

  • Min. Nationalities in Squad: 2
  • Min. Clubs in Squad: 3
  • Min. 3 Players from the same League
  • Min. Squad Total Chemistry Points: 26

The requirements are relatively relaxed compared to some of the recent fodder challenges. The main difficulty will be around the 26 chemistry requirement, as you'll need to have cards from different nationalities and clubs.

FC 26 New Year's Kick Off Challenge SBC solutions

If you get stuck while trying to complete the challenge, you can use the following solution.

  • May ST 61
  • Xiao Kun 52
  • Spittal CAM 69
  • Dhanda CAM 67
  • Franzoni CDM 69
  • Benali CDM 70
  • Robertson LB 64
  • Halkett CB 69
  • Bellich CB 69
  • Carrique RB 65
  • Prior GK 68

Completing the fodder challenge will get you a tradeable Rare Electrum Players Pack. This pack includes six Silver and six Gold player items. All 12 items are Rare, with one guaranteed to be rated 82 or higher. The pack is pretty impressive considering the low completion cost of the challenge.

The post FC 26 New Year's Kick Off Challenge SBC tasks and solutions appeared first on Destructoid.


Destructoid Wednesday, December 31, 2025 1:10 PM
    

The Duskbloods screenshot of a man in a church

After several incredible releases, big-name titles, and surprise hits, 2025 in gaming is rapidly coming to an end. It's time to look forward.

Below, we've gathered just some of the games we're looking forward to playing in 2026. Make sure to let us know what you want to play, which games you're curious about, and which ones you'll pre-order the moment it's possible.

And you know what the best part is? These are just scratching the surface. There's a whole calendar of 2026 titles to look forward to, plus plenty more surprises that will drop and take the gaming world by storm.

Most anticipated 2026 video games

Grand Theft Auto 6

GTA 6 key art
Image via Rockstar Games

It starts and ends with GTA 6 in 2026. It's currently slated to finally launch on Nov. 19, and is not just the most anticipated game of 2026, but probably of all time. It's got impossible expectations, and its pricetag will be a point of discussion up until it's finally out (will they actually charge $100 for it?), but everyone in the industry and world is waiting for this one to drop.

Resident Evil Requiem

Image via Capcom

First-person? Check. Survival horror? Check. Third-person? That too. Action gameplay? You got it!

Leon S. Kennedy and newcomer Grace Ashcroft take the stage in what's being described as the end of an era in the Resident Evil franchise for its 30th anniversary. Whatever comes next will be different, but for now, RE9 is looking and sounding like the best of both distinct identities the series has had.

Marvel's Wolverine

Marvel's Wolverine key art
Image via Insomniac Games

Get ready, bub, because Insomniac Games' follow-up to its Spider-Man games is finally coming in the fall of 2026. The action-adventure game promises lots of rage, even more blood, and a whole lot of mutants and X-Men cameos.

Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight

Lego Batman LOTDK key art
Image via WB Games

Imagine a LEGO Batman game that's based on several different movies and appearances of the character (like The Dark Knight and more), but with the open-world, action combat gameplay of the Batman Arkham games. We can't wait to visit LEGO Gotham in this one.

The Duskbloods

The Duskbloods Switch 2
Image via From Software

From Software's next title is a Switch 2 exclusive that features both PvP and PvE in multiplayer fashion. It's still unknown what this game truly is all about, but Elden Ring: Nightreign has shown that the Dark Souls maker is venturing into full-fledged multiplayer a bit more.

Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis

Image via Crystal Dynamics

Lara Croft is officially back in 2026, with a "reimagining" of her original 1996 PS1 classic. Crystal Dynamics promises some surprises in this remake-that's-not-a-remake, so franchise fans everywhere will be booting this one up with excitement and curiosity.

Marathon

Marathon key art
Image via Bungie

This one may turn some heads, but I'm looking forward to seeing what Marathon accomplishes as a new extraction shooter when it drops in March. Will the game be good? Will it matter, after months of bad PR? Will ARC Raiders' popularity have a negative or positive effect?

After months of feedback and testing, once the game was delayed, it's looking and sounding like a better title than what players experienced in last year's closed alpha. It remains to be seen just how the game will feel on day one.

The post Destructoid's most anticipated games for 2026 appeared first on Destructoid.


WGB Wednesday, December 31, 2025 5:34 PM
     In January 2026, PlayStation Plus Essential offers three games: Need For Speed: Unbound, Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed, and Core Keeper. This month features unexpected PS4 inclusion amidst the subscription changes.

Gaming Instincts – Next-Generation of Video Game Journalism Wednesday, December 31, 2025 4:12 PM

Gaming Instincts – Next-Generation of Video Game Journalism Wednesday, December 31, 2025 3:53 PM

Gaming Instincts – Next-Generation of Video Game Journalism Wednesday, December 31, 2025 3:36 PM

Gaming Instincts – Next-Generation of Video Game Journalism Wednesday, December 31, 2025 3:07 PM

☆ Happy New Year ☆

Dec 31, 12:00


GamersHeroes Wednesday, December 31, 2025 9:57 AM
    

From our small team of three to yours, here are Gamers Heroes' 2025 Game of the Year award winners…

The post Gamers Heroes' 2025 Game of the Year Awards appeared first on GamersHeroes.


Kotaku Wednesday, December 31, 2025 11:05 AM
    

Acemagic Mini

Start the new year right with a new ACEMAGIC mini PC, on sale now for 30% off.

The post Amazon Clears Out a Mac Mini Alternative as the Acemagic Mini Gaming PC (32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) Drops to an All-Time Low appeared first on Kotaku.


Kotaku Wednesday, December 31, 2025 10:05 AM
    

Ankerhdmiswitch

For a limited time, you can save 38% on this HDMI switch from Anker, allowing you to hook up more gaming consoles to your TV.

The post Anker's HDMI Switch Crashes Below $10 With Final Discount, Compatible With TV, Laptop, PC, Xbox, Playstation, Projector, and More appeared first on Kotaku.


Kotaku Wednesday, December 31, 2025 9:24 AM
    

A Terminator walks across the battlefield.

Also: a River City cult-classic is about to disappear

The post ChatGPT Is Already Exploring Bold New Ways To Sell You Out appeared first on Kotaku.


Kotaku Wednesday, December 31, 2025 9:05 AM
    

1000xm5 Sony

These headphones are some of the most comfortable and convenient around.

The post Sony Goes Clearance on WH-1000XM5 as These Noise Canceling Headphones Drop to a Record Low, No Need for Budget Earbuds appeared first on Kotaku.


Kotaku Wednesday, December 31, 2025 8:05 AM
    

Meta Quest 3s Vr

If you're ready to see what VR is like, this headset is a great deal.

The post Meta Quest 3S Drops Back to Black Friday Pricing, Now the Cheapest Premium VR Headset appeared first on Kotaku.


Kotaku Wednesday, December 31, 2025 7:05 AM
    

Legostarwarsjangofett

Always a pleasure to meet a quality Star Wars LEGO set such as this at a discounted rate.

The post After Star Wars Millennium Falcon, LEGO Shifts Clearance to the Jango Fett Helmet at an All-Time Low appeared first on Kotaku.


PCGamesN Wednesday, December 31, 2025 10:00 AM
    

Fractal Design's beautifully finished, compact and innovative aluminum Mini-ITX PC case makes it easy to build a stylish gaming system.


PCGamesN Wednesday, December 31, 2025 7:00 AM
    

NordVPN's sister product, NordPass, offers secure password management, with free and premium plans.


PCGamesN Wednesday, December 31, 2025 5:00 AM
    

As the gen-AI conversation continues to dominate everyone's timeline post-Black Ops 7 and Arc Raiders, I ask Adrian Chmielarz for his thoughts.


Rock Paper Shotgun Latest Articles Feed Wednesday, December 31, 2025 11:00 AM
    

We eight scribes from RPS are, Bearing jokes, we wrote in the past, Christmas crackers, god we're knackered, After twelve months of graft.

O, reader of wonder, loved the most, Why not subscribe to Supporters posts? January leading, still proceeding, See you once we've munched our roasts.

But first, time to enjoy your lovely joke!

Read more


Rock Paper Shotgun Latest Articles Feed Wednesday, December 31, 2025 9:00 AM
    

Most anticipated? Oh reader, you gentle, innocent child. Hark at you, ambling in here with supple joints, eyes clear as springwater, and the scent of hope in your hair. I have grown old, dear reader. I no longer feel this emotion called "anticipation", anymore than I remember the taste of strawberries in the Shire. Years of waiting for another Legacy of Kain game have broken my spirit. My heart is a sponge of sorrow. My beard coils round my ankles like a listless cat. All has become grey.

Read more


Twinfinite Wednesday, December 31, 2025 7:22 AM
    
Animal Jam codes are listed below!

Siliconera Wednesday, December 31, 2025 12:00 PM
    

siliconera overall game of the year 2025

It's all been leading to this. In a year with so many great releases, which one did the Siliconera team pick as the best of the best? Honestly, we didn't expect this one either.

These awards represent the consensus of the Siliconera staff. For more of the year's award selections, check out our Game of the Year 2025 archive.

Blue Prince

Sure, sure, Dogubomb's Blue Prince is one of the best games of the year, a generational release for some members of our staff and a great example of why game devs should play more good board games. For sure. And of course, it's structured so masterfully that it has players who have never been achievement hunters going after all the game's trophies. We've all talked about that. But given that this may be the last time we get a chance to ask: when are y'all patching in Dirigiblocks? We want to see it.

Hades II

For a game that shares so much DNA with its predecessor, it's wild how fresh and different the gameplay itself feels. Its systems intersect in fresh ways, and the constant shifting of options makes something as simple as fighting a few enemies in a room feel different every time. Very few games these days are for everyone, especially in the indie space, but we'd be hard-pressed to find someone reading this who shouldn't give Hades II a try.

fantasy life i game of the year

Winner: Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time

Well this was wildly unlikely.

We here at Siliconera have done a lot of reporting over the years on Level-5, especially in its modern era of mass development headaches and constant delays. And with Fantasy Life in particular! But the team got the game over the finish line and out to the public eventually, and — though the seams from patching together pieces from the many development shifts are clearly visible — the resulting game is a ton of fun. Congrats to the developers for all their efforts along the way: Fantasy Life i is the Siliconera Game of the Year 2025.

The post Siliconera's Best Overall Game of the Year 2025 appeared first on Siliconera.


Siliconera Wednesday, December 31, 2025 9:00 AM
    

Review: Arcana Famiglia Rinato Is Such a Stylish Otome

 Dramatic Create Switch otome games have… something of a reputation, with titles such as The Crimson Flower that Divides: Lunar Couplingand Of the Red, the Right, and the Ayakashi featuring interesting stories and poor localizations. However, it seems like it and HuneX broke the cycle with La Storia Della Arcana Famiglia Rinato, an updated version of an otome game that first appeared on the PSP! The translation isn't perfect, but it's worlds better than past games. Which is great, as this is a really dynamic and unique visual novel that deserves people's attention.

The Arcana Famiglia organization defends and protects the island of Regalo, with members who join the family wielding Arcana abilities that grant them special abilities and strength. Mondo, current head, decides on his birthday that he will be holding the Arcana Duello in two months to decide the new head of the family after he retires. Whoever wins will lead and also marry his daughter, Felicita. This would also mean she would be confined to the estate. However, as an Arcana-wielder and family member herself, she's one of the people obligated to compete alongside various members she's known and worked with her whole life. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVAZ94abDn4

Arcana Famiglia Rinato plays like a traditional otome visual novel for the most part, but the Dramatic Create and HuneX title's presentation and execution is often rather unique. As you go through the story, images often come up as manga panels. This is complete with sound effect imagery, when appropriate. Given how dynamic the whole affair is, it really helps with the storytelling. We see Sumire engage with her daughter and Luca early on in the opening flashback, conveying the sense of movement and gestures of affection. When the "duel" quick-time-events come up, there are the sfx and often multiple images to convey successful hits and abysmal failures. These does appear alongside more traditional character portraits. All together, it's an incredible means of showing off the narrative and better conveying characters' personalities.

The way in which things proceed also lend itself to Arcana Famiglia Rinato feeling more engaging. Felicita will get opportunities to visit places around Regalo during her free time and not engaging in a story event, which lets us select which of the seven love interests she'll meet. It will also mean opportunities to use her Arcana. This can be done a certain number of times per day and basically allows her to telepathically check in with someone to see two possible topics or options that are at the forefront of their mind. (One of them might have her face tied to it.) This allows you to influence affections and the direction of events. 

Honestly, the major downside in all this isn't the localization. There are occasional issues with that, mind you. Sometimes words are missing or there's a spelling error. A good example is one of Mondo's earliest lines. In game, it is "Rejoice, my lovely daughter. So have so many men willing to protect you with their own bodies." Clearly, the first "so" should have been "to" instead. Or when Sumire is teaching young Felicita to be strong, she forgets the "a" article in "Just because you're woman, that doesn't mean you should cry and cling to others." Small things like this are the main issues I saw come up. Annoying? Sure. Enough to keep me from playing a HuneX otome I've wanted to play since 2011? Never. 

No, the real problem here is that Felicita is a silent protagonist. Everyone here has an interesting personality! Characters are funny! Bombastic! Caring! Mysterious! From how they talk about her and how we see her respond both in actions and with dialogue responses, it seems like she's an assertive, intelligent, and strong woman! But since she never says a word outside of the choices we make, we don't get to see that. It really detracts from an otherwise outgoing otome. 

La Storia Della Arcana Famiglia Rinato is such a dynamic, thrilling, and even funny otome game from HuneX and Dramatic Create. It's so different from other visual novels in the genre we see. It's a shame that the heroine is a silent one. Especially since the localization seems improved from the company's other Switch efforts. The fact that this did seem to turn out so well and is an unexpected, deep cut makes me excited for the future of games from these two groups.

La Storia Della Arcana Famiglia Rinato is available for the Nintendo Switch. It will come to the PC via Steam in February 2026. It also appeared on the PSP and Vita in Japan.

The post Review: Arcana Famiglia Rinato Is Such a Stylish Otome appeared first on Siliconera.


Destructoid Wednesday, December 31, 2025 10:48 AM
    

Corris Rivett in My Winter Car

The Corris Rivett is the project vehicle in My Winter Car, and building it up is one of the key goals of the game.

When you purchase the Corris Rivett, you get an empty shell of the car. Thus begins your journey of building it up from scratch with various parts. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the Corris Rivett drivable.

How to build the Corris Rivett in My Winter Car

The Corris Rivett has over 100 parts to build the car from the ground up. These parts are divided into six broad categories. There's no correct order for building the car. You can mix and match categories based on what parts you find.

Chassis and Suspension

  • Subframe (front & rear)
  • Control arms
  • Coil springs
  • Shock absorbers
  • Steering rack
  • Tie rods
  • Spindles
  • Hubs
  • Brake discs
  • Calipers

Engine and Drivetrain

  • Engine block
  • Crankshaft
  • Pistons
  • Head gasket
  • Cylinder head
  • Camshaft
  • Carburetor or EFI system
  • Alternator
  • Starter
  • Radiator
  • Hoses
  • Fuel pump
  • Gearbox
  • Clutch assembly
  • Drive shafts
  • Exhaust system

Mount and Body Panels

  • Doors (L/R)
  • Hood
  • Trunk
  • Fenders
  • Bumpers
  • Grille
  • Headlights
  • Taillights
  • Windows
  • Windshield

Winter-protection kits

  • Car heater
  • Blower
  • Battery
  • Windshield wipers
  • Tires

Fluids

  • Engine oil
  • Coolant
  • Brake fluid
  • Fuel

Electrical Circuitry

  • Battery terminals
  • Alternator wiring
  • Starter wiring
  • Dashboard gauges
  • Lights
  • Heater controls

The Chassis should be your top priority since you won't be able to add certain parts otherwise. To complete the Corris Rivett, you'll have to get all the parts mentioned above. Before you can drive, here are some key things to ensure.

  • Tightened all the bolts
  • Fuel and Battery are fully charged
  • All fluids have been filled
  • Suitable tires in place
  • Wipers active

Once done, you can then start the engine, and your car will be ready to move.

How to get Corris Rivett parts in My Winter Car

Corris Rivett parts in My Winter Car
Image via Amistech Games

There are three major ways of obtaining the Corris Rivett parts in My Winter Car.

  • Some parts are available from the same NPC who sells you the Corris Rivett. You can purchase them from him.
  • Fleetari's Ship is another excellent source for obtaining several parts required to complete the car.
  • You'll find plenty of parts via catalogue orders by going through adverts from the magazine. Once you place an order, the item will be available in two days (in-game).

The post How to build the Corris Rivett in My Winter Car? All parts and assembly process explained appeared first on Destructoid.


Destructoid Wednesday, December 31, 2025 7:00 AM
    

Cars in My Winter Car

My Winter Car has a host of different player attributes that you'll need to manage to survive the cold and build your project car.

The attributes are visible on top of your screen, and they have their own meters. The idea is to keep the meters in check, and there are different ways to do so. This guide will help you understand them better so that you don't run into unexpected problems when out in the cold.

All player attributes in My Winter Car explained

The table below has information about every player's stat/attribute that will be visible on top of your screen. I have also added steps about how you can manage them efficiently.

Attribute How it Works How to Manage
Problem Since you're an alcoholic as per the lore, you'll need alcohol in a routine fashion. Drink beer or other alcoholic beverages. Drink water to keep yourself in control. Repeat for full recovery.
Hunger Causes starvation You will need to eat food. You can get them from Teimo's Shop or Pub Nappo. Drinking alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages also reduces hunger slightly (but not very effective). You should eat when the Hunger meter is high, or after you have done physical work.
Stress It can be fatal if left unchecked You can drink coffee and grilled meats to reduce stress. Sauna sessions also work, as do chopping firewood. You can also swear by pressing the N key to reduce stress. Avoiding hangovers or fines will also help you manage your stress better.
Urine Bladder fullness that will cause stress Find a toilet and press P to urinate. Plan in advance if you're working out for long hours.
Fatigue Causes blackouts The best way to manage fatigue is by sleeping on sofas or beds. Always rest in the indoor areas, as it can be pretty cold outside. Driving below 120 kmph will also slightly lower your Fatigue.
Temperature Causes Hypothermia Always wear dry and warm clothes along with winter gear. Stay close to heaters and fireplaces when your body temperature is low. Drinking hot beverages also helps, and you should always turn on the in-built car heater while driving.
Sweat Happens if you're overheated. Don't wear clothes that are too heavy inside rooms. You can also remove extra layers if you're at a place where temperatures are normal.

Ultimately, some of the attribute meters can go out of control, especially if you're doing jobs like that of a taxi driver. The table above has every bit of information you'll require to bring these meters back to normal levels.

The post All player attributes in My Winter Car and how to manage them appeared first on Destructoid.