The Surge looks to be an interesting game- the idea of a game using similar mechanics to Dark Souls but in a science fiction setting is inherently appealing, after all. However, if you were tempted to just dismiss it as a lower grade Dark Souls with a science fiction skin, you may be forced to rethink your assessment after watching this video- it makes it clear that there is more to the game mechanically than just aping Dark Souls wholesale, if nothing else.

Among the new unique combat mechanics showcased in this video are horizontal and vertical attacks, which implies full control over the direction of your attacks- notably, this is not actually something that Dark Souls allows for, and it should allow for some interesting possibilities with the game’s combat.

The Surge is due out on the Xbox One, PS4, and PC on May 16. Make sure to check out the new trailer for the game for yourself below.

Upcoming cyberpunk RPG The Technomancer has received a brand new trailer for Gamescom. This new trailer sees the main character Zachariah attempt to communicate with Earth. However, it seems as though he’s having issues connecting. It also doesn’t help matters that he is apparently being chased by Mars’ secret police.

Mars itself doesn’t look like a very welcoming setting in this trailer- in fact, it’s positively hostile. That said, the developers have promised us that Mars is home to loads of character interactions with people who have been affected by some great tragedy, as well as loads of secrets and treasures that are just waiting to be uncovered.

These people are important- it appears as though they will join Zacharias and give him more information once you form a deep enough friendship with them, somewhat like a Social Links system.

The Technomancer is in development for PC, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, with a projected release date for 2016.

Spider Studio’s upcoming RPG for the PlayStation 4, Bound By Flame, looks real good- now, the developer has taken to the PlayStation Blog to explain to us how some of the (apparently deep) crafting mechanics work in the upcoming title.

Like with any RPG, you’re going to find materials in chests, in nooks and crannies of dungeons, or as loot from your vanquished foes (crafting materials include metal, steel, gemstone, bones, leather, and blood- happy vampiring!). These materials can then be worked into weapons, traps, ammunition, potions or armor (which can then be further upgraded up to a total of three times via upgrade slots).

The game will also add further depth to the crafting system by having specific crafting talents, and specializing or developing those talents individually will make you more efficient with crafting, using up less materials, and so forth.