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Featured image for July 19, 2025: Donkey Kong Bananza’s Banandium Gems & Indie.io Switch Sale

July 19, 2025: Donkey Kong Bananza’s Banandium Gems & Indie.io Switch Sale

Fred
Fred · · 5 min read

Today’s Gaming News Roundup

Just when I thought my gaming backlog couldn’t get any more crowded, the universe throws me a curveball wrapped in mystery and gems! Today’s news blitz features a tantalizing mix: Diverse Games is shaking up the scene, the elusive Canyon Layer Banandium Gem is finally making waves, and hold onto your controllers because a new unannounced From Software game might be dropping soon. It’s like the gaming gods decided to make my exhaustion worth it, and honestly, I’m here for the chaos.

6 Diverse Games in the indie.io Publisher Sale on Nintendo Switch

Diverse Games - IGN

Indie.io, a vibrant video game publishing platform renowned for collaborating with a diverse range of developers, is currently spotlighting dozens of its titles in a Nintendo Switch sale running through July 30. This sale features games across multiple genres, showcasing the platform’s commitment to variety and quality. Among the highlighted games, several stand out for their unique art styles, including a title that boasts fully hand-drawn game worlds with charming 2D characters set against immersive 3D environments, adding to a cozy and relaxing gameplay experience.

If you’re looking to explore new indie gems on Switch, this sale is a perfect opportunity to dive into some fantastic hand-picked titles from indie.io’s roster. The platform’s curated list not only emphasizes the range of gameplay and genres available but also concludes with a cozy, soothing game ideal for unwinding. Be sure to check out the full sale before it ends on July 30 to snag these deals and support indie developers!

Read more at IGN

Canyon Layer Banandium Gem locations in Donkey Kong Bananza

Canyon Layer Banandium Gem - Polygon

In Donkey Kong Bananza, players will explore the vibrant and intriguing Canyon Layer, the third major area in the game. This layer is notable for its unique crystalline inhabitants, some of which amusingly take the shape of giraffes, adding a quirky twist to the environment. The area is also characterized by large warehouses filled with Banandium Gems, a valuable resource within the game, and towering smokestacks that reach high into the sky, creating a striking industrial backdrop.

The Canyon Layer offers a fresh and exciting setting for fans of Donkey Kong Bananza, developed by [Developer Name], who continue to expand the franchise’s imaginative world. Players will encounter a bounty of bananas that are particularly unique, suggesting new collectible mechanics or challenges awaiting in this stage. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, the Canyon Layer promises a dynamic blend of exploration, resource gathering, and the series’ signature charm.

Read more at Polygon

New Unannounced From Software Game Will Reportedly Be Coming Sooner Than You Think

New Unannounced From Software Game Will Reportedly Be Coming Sooner Than You Think - GameSpot

Exciting news for fans of From Software! According to a recent report from MP1st, the renowned developer is deep into production on a new multiplatform game, currently codenamed FMC. The project is reportedly in the “advanced stages of production” and is on track for a possible 2026 release, barring any delays. This places the game’s development well along enough to potentially hit shelves as soon as next year, which is thrilling given From Software’s reputation for delivering groundbreaking titles.

While concrete details about the game remain under wraps, the codename FMC might offer some clues. Previous From Software projects such as the Dark Souls series and Armored Core 6 included the letter “F” in their internal codenames, whereas Elden Ring was codenamed GR and its multiplayer spin-off, Elden Ring: Nightreign, went by CL. This pattern suggests FMC could be connected to the studio’s iconic franchises or possibly introduce something fresh yet familiar. We’ll be watching closely for more updates on what could be another epic title from the creators behind Dark Souls and Elden Ring!

Read more at GameSpot

Becoming A Pro Fisher In Rune Factory: Guardians Of Azuma Is Worth The Effort

Becoming A Pro Fisher In Rune Factory - Kotaku

Fishing has long been a staple mechanic in cozy games, appearing in nearly every title that fans of the genre have spent countless hours playing. While it’s a universal feature, the fishing minigame tends to vary just enough between games to become a source of frustration for players, often testing their patience and skills. Specifically, in Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, players won’t unlock the fishing mechanic immediately, making it a notable point of progression within the game.

This insight highlights how fishing, despite being a common element, can either enhance or detract from the gameplay experience, depending on its implementation. Though the source doesn’t specify the developer or release date, the mention of Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma adds excitement for fans familiar with the series, known for blending farming, combat, and relationship-building mechanics. Fishing remains a beloved yet challenging feature that continues to shape the cozy game landscape.

Read more at Kotaku

What we’ve been playing – speedrunners, elusive secret doors, and guessing games

What - Eurogamer

Bertie excitedly shares his progress as he reaches Room 46 in his current game adventure, marking a notable milestone in his gameplay journey. Alongside this achievement, Bertie also experiments with speedrunning, adding a fresh and thrilling challenge to his gaming routine. Meanwhile, Tom O dives into Rematch, though he humorously tries to act like he’s not actually playing it, bringing a playful vibe to their regular gaming discussions.

The feature continues their tradition of sharing personal gaming experiences with fans, offering a mix of accomplishment and fun. Although the specific game Bertie is playing isn’t mentioned, the focus remains on their enthusiasm and unique approaches to gaming this week. These insights keep the Two Average Gamers community engaged and eager for more updates on their favorite players’ adventures.

Read more at Eurogamer

Donkey Kong Bananza And The Complicated Pac-Man Metroidvania | The Game Informer Show

Donkey Kong Bananza And The Complicated Pac-Man Metroidvania - Game Informer

This week’s episode of The Game Informer Show delivers an exciting lineup of game discussions that any Two Average Gamers fan will appreciate. The hosts dive into Donkey Kong Bananza on the upcoming Switch 2, praising how it truly shines on Nintendo’s next-gen console. They also explore Shadow Labyrinth, a unique and complicated Pac-Man Metroidvania that offers a fresh take on classic gameplay.

Another highlight is Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream, a new stealth game celebrated for its stunning art direction and a brilliantly crafted final act that leaves a strong impression. Wrapping up the episode, Charles gives a quick rundown of the Bravely Default HD remaster and a charming Picross-like puzzler called Squeakross, perfect for puzzle enthusiasts. Tune in every Thursday to catch these in-depth chats with Game Informer staff and special guests from the gaming industry!

Read more at Game Informer

What’s Your Take?

Today’s news showcases the incredible diversity and excitement gaming continues to bring, from the unique worlds of Diverse Games and the intriguing secrets of Canyon Layer’s Banandium Gem to the tantalizing whispers of a new From Software title arriving sooner than expected. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love being part of this community; there’s always something fresh and unexpected on the horizon.

Personally, I’m curious to see how that unannounced From Software game will shake up the industry, especially given their track record for innovation and challenge. What do you think this new project might be? And how do you feel about the growing variety of indie titles gaining recognition alongside big-name studios? I’d love to hear your thoughts, drop a comment below!

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FAQ

When does the indie.io Nintendo Switch sale end?
The indie.io sale runs through July 30, 2025. It features dozens of titles across multiple genres, so you've got a few days left to grab those indie gems at a discount!
What is the Canyon Layer in Donkey Kong Bananza?
The Canyon Layer is the third major area in Donkey Kong Bananza, featuring crystalline inhabitants shaped like giraffes, large warehouses filled with Banandium Gems, and towering smokestacks. It's got a unique industrial vibe mixed with the series' signature charm.
When might the new From Software game be released?
According to reports, the new From Software game (codenamed FMC) is in advanced production stages and could potentially release in 2026, though delays are always possible with major projects like this.
Can you unlock the fishing mechanic immediately in Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma?
No, fishing is locked behind progression in Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, making it a notable milestone to unlock rather than an immediate feature available to players.
What games are featured on this week's Game Informer Show episode?
This week's episode covers Donkey Kong Bananza on Switch 2, Shadow Labyrinth (a Pac-Man Metroidvania), Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream (a stealth game), Bravely Default HD remaster, and Squeakross (a Picross-like puzzler). Episodes air every Thursday!

Written by

Fred
Fred LEVEL 1

Fred has been gaming since his dad brought home a recycled PC from work and installed Hugo's House of Horrors as a toddler. He continues to play games almost daily across PC, console and mobile and may have a slightly addictive personality.

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