Cybercade #22 2025 | Into the Abyss of Dreams and Evolution
Dear Friends,
Welcome to this week’s edition of Cybercade.
If you're new here: Cybercade is a weekly game discovery newsletter. Each week, I hand-pick a fresh batch of upcoming games worth your attention—from experimental indies to bold genre-benders.
This week features four intriguing upcoming titles and a look back at a cult classic that dared to make evolution playable.
Let’s get to it.
| From The Vault
E.V.O.: Search for Eden
Developer: Almanic Corp.
Publisher: Enix
Platform: Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
Genre: Action Role-Playing, Side-Scrolling Platformer
Players: Single-player
Release Dates: December 21, 1992 (Japan) | July 15, 1993 (USA)
What is E.V.O.: Search for Eden About?
E.V.O.: Search for Eden is a unique action RPG that playfully retells the evolution of life on Earth. Players start as a small fish in the primordial seas and fight their way through five geological eras—from the Cambrian period through the age of dinosaurs to the dawn of humankind.
The goal is to collect "Evo Points" by defeating enemies. These points can be used to evolve various body parts like jaws, fins, legs, or horns, allowing your creature to adapt to the challenges of each era.
The story is guided by Gaia, the personification of Earth, who challenges the player to prove themselves in the “Survival of the Fittest.” The ultimate reward is entry into the legendary Eden and immortality at Gaia’s side. Along the way, players must battle mutated creatures, confront a mysterious threat from alien crystals, and face a final showdown with the being Bolbox.
What Makes E.V.O. So Special?
E.V.O. stands out even today for its unusual setting and inventive mechanics. While many 16-bit era games clung to fantasy or science fiction themes, this title dared to build its world around evolution and natural history, combining education with play in a way that felt both fresh and fun.
The player directly influences the development and appearance of their creature, something that was rare at the time—and still is.
Though E.V.O. never became a franchise, it holds cult status among retro fans. It’s a bold reminder of how experimental and philosophical game design could be in the early ’90s. More than just a quirky platformer, E.V.O.: Search for Eden is a historical artifact that proves video games can entertain while exploring deep, complex themes.
| Upcoming Games
Islets Defense
Build a village, defend your castle! This turn-based tower defense game blends city-building and tactical card play. Every turn matters—plan your strategy and fend off the coming storm.
🧭 Genre: Strategy
📅 Release: 18 Jun, 2025
🎮 Developer: MiniGoof
🔗 Steam Link: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3235170
Netherworld Covenant
Wield the Nether Lantern. In this dark, action-packed roguelike, you’ll fight alongside fallen souls, shatter cursed realms, and unravel a grim, blood-bound truth.
🧭 Genre: Action, Adventure, Indie, RPG, Early Access
📅 Release: 19 Jun, 2025
🎮 Developer: MadGoat Game Studio
🔗 Steam Link: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2735580
Through the Nightmares
Face your fears, save the dreaming. A precision platformer where you shift sizes, dodge traps, and rescue children from the grip of Morpheus himself.
🧭 Genre: Action, Indie
📅 Release: 19 Jun, 2025
🎮 Developer: Sandman Team
🔗 Steam Link: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1266210
After Light Fades
Let go to move forward. This sokoban-style puzzle game weaves emotion and logic through seven mystical realms. Each artefact you carry must be eventually released—like grief itself.
🧭 Genre: Adventure, Indie
📅 Release: 19 Jun, 2025
🎮 Developer: Orchid of Redemption
🔗 Steam Link: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1717940
| This Week in Gaming
Hellblade 2 Physical Edition Reportedly Coming to PS5, Xbox Series X
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 may be getting a physical release after all. A welcomed surprise for collectors and console fans.
The Last of Us Season Two Finale Draws Lower Ratings, HBO Remains Confident
Season two's finale brought in 3.7 million U.S. viewers—less than season one’s end—but HBO expects a surge due to holiday catch-ups.
Comics Legend Peter David Has Passed at 68
Known for iconic runs on The Incredible Hulk and X-Factor, Peter David’s work defined a generation of comics storytelling.
| What to Listen to This Week?
Factorio – Base Game Complete Soundtrack
Mechanical, minimal, and perfect as soundscape for the game. The Factorio soundtrack builds a calm but productive ambiance.
| Final Thoughts
That’s it for this week’s Cybercade.
Let me know which of these games have grabbed your interest — or if E.V.O. unlocked any deep gaming memories.
If you enjoyed this issue, feel free to share Cybercade with a friend who loves discovering cool games before they launch.
Until next time.
– Belane
Some screenshots in this issue are sourced from MobyGames.
EVO looks so interesting. I've never heard of it before.
I wonder if EVO was an inspiration for Spore...I loved Spore to death (I still have the physical copy of the game, a deluxe edition I think).