Quake has reached its 30th anniversary without a new game announcement, but the landmark first-person shooter has received a substantial content update instead. MachineGames has released Dawn of the Machine, a brand-new episode included with every version of the 2021 Quake remaster.
MachineGames is known for the modern Wolfenstein series and 2023’s Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. The studio previously collaborated with id Software and Nightdive Studios on new content for the remaster, returning for this anniversary release.
Dawn of the Machine brings 19 replayable levels
Dawn of the Machine retains the foundations of the 30-year-old shooter while introducing fresh enemy types and weapons, including the super axe and laser cannon. Its 19-level campaign is built with repeat playthroughs in mind.
Players can discover runes that open alternative routes on later runs. Previously collected health and ammunition upgrades also carry forward, giving the episode a progression system beyond a single completion.
More anniversary additions for Quake
The update adds more than the new campaign. A vault containing behind-the-scenes development material from Quake provides a look at the game’s production, while additional achievements and a cheats menu expand the remaster’s extra features.
Multiplayer also receives a new deathmatch map. For players maintaining a dedicated setup, the update adds another reason to revisit the classic shooter alongside the broader range of arcade news and gaming coverage available from RETROCADE.
Quake’s future remains unclear under Xbox
The anniversary update arrives during an uncertain period for id Software and MachineGames under Xbox. id Software was heavily affected by Xbox’s July layoffs shortly after releasing downloadable content for Doom: The Dark Ages. With Xbox concentrating on its largest franchises, the studios’ next projects have not been made clear.
Dawn of the Machine is included with the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox One and Xbox Series X versions of Quake. If the update inspires a dedicated retro gaming corner, RETROCADE’s arcade machines and arcade parts can help with the wider cabinet and control setup.
For compact spaces, an arcade bartop offers another way to build a focused home gaming station without committing to a full upright cabinet.
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