Ethan Crossfield 
The Epic Games Store continues its weekly free-game rotation with two smaller, distinctive releases rather than established blockbuster names. Shogun Showdown and Mindcop will become the storefront's September 17 giveaways, and both technically qualify as day-one Epic releases because neither is currently available there.
Two Games Arrive on September 17
Shogun Showdown and Mindcop will be free to claim from September 17 until September 24 at 8 a.m. PT, 11 a.m. ET, or 5 p.m. CET. Once claimed during that period, the games become part of the user's library under the promotion's usual terms. Their status as day-one releases requires an important qualification: both titles were released previously elsewhere, but they are making their Epic Games Store debuts when the new giveaway begins. The pair will become the 67th and 68th free games offered through the store in 2026.
Shogun Showdown Brings Compact Tactical Combat
Created by solo developer Roboatino, Shogun Showdown is a turn-based tactical roguelite with deck-building elements. Its development began with an early alpha in May 2022, followed by Steam Early Access in June 2023 and a full release in September 2024. The battles are built around a narrow horizontal field where the player and enemies occupy a shared line of positions. Movement, turning, and most attack preparations consume turns, while enemy actions are clearly signaled in advance. Success therefore depends on reading threats, controlling space, and setting up situations in which opponents can damage one another.
Mindcop Turns a Murder Investigation Into a Race Against Time
Mindcop is a non-linear detective adventure developed by German solo creator Andre Gareis and published by Dear Villagers. The investigation takes place in Merrilyn Crater Camp, an isolated setting where players decide whom to question, which locations to search, and which leads deserve attention. The case unfolds across five in-game days, with seven hours available on each day. Almost every significant action uses part of that limited schedule, making time management central to the investigation. The game was released in November 2024 and normally carries a $14.99 price.
What the Promotion Adds to September's Value
At their standard prices, the two games are worth $29.98 combined. Their arrival will double the total retail value of Epic's September 2026 giveaways so far. The current promotion, which replaced Alone With You after its September 3–10 window, offers Astral Ascent and Luftrausers at no cost through temporary 100% discounts.
Key points
- Shogun Showdown and Mindcop are free from September 17 through September 24.
- Both games debut on the Epic Games Store during the promotion.
- Shogun Showdown focuses on turn-based positioning and tactical roguelite runs.
- Mindcop is a time-limited murder investigation set across five in-game days.
September 17 Epic Games Store freebies
| Game | Genre | Availability window | Standard value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shogun Showdown | Turn-based tactical roguelite | September 17–24 | Not specified |
| Mindcop | Non-linear detective adventure | September 17–24 | $14.99 |
Expert View
This promotion highlights the Epic Games Store's ability to use free games as a discovery tool for focused indie projects. Neither title is a new commercial release, but the platform debut gives both games another opportunity to reach players. The contrast between Shogun Showdown's tactical combat and Mindcop's investigative time pressure also makes the pairing more varied than a promotion built around a single genre.
