Pixelsinflow Reviews

SteamWorld Build (2023 Video Game)

Unveiling the Intricacies of SteamWorld Build: A Deep Dive into Gameplay, Design, and Challenges

[22 February 2024]

Gameplay and Mechanics:

The ground level is where you build structures, create pickup and delivery routes, decide how much you need of each robot type (there are 4), and create a whole economy from the ground up. Each building has that barely scrapped together but working effectively style to them which set them apart from each other, and I could always find whichever building I need by just what animation it is looping, and that is very high praise. Placing of buildings is of the most importance since being placed too far does increase the travel time and the delivery of needed materials to create other material, but even more, you will not meet the requirements needed to have the most type of robots and their specific needs. For a town made exclusively by robots and nothing else, you would be astonished how many needs each of these specific ones have. If you don't meet their needs to a 100%, you will not be able to upgrade their buildings to acquire the next robots, however if you do decide to upgrade them, you lose the previous ones and some buildings that require them to work will not be at full capacity, and (if you are too much in the negative) they will outright stop working. The game has plenty of buildings and each serves a specific purpose, and as you are advancing with the story more and more buildings are being introduced, but never to an extent of it becoming overwhelming.

Mines are a whole different breed; here we forget about building a whole town, rather constructing a small community of highly efficient structures that serve a purpose to mine, gather and deliver resources, build mines for specific resources or specific traps for different enemies. These mines added an interesting twist compared to the town-building part and served a story purpose as well, as here is where you will find the technology needed to escape this planet. Each mine introduced new mechanics, and as a player, you are tasked to create an effective supply route to an elevator which transports the resources to the town. Developing it such a way as to require as little time and as little cost in terms of upkeep is an interesting challenge, and it made me rethink my routes as more and more options were being introduced that make the previous ones, not ineffective, but could be built even better.

Also, I don't want to even admit to it. In level 3 as you are finding more equipment needed to escape the planet, you also open more ways that the enemies can attack. That and in combination with the AI of the combat robots can create not much of a challenge, but rather a nuisance which I would consider is worse to an extent. I found it a very specific way, by just trying something that made little sense, since they have flying enemies, to just tear down bridges and ultimately destroy their way to get to me. To my surprise, that simple decision made it so that side never spawned enemies again and I made my game effectively ¼ of the difficulty by not even going into the options and changing it manually. Of course, if you do tear down their way to attack, you also cut yourself off from gathering the resources placed there, but if you don't require them to keep your economy going, you won't miss them. I don't know if that is how it's supposed to work, but it somehow did. Also, last point here, if you do have some forethought in planning which blocks to mine and which not, you can make it so that enemies can only come in from a very narrow passageway and you can pick them off very easily with traps and turrets in your own makeshift chokepoint.

AI - This is where I had my most fun watching the game. I love when small characters just go and do their designated tasks around the town, building, moving, baking, creating, mixing, and whatever else. I love that and is always something I look for when playing a strategy game of any sort. However, then we get to the mines, and this is where I was letdown. Have to get into a bit of spoilers here for it to work, you get a few different kinds of robots in the mines with each serving 1-2 tasks. The non-combat ones serve their purpose without missing a beat and don't require any managing on the player's part. The problem are the combat ones that could have used a way to control them since over half the time they were on the exact opposite part of the map rather than where I needed them. They react fast and correctly to enemies and are almost every time where they need to be before the enemies has even spawned or I receive a notification of an attack. However, they react to the first spawned and all go for him, that means that if 1 enemy is on one side of the map and 10 are on the other, the will all go for the 1 and will go back after he is killed. This made a big inconvenience in the late game where attacks are set apart by a few minutes. Each time they weren't where I needed them, I had my other robots running around (because they need the combat ones near them to not be afraid) and buildings or traps being destroyed.

Sound Design and Music:

At any time, you can zoom into different buildings, and you can hear each of them having a unique sound depending on what item they are trying to create. The roads are filled with robots moving from place to place dropping and taking items, you can hear them having seemingly unintelligible chatter while moving, you don't need to understand them, it's just simulating the hustle and bustle of a town, which I liked very much.

The soundtrack, created by Ola Bäckström is very wholesome with different instruments, from time-to-time vocals and very specific whistling especially in the intro theme and some others, and especially the vocals in the credit song. Represented in the songs Main Menu Theme (A Gem In The Rough), End Theme (Astrids' Theme) (feat. Matilda Bäckström), and City (Counting Stars, Counting Days). The mines added a mysterious aspect to them, where you know what to do and how to do it, but you may meet stuff you aren't certain how to approach, through a bigger focus on drums and a very melancholic guitar. Represented in the songs Mine03 (Blue Dots In The Dark) (feat. Silia Hahne) and Mine03 (Down and Back Again).

Game Setting and Worldbuilding:

SteamWorld Build is situated in a seemingly abandoned world that at first sight doesn't seem all that left in disarray, until you get down to the mines and start seeing items that shouldn't be there. Leaving the player to gather, think over and ultimately create mini stories in their head is always a plus.

Everything in SteamWorld Build is constructed by bits and bobs from different metallic plates to construct buildings and robots which in terms of worldbuilding really adds to the atmosphere of 'we are here for a specific task and for a very limited time'. Also, I just have to add this ach map has a very cute looking greetings card giving you a rough idea in which place you are going to be building.

Story, Side Quests, and More:

You are marooned on a world with the simple task to escape this planet, but nothing ever goes smoothly. Tasked with the 'simple' mission of creating a self-sustaining town and operational mine, your objective is to find and collect rocket parts scattered underground. On your path you will be met with the ever-growing needs of your town robots and the constant attacks on the lower levels, making it so that you are constantly needed to oversee simple tasks like building up again support colons so that mine doesn't collapse on itself (it sounds rough, but it's just that some rocks may fall down and enemy or two with them). That is mostly it, find, collect and build the rocket so you can evacuate and leave everything you build to waste. The story is however prompt up the different characters represented by father, daughter, and old townsfolk and a mysterious machine. Their voice acting is pretty respectable especially the father and daughter.

Probable Visual, Audio and Gameplay Bugs:

I had about 3 different instances of a very specific bugs that caused my ingame time to pause in the mines (level 2/3) which in return made it so that materials do not get gathered (even if I see the animation of my robots delivering the materials). This in turn made it so that combat music that starts when I get attacked never ends, since the timer doesn't go on so that the attack ends. On the town section nothing changed and timer was still going correctly. The only way I found to fix it is to just reload the save.

Further into the game you get access to teleporters, from one point of the map to the farthest possible location wherever the player chooses. I decided to cut down on the travel time of my mines and create two points, and since they were teleporting, I didn't need my bridges up anymore. The problem was that seemingly my miners still needed the path physically connected from point A to B even if they didn't use it. They weren't using the teleporters if there was no physical connection. The fix was just building the bridges up again.

Replayability:

Once you finish the story and before taking the final decision, you get an option to continue where you are and finish digging up the mines, optimize everything up and down and try to achieve as much population as possible.

However, if you do decide to end it, you are then presented with a final cutscene and credits. After that, there is a possibility to start a new game on a different map but with a bonus structure from the map you already finished. In a way having a constant buff for each next map (there are a total of 6) to reach the endgame point faster and to ultimately reduce the slow pace of early game.

Closing Thoughts:

SteamWorld Build is a well-crafted game in almost every aspect from building, to managing (macro and somewhat micro), to developing new and better ways to play, constantly adding new mechanics without it being overwhelming and, most importantly, leaving the player to play how he/she wants.

Jusant (2023 Video Game)

Scaling Heights and Unravelling Mysteries in an Atmospheric Exploration Adventure

[16 January 2024]

Gameplay and Mechanics: Jusant is an exploration game with a simple mechanic of climbing rocks, yet that singular mechanic is constantly challenged. From a simple two button combo controlling each hand, moving one hand to grasp and hold, while letting the other one go to move up, and you do that till you reach the end. Gradually jumping is introduced, putting in points so that you can gather speed along the wall to make a bigger jump and many more. Jusant introduces newer mechanics in an effective way so that you don't get bored or feel that you mastered it.

After so many walls climbed, evidently impossible angles to climb (or some that would require massive strength), jumps barely made and secrets unlocked. Jusant's central rope mechanic is what stood above all else, using it as leverage over objects you place or already present objects, sliding down or up to gain more speed while swinging and manymore. For a seemingly simple game, the central mechanic is perfectly elaborated and expanded, without making it too much of a hassle to learn and or master.

Graphics and Visuals: I would call the visual style of Jusant as 'non-intrusive' as in saying that it is not trying to go for realism nor is it going in the whole other direction. Games that prefer to use a specific style to render every inch of their world don't really age, while those going for 'realistic' are beautiful, until something newer comes, and out of nowhere that old game isn't that 'realistic' looking. This is a very specific problem that many games start to have as years pass by and even having something more stylized gives that very much needed character.

What stood out immensely is how Jusant uses shadows to enlarge an already big world. There are times where your whole road ahead is covered in a light yet still noticeable layer of thin shadow. On the other hand, we have lighting, while Jusant is almost perfect in terms of shadows, lighting shines brightly (pun intended) in the cavers. In Jusant you have long stretches of gameplay where you are trying to go through tunnels of that aforementioned civilization. These long tunnels are only lit by small or big cracks in the walls to let some sunlight in or in places where there are no cracks. However, when there are no cracks to help light the way, bioluminescence comes into play thanks to a few little creatures to light up the floor and walls. The environment feels alive and dynamic.

Sound Design and Music: Jusant's audio design is intentionally quiet, due to it being made that way, even a single stone falling down a rocky wall can oversaturate the vast sandscape. Even more when you eventually enter a cavern area where each footstep is reverberated endlessly amongst these halls. I cannot praise enough the mechanic with the seashells which is so simple, yet so effective. Slightly zooming in to certain objects within your vicinity, stopping on them and playing sounds, as if they were still working or people are traversing/chatting around them. Showing rather than straight out telling can work remarkably well.

The soundtrack, composed by Guillaume Ferran adds weight to everything you witness. When you get the hang of something new and finally observe how it works you get enveloped by an evidently calm, yet steadfast song that serves to push you even further onto the new ever high ledge or barely standing stone in the tower's wall. Steadily changing pace to something more melancholic when you witness all the disarray left from people in a rush and all that will never be used again, but wholly left to the elements. Ramping up the speed when certain moments come about where precision and timing is key and steadily dissipating when the challenge is beaten. Never forgetting to keep up with the curious mind and adding a cute 'childlike wonder' to some songs in between all the 'hard hitting' ones. The soundtrack complements the game's pacing, enhancing the overall sense of wonder and exploration.

Game Setting and Worldbuilding: The intro to Jusant is one of intimidation. Opening on a, as far as one can tell, barren wasteland with different objects scattered along the way and the focus being one tower at the very front. The tower appears endless, shrouded in clouds, hinting at its vastness.

The game excels in worldbuilding, offering answers while posing new questions. These people that lived here seem somewhat primitive, yet by going persistently up and up, you witness more and more elaborate mechanisms that helped them in various ways. Rather than spewing all their lore and being done with it, this way it offers gradual learning while still keeping you guessing at all the snippets of lore. This way of presenting a story or just giving you context is not for all players and some wouldn't even glimpse at the various notes placed around the world. For those who couldn't be bothered to read anything there won't be any consequences in you beating the story or just advancing on to the next ledge, cavern or barely standing house.

Overall Story, Side Quests, and More: Jusant delivers a story better experienced than watched, relying heavily on visual storytelling. With no talking and a massive focus on visual storytelling be it through places that you could walk through or distant locations only there to be seen rather than reached. The only snippets of story you would gather would be through a few well-placed seashells, notes left from previously settled people on the tower and what your own mind can muster through what you're seeing.

There is a certain number of collectible notes that when gathered make up a story between certain characters. Which could be considered as sort of a "side quest", but in traditional terms there isn't anything else except that main quest of going up the pillar.

Probable Visual, Audio, and Gameplay Bugs: In terms of bugs, my entire playtime only encountered one issue, a softlock during a specific gear rotation segment. This could be attributed to playing with a keyboard instead of a controller, and the easy fix was connecting a controller. Other than this isolated incident, Jusant delivered a stable experience from start to finish.

Replayability: Jusant has a few pretty cute collectibles, be it in notes scattered throughout the world where you can read up upon the everyday life of its inhabitants, different conversations between individuals, shells that offer a momentary respite with accompanying sounds of past time and rock balancing / stone stacking offer tranquil moments and are placed in places that offer beautiful views. Without counting collectibles, Jusant is an experience that is hard to achieve again on the second playthrough. So preferably beat it once and only go off the beaten path to gather collectibles if you wish.

Closing Thoughts: Jusant offers an enjoyable journey with its simple yet engaging gameplay, effective visual storytelling, and immersive atmosphere. It comes highly recommended for fans of games like Journey, Gris, ABZU, Limbo, Exo One, and similar titles.

Bully (2006 Video Game)

A Nostalgic Romp Through the Schoolyard

[27 December 2023]

Dive into the vibrant world of Bully, a game that serves as a nostalgic time capsule to the rebellious spirit of school days. Developed by Rockstar, renowned for their open-world masterpieces, Bully takes a departure, narrowing its focus on the microcosm of a boarding school in the '90s.

Setting:

The game unfolds in a GTA-style format, injecting the rebellious flavour of Grand Theft Auto into the school life setting, sans the extreme violence. Contrary to stereotypes, Bully paints a portrait where every kid, including the nerds, wears the mask of a bully. The narrative unfolds in a scholastic battlefield, with your mission clear - bring about peace among the diverse factions that rule the school.

Story:

Meet Jimmy Hopkins, your friendly neighbourhood delinquent with an unexpected heart of gold. As the story progresses, Jimmy navigates the complexities of high school life, making new friends who share his discontent with the school's dynamics. Factions come into play, each vying for dominance, and Jimmy finds himself mediating, often with a well-placed 'smack.' Amidst this, he lends a helping hand to troubled students, seeks revenge on grumpy teachers, and encounters an array of intriguing characters.

Side Objectives and Activities:

While the main story is a riveting journey, Bully doesn't stop there. It introduces a plethora of side activities, from classes and jobs to challenges and races. Classes become engaging mini-games, offering both breezy and challenging experiences. Challenges involve meting out justice, with each faction offering unique rewards. Races bring speed and reward, making each side activity a distinct gameplay loop with varying difficulty levels.

Gameplay:

True to Rockstar's signature style, Bully thrives on free-roam exploration and interactive chaos. Jimmy showcases his rebellious spirit, executing mad tricks on his skateboard, pulling pranks, and engaging in brawls. Combat is versatile, with a range of weapons and combos, adding an element of strategy. The NPC dialogue, a precursor to Red Dead's brilliance, enhances the immersive experience.

Characters:

Bully boasts a rich tapestry of characters, from a crazy lunch lady to a homeless veteran, each adding a unique spin to the narrative. The writing is witty, often taking humorous jabs at American life and the school system.

Sound and Music:

The sound design amplifies the cartoonish punches and the impact of weapons. The music, while not entirely memorable, complements the gameplay, with distinct tracks for each gang. It weaves seamlessly into the chaos of confrontations.

Final Verdict:

In conclusion, Bully remains a delightful game, especially during its main campaign. However, post-completion engagement dwindles, with side objectives offering fun but underutilised rewards. The game is a testament to Rockstar's prowess, leaving players hopeful for a sequel. While Bully may not have the enduring impact of other Rockstar titles, its dedicated fan base ensures it remains a cherished memory in the gaming landscape.

Forza Horizon 5 (2021 Video Game)

Roaring Engines with Grace and Beauty

[2 December 2023]

Gameplay: Forza Horizon has consistently held a strong position in the racing genre, providing a vast racing field, a diverse array of cars, and robust feedback to support the experience. Cars are meticulously detailed, featuring solid sound design, and are genuinely enjoyable to drive, ranging from everyday town cars to high-powered sports vehicles. The game progressively unlocks more racing opportunities as you play and advance through its story, expanding the gaming experience. I played it using a mouse and keyboard combination, which, while less immersive than a controller or wheel, is still quite usable. If possible, using even a basic controller enhances the immersion.

Sound Design and Soundtrack: The car audio, as mentioned earlier, contributes significantly to the overall immersion, and the team at Xbox has excelled in every aspect of it. Turning down the radio station at times allows you to appreciate the distinct sounds of the various cars, adding a magnificent touch to the experience. The well-crafted radio stations like Horizon Block Party and Hospital Records enhance immersion during races or leisurely drives. When players are enjoying your songs, it's a clear sign of a job well done.

Performance and Visuals: Forza has consistently delivered stunning graphics, and with each new release, they push the boundaries further. Mexico in Forza Horizon 5 showcases a variety of visually distinct locations, each with its unique style, from the jungle's muddy roads to the desert's wide sands. Despite its high-quality visuals, the game runs smoothly, even on older hardware like an RX 570 (a 5-year-old graphics card) at mixed high-ultra settings, with no noticeable stutters. Xbox has done an excellent job optimizing performance.

Customization: Forza offers an extensive range of customization options for both the exterior and interior of cars. Everything, from paint jobs to added or removed parts, can be adjusted. Experimenting with different looks is easily accessible, and players can spend hours mixing and matching paint jobs or opt for pre-made combinations when purchasing a car. Inner car parts can be adapted for different terrains, significantly impacting performance. The breadth of car upgrades allows a single car to qualify for races in multiple categories, leading to more races in your favorite car. The playable character is also highly customizable with various clothing, voices, disability options, dances, tattoos, and more.

End Game: After completing the main campaign, players can engage in various side stories that contribute to the overall immersion. These often involve tasks such as reaching a destination in the fastest time or capturing images of historical sites in various conditions. Players can strive to achieve three stars for every race and story, providing added challenges. Forza encourages players to explore its diverse offerings, offering constant rewards such as cars, money, customization options, and even various houses in Mexico. As a live service game, continuous updates introduce new content, challenges, and, of course, many new cars.

Microtransactions: Forza Horizon 5 boasts a roster of over 500 cars, with more regularly added. While some cars may be behind a paywall or might require significant grinding, the game offers a variety of DLCs for additional content. It's worth noting that a few DLCs, each priced at around 2-3 dollars, provide access to one car. While microtransactions exist, the overall integrity of this outstanding game shines through, despite industry trends that some may find unfortunate.

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order (2019 Video Game)

An Adventure Worth Remembering

[2 December 2023]

Set after Order 66, you step into the shoes of Cal Kestis, a padawan who survived but carries deep mental scars from the devastating Jedi purge. While Cal hides, a critical incident forces him out of the shadows. Join him on his journey to restore his connection to the force and thwart the empire's sinister plans.

Story:

The central narrative revolves around Cal and his companions' quest to locate the game's MacGuffin before the empire does, preventing its malevolent use. Throughout this journey, you delve into each character's inner struggles, observing how they confront and overcome their personal demons. Encounter a Sith deluded into thinking he can overthrow the empire. The story unfolds through a series of interconnected tales, creating an engaging narrative that vividly portrays the vastness of the galaxy.

Characters:

BD-1, your trusty companion droid, facilitates Cal's internal dialogue, providing insights into what he observes without resorting to self-talk. This dynamic showcases the deepening friendship between Cal and BD-1, allowing players to comprehend the unspoken aspects of their relationship. Beyond Cal and BD-1, the game introduces several captivating characters, with Trilla, Merrin, and Taron being particularly noteworthy. Taron, especially, deserves more exploration in future installments.

Gameplay:

The combat system offers a delightful blend of challenge and enjoyment. The exploration aspect is remarkable, spanning diverse environments. The eco-ability enriches the experience by unraveling the mysteries of the past. While the main story tends to repeat certain enemy types, the overall variety remains excellent. Boss fights, each progressively tougher, add an exciting dimension to the gameplay.

Without the force powers, the game might lose its Jedi essence. The lightsaber, although somewhat restricted due to age restrictions, remains the key element embodying the Jedi experience. However, recent patches have introduced glitches and extended loading times, somewhat tarnishing the gaming experience.

Visuals:

Visually, the game is a masterpiece. The graphics are stunning, presenting a colorful and vibrant universe. Even Dathomir, a planet shrouded in darkness, bursts with a rich palette. The environments are both realistic and beautiful, and creature designs range from cool and grotesque to cute. Character visuals are generally impressive, although occasional glitches, especially with Cere's face, disrupt the seamless experience.

Conclusion:

While hailed as the best Star Wars game in recent years, Fallen Order grapples with typical EA issues, likely stemming from time and budget constraints on Respawn. The lightsaber's resemblance to a bat, a compromise for age restrictions, is a minor quibble for most players. The anticipation for a sequel, Survivor, is high, with hopes that Respawn has ample time to refine and deliver an even more polished experience.

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance (2013 Video Game)

A Nanomachine Odyssey

[21 September 2023]

Prepare for a hack-and-slash extravaganza in the Metal Gear universe, where cyborgs reign supreme. Join Raiden on his vengeful quest as he uncovers a conspiracy that threatens to ignite a global conflict, all while slicing adversaries into countless pieces.

Gameplay: If you've ever yearned for a science fiction-infused experience akin to Devil May Cry or Bayonetta, you've found your nirvana. Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance seamlessly blends exhilarating combat with captivating boss battles. The core gameplay revolves around executing intricate combos, eviscerating enemies into minuscule fragments, all set to an electrifying soundtrack.

As you progress, you'll acquire an arsenal of weapons and items scattered throughout the levels. Each boss encounter rewards you with a potent heavy attack weapon. Raiden's abilities and gear can be upgraded using a shared currency, also unlocking extras like skins and alternate weapons.

Characters: The game's cast brims with fascinating characters, each harbouring unique philosophies on life, war, and strength. Notably, Metal Gear's penchant for enigmatic characters shines through, adding an extra layer of intrigue. These characters, if you contemplate their perspectives, often mirror aspects of both their world and ours.

Story: Metal Gear Rising initially pits good against evil, with both factions deeply committed to their cause. However, as the story unfolds, you'll discover that these forces, seemingly opposed, share a darker commonality - an unquenchable thirst for power, willing to reshape history and cleanse the world, even at the cost of monstrosities. The line between protector and predator blurs, revealing a chilling symmetry.

Music: Metal Gear Rising's soundtrack stands as a masterpiece in its own right. The music accompanying each boss battle mirrors the clash of ideologies, immersing you in the adrenaline-pumping combat. While it might not rival the intensity of Doom's soundtrack, it wouldn't be a stretch to think it played a role in inspiring the iconic Doom soundtrack. Even if you're not inclined to play the game, do yourself a favour and give its boss music a listen; it's that exceptional.

Final Verdict: Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance, while slightly marred by remnants of its era, such as quick-time events, redeems itself with stylish visuals and smooth execution. Overall, it's an extraordinary gaming experience, offering unadulterated excitement."

Carrion (2020 Video Game)

Unleashing The Beast

[21 September 2023]

Carrion is a reverse horror game where you become the monster, exacting vengeance by devouring your enemies, leaving behind a trail of blood-soaked hallways and shattered objects. For those who relish the opportunity to play as the antagonist, this game promises pure delight.

Story: The tale unfolds with you, the monster, escaping from a containment tank to embark on a rampage. The narrative gradually takes shape through security tapes and data entries, weaving an intriguing web of mystery and questions that persist until the revelation at the end, which exposes the shocking truth.

Gameplay: This game thrusts you into the role of an unstoppable monster, fueled by an insatiable thirst for revenge and carnage. While the controls may take about ten minutes to master, the experience is undeniably exhilarating. Smashing through gates to obliterate unsuspecting victims, transforming pristine rooms into scenes from a cleaner's worst nightmare.

Enemies come in a variety of forms, each more formidable than the last. At some point, foes wield weapons designed to chip away at your health, represented as their friends' biomass-a truly grisly concept. Unfortunately, this aspect veers the experience toward puzzle-like gameplay. You must proceed cautiously, dispatching tougher adversaries without revealing your presence. Once these formidable foes are vanquished, you're rewarded with less resilient targets, rekindling the sensation of being a horrifying monster.

Visuals: Visually, the game boasts a retro pixelated style that works well. The monster and human designs are satisfactory. The primary downside lies in the homogeneity of most hallways, which can lead to disorientation. I found myself consulting maps online to navigate, which ultimately dampened my exploratory spirit.

Sound: The sound design is impeccable, enhancing the game's immersion. Every action generates convincing sound effects-a desk shatters, metal groans, a terrified enemy's scream feels palpable. The gore is audibly satisfying. The music, though somewhat generic in its horror ambiance, contributes to the overall atmosphere. It intensifies the tension, transforming you into a lurking predator when concealed or an enraged monstrosity when discovered. These sounds effectively convey the presence of a menacing unleashed creature.

Final Verdict: The game delivers a robust and enjoyable experience. The only significant drawback lies in the visuals, particularly the repetitive hallway design, which could benefit from refinement in a potential sequel. Nevertheless, it remains a solid and engrossing gaming experience.

Yes, Your Grace (2020 Video Game)

Ruthless Decisions With Long Standing Consequences

[21 September 2023]

"Yes, Your Grace" entrusts you with the straightforward task of governing a kingdom, along with all the attendant responsibilities. Like any sophisticated choice-driven game, it begins with relatively simple decisions, where outcomes hinge solely on the choices made. However, as you progress, the simple needs and wants of your people may evolve into full-fledged questlines with diverse paths determined by your decisions.

Visitors from all corners of the kingdom, and even from distant lands, seek your assistance, be they humble peasants, valiant soldiers, skilled mages, or foreign monarchs. Your role is to aid them and cater to their needs, or alternatively, allocate your resources for more challenging times, risking a decline in happiness. These choices can lead to growing distrust or even loss of life, demanding astute judgment to prioritize effectively.

The game introduces pivotal checkpoints in the overarching storyline, infusing a sense of urgency. Meeting these checkpoints necessitates amassing substantial resources, fortifying the castle and its walls through upgrades, and maintaining amicable relations with other lords and kings. Battles are demanding, requiring strategic deployment of your resources to seize opportunities and exercise patience when necessary. As your army swells with new recruits, occasional appearances by unique units signal their significance. Your trusted advisor keeps you apprised of kingdom affairs, offering guidance on when and how to employ various assets. This guidance extends to identifying effective unit matchups in battle, fostering a tactical edge.

Navigation in the game encompasses an interior castle map and an expansive regional map. The castle interiors offer diverse interactions and inhabitants, including your family members. These NPCs provide distinct perspectives and personalized counsel, contributing to the complexity of your decision-making. Just like other petitioners who frequent your throne room with their own needs and desires, your family members have individual requests, and neglecting them may yield intriguing consequences. Beyond the castle walls, numerous villages and points of interest await, populated by individuals who visit your court regularly. Assisting them when needed and leaving them content can lead to valuable assistance during the kingdom's inevitable trials.

The game's music is profoundly captivating, drawing inspiration from traditional Slavic music of Poland. It transports players to a bygone era with its exquisite instrumentals and evocative vocals. These melodies enhance the emotional depth of the game's light-hearted moments and heart-wrenching dilemmas. Polish games often excel in the realm of soundtracks, and "Yes, Your Grace" is no exception, reaching remarkable heights.

While "Yes, Your Grace" is relatively short and can be completed in just a few hours, its replayability factor is remarkably high. Even seemingly inconsequential decisions made early in the game can culminate in dramatically different outcomes. With its excellent hours-to-enjoyment ratio, this game is a solid purchase and highly recommendable.

You can find "Yes, Your Grace" on Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X/S and One, Windows, and macOS.

Gears Tactics (2020 Video Game)

Bringing New Life To An Old Series

[21 September 2023]

"Gears Tactics" is a spin-off from the main Gears of War game series, departing from its third-person shooter roots to adopt a turn-based strategy format, similar to XCOM.

As a subgenre that XCOM popularized back in 1994, more and more games are now embracing this style of gameplay, integrating it into their own universes. This style of play is often associated with its high difficulty level, featuring overwhelming enemies, seemingly improbable shots, and constant mission timers. These games are known for their challenging nature, throwing players into the thick of it from the get-go.

Where "Gears Tactics" truly shines is in its visual presentation and sound design. Crank up the settings to the max, and you'll be treated to beautifully rendered landscapes that pay homage to its inspirations. Every sound effect adds that necessary impact, elevating each encounter. Soldiers vocally communicate their actions with phrases like "roger" and "will do," and they report on enemy positions, movement decisions, skill usage, and overwatch status. These vocal cues help players strategize effectively during their turns, ensuring smooth and efficient gameplay.

Playing on a higher difficulty setting is strongly recommended. Even when everything seems perfect - enemies are flanked, weapons are reloaded, and skills are activated - there's always a chance that a 99% chance to hit misses. Fortunately, enemies also have a random factor in their actions, which keeps the game fair and allows for redemption after a mistake. The feeling of being in control and taking down formidable foes is a reward that many players seek after investing countless hours in a game. All XCOM-style games make it clear that a soldier, especially one you've relied on throughout the campaign, can be taken out by a single mistake or a lucky enemy hit (although "Gears Tactics" is more forgiving in this regard). The game constantly challenges you to think critically and adapt your tactics to various situations, making for an engaging experience from beginning to end.

However, the game's storytelling falls short. While the campaign is serviceable and includes some twists and turns, it's somewhat predictable. The decision to incorporate side missions to extend playtime is a drawback. Some main missions lead directly into cutscenes that segue into the next mission. Unfortunately, "Gears Tactics" forces players to complete side missions before progressing to the next main one. While this isn't inherently problematic, the execution leaves much to be desired. When the game prompts you to complete a side mission, you're presented with a choice of 3-4 missions, each with its own set of objectives and restrictions, and offering specific armor or weapon rewards. Moreover, you can't use the same soldiers for different missions within the same chapter. If you've focused on a small group of soldiers, this can be quite challenging and requires a more diverse tactical approach.

These games may not suit everyone. Whether you're playing on an easier difficulty or a harder one, the element of luck and randomness is always present, and it can turn a well-executed mission into chaos.

It's worth noting that "Gears Tactics" is exclusively available on Microsoft platforms, meaning you can only find it on PC or Xbox (including Xbox Game Pass).

Moonlighter (2018 Video Game)

Dungeon Delving and Shopkeeping

[28 August 2023]

At the core of every roguelike-style game lies its difficulty, replayability, freedom, and, most importantly, its gameplay loop, all aimed at captivating players for many hours of enjoyment. Moonlighter encompasses all these aspects with meticulous attention to each of its mechanics. However, while the dungeon-crawling elements are executed exceptionally well, as expected from any roguelike, it's the simple yet engaging management mechanics involving owning a shop and selling items obtained from fallen enemies that truly shine.

Gameplay: Moonlighter masterfully combines the thrill of dungeon-crawling with the intricacies of a store management simulator. The protagonist embarks on a journey through five forgotten dungeons, each housing unique enemies and specific requirements. Items acquired from defeated foes can be collected and then either used to upgrade equipment or put up for sale. The shop management aspect, forming the second core gameplay element, brings a dynamic market where pricing invokes emotional responses from customers. Throughout the day, various events unfold in the store, from daring thieves attempting to snatch hard-earned items to affluent patrons making grandiose entrances. Even NPCs approach, requesting specific items. These NPCs often seek items from your current dungeon or previous ones, prompting players to weigh the value of the reward. A shop assistant serves multiple roles, including thwarting thieves or temporarily taking charge of the store in exchange for a share of the profits. Customers' reactions vary based on pricing and perceived value, ranging from contented smiles (Ah, this item's a steal, dinner is on me tonight) to disgruntled frowns (This guy's trying to swindle us; I won't be returning). Striking a delicate balance between fetching the best price for an item and keeping customers content is a pivotal challenge.

Story: Your mission is to resurrect a once-thriving city that has seen better days, to turn near-nothingness into a vibrant community. This essentially involves crafting something out of nearly nothing, accompanied by intriguing revelations and a mildly surprising twist towards the journey's conclusion. While the story has its moments of intrigue, it isn't the standout feature; gameplay aptly compensates for any narrative shortcomings.

Graphics and Animation: In the realm of Moonlighter, everything sways and undulates in the breeze. Graphics possess a subjective allure, where what captivates one person might not resonate with another. Moonlighter employs a distinctive, cartoony art style that imbues environments and creatures with lively animations, creating an endearing atmosphere. Some adversaries boast exaggerated wind-up animations, preceding their basic or charged attacks. This attention to detail extends to the main character as well. Inside the shop, each collected item finds its place, often shielded by glass panels, ensuring protection from would-be thieves.

Music and Sound Cues: Indie games inhabit a unique space within the gaming industry. While budget constraints might preclude them from hiring full orchestras or renowned composers, their resourcefulness and creativity often shine through. Moonlighter embraces this indie spirit, offering a soundtrack with medieval undertones enhanced by sprinkles of magical flair. On the auditory front, sound cues are particularly exceptional. Whether it's the resounding clash of a weapon, the thud of a fall, or the varied sounds of contentment or dissatisfaction from clients, these cues punctuate the experience adeptly.

Customization: Customization unfolds through the acquisition of armour and furniture for your shop. Each piece of armour, finely crafted and geared toward different attributes, presents unique gameplay possibilities. The heaviest armour maximizes health but hampers mobility, while another set might adopt the opposite approach. Each armour piece subtly alters your character's appearance. Likewise, furniture purchases for the store introduce both visual changes and tangible effects. These effects range from hastening customer movement and dwell times to extending business hours and diminishing the threat of theft. These incremental changes combine to create an immersive gaming experience, instilling a sense of purposeful progression.

Weapon Variety: The backbone of your offensive capabilities encompasses a selection of melee and ranged weapons. Choices range from sword-and-shield combinations, two-handed swords, spears, brass knuckles, to bows. Just as with armour, each weapon choice aligns with a distinct playstyle. Personally, I opted for the two-handed sword and paired it with heavy (albeit slow) armor, a combination that proved remarkably effective.

End-Game State: Following completion of the main game-having conquered every dungeon, sold all the necessary items, and unravelled the game's twist-what lies ahead? Challenge yourself by navigating dungeons using only one weapon or abstaining from potions. Discover the perfect selling price for each item (there are numerous items to consider), strive to attain every achievement, or amass as much as you possibly can.

DLC: Moonlighter's sole DLC, "Between Dimensions," introduces fresh challenges in the form of novel enemies, bosses, weapons, armour, and new tradeable items. Although I haven't personally played it, judging by the base game's polish and depth, I expect the DLC maintains a comparable level of quality. For fans of the original game seeking to extend their adventure, "Between Dimensions" seems to satisfy that desire admirably.

Moonlighter is available on various platforms, including Windows (Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG.com, Humble Bundle, GameFly for PS4/Switch, Green Man Gaming, Xbox App), macOS, SteamOS + Linux, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Android, and iOS.

Wildcat Gun Machine (2022 Video Game)

A Bullet Hell Adventure with Highs and Lows

[28 August 2023]

Wildcat Gun Machine, an indie game developed by Chunkybox Games, marries bullet hell and dungeon crawler elements to create an engaging experience. The game offers a solid bullet-hell adventure with minimal downtime, a gradually increasing difficulty curve, on-the-fly decision-making, and a consistent influx of new items and spells. While the gameplay doesn't deviate significantly from the genre norms, it introduces another entry point for exploration.

One standout aspect is the soundtrack and the variety of weapons and enemies. The game keeps things fresh by introducing new mechanics constantly, testing players' memory of enemy behaviours. It's a title where mastering the mechanics and devising strategies for each obstacle yields satisfying results.

Gameplay: At its core, Wildcat Gun Machine demands players focus on crowd control, manage ability cooldowns, and navigate intricate projectile patterns. Beginning as a welcoming experience, the game gradually intensifies, throwing more enemies, harder-hitting weapons, and reduced armour and health pickups at players. The game incorporates specific challenge rooms with varying mechanics, adding layers of difficulty.

Progression is tied to defeating bosses and acquiring weapon and skill upgrades. Players purchase these upgrades from a store at the start of each level, choosing what to bring based on inventory limitations. Despite its relatively short duration, the game introduces new enemies, mechanics, and weapons consistently, contributing to a satisfactory sense of progression.

The checkpoint system is notable, allowing respawns before the specific room where players died, albeit with a limited number of chances. This unique mechanic employs ethereal cats as a representation of respawns, adding a distinct touch to the game's style.

Graphics: Wildcat Gun Machine's graphical style might be subjective, as opinions on visuals can vary widely. The game focuses creative energy on enemy designs, resulting in fleshy/robotic creatures with grotesque attributes. Environment design takes a backseat, with most effort directed towards enemies and unique weapons.

Music and Soundtrack: The game excels in the soundtrack department, kicking off with a dark disco menu theme that sets the tone. Each boss has its own distinct song, adding depth to the experience. However, while weapons and monsters possess unique sounds, they sometimes lack distinction, impacting the overall auditory experience.

Customization: Customization is minimal, but this limitation doesn't hinder the gameplay. Changing weapons alters the character's appearance during combat, and though it's the only visual change, it doesn't detract from the game's enjoyment.

Weapon Variety: Wildcat Gun Machine boasts a rich assortment of weapons that cater to diverse playstyles. Classic damage-boosting weapons, piercing projectiles, explosives, energy beams, and more create interesting choices for players. The game's incorporation of unique mechanics helps alleviate potential monotony in the bullet hell genre.

Difficulty: The game's difficulty curve is well-crafted, gradually introducing new mechanics and challenges to players. While boss battles are generally engaging, some could be more dynamic. The final segment, however, experiences a sudden difficulty spike that feels harsh. Overall, the difficulty progression and design are commendable.

Visual and Gameplay Bugs, Crashes and Such: Despite its merits, Wildcat Gun Machine struggles with visual bugs, sound cues disruptions, and spells failing to activate. More significant issues, like weapon malfunctions and unresponsive respawn buttons, occasionally necessitate a complete game restart. It's evident that the game could benefit from more thorough quality assurance.

Replayability: Although Wildcat Gun Machine offers a variety of weapons for experimentation, the power creep of newer weapon sets often renders the previous ones ineffective. The game's brevity and the finite viability of weapons make it suitable for a single playthrough. However, those who truly enjoy it might attempt another run with a different approach.

DLC: Wildcat Gun Machine's single DLC, the Supporter Pack, includes exclusive weapon skins, the complete soundtrack, and a companion named "Captain Chunky." While the DLC is affordable and a way to support the developers, its value ultimately depends on the player's preference.

Conclusion: Wildcat Gun Machine provides a solid entry into the bullet hell genre, offering a gateway for exploration. It presents an engaging gameplay experience, particularly with its varied weaponry and enemy mechanics. However, the game's experience is hampered by gameplay and visual bugs. While the game holds promise, it could benefit from further refinement.

Wildcat Gun Machine is available on various platforms, including Windows (Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG.com, Humble Bundle, Green Man Gaming, Xbox App), Xbox (One, Series X/S), PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch.

Empire of Sin (2020 Video Game)

A Roaring 1920s Gangster Saga with Strategy, Story, and Jazz

[28 August 2023]

Empire of Sin is an Xcom-style strategy game blended with a semi city-builder/management simulation. You're firmly placed in the 1920s Prohibition era, right in the heart of gang-infested Chicago, engaged in a battle for control. Initially engaging and thought-demanding, the game's complexity wanes as you progress, offering various mechanics to explore and playstyles to experiment with. However, these aspects are marred by its sparse storyline, singular path to victory, and lenient difficulty.

The gameplay necessitates strategic thinking for every encounter, demanding adaptability as situations change. As you grasp the mechanics and equip your companions optimally, challenges ease quickly, turning the latter parts into a breeze. Constructing diverse businesses requires resources like money and alcohol, prompting you to defend them swiftly. Upgrades play a role too, affecting income and even police activities in the area.

To conquer the story, total domination is the route, as you're required to defeat each leader on the map. Nonetheless, more diverse victory avenues would have been welcome. Graphics are impressive, especially on maximum settings, offering a moody and atmospheric rendition of 1920s Chicago. The inclusion of jazz music immerses players in the era, enhancing the overall experience.

Empire of Sin offers an array of weaponry, from guns and shotguns to snipers, rifles, machine guns, and a plethora of melee weapons. This variety ensures different weapons excel in distinct situations. The game's two facets encompass Xcom-style strategy with character/weapon attributes and city builder/management simulation. Engaging with gang leaders involves exploiting cover, choke points, and various strategies. The inclusion of unique weapons, buffs, and business arrangements adds depth.

The 'Black Book' mechanic introduces engaging companions with intricate relationships. These connections impact the characters' loyalty to your cause. While the concept has potential, some relationships can lead to unexpected outcomes, deepening the narrative experience.

The game's Prohibition-era Chicago setting hosts a gang war, each neighbourhood controlled by distinct gangsters. Although backstories are present, they lack depth, and the quest structure can become repetitive. Diversifying the path to victory beyond domination would enhance the game's appeal.

The graphics capture the era's essence, with effective lighting and attention to detail. The soundtrack predominantly features jazz, accurately mirroring the time, while the audio design complements the atmosphere. However, character voices are somewhat limited.

Regarding customization, weapons alter characters' appearances during combat, while building sizes affect business interiors. The weapon variety, encompassing guns, shotguns, snipers, and more, suits diverse playstyles.

The game's difficulty curve poses an issue. Early challenges are surmountable, but mid-game onward becomes dominated by easy encounters due to powerful hired guns. The achievements, while numerous, are often tedious rather than rewarding.

In conclusion, Empire of Sin provides an engaging 1920s Prohibition-era experience with a blend of strategy and city management elements. While it excels in some respects, like weaponry variety and atmospheric graphics, it falters in others, such as limited victory paths and lacklustre storytelling. The game's engaging mechanics hold promise, but it's hindered by its overall execution.

Everspace 2 (2021 Video Game)

A Grand Adventure with Humanity at the Forefront

[24 August 2023]

Everspace II presents a cosmic adventure filled with combat, exploration, mining, interaction, and simply existing within a vast world that's not tailored solely for your presence, but rather one in which you coexist. It's an immersive space simulation featuring a modest yet distinctly human narrative, eschewing the tired trope of yet another civilization's desire to obliterate us. With solid mechanics complemented by weighty flight mechanics, impactful weaponry, and formidable AI, the game enthralls players with awe-inspiring space vistas. The soundtrack and sound design punctuate every fleeting moment, juxtaposing serene ambient sounds with heart-pounding warning signals, such as those announcing the approach of a dozen missiles.

Gameplay and Mechanics:

In a space simulation, ship maneuverability and weaponry are key elements. Starting with weaponry, from the smallest mining laser to the thunderous explosions of missiles, each emitted a satisfying crunch, encompassing distinct styles that cater to various playstyles.

Everspace II boasts a diverse array of ships, each catering to different approaches in engaging enemies and completing objectives. Smaller ships emphasize agility, enabling you to evade attacks with ease, yet a single hit can deal considerable damage. Medium-class ships strike a balance, offering more weapons and defenses compared to smaller counterparts, albeit at slightly slower speeds. Finally, the larger vessels, my personal preference, sacrifice agility for robust defenses and a formidable arsenal. Each ship comes with its unique playstyle, passive abilities, and ultimate abilities, significantly influencing the ebb and flow of battles. My favored choice, the heavy bomber, featured the largest inventory, altered secondary weapons to consume ship energy instead of personal ammo (a clever mechanic), and an ultimate attack reminiscent of DOOM's "BFG" that obliterated everything on-screen. This ship also allowed me to convert mines into allies, adding to its strategic versatility. The variety between ships is remarkable, offering distinct gameplay experiences.

Another intriguing element is the integration of the perk system. While your character can level up and boost skills every 5 levels, gathering items through mining, raiding, quests, and destruction enables you to upgrade your companions' passive abilities. These incremental enhancements-some quite substantial-alter how you approach different mechanics within Everspace II. This innovative system adds depth to the game.

Graphics and Visuals:

Everspace II maintains visual diversity throughout its journey. It seamlessly transitions from a galaxy bursting with vivid colors and a wide range of planets showcasing diverse biomes, to desolate suns radiating blue-white hues, signifying their impending doom and leaving behind barren worlds. Such stark contrasts invite contemplation about the galaxy's history and its myriad mysteries, fostering immersive engagement. The copious mist effects contribute to the immersive experience, obscuring vision and creating moments of suspense, especially when navigating amidst asteroids and structures. As the game progresses, a different civilization is introduced, ushering in a fresh visual design distinct from the previous settings. Everspace II boasts a plethora of environments to satisfy various player preferences.

Sound Design and Music:

A successful space adventure game strategically employs sound to convey the atmosphere. Everspace II does this adeptly, drenching players in a spectrum of sounds that match the current scenario or, alternatively, allowing moments of auditory serenity to resonate.

Diverse sounds for each weapon are expected, but Everspace II takes this to another level. Missiles barrages, laser blasts, cannons, and autocannons each carve out their acoustic niche, enhancing the sensory experience and emphasizing their devastating impact.

When it comes to the soundtrack, science fiction thrives on boundless potential and wonder. Accordingly, Everspace II's music captivates players by alternating between slow and enthralling melodies that perfectly complement the grandeur of space, whether it's in moments of tranquility or during tense sequences.

Game Setting:

Set in the distant future, Everspace II envisions a universe where humanity has mastered FTL travel, establishing amicable connections with alien species. The game offers a glimpse into the achievements of humanity, showcasing sprawling settlements on space stations, bustling trading ports, asteroid outposts, ship construction hubs, and mining planets. The galaxy appears balanced, with races cooperating in their unique ways-though this harmony is a facade, thinly veiling simmering tensions.

Overall Story, Side Quests, and More:

Everspace II delves into the intricacies of human behavior, reflecting both its positive and negative facets. Without revealing too much, the game underscores that even in the future, our core traits endure, with our flaws magnified on a cosmic scale. The narrative delves into greed and individualism that endanger the greater good, a theme relevant across eras.

Cutscenes employ stop-motion animation, standing out while effectively conveying the story's essence. Regardless of the visual style, captivating cutscenes are paramount. However, an issue arises when cutscene dialogues continue within text boxes, obstructing menus and momentarily wresting control from players.

Everspace II offers a lengthy playtime of around 30 hours for the main storyline. Yet, there are instances where certain main quests feel like filler, with quest objectives diverging from the storyline. While this could have been avoided, the developers chose a grounded narrative over an epic intergalactic war, a bold decision that sets the game apart.

Side quests add depth, with some even intertwining with the main story and touching on themes such as humanity, technology, tradition, and economics. However, an aspect that detracts from their enjoyment is the significant travel time required due to the game's structure, making these quests feel somewhat tedious.

Visuals, Audio, Gameplay, Crashes, and More:

Visual glitches are rare and audio hiccups include sporadic issues transitioning between battle and exploration music. While Everspace II is solid in terms of gameplay and stability, it does encounter the occasional audio bug. Overall, the game runs smoothly even on older hardware.

Replayability:

Upon completing the main game, an arena mode becomes available, introducing roguelike elements and providing a challenging combat experience. Here, players fend off waves of enemies in exchange for the opportunity to modify subsequent enemy waves. This adds replayability for those seeking a greater challenge after completing quests.

In conclusion, Everspace II draws inspiration from its predecessors while carving out its identity. It's a game that merits exploration despite certain inconsistencies and quirks.

The Wild at Heart (2021 Video Game)

An Adventure Through a Mystical Forest

[14 August 2023]

The Wild at Heart is an interesting game for a very specific audience. It offers a colourful world filled to the brim with different and unique creatures and places. Players are introduced to its mechanics gradually with just enough time between each of them to evade becoming boring. The Wild at Heart can prove to be challenging, particularly when played on the harder difficulty setting. Yet, it can also offer moments of pure bliss once you have figured it out. However, one consistent aspect is its propensity to be frustrating.

One of its standout mechanics is the 'Overlord' mechanic, a concept largely relegated to a game of bygone times and is rarely seen. The game adopts and adapts this mechanic in its unique way, even refining it compared to its initial presentation years ago. As you progress, you're introduced to a diverse array of creatures and enemies, each with precise strategies to overcome. The creatures you gather to form your small makeshift army become indispensable allies in your battles. The game world presents zones that you can traverse, with barriers that can only be bypassed or puzzles that can be solved as you gather more creatures. This approach, extending the gameplay even into the game's later stages, adds an interesting layer.

The difficulty settings are divided into two options: one that is almost too breezy and another that's more challenging. However, the latter can prove problematic-if you lose too many of your makeshift army, you're forced to backtrack and gather more resources before attempting again. Perhaps an intermediate difficulty option could have provided a more balanced experience.

The game world is partitioned into zones that you can navigate between as needed. Progression hinges on meeting specific criteria. Visually, this world is enchanting and endearing, and many objects can be manipulated, destroyed, or collected, contributing to your currency reserves (which will become essential later). Occasionally, specific items are required to unlock certain gates, often located within the same zone but guarded by intricate puzzles. While the puzzles vary in difficulty, they generally cater to newcomers, emphasizing logic and creativity, while others demand precise timing for successful completion. No matter the puzzle type, observing and following the pathways to different interactive elements usually enables you to solve them within a couple of tries.

Regrettably, the gameplay did not resonate with me; it felt somewhat floaty, imprecise, and occasionally unresponsive to my commands. This sentiment hindered puzzle-solving and enemy encounters, leading to protracted sessions and repeated loss of lives, requiring a return to replenishing minions. Some foes presented unique challenges, necessitating specific actions to defeat them. However, with minions that don't consistently heed your directions, these encounters could be exasperating. The game also incorporates a night cycle, initially frustrating due to the lack of options-during nighttime, running is your sole recourse (although you can sleep in your camp, which took me some time to figure out). I completed the game in about 10-13 hours, accounting for most collectibles and side activities. The story is concise yet engaging, punctuated by meaningful revelations and plot twists that sustain interest.

Ultimately, The Wild at Heart draws inspiration from other titles, many of which executed these concepts more effectively. Nonetheless, it's still worth a trial, though it is tailored to a specific audience.

Weird West (2022 Video Game)

A Western Adventure with Supernatural Surprises

[14 August 2023]

A Western action-adventure graced with impactful choices and RPG elements. The allure is so compelling that it could bring a tear to my eye, and then it exceeded even that initial promise. This game teems with supernatural entities, ranging from werewolves and zombies to witches and beyond.

Gameplay: Traditionally, I'm not inclined toward top-down perspectives. Therefore, as I embarked on this journey, I leaned into stealth tactics and time-slow abilities. Yet, after the first hour, I realized I possessed ample ammunition to expend. Once I began shooting, an innate connection clicked into place. Although I still missed half my shots, the sensation of progress was unmistakable. By the conclusion, I may not have achieved marksman status, but I certainly accomplished my mission. I now employ the time-slow ability primarily for stylish manoeuvres or to heighten the cool factor.

Gunplay and weapon progression within Weird West are commendable. However, I restricted myself to a solitary set of weapons, encountering a lack of diversity among firearms. The choice often boiled down to distance, damage, or rate of fire. With range and rate of fire yielding marginal impact, damage emerged as the optimal path. Melee combat introduced a standout weapon that overshadowed its counterparts; intriguingly, it's bestowed upon players free of charge in the third story act.

Utilizing rifles often felt like handicapping myself. As the current state stands, rifles appeared as marginally inferior substitutes for pistols, differing primarily in perks and marginally extended range.

Lastly, each character boasts unique abilities, albeit with only a few proving practical across various scenarios. The possibility of combining abilities with elemental aspects exists, indicating that perhaps I didn't explore these synergies adequately.

Story: Weird West's narrative revolves around the fates of five characters, directed by a sixth-namely, the player. Each character bears distinct branding and elusive memories, but only under my command do they manifest. This introduces a fascinating dichotomy where the player operates as a distinct entity controlling the marionettes. Embarking on five distinctive stories intricately connected to the overarching plot was captivating and enjoyable, with the second tale holding a special place in my preference. Yet, a noteworthy flaw lies in the urgency prevalent in each story. Strangely, embarking on side missions or exploratory endeavours doesn't seem to yield consequential outcomes despite the narrative's time constraints.

Character Dynamics: Diverse and captivating characters abound, yet some remain enigmatic. While the core ensemble is intriguing, brimming with mystery, peripheral characters tend to fade once their quests are complete. A few engage in side quests, resulting in newfound friendships with the character aiding them. These allies occasionally intervene during critical moments. Regrettably, their utility is questionable and, in the case of melee-inclined allies, occasionally irksome due to the need to avoid accidental friendly fire.

Intermittent character reappearances are golden moments. Seldom do I remember last feeling suspicion toward a character, only to be delightfully surprised. Others inject levity into random encounters, their familiarity and concealed intentions elevating the experience.

Playable characters exude distinct personalities and become recruitable following the resolution of their stories. Their commentary on the surroundings often proves more amusing and insightful than the utterances of randomly enlisted counterparts.

Aural Landscape: The musical backdrop is splendid, encapsulating the Western ambiance perfectly. However, the recurring main theme sometimes fades into the background due to its frequency.

Weaponry bears distinctive audio signatures that amplify their impact, particularly evident in the shotgun's resonating blast. The result is an incredibly satisfying shooting experience. Environmental elements like crackling fires and natural sounds contribute to the immersive world-building. Unfortunately, certain monster growls fail to exude the expected menace.

Final Verdict: Weird West is a thrilling adventure that imparts a novel approach to gameplay. Its narrative and characters captivate yet fall slightly short when compared to the developers' previous works. The prospect of revisiting this enchanting realm holds undeniable allure. Just when I believed I had witnessed everything it had to offer, Weird West astonishes me anew with an unforeseen array of oddities.

Olija (2021 Video Game)

A Pixelated Odyssey of Action and Exploration

[14 August 2023]

Olija presents an utterly unique action game, drawing inspiration from the graphics of bygone eras and deftly transporting them into the modern day with a refreshing twist.

The crowning jewel of this experience undoubtedly lies in its masterfully composed soundtrack and nuanced voice acting (even if it's of the mumbling variety). These two elements seamlessly intertwine to create an auditory landscape that oscillates between somber tones, mild darkness, and occasional uplifting moments. The soundtrack, much like a chameleon, adapts to different settings within the game, a hallmark feature in any game, cultivating an immersive atmosphere that complements the unfolding events or those on the horizon.

In the realm of gameplay, Olija offers a breakneck-paced, side-scrolling action experience embellished with an arsenal of various weapons and cunning techniques. This dynamic amalgamation is complemented by a minimalist yet commendable enemy design and a roster of unique yet manageable bosses. Instead of inundating players with a multitude of options (reminiscent of the likes of cough Borderlands cough), Olija focuses on a well-crafted selection, where each weapon and trick can shine within the context of diverse scenarios. Although adaptable across situations, each weapon distinctly excels under specific circumstances, often presenting a convenient path to dispatch foes or conquer bosses. The action unfolds fluidly, punctuated by impactful blows that render enemies into exploding masses, accompanied by a resounding CRUNCH that adds to the visceral satisfaction. While enemy variety might be modest, it remains sufficient, each adversary boasting its own combat style that coerces players to continuously adapt their approach.

As for the difficulty, the game maintains an air of respectability. At no point does it feel unfair, where projectiles magically land when they shouldn't. Every interaction is marked by responsiveness, and in instances where demise does befall, it's attributed to a personal miscalculation rather than a fault of the game mechanics. While it doesn't necessarily qualify as arduous, certain segments might warrant a handful of retries, yet the game's overall trajectory is characterized by a balanced challenge. An inclusion of an option to elevate the difficulty could have enriched the experience, particularly since the game equips players with potent tools early on, possibly benefiting from an added layer of challenge. For those yearning the catharsis of supreme domination, Olija offers the gratification of effortlessly asserting dominance, providing a captivating power fantasy that's realized in exquisite detail.

Visual cohesion reigns supreme, depicted through a mosaic of pixelated graphics. This aesthetic is distinctive, infusing life into every facet of the environment, spanning the forefront to the distant backdrop. Every object boasts individual animation nuances, lending the surroundings a dynamic quality. The aforementioned instances of explosive impact, where limbs scatter and blood stains the ground, become a spectacle worth observing-an auditory and visual symphony of satisfaction.

Guiding the narrative is Faraday, the protagonist who awakens in an unfamiliar and inhospitable realm. Armed with only his determination and accompanied by fellow castaways, he embarks on a journey to reclaim his homeland. While the term "metroidvania" is commonly bandied about, it is a well-entrenched aspect of game design frequently employed by numerous titles. The game offers the freedom to chart your course, yet this freedom may occasionally lead to moments of "Not yet equipped to proceed" or "You lack the requisite item." A minor hindrance, but a minor one, nonetheless.

Olija awaits discovery across various platforms, spanning Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Nintendo Switch, and PS4.

Dreamscaper (2021 Video Game)

Harmony Through Balance and Understanding

[9 August 2023]

Dreamscaper is an indie game that seamlessly blends roguelike elements across two distinct realms: one in the waking world and another within the dream realm.

The standout feature is undoubtedly the gameplay, offering an extensive selection of weaponry-both melee and ranged-a diverse range of shields, potent offensive and traversal spells, a variety of enemy types to keep players vigilant, and skillfully placed hazards throughout the levels. This amalgamation results in an immensely satisfying grind, providing players with a compelling experience. The weaponry, in particular, deserves commendation. Ranging from the fundamental, featuring simple animations and swing patterns, to late-game arms sporting unique designs and effects, even including nods to other video games (which players will easily recognize). A notable aspect is the game's incorporation of feedback with every strike, intensifying the screen tremors upon powerful attacks, effectively conveying a sense of impact. Furthermore, the ranged weapons and spells contribute an enriching variety, injecting vitality into the gameplay with their impressive particle effects and gratifying animations. Although, it's worth noting that as the game progresses, unlocking these weapons and spells necessitates a growing amount of grinding, which may prove wearisome for many players, as it did for me.

The sound mixing and soundtrack offer a skillful blend of serene melodies during exploration and the expected fast-paced compositions during combat. What truly shines is the inclusion of distinctive sound cues for every interaction in both the waking and dreaming realms. These cues are accompanied by specific soundtracks that amplify the impact of each hit on an enemy, coupled with distinct auditory responses that correspond to the strength of the equipped weapon or spell. While acknowledging that many games employ similar techniques, praise should be reserved for those who manage to infuse unique elements or achieve exceptionally gratifying results. Notably, considering Dreamscaper is the developer's maiden game, it certainly falls into the latter category.

The visual style of a game can often make or break its overall impact. Yet, the ultimate judgment depends on the individual player's preferences and whether the visual aesthetic manages to captivate them. Dreamscaper marries a minimalist, almost hand-painted visual approach for its terrain and background, while incorporating a cohesive low-poly design throughout. The visual style notably improves in the later levels, especially with the background objects in the night level.

Thanks to the game's extensive assortment of weapons and spells, Dreamscaper boasts considerable replayability. Players can fluidly experiment with different playstyles, striving to conquer the game through various approaches. Personally, I favored adopting a direct, bruiser-style method, recklessly diving into combat, battering foes, and swiftly moving to the next target. Admittedly, being straightforward is a personal forte. However, the game accommodates diverse playstyles, whether one prefers to harness the might of spellcasting with electrifying jumps or strategically incorporate different elemental gear for explosive outcomes. Alternatively, the joy of being an agile archer or rogue, nimbly darting through the environment, evading attacks with finesse, and causing adversaries to miss, is equally satisfying. Freedom is the essence here, and it promises pure enjoyment. Although, let's be candid: being a bruiser is fun; delivering unyielding face-to-face blows is precisely what you might imagine. Us warrior players are consistently at the forefront of close-quarter confrontations.

The distinctive dual playing fields offer a compelling blend of interactions. In the waking realm, players build relationships within the town, uncovering tales that delve deeper into the lore, while enhancing passive abilities and progressively unlocking a diverse array of weaponry. Once players step into Cassidy's subconscious, they unearth concealed secrets that further enrich the lore and narrative. Here, adversaries are faced head-on, with the freedom to embrace various combat styles, and the opportunity to master gear, eventually unlocking new attributes. These two realms harmoniously complement each other, yielding a more profound and captivating gameplay experience.

Dreamscaper, crafted by the talented developers at Afterburner Studios, emerges as a charming gem. With its robust gameplay mechanics, an extensive spectrum of playstyles, and an endearing narrative, Dreamscaper undoubtedly stands out amidst the ocean of video games.

Sifu (2022 Video Game)

Mastery Through Trial and Error

[8 August 2023]

A 3rd-person beat-em-up with roguelike elements mashed in, bringing kung-fu to the forefront and actually succeeding where few have before. The only downside I had with it is the time to beat, since you are engrossed from start to finish and it all just ends abruptly. Although Sifu is a pretty short game, it more than makes up for it with all the masterfully crafted levels.

As gaming has become more mainstream, more people are joining the hobby each day, but a well-made tutorial is a requirement even for seasoned players. Sifu handles its tutorial the correct way; it explains every system and how it works, giving you just enough leeway to figure everything else out on your own.

Now, let's talk about the gameplay, or as they say, the fun part. Sifu throws everything it has at you and challenges you to get the upper hand and ultimately beat it. As you start going through the levels, you'll experience both pain and joy.

Pain comes in the form of dying a whole bunch, but you don't feel like you were cheated. The game telegraphs every attack to an extreme level, so you can never blame the game; only that the NPC was faster. Mastery comes from repetition and constantly striving to improve.

Joy comes from feeling like a badass martial artist as you defeat countless enemies and improve your timing and precision. Normal enemies range from cannon fodder to some even achieving boss-level difficulty. Take, for instance, the Legendary system from Fallout 4, where when you get an enemy to half health, you receive a notification saying blank has mutated and it starts doing more damage and is again at full health. Well, something like that.

The bosses are where these types of games shine, and in Sifu, it does not disappoint. It's becoming more commonplace in games, but every boss has a second phase, with a standout being one named 'The Artist'. Each has its own form of combat that you need to study and ultimately overcome. As much as every boss is cool with their unique moves and style, something that's also a standout is their level design. All of their battles have absolutely breathtaking designs, and some scenes are straight out of movies, which is always a plus.

Since we were discussing level design and overall design, Sifu blends tradition with the new wave and brings something unique, even surpassing some AAA games, which is a feat in itself, but still requires some work to achieve. The levels are masterfully constructed, from every leaf to every large neon sign. It uses visual storytelling as an immersion technique and to engage every player in the long run. The world of Sifu looks beautiful, unique, and, pardon the overused saying, 'lived in'.

Soundtrack and sound design are once again high points. Depending on the circumstance, the music needs to pump up your adrenaline during fights and tense moments and ease up when you're just walking around. Every hit and crack sound crisp, and every weapon has a much-needed 'WHACK' to it. In the moments you get to breathe and calm down, the accompanying soundtrack elevates the immediate surroundings. Music is an integral part of the whole video game experience; bad sound can ruin an experience, while some soundtracks receive as much love as the game itself. An example would be The Witcher. Sifu does not reach such heights, but it is above average for sure.

Lastly, let's touch on the story. Sifu follows the tale of a troubled student out for revenge after his master is killed, and that's as far as I can go without spoiling the story. It's not groundbreaking, nor should it always be. It's a satisfactory story for a solid game. After beating it, you can play it again to get another ending.

With so many new games coming out, whether indie or AAA or anything in between, Sifu delivers satisfying gameplay, hard-hitting music, and beautiful level design. Ultimately, it's a game worth playing!

Beyond Blue (2020 Video Game)

A Relaxing Adventure into the Depths of the Ocean

[17 July 2023]

Beyond Blue is a short yet delightful game set in the near future, focused on exploring the ocean and undertaking various missions to learn about different species and their unique aspects, such as habitat, behaviour, mating, hunting, and more. Each mission follows Mirai and her colleagues as they embark on their quest, with a primary focus on studying whales and their distinct songs. The game offers enjoyable, albeit repetitive, gameplay, showcasing unique animations and characteristics for each aquatic animal. While Beyond Blue may have some rough edges and a short duration, it provides a calming experience centred around the wonders of the ocean.

Gameplay and Mechanics: Beyond Blue is divided between two worlds. The main one involves traversing the ocean in search of specific species to aid the research conducted by various scientists, with the hope of developing future medical advancements for humankind. This includes exploring underwater caves, salt-covered floors teeming with life, and dark ocean depths, where you can encounter even more unique forms of marine life. In each mission, you set up GPS sensors to track the routes and behaviours of the animals or locate sensors that have gone astray due to unusual movement or detachment.

The other world exists within the underwater base, serving as a hub between missions. Here, you can read sticky notes that provide insights into Mirai's thoughts, research progress, and important information. The base also features a 3D hologram machine that displays scanned creatures, a music player allowing you to switch between original and existing songs, and a chair with a massive window into the ocean, allowing you to observe its inhabitants. This aspect of the game adds a slice-of-life element, providing opportunities to engage in conversations with colleagues about their research.

Beyond Blue's presentation bears resemblance to Subnautica, although it takes a more scientific approach to wildlife. For those familiar with Subnautica, it is known to evoke moments of terror. In contrast, Beyond Blue allows players to scan each creature, gaining knowledge about their species and unique characteristics. After scanning, holograms of the creatures can be viewed, showcasing different animations based on their resting, moving, and hunting states. Beyond Blue offers a wealth of information for those who seek it, particularly appealing to detail-oriented players. Additionally, the game features documentaries covering a wide range of topics related to aquatic life, ocean conservation, and more.

Graphics and Visuals: Beyond Blue exhibits rough edges in its graphics, but shines in its underwater segments, where creatures and surfaces possess a subtle blue hue. The game showcases coral reefs, sandy floors, various species of aquatic inhabitants, and drones illuminating dark depths that have not seen light for millions of years.

Sound Design and Music: Playing Beyond Blue with headphones or in a quiet environment is advisable, as the majority of the game takes place underwater, resulting in quiet yet detailed sound effects. Between missions, music plays constantly in the base, featuring Mirai's personal playlist with selected songs to pass the time. Notably, an original song is introduced as a demo variant during the missions, and the finalized version is presented during the end credits. The diegetic nature of the songs adds to the game's atmospheric charm, particularly during missions set in the pitch-black depths of the ocean.

Voice acting in the game is well executed by all actors, with a good balance in sound mixing that doesn't overshadow other sound design elements. However, there may be a bug as some spoken lines sound distant, as if they were spoken away from the microphone. More attention could have been given to addressing such bugs, as this issue is present in gameplay and cutscenes. Nonetheless, overall voice acting is exceptional, with only minor hiccups.

Overall Story, Side Quests, and More: In Beyond Blue, players assume the role of Mirai, a deep-sea explorer and scientist, who, along with her trusted colleagues, embarks on a mission to learn as much as possible about the sea and the secrets its inhabitants may hold. Each scientist supports one another in times of difficulty, offering emotional assistance, advice, and help in both personal and mission-related matters. Mirai's personal quest revolves around understanding the fascinating world of whales and deciphering the meaning behind their songs. However, unforeseen troubles arise, jeopardizing their plans and forcing them to uncover the cause. Throughout the journey, maintaining relationships with colleagues and Mirai's sister becomes paramount.

Visual and Gameplay Bugs, Crashes, and such: I am pleased to report that I encountered no bugs, whether in gameplay, visuals, or audio, and the game remained stable from start to finish.

Replayability: Beyond Blue does not offer additional content after the credits roll. However, players can revisit previously completed levels to fill their log, attempting to document every flora and fauna encountered. It's important to note that gathering complete information about a specific species requires multiple scans.

While Beyond Blue is a short game, it compensates for its brevity with knowledge and exploration for those seeking a relaxed experience. It doesn't feature high-octane action, scares, or puzzles, but provides a tranquil game that respects the player's time.