Archive

Review: The Block

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 28, 2022

Occasionally, you come across a game that is mindless, relaxing, and carefree. When this happens, you lose yourself in its simple ways. As such, when I installed The Block, this is exactly how I felt. This straightforward title lacks complexity. However, it makes up for it with its charming approach.

Developed by Paul Schnepf and published by Future Friends Games, this is a relaxed city builder. What’s more, its random nature ensures you never know what to expect. As a consequence, every playthrough is unique while allowing your creative juices to flow.

Build a city on a small map. — A tiny city that is perfectly made.

The Block is mindless.

Unlike other genres, city-building games don’t need a story. Instead, they rely on their creative nature to get you through. Moreover, a slight sense of OCD helps to keep you motivated as well. The Block doesn’t play out like Sim City or City Skylines instead; it lets you do as you wish. Subsequently, it has minor limitations, and this was a wonderful idea.

Each playthrough is experienced on a set-sized tile. Accordingly, you pick the map you wish to build on, and the game begins. From here, a procedurally generated algorithm selects your assets. Furthermore, it picks your theme as well. Therefore, in the beginning, you are in the lap of the gods. However, after this, you are the one in control.

A city made in the shape of a cross. — Plan where you’ll place every building.

Some limitations.

The Block isn’t some free-for-all madness without rules. No, there are limitations that keep you focused. For instance, you must place each asset next to another structure. As such, your city, forest, or hamlet expands from the centre to the edges. Next, you are given a small selection of buildings, vegetation, and paths to pick from. These items can be used freely, and the design and finish are entirely your choices.

On top of this, you can remove pieces as you wish, but you must abide by the above rules. However, once your creation is completed, you may view it freely and then start again. This is the crux of The Block. Thereupon, you’ll encounter no gore, there is no violence, and there are no high scores to aim for. Moreover, you can’t compare your city to friends, nor will you experience disasters or devastation. Accordingly, it is a relaxed game to unwind to after a hard day’s work.

The Block is pleasant to the eye.

The developer has done a nice but understated job of the graphics. Subsequently, the pixel imagery and soft pastel colour palette won’t wow anyone. However, it is still pleasant to the eye. Alongside this, the rudimentary UI and clean-cut display allow you to focus on the task at hand. Furthermore, the excellent camera angle and easy-to-move map make it easy to adjust your creation.

The stripped-back approach continues with the audio. A calm and folksy soundtrack is combined with simple sound effects. This minimalist approach was risky, as it could be deemed underwhelming. Yet, I loved its mellow nature and easy to listen to tracks.

The Block allows you to build a massive city of your dreams. — Build the city of your dreams.

Simple game = simple controls.

The above-mentioned UI ensures The Block is a simple game. You can use either your mouse or your keyboard to achieve your goals. Moreover, the inputs are responsive and the layout is minimalist.

Where The Block falls short is its replay value. Sadly, its gameplay is so basic that it can only be enjoyed casually. What’s more, this impacts longevity and its appeal. However, it’s an inexpensive game, so it’s still great value for money.

The Block is a basic and relaxed building game.

The basic nature of The Block will pique some gamers’ interest. Yet, sadly, many will overlook this charming and relaxing building game. Yes, it has limited appeal, but I enjoyed it, nonetheless. Despite its understated and minimalist ways, I recommend that you buy it here! Building a city needn’t be a complex task. Relax, enjoy the ambience, and let your creative juices flow.

Review: Evil West

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 27, 2022

0

I love horror/vampire games, and I adore the Wild West. Consequently, when my brother sent me the trailer for Evil West, it piqued my interest. This game is the love child of Red Dead Redemption and Gears of War. As such, it has a hearty filling of cowboy shenanigans, plenty of blood-sucking monsters, and some smooth combat mechanics. Accordingly, its unusual blend of violence and fantasy made it tough to put down.

Developed by Flying Wild Hog and published by Focus Entertainment, this is a linear adventure title. Moreover, it has some gruff characters, plenty of gory moments, and an incredible story with excellent cinematic. As such, you’ll adore exploring each stage as the story unfolds. On top of this, I adored the drip-fed mechanics, the vicious monsters, and the dark interpretation of the American Frontier. However, its strict linear approach may disappoint lovers of open-world games.

Evil West is dark, sinister, and brilliantly unrealistic.

Though I love fantasy games, I often frown when they go into massively unrealistic realms. As such, I worried that Evil West would perhaps take it too far. Instead, the extroverted plot and the gruesome creatures were unbelievably brilliant. Subsequently, I lapped up the strange story, and couldn’t wait to see the plot evolve.

You are Jesse Rentier, an agent of a top-secret vampire-hunting agency. Your role is to vanquish every vampire you face and save the American public from this growing threat. However, unknown to yourself, the world is more dangerous than you could ever imagine. A new breed of monsters is on the rise, and they plan to wage a war against mankind. Accordingly, you must use your wits and new technology to defeat each creature and save the day.

The hero coming face to face with two enemies in Evil West. — Hold it right there!

A solo or co-op experience.

What I cherished about Evil West was its solo or cooperative approach. As such, every element of the game can be enjoyed by yourself or with another. This was a fantastic decision by the developers as it opened up the action while enhancing the manic combat moments. Furthermore, if you are tackling this on a harder mode, you’ll be glad of a friend to back you up.

Alongside this, the game has a great skill tree, some amazing lore, and a plethora of weapons to slay each vampire. Moreover, there are some mind-blowing combos to execute, stunning killer finishes, and some tactical nuance to master. Therefore, it isn’t a mindless fighting title. Instead, you’ll have to understand and exploit each monster’s strengths and weaknesses. This was incredible as it enhanced the difficulty while giving you something to get your teeth into.

A phenomenal world but a linear structure.

Another excellent idea was the episodic gameplay. The story is broken down into bite-sized manageable chunks. Each chapter follows on from its predecessor and wonderfully progresses the story. On top of this, there are an array of collectables to find, money to steal and upgrade chests to locate. The collectables pad out the excellent story and help to give depth and meaning to each character. The cash is used to improve your skills and weapons. Finally, the upgrade chests improve your abilities while giving you another string to your bow.

What may disappoint some gamers is the strict linear structure. The stunning world deserves to be explored. However, the developers have kept us on a tight leash by funnelling the gameplay and story in a rigid fashion. For me, this worked perfectly, as the crazy combat and insane weapons added enough drama to the proceedings. Yet, I still yearned to explore the dark environment, and maybe this was an error from the developers.

Jesse taking down an enormous winged creature. — You sure are ugly.

Amazing combat.

Gears of War is renowned for its slick and overwhelming fighting. Fortunately, Evil West captures much of this insanity in its gruesome encounters. Jesse is loaded with guns and powerful fists. However, that isn’t all! If he so wishes, he can use a gauntlet to electrocute his opponents to devastating effect. What’s more, you can use this power to fly through the air and dodge projectiles.

This may seem a little OTT, but it matters not. Instead, you’ll adore the futuristic mechanics that juxtapose the dated imagery. Furthermore, different abilities are used to overcome each monster you face. What must also be considered is how each weapon is used against the gargantuan bosses. These hardcore pains in the arse will kick you, smack you, and cause you no end of problems. Yet, with some quick thinking and the right tool to hand, you can turn the tables and overcome each monstrosity.

Evil West looks amazing, but it isn’t problem free.

My love for Evil West extends beyond the superb mechanics and phenomenal story. As such, I cherished the incredible cinematic and sinister world. The earthy colour palette and muted tones create an ominous environment. Moreover, the buttery smooth combat and awe-inspiring settings will fascinate you throughout. However, there are many minor glitches, bugs, and screen tears that taint the finished product. They are not game-breaking by any stretch, but they impact the finish and stick out like a sore thumb.

What was equally good was the amazing audio. The acting is fantastic and is a credit to the team. On top of this, both the sound effects and the music are incredible. What’s more, the screaming vampires and striking cinematic are captivating. Consequently, they are some of the best cutscenes I’ve experienced in a long time.

Jesse tackling his foes with his special abilities. — Use your abilities to overcome your foes.

Excellent controls.

With so much going on, Evil West could have been a horrible mess. However, the excellent UI and controller layout is easy to understand. Moreover, the responsive inputs and drip-fed mechanics ensure it isn’t overwhelming. I loved that the learning curve complemented the introduction of new monsters. On top of this, simple-to-follow tutorials help to bed in each new mechanic before you progress.

Thanks to the cooperative mode, the range of difficulty settings, the collectables, and a new game + option, this oozes replay value. Furthermore, the skill tree allows you to customise your approach depending on your play style. Consequently, each of these elements ensures that longevity is enhanced.

Evil West blew me away.

I may be biased, but Evil West blew me away. My love for the theme and the genre meant that I was always likely to fall for its charms. Yet, I was genuinely surprised by the excellent aesthetics, awesome cinematic, and fascinating story. On top of this, the lore and gruff characters add a gritty edge that is hard to ignore. There are minor visual issues and a few bugs, but these are few and far between. I absolutely loved it and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you protect mankind and destroy the vampire threat? Upgrade your gear and unleash hell on the vile undead.

Review: XIII

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 26, 2022

0

I’m not usually the biggest fan of remakes. I think they undermine originality, and they flood the market with dated material. However, occasionally, a game comes along that changes my mind. XIII was originally released in 2003. Roll on nearly 20 years, and this remake honours the original while utilising some modern development methods.

Developed by Play Magic and published by Microids, this is an action-adventure title. What’s more, it has a distinct comic book style, and it has a badass protagonist. Furthermore, its plot is reminiscent of a Jason Bourne movie. As such, it throws in plenty of twists and turns and keeps you on the edge of your seat. What I adored most, however, was its nod to the eponymous visual novel and the excellent, iconic cel-shading design.

XIII has an excellent radial menu. — Choose your weapon and destroy your foes.

XIII is exciting and captivating.

I’ve always loved the action-adventure genre. The clichéd concepts and cheesy one-liners are memorable. Moreover, the characters are colourful, brash, and obnoxious. If you then combine this with the brilliance of a comic book setting, you get an exciting and captivating experience. Thankfully, you get all this and more when you tackle XIII.

You control a special unnamed agent. He suffers from amnesia and his only identifying factor is his tattoo, XIII. Other than this, this unknown entity has no idea who or what he is. Yet, he quickly identifies that he has lightning reflexes and a killer instinct. On top of this, he is accused of killing President Sheridan! However, this monstrous conspiracy theory is about to erupt, and you need to get out in front of it. Accordingly, you fight anyone and anything that stands in your way.

Fire your gun and blow up every explosive. — One shot and the world goes to shit.

Stealth, gunfights, and the occasional puzzle.

Where XIII excels is its multiple gameplay styles. Consequently, you can go balls to the wall and shoot everything in sight. Alternatively, you can sneak around, hide in the shadows, and assassinate anything that moves. Furthermore, you can combine the two approaches, if you so wish. The freedom to play as you like was phenomenal. What’s more, it adds to the longevity and replay value.

With over 30 levels and 15 weapons to master, you have plenty of scope for trial and error. Whether it was throwing knives, improvised weapons, machine guns, pistols, rocket launchers, or more, it was thoroughly entertaining. Alongside this, your enemies are tough and unruly. Subsequently, you must outsmart them at every opportunity. You’ll sneak around, take hostages, or smack them with a chair. However, if this doesn’t float your boat, simply pull out your gun and unleash hell.

The gunfights and stealth mechanics were great. Yet, there is another string to XIII’s bow. Alongside the brutality, you’ll have to solve minor problems and explore a labyrinthine world. Accordingly, you’ll crawl through air ducts, rappel down buildings and cliff faces, and swing like a chimp on a rope. This was excellent, as it made the linear structure a bit more open. On top of this, these simple objectives focus your attention, and that was fantastic.

XIII looks incredible.

Now, I loved the amazing story, the badass characters, the overpowered guns, and the exploration elements. However, these all pale in comparison when you consider the incredible artistry. Thanks to the amazing comic book approach, you feel like a superhero. Furthermore, the excellent bubble writing, the classic “Kapow”, and the brilliant cinematic grab your attention. The developers have done an awesome job of reworking the original while giving it a modern twist. On top of this, the gratuitous violence is nicely balanced, and the clips of every headshot are a thing of beauty.

The unbelievable visuals are complemented by the audio. With booming sound effects and shrill screams, it is utterly horrific. Furthermore, the aggressive soundtrack adds to the drama. However, my favourite element was the acting. It blends some hammy and corny one-liners with gruff and OTT monologues. Consequently, it was bloody ridiculous, and I cherished it.

Take your sniper rifle, aim down the sights, and blow some heads off. — Ready, aim, fire!

So many reasons to return.

XIII excels in many areas. Yet, the controls aren’t its strongest point. Disappointingly, the shooting mechanic isn’t as fluid as it could be, and the aiming is a little wayward. Other than this, it’s pretty responsive and interacting with usable objects isn’t an issue. What’s more, the UI is fantastic and selecting each weapon is straightforward.

Thanks to its linear approach, I worried that XIII would lack longevity. However, there are so many levels to tackle, you’ll be playing for hours. On top of this, there are collectables to find and a multiplayer option to tackle. As such, there are many reasons to return and play.

XIII is a great remake.

One great experience won’t persuade me that I’m wrong. Still, XIII does a great job of proving I’m a fool. This exceptional title is captivating, exciting, and unbelievably good. Consequently, it is a great remake that will impress anyone that plays it. Therefore, unsurprisingly, I recommend that you buy it here! Can you prove your innocence and regain your memory? Explore a dangerous world and fight for the truth.

Review: Ship Simulator

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 24, 2022

0

More recently, I’ve had my fair share of simulation games to review. Each one has unveiled a unique experience, and some are better than others. Therefore, when I was offered yet another fine title from this genre, I was a little hesitant. However, Ship Simulator wasn’t as bad as it sounds. Instead, this short endeavour tries to hold your interest while testing your nautical abilities.

Developed by 100 Games and published by Ultimate Games SA, this is a simulation experience. What’s more, there are some minor business elements, and a plethora of missions to complete. On top of this, you’re expected to buy 3 vessels and master their individual characteristics. As such, it will test your spatial awareness, patience, and sea legs.

A massive transport ship trying to dock in Ship Simulator. — Don’t crash.

Ship Simulator is a little dry for my liking.

Ironically, a game that is as wet as this is strangely dry as hell. Subsequently, its slow gameplay and drawn-out mechanics will divide its audience. Some people will love the intricacies and slow action. Whereas, others will find it tedious, boring, and time-consuming. I flitted between loving it and loathing it and found its core concept equally fascinating and dull.

You are the owner of a shipping company that must start from the bottom and work your way up. Your role is to purchase each of the 3 vehicles, repair them, and complete a range of missions. By doing this, you’ll earn mountains of cash while helping the locals of this Baltic seaport. As the mission progresses, you’ll experience more challenging and convoluted tasks. Accordingly, you’ll be asked to deliver cargo, repair structures, tow boats, save people, and more. Alongside this, there are moments when you must control your crew to complete QTEs.

This bizarre blend of action and simulation was unusual, yet interesting. The change of pace between sailing your ship and managing your crew prevented the game from becoming tiresome. During these unusual quests, you are expected to instruct every person to fight fires, repel pirates, and so forth. Though easy enough to achieve, there was some tactical nuance that ensured it was fun and challenging.

A repetitive gameplay loop.

Where Ship Simulator fails is its repetitive gameplay loop. Unlike its peers, the familiar approach lacks appeal and depth. Moreover, the basic machinery and simple tasks are mastered too soon. As such, you’ll crave variety as well as a tougher experience. However, this doesn’t occur, and you are left wanting.

Had the developers incorporated brutal weather fronts, in-game damage, and an element of risk, then this would be vastly improved. As it is, the damage has no bearing on your approach. The weather doesn’t impact each ship’s movement, and crashing is an inconvenience rather than a risk. Therefore, you adopt a carefree attitude as you barge, hit, and bump your way to success.

One of three special vessels in Ship simulator. — Buy a new ship and tackle new missions.

Ship Simulator lacks a modern finish.

I don’t play simulation titles for their graphics. Yet, I expect them to be polished with only minor issues. Disappointingly, Ship Simulator has a mediocre render distance. The ships lack detail, and it is hard to differentiate between the sea and obstacles. These problems combine to present a dated game that is extremely rough around the edges. Thankfully, though, the animation of the machines and the highlighted tasks make it simple and fun to complete each objective.

I despise lacklustre audio, and sadly, Ship Simulator delivers just that. Its soundtrack comprises one folksy and upbeat tune in a loop. Furthermore, the sound effects are basic, tinny, and flat. Unfortunately, the environmental sounds aren’t much better. The developers had the chance to create an audiophile’s dream soundscape. Instead, the opportunity is missed, and the delivery is underwhelming.

A crane being used to pick up new goods. — Pick up the pieces and repair each structure.

Excellent controls.

Aesthetically, this falls short. However, it is extremely user-friendly. Thanks to the simple UI and excellent controls, you’ll master each vessel in no time. What’s more, the variety of missions and each ship’s characteristic keeps you on your toes.

Alongside this, there is some longevity and replay value. Every mission is timed, and if you so wish, you can try to go faster. Other than this, however, there is little reason to return. As such, once you finish each of the 24 missions, you are unlikely to return. This was unusual for a simulation game as they normally ooze replay value. However, Ship Simulator is somewhat lacking.

Ship Simulator should have been better.

It’s rare that I dislike an Ultimate Games SA title. But unfortunately, Ship Simulator isn’t that great. With poor visuals, repetitive audio, and underwhelming mechanics, you’ll beg for more. On top of this, it is missing an element of risk and reward, and this ensures that the action is flat. Yes, I liked many of its core principles, but the execution and presentation let it down. Accordingly, I can’t recommend that you buy it. However, more information can be found here! Running a shipping company is no mean feat. Yet, with some enthusiasm and money behind you, you’ll succeed where others have failed.

Review: The Witch’s House MV

Cody May

-

Dec 24, 2022

0

Prepare to be scared. The Witch’s House MV from developer Fummy and published by Dangen Entertainment and GOODROID is an HD remake of the cult favorite title which was released in 2012. It’s a horror-based puzzle game in which you’ll have to use your wits to find your way through a cursed manor. Are you smart enough to survive, or will you succumb to the Witch’s dark magic?

The Witch’s House MV excels at being spooky

I’m a sucker for good atmospheric horror. With any medium, I love being scared by things I don’t understand, the monster lurking in the darkness. It’s a shame most films/games rely so heavily on jump scares, instead of focusing on writing and setting. Although The Witch’s House MV has a few jump scares, I found the game to mostly cater to my particular taste in horror, as I was unsettled often by the sheer eeriness of the situation.

The story in The Witch’s House MV is rather straightforward. You play as a young girl named Viola, who stumbles upon a manor while lost in the woods. As you enter, you’re immediately subjected to horrors and must solve puzzles to escape. As the story progresses, you uncover mysteries about who lived there and what Viola’s connection to it may be.

Puzzled in The Witch’s House

Puzzles are no stranger to gaming as many games rely on them to trip up some of their players. It’s a very satisfying feeling to finally crack the code after scratching your head for hours. Games like Resident Evil excel at this and have set the standard for how great puzzles in games can be.

There has to be a perfect balance struck with puzzles. You can’t have them too difficult or nobody will want to continue playing your game, on the flip side, they can’t be too easy or you won’t feel like you’ve earned anything. Make no mistake, the puzzles in The Witch’s House MV will not keep you from sleeping at night, but they are just difficult enough to keep it fun and rewarding.

The Beauty of RPG Maker

One of the coolest aspects of The Witch’s House MV is that it was made with RPG Maker VX. If you’re unfamiliar with RPG Maker, it’s a software that streamlines the game-making process making it easier than ever to make games. Having used the software myself, I can’t recommend it enough. If you’re wanting to make games but don’t know how to code, animate, etc. then RPG Maker would be well worth your time.

RPG maker makes creating games accessible

Closing

The Witch’s House MV is by no means perfect. There’s not much in terms of gameplay other than solving puzzles or running from enemies. The puzzles themselves can be solved pretty quickly, and it’s a rather short game for a $15 price tag on Xbox. My playthrough took roughly one hour and thirty-five minutes.

Although this game is for a very niche audience, it’s quite good, and most will enjoy the experience it offers. There are enjoyable puzzles, a spooky ambiance, and an intriguing story waiting for anyone who dares venture into… The Witch’s House.

News: Darkwood

Gaming
News

Daniel Waite

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Dec 24, 2022

0

With Christmas fast approaching, we’ve all spent too much money and we’re fed up with buying things. However, there is always room for a little treat. Moreover, whenever I hear the words “free upgrade”, I smile. Consequently, developer Acid Wizard Studio and publisher Crunching Koalas want to treat you this festive season. As such, they have announced the release of Darkwood for the Xbox Series X/S.

This survival horror title is free to upgrade for anyone with the original Xbox One title. However, if, like me, you don’t own it at all, you can pick it up for around £13. Now, that is extremely good value for a title that has consistently been recommended by reviewers on the Metacritic website. Furthermore, this latest update takes full advantage of the Xbox Series X and you’ll be thrilled by the excellent gameplay and the lack of clichéd action.

What is Darkwood about?

Craft weapons, prepare traps, fortify hideouts—players explore and scavenge the eerie forests of the Soviet Bloc by day, then hunker down in their hideout at night. With nightmarish forces corrupting the woods, waiting—and praying—for the sun to come up the next morning.

The world of Darkwood is procedurally generated, the locations and events will vary for each playthrough and player. There’s no linear path in these woods, and each decision will impact the players and the inhabitants of Darkwood.

Key game features.

Horror without jump scares: Darkwood is an atmospheric, psychological horror that creates a feeling of tension without the usual horror tricks. No creaking doors here!
Day and night cycle: explore the world during the day and try to survive the night by hiding from evil forces in your shelter.
Randomly generated map and events: the world will not change during your adventure with Darkwood, but it will vary for each playthrough and each player.
Crafting: scavenge for materials to create weapons, traps, health potions, or your hideout upgrades.
Skills and perks: learn new powers by extracting a strange essence from mutated fauna and flora and injecting it into your bloodstream.
No hand-holding: test your skills and figure things out on your own!
Impactful decisions: decide on the world of Darkwood, its inhabitants, and the story you experience.

Is it worth it?

I have yet to install my copy, but watch this space for my review. However, if other reviewers’ experiences are to go by, this is well worth your time. Moreover, Xbox players can enjoy this dank and seedy world with native 4k resolution. That’s not all, as your original Xbox save file will be imported without issue.

If you fancy a break away from the holly jolly energy of Christmas, why not give this a try? If this article has piqued your interest, click each link for more information.

Xbox. _{(Rating: PEGI 18 Extreme Violence, Strong Language Release date: 17/05/2019 Price: £12.99)}
PlayStation. _{(Rating: PEGI 18 Language, Violence Release date: 14/05/2019 Price: £11.99)}
Nintendo Switch. _{(Rating: PEGI 18 Release date: 16/05/2019 Price: £12.99 or £6.49 until 23:59 December 29^th 2022)}
PC. _{(Rating: n/a Release date: 17/08/2017 Price: £11.99 or £3.59 until 23:59 January 5^th 2023)}

_{(More information on Crunching Koalas can be found here!)}

Review: Primal Light

Daniel Waite

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Dec 23, 2022

0

I’m of an age where 16-bit gaming was considered revolutionary. The Sega Mega Drive and SNES were turning points for console gamers, and I remember them fondly. As such, when developers revisit this wonderful era, I become giddy with delight. Consequently, when Primal Light was given to me, it brought a smile to my face. This distinctly old-school affair is tough and gaudy, but tough to put down.

Developed by Fat Gem and published by No Gravity Games, this is a retro platformer. Furthermore, it has an array of difficulty settings and its plot is bizarre. Accordingly, it won’t be for everyone, but I revelled in its madness and its harsh ways.

Primal Light is full of hideous monsters. The lizard boss is cruel and tough. — What’s your problem?

Primal Light is a story of tragedy and triumph.

Though Primal Light has a strong and familiar story, it plays second fiddle to the action that unfolds. Subsequently, it was easy to forget what was happening as you died for the n^th time. Moreover, the standard platforming tropes keep the action honest. You are required to climb ladders, search for secret areas, kill monsters, and more. En route, you’ll find special abilities and artefacts to assist you on your journey. However, many of the abilities are progress-specific, and this was a shame. Instead of making the hero all-powerful for fun, you couldn’t advance if you failed to do so.

The plot revolves around Krog. He is a blue-skinned being who witnesses the decimation of his people. Furthermore, his home has been destroyed, and he has been left on a dangerous planet to survive. Yet, if you collect the 12 artefacts, you can thwart the phantom that inflicted such sorrow, and save the day.

The checkpoints in Primal Light are bonfires. — A bonfire checkpoint.

Repetitive mechanics

Like many Mega Drive games, the developers have relied on rinse-and-repeat mechanics. Consequently, the action follows a simple gameplay loop that could be considered tedious or monotonous. Luckily, though, there are enough drip-fed elements to challenge you throughout. What’s more, the fresh abilities and powerful artefacts help to keep things fresh. On top of this, you’ll encounter a range of monsters, traps, and obstacles as the stages become more convoluted.

Alongside this, there is the occasional smattering of Metroidvania moments, and the gargantuan bosses keep you thinking. Every stage concludes with an almighty boss battle. These harsh beasts shoot fire, blast lasers, drop bombs, and so forth. However, fortunately, they follow a set routine, so beating them comes down to practice and patience. Yet, if you die, you respawn at the nearest campfire. Here, you’ll be given fresh health potions and a full health meter. As such, dying isn’t as harsh as it could be, and I appreciated this approach.

Primal Light takes us back to the 90s.

90s gaming won’t be for everyone. The vivid colours, pixelated sprites, and simple backdrops are considered too rudimentary. However, Primal Light has its retro style nailed down. I adored the basic animation, the rough imagery, and the simple side-scrolling camera. Moreover, the enemies looked great, and the bosses were incredible.

The audio follows suit with its dark, ear-splitting ways. With an electronic finish and a sinister edge, the creepy and daunting atmosphere was well and truly set. On top of this, the basic, but effective sound effects were awesome. I loved the sound of magic, the swinging of your weapon, and the cries of your foes.

The hero is leaping over fire while attacking an ugly troll-like monster. — This alien world is full of ugly monsters.

Surprisingly good controls.

I cherish retro gaming, but a dated control system is infuriating. The 4-point d-pad movement was restrictive and frustrating. Luckily, though, Primal Light has designed its levels to mitigate this problem. Instead, the game flows nicely, and the combat excels as a consequence. Alongside this, there is the familiar input lag that enhances its dated appeal.

This isn’t an easy game to complete. Even on its lowest setting, you’ll be tested from start to finish. Consequently, if you wish to be tested, the hardest setting will push you to your limits. As such, there is both replay value and longevity if you have sadomasochistic tendencies.

Primal Light is a nostalgia-fuelled treat.

Fat Gem has done an amazing job of revisiting a much-loved gaming era. Furthermore, their balanced approach and challenging mechanics will test you throughout. I adored this nostalgia-fuelled experience, and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you turn a tragedy into a triumph? Leap chasms, avoid traps, and defeat every enormous boss.

Review: Lego Bricktales

Daniel Waite

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Dec 22, 2022

0

Lego is a brand that has a loyal and headstrong following. No matter the theme or genre, it never disappoints. Consequently, every game is a hit and I always look forward to giving them a good go. However, when I saw Lego Bricktales advertised, I wasn’t so sure. Instead of the usual big-named themes, this goes a little off-tangent. As such, its original plot may underwhelm gamers.

Developed by ClockStone Studio and published by Thunderful Publishing AB, this is an amusing adventure title. What’s more, it blends an original story with classic block-building mechanics. Accordingly, it wonderfully crosses the divide between gaming and creative play. Thankfully, it also retains the hilarious one-liners and whimsical charm we’ve all come to expect. Subsequently, this slow burner is likely to grow on you the further you progress.

Lego Bricktales is a family affair.

Many of us would agree that family comes first. Therefore, the key elements of the plot will resonate with most people. You control the grandson of an eccentric inventor. This whacky genius has bitten off more than he can chew, and requires your help. However, this is easier said than done. Fortunately, an accident somehow opens up a rift in time and space, and the professor’s handy robot Rusty appears out of nowhere. This ultra-intelligent being has been upgraded by aliens and must now use his special powers to aid you on your adventure. In order to save the day, you must find happiness crystals from each of the 5 worlds. If you do this, you’ll rebuild the rundown fairground, and you’ll become a hero.

So, the story is a bit out there, but its zany ways are fun, nonetheless. During your journey, you’ll encounter an array of amusing characters, as well as unlocking new abilities. On top of this, you’ll search for secret chests, find an array of animals, and complete missions to progress the story. Furthermore, there are puzzles to complete, loads of building work to tackle, and items to buy in each of the shops. The adventure takes you across sweltering deserts, a medieval world, a bustling city, and more. In each environment, you must interact with the locals and assist them in any way you can.

A pirate island with a Lego pirate ship. — Explore the island and find the treasure.

Small zones, but plenty to do.

Each small zone was jam-packed with things to do. Moreover, like other Lego titles, there are skills and abilities that are progress-based. As such, there is plenty of back and forth if you wish to find every collectable. However, the core element of the gameplay focuses on the building mechanics. You are asked to repair bridges, make steps, construct vehicles, and much more. Alongside this, you are given creative freedom with a sandbox mode. Accordingly, this should be an incredible and moreish experience. However, it can be extremely frustrating.

Because of the lacklustre and tough-to-manage controls, Lego Bricktales is infuriating. What’s more, the solution to each puzzle isn’t always obvious. Therefore, there is a lot of trial and error, and many mistakes because of the terrible controls. Disappointingly, this is compounded further by the camera angles. Yes, you are free to adjust it how you wish, but this rarely made a difference. Instead, you desperately tweak your viewpoint only to be left gritting your teeth with frustration.

Sheer disappointment.

The Lego games are normally extremely user-friendly. Moreover, they are designed with younger gamers in mind. However, Lego Bricktales goes against this normal approach. Consequently, this was too hard for my children to play, and I found much of the action to be tough to handle. Understandably, this led to disappointment. This was especially true, as I expected it to be a fun and straightforward game. Instead, you’ll sigh whenever you see a building task.

What was great, however, were the interactions with the NPCs. In normal Lego style, you’ll be left chuckling because of the immature humour. Yet, sadly, this isn’t enough and much of the action feels a bit of a drag. This was unfortunate, as there is plenty of potential, but most of it feels poorly executed and underworked.

Lego Bricktales creative mode with a pirate theme. — Build each structure and be as creative as you like.

Lego Bricktales is fun and colourful to look at.

Like many of its predecessors, Lego Bricktales has a fun art style. With vivid colours, interesting backdrops, and whacky NPCs, it is great to look at. However, I found the lack of a free-flowing camera to be an irritant. Annoyingly, the fixed camera made adventuring tough, and this prevented you from fully exploring your surroundings. Matters were made worse by the appalling building viewpoint. Though you could freely move the camera and zoom in and out, it never really worked. As such, building elaborate structures and elegant architecture was the last thing on my mind.

Lego Bricktales successfully delivered a high-energy and enjoyable soundtrack. Each zone has a unique vibe that is supported by a range of tunes. Alongside this, the sound effects will make you smile and chuckle. If I were to improve the audio, I’d add soundbites to bring the characters to life. Other than this, the developers have done an amazing job.

A colourful desert market town. — Can you solve the mystery of the curse?

Oh, those darn controls.

As you enjoy the adventure elements, the controls are spot on. Sadly, though, this can’t be said during the fiddly building moments. The clinical nature of each task demands accuracy. Yet, this is hard to achieve because of how each brick is carried. Subsequently, creating any complex structure is a no, no, and that is so annoying.

In theory, Lego Bricktales has plenty of longevity and replay value. Yet, instead, you’ll easily tire of what you experience. With so much back and forth and poor building mechanics, it quickly becomes tiresome.

Lego Bricktales should have been amazing.

I really wanted Lego Bricktales to be exceptional. However, its poor execution and woeful controls undermine its potential. Yes, there are some hilarious moments, but there aren’t enough to paper over the cracks. Accordingly, I can’t recommend that you buy it. But you can find more information here! Can you overcome the poor controls and complete your adventure? Find the happiness crystals and save the day.

Review: Sail Forth

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 21, 2022

4

I have a soft spot for procedurally generated titles. The random nature of their gameplay and the endless surprises keep me playing. As such, when Sail Forth landed on my desk for the second time, I couldn’t resist. This is a game that I previewed 18 months ago, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Consequently, will its full release be worth my while, or will it be a bit of a damp squib?

Developed by Festive Vector and published by The Quantum Astrophysicists Guild, this is a water-based adventure. What’s more, it is full of magic, plenty of side quests, and it’s overflowing with charm. As such, this quaint and unusual title will make you smile as you battle pirates and the elements. Furthermore, its random nature ensures that no playthrough is the same. Subsequently, it’s a game that’ll keep you playing for hours.

A sea battle with hardy pirates. — Shoot those pirates and win the battle.

Sail Forth tells a tale of mystery.

Unlike many of its peers, Sail Forth isn’t full of lore, nor is it story-rich. Instead, it has a loose plot that drives you forward. Accordingly, it’ll demand that you explore far-off lands while taking on unruly brutes. On top of this, you are rewarded for helping stranded creatures and finding fish. Moreover, there are some nice fantasy elements that add mystery to this cute title. By helping the locals, you’ll improve your fortune, expand your fleet, and become a force to be reckoned with.

Alongside this, you are expected to take on delivery jobs and become a photographer. Then, you must consider the never-ending wave of pirates, the forts that must be demolished, and the shipwrecks to explore. Furthermore, there are races to compete in, shooting competitions to win, and other minor tasks. Each of these quests is optional, but by doing them, you get the most out of the game.

A snippet of the upgrade tree. — What upgrade will you pick?

Zany characters and wicked combat.

Where Sail Forth excels is its zany characters and wicked combat. A quaint and charming game would be nothing without interesting locals and fun missions. Thankfully, this is overflowing with unusual creatures, rewarding tasks, and challenging moments. It doesn’t matter whether you are fishing for rare fish, hunting clams for resources, or delivering questionable goods, it was great fun.

Alongside this, you are free to purchase new vessels, upgrade your equipment, and hire a new crew. Each of these elements takes time and effort and they are progress-dependent. Consequently, getting the best gear and the biggest ship is no mean feat. However, the bigger the boat, the more chance you have in a fight. Therefore, this is essential if you wish to survive each encounter and destroy every fort.

Sail Forth is pleasant to look at.

I adore a pastel-infused title that is relaxing and pleasant to the eye. Fortunately, Sail Forth is all these things and much more. Its soft colour scheme and open areas look amazing. Moreover, each small location is unique and full of surprises. On top of this, the inclusion of different weather fronts was an amazing decision. As such, you’ll enjoy sailing in blistering sunshine or battling monstrous waves as a storm swells.

The wonderful world is complemented by atmospheric audio. I adored the blend of music, the environmental noises, and the cruel sound effects. Consequently, it was easy to get lost in this simple but stunning creation.

Sail Forth is full of weird characters. One of them this sailor frog in his submarine. — Hey Frog, what do you want?

Excellent controls.

The developers have done an amazing job with their UI and their controls. Accordingly, Sail Forth is easy to play and quick to pick up. What was particularly great was the wind mechanics. You must set your sail, adjust its position, and move as fast as possible. Once this skill is mastered, you can focus on the excellent combat. During every battle, you must line up your sights with each of your foes. Failure to do this will waste your ammo and put you at risk. However, if you can successfully perfect the sailing element, you’ll win every fight with ease.

The combat, exploration, and procedurally generated world create a moreish experience. Subsequently, once you fall for its charms, Sail Forth is tough to put down. However, there is the concern that it could become repetitive in the long run. Yet, if you tackle this casually, you’ll return over and over again.

Sail Forth is ready for its full release.

The developers have done an amazing job with this game. When I tried its Early Access build, I was impressed. However, I wondered about its depth and longevity. Thankfully, these questions have been answered as Sail Forth is addictive, fun, and full of interesting tasks. On top of this, the exploration elements are fascinating and full of surprises. However, the story is lacking depth and lore. Furthermore, it can become repetitive and should be played casually. Consequently, I loved my time with it despite the shortcomings, and therefore, I recommend that you buy it here! Can you master the ocean and solve its mysteries? Expand your fleet, hire a new crew, and let nothing stand in your way.

Review: The Callisto Protocol

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 20, 2022

0

I’m not a massive fan of comparing a game for the sake of it. Normally, I can appreciate influences without prejudice. Consequently, I’ve been disappointed when I read other reviews for The Callisto Protocol. Many gamers have bemoaned its core concept and fighting mechanics. Furthermore, they state it’s the poor relative to Dead Space. However, I can’t entirely agree.

I can, of course, see the resemblance, and I appreciate the thought process, but I certainly can’t entirely agree with their conclusion. Instead, I think this gory and story-rich endeavour is atmospheric, brutal, and horrific. As such, I enjoyed it on many levels, and won’t be comparing it to the phenomenal Dead Space series, for the most part, anyway.

Developed by Striking Distance Studios and published by KRAFTON, Inc, this is a horror-adventure title. What’s more, it has some puzzle elements, grim combat, and an amazing cast of actors. As such, it is a captivating tale that hooks you from the very beginning.

The Callisto Protocol is a bleak vision of our future.

Fantasy games with a bleak outlook fill me with dread. The modern era is bad enough. Yet, when you hear tales of zombies, mutants, and mankind’s downfall, I think maybe we’re doing alright after all. Thereupon, The Callisto Protocol drags you through a grim version of humanity’s battle with existence. Instead of peace and harmony, our greedy and destructive traits get the better of us. Subsequently, humans must abide by some strict laws, and failure to do so lands you in deep shit.

This is exactly what happens in The Callisto Protocol. You control Jacob Lee, who is a pilot with a dodgy side hustle. Sadly, this ropy interest gets him into serious trouble, and his life gets flipped upside down. Accordingly, his freedom is taken, and he becomes an inmate of the cruel and grim Black Iron Prison. While serving his time, strange things happen. The prisoners become ill as they mutate into unrecognisable beasts. As the outbreak occurs, the prison’s high-tech security fails, and all hell breaks loose. Consequently, Jacob must fight for his life while uncovering the deepest and darkest secrets of Jupiter’s dank moon.

Jacob resists being bitten by a giant mutated beast. — No tongues, thanks!

Exploration and lore.

The plot of this horror title is unbelievably incredible as it is held together by some fantastic key components. The gameplay unfolds in a strictly linear fashion. Now, this may seem small-minded, but in this case, it works well. The funnelled style creates a tense atmosphere that will make you jump. Of course, the developers have relied on some familiar and almost tacky jump scares, but it matters not. With face huggers to avoid, tentacle beasts, and hulking creatures, it is overwhelmingly unnerving.

Alongside this, the hidden voice recordings add depth while padding out the story. Therefore, much of the plot feels voyeuristic and surreal. This was incredible, as it enhanced both the drama and the tension. What’s more, the audio bites unveiled hidden truths and fragments of each character’s personality.

Upgrades and combat

These elements were great, but the upgrade system and combat mechanics were better, still. I adored how the developers incorporated a tough but fair learning curve. As the game progresses, you’ll face a larger and more challenging roster of abominations. Accordingly, you will need weapons and combat skills to take them down. Thankfully, The Callisto Protocol has a progression system that can be tailor made for your play style. Whether you enjoy hand-to-hand combat, gunplay, or advanced tech, the options are all there.

Alongside this, improving and unlocking the new gear is as easy as gathering credits and advancing the story. As you do these things, you’ll find new gear that you can pay to improve. You’ll discover guns, electric poles, a crazy stun glove, and more. These new tools enhance your arsenal of moves and turn you into a badass killing machine.

Talking of combat, I’m going to have to mention Dead Space. I know I promised I wouldn’t, but the slick movement and definitive timing mechanics are unbelievably similar. Furthermore, the gruesome decapitation and bone-crunching blows will make you wince. However, its timing is too generous, and this undermines the difficulty. I would have liked this to be tightened up to make it more hardcore and rewarding.

Hanging upside down, the hero sees an eerie figure walking towards him. — What the hell are you?

The Callisto Protocol is stunning.

A gruesome and bloody title shouldn’t be beautiful. However, The Callisto Protocol is morbidly intriguing. Whether you are creeping past monsters, crawling through vents, or exploring vast spaces, it never gets old. Moreover, the animation is buttery smooth, the violence will make your skin crawl, and the variety of monsters is incredible. Consequently, Striking Distance Studios has tackled the eerie and uncomfortable elements of horror without being clichéd. On top of this, the cinematic is jaw-dropping and unmissable.

If I was to complain, I’d say there is a reliance on a familiar stage design. Sadly, the developers have a rigged formula that holds the action back. Unfortunately, there are an awful lot of vents to crawl through, claustrophobic spaces to navigate, and boxes to vault. As such, you soon beg for a change of pace and approach.

This aside, I couldn’t fault the incredible audio. Your blood will chill as each monster snarls, growls, and screams in your direction. Furthermore, the drip of water, crackle of electricity, and thud of footsteps get your heart pumping. This is before you consider the incredible soundtrack and awesome acting. Every cinematic is performed perfectly as the gruff protagonist contemplates his fate. Moreover, the phenomenal soundbites add depth and drama to the horrific plot.

Jacob Lee the hero of The Callisto Protocol having his mask ripped off by a monstrous being. — I need this mask to breathe.

Responsive controls.

When a game relies on reactions to succeed, it needs responsive controls. Fortunately, thanks to the excellent UI and controller layout, The Callisto Protocol is superb to play. I loved flitting between each weapon, utilising each ability, and dodging every monster. However, my complaint, as mentioned earlier, about dodging each enemy is valid. Though it is enjoyable and entertaining, it is far too easy.

A linear game limits its replay value and longevity. At around 15 to 20 hours of action, this isn’t the longest of titles. What’s more, a lack of an NG+ mode is disappointing. Yet, the developers are working on free content for 2023 and a New Game + option is in the pipeline. Other than this, the collectables and the enhanced difficulty options are the key reason to return.

The Callisto Protocol is a wonderful but horrific experience.

No matter how much it tries, The Callisto Protocol will be forever compared to Dead Space. This isn’t entirely unfair, but it should be enjoyed on its merits. I adored the gruesome combat, the atmospheric setting, its incredible audio, and the amazing visuals. But I was frustrated by its simple combat and the familiar level design. However, these issues shouldn’t put you off an otherwise excellent game. Accordingly, I recommend that you buy it here! Can you uncover the dark secrets and survive? Explore, fight, and unravel the unnerving mystery on Jupiter’s dankest moon.

Review: High On Life

Cody May

-

Dec 20, 2022

0

I challenge anybody to find a game as bizarre as High on Life.

High on Life is a first-person shooter from developer Squanch Games, and Rick and Morty creator Justin Roiland. One moment you’re a regular teenage boy, the next, your planet is being invaded by an alien race who plans to destroy the earth. It’s up to you and your talking alien gun to stop them, yes… you read that right.

Being High on Life

From the get-go, High on Life exudes style and creative wackiness, which fans of Rick and Morty will be no strangers to. This game had me laughing within the first five minutes, and the more I played, the more addicted I got.

Most surprisingly, the combat is really good. I assumed the story, dialogue, and world would all be fantastic, but I feared gameplay would suffer. Thankfully, I was wrong, High on Life is a joy to play. The gun you’re fighting with being the voice for the silent protagonist is nothing short of genius. It just makes every combat encounter hilarious and unpredictable.

It’s ideas like these combined with the right people that make them shine. Without Justin Roiland’s comedic style, I’m not sure this game would have been as enjoyable. His delivery and edginess make for a perfect marriage without becoming too annoying.

Beauty in the Absurdity

If I were to try to sum High on Life up in one word it would simply be “Absurd.” Honestly, throughout my play-through, I never knew what to expect next. Whether it’s hearing what ridiculous 4th wall breaks your gun Kenny would say, or finding a knife that is addicted to stabbing people.

I found myself laughing often and building a connection with these strange characters. So much so that it was hard for me to put Kenny away when I was given different guns. He calls you out if you’ve sat idle too long, references Final Fantasy 7, etc. Little things like this make it hard not to smile while playing, and in the end I was happy to be a space-faring bounty hunter alongside Kenny.

I could explore the world of High on Life for hours with a smile on my face. The game even rewards you for this in unexpected ways. Hearing strange dialogue from random NPCs that make you smirk. Standing near the TV in the living room long enough to realize there’s a real-life movie playing in its entirety. Or even finding… Space Applebee’s.

This even baffling the creator of Gears of War, Cliff Bleszinski. https://twitter.com/therealcliffyb/status/1603149154565472256?s=20&t=90d9LCWypIc34-uZDSdkLA

High on life exudes style and creative wackiness

Closing

High on Life is one of those games that punches hard with style and character. Once you’ve started playing, you won’t be able to stop. Perhaps some people may find the humor a little much at times, but I had a blast.

This being an Xbox Game Pass day one launch is such a benefit to gamers. If you have Game Pass, I can’t recommend it enough. Congrats to Squanch Games, Justin Roiland, and anyone involved for making such a ridiculous and fun experience.

Review: Daija Arcade Stick for Xbox

Andrew Edney

-

Dec 20, 2022

0

Here is our review of the Daija Arcade Stick for Xbox.

Experience fighting games like never before with an arcade stick that has been designed with professional eSports players. Built from premium-quality materials and fully customizable, the Daija Arcade Stick offers unrivalled professional performance.

The Daija Arcade Stick was designed in collaboration with Kayane, a leading pro eSports player who became a world record holder for the number of podium placements in fighting game tournaments when she was only 20 years old.

Every detail has been considered in the design of this officially licensed Xbox stick, which offers eSports performance. With the intelligent placement of the buttons made by a leading brand among professional players, and intuitive software for quickly and easily customizing the buttons, the Daija Arcade Stick provides quality, stability and incredible precision.

A textured palm rest, two different sticks, and a button lock feature to prevent accidental presses ensure an incredibly comfortable user experience that elevates you to the next level.

What’s in the box?

The box contains the arcade stick, a 3m detachable USB-A to USB-C cable, two stick heads, and two tools to quickly and easily customise your arcade stick.

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The Daija Arcade Stick looks really good and handles really well – you can use it on a surface or on your lap, whatever works for you.

The stick comes with two different joystick heads and all the tools you need to swap them out. Basically, figure out which is the best one for you and use the tools to very simply change it – it really was that simple. All the tools and the other head, along with the cable for the stick are nicely hidden away on the inside of the stick – just press the two side buttons and lift – easy!

The box also contains a blank customisable sheet that you can place on the top of the stick if you want to create your own!

The stick works with either an Xbox or a PC – there is a small switch on the side that selects which you are using, then once you have done that, just plug it in using the cable and that’s pretty much it! If you are using it with a PC, the first time you connect it you may be asked to install a driver.

There is a mode selector switch that enables you to configure the use of the stick depending on what games you are playing.

Talking of configuration, all the buttons are completely configurable for whatever you need and whatever you are playing. Just download the NACON Daija Arcade Stick software onto your PC or Mac and start making changes.

There is even a 3.5mm jack on the stick for you to plug in your headset if you want to.

The stick is very responsive and easy to use – even for extended periods of time. I certainly found it easier playing certain games with this stick than I did using a normal Xbox controller.

If you are in the market for a high quality, configurable stick then you really do need to take a look at this one.

The Daija Arcade Stick for Xbox is available now priced around €279.90.

You can learn more from the Nacon website.

Review: Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration

Cody May

-

Dec 20, 2022

0

Review: Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration

Many moons ago, at the dawn of gaming, kids filled arcades on every corner of the globe. Some of them also went home to an Atari Jaguar, Atari 2600, etc. To get lost in these magical pixelated landscapes. If you were once one of these kids, and you’re looking for a dose of nostalgia, then Atari has you covered with the launch of Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration.

A Walk Down Memory Lane

Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration is a massive collection of classic Atari games available on all platforms. Whether you’re a die-hard fan who grew up with these games or a disgruntled gamer who is tired of micro-transactions looking to relive the good old days. This game has a little of everything for you, and there’s over 100 games to play.

This is something I appreciate developer Digital Eclipse for, as you can tell they cared about preserving the legacy of Atari, both good and bad. Atari’s story is one of great triumphs, but also one of great disasters. Their story is a lesson for corporations, publishers, and developers to learn from, and preserving it is a necessity.

For All 8-Bit Gamers

In Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration, developer Digital Eclipse went to great lengths to make a faithful collection of Atari’s past. Most notably, when you boot up the game, you’ll see menu options guiding you through each era of Atari’s history. From their rise in arcades, the birth of the console, and even the E.T Video game disaster.

Whichever era you explore, you’ll be presented with a timeline. This timeline is loaded with interviews from current game developers who were inspired by Atari, to Atari developers themselves.

There are detailed information pop-ups that help you learn about such things like the first arcade machine or the infamous pong. My personal favorite is old Atari commercials from the 70s and 80’s showcasing their products.

Closing

Digital Eclipse did a stellar job paying homage to Atari’s rise and fall. If you’re a classic gamer/Atari fan you’ll have a blast. Outside of that demographic, I worry the $50 price point is a little steep. Having not grown up in the 80’s arcades, I rarely had a good time with most of the games. I never went into this review with a mindset that I would, nor did it cloud my judgement.

Playing this game, I appreciated it for what it was. I love researching gaming, as a lover of the art form. Collections like this are important. For anyone wanting to learn about a pivotal era in gaming, check out Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration.

Review: The Shrimp Model 1

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 19, 2022

0

Many gaming peripherals pride themselves on being designed for elite gamers. Consequently, ordinary people may feel alienated and may be out of their depth. With many complex features, fantastic build quality, and obscene RGB lighting, these accessories blow your mind. As such, when The Shrimp Model 1 was announced, I took note. This simple stripped-back gaming kit is designed with casual gaming in mind. Furthermore, it comprises 25 buttons, some simple but effective controls, and that is all.

Accordingly, this minute device is a little unusual. What’s more, the oversized buttons and delightful wrist support make it stand out. Therefore, it wouldn’t look out of place if you have a quirky setup, or you like to stream. What’s also great, is the fantastic build quality. The hardened plastic is reassuringly tough, and the keys look robust. Moreover, the old-school aesthetics are pleasing, and the comic book imagery on the wrist support adds some nerdy vibes.

The keyboard attached to its magnetic wrist support.

The Shrimp Model 1 split apart from its wrist rest.

What’s in the box of The Shrimp Model 1?

The packaging is phenomenal. From the off, this device screams look at me! With a colourful outer sleeve and a sleek and stylish main box, it delivers a high-quality aesthetic. Alongside this, it is adorned with key selling points, and it’s fully recyclable.
The Shrimp Model 1 is absolutely nuts. This compact beast is approximately 75-80% smaller than a standard keyboard. Furthermore, it has controls for the RGB lights and audio settings. Disappointingly, there are no adjustable feet, so the keyboard lays flat permanently. However, I liked the retro aesthetic and the RGB effects are fantastic.
Comic book wrist support. This magnetic wrist support looks great. It enhances the old-school appeal and will get your nerdy juices flowing. Moreover, it makes the keyboard comfortable to use during extended gaming sessions.
A USB-C braided cable. This lengthy cable is well-built and looks great.
Keycap puller. Remove the keys with ease thanks to this basic tool.
Carry bag. Ensure that your keyboard stays safe in this branded velvet bag.
A simple user guide. Study the fundamentals to get the most out of this keyboard.

The outer packaging for The Shrimp Model 1.

The Shrimp Model 1 has a colourful wrist support.

A branded carry case for The Shrimp Model 1.

The Shrimp Model 1 is colourful and compact.

Technical aspects.

Ultracompact mechanical gaming keyboard
25-key GLOBAL layout with super stunning “oversized” lettering
Gateron™ G Pro mechanical switches
Cherry™ profile (heights & shaping) keycaps
RGB illumination with a bunch of cool effects
Padded and textured magnetic wrist rest
Cool gadgety knobs
Multimedia controls
Fn-layer (dual function keys)
USB-C connector
Compatibility: Desktop PC and gaming laptops, PS4/PS5 (standard HID compliant USB device)

I know what you are thinking. You are questioning whether this keyboard is worthwhile. After all, what’s the use of a keyboard if you can’t use it to type? Well, you would be right, and in any other circumstance, I’d totally agree. However, this incredible device works perfectly for the job it is designed for. That job is to be a simple and straightforward gaming peripheral.

As such, the oversized buttons were a great design choice. What’s more, the use of Gateron™ G Pro switches to dampen that traditional mechanical sound was a wise design. Moreover, the Cherry profile for the keycaps ensures that the lower position is more responsive and feels more comfortable. Keeping with the button elements, the inclusion of dual-aspect functionality was a stroke of genius. Subsequently, the manufacturers have been able to incorporate many essential keys without jeopardising their design aspirations.

For example, the FN and ESC buttons mirror the enter key. While FN and 1 through 5 represent F1 to F5. This was a sensible approach, as many gamers require a vast choice of keys for their in-depth gaming experiences. Accordingly, they can’t complain about usability or functionality. On top of this, The Shrimp Model 1 incorporates media shortcuts at the touch of a button. You can adjust the audio levels, mute sound, or skip and pause tracks at will. This was great as you are in total control without having to alter your settings or play around with your PC.

A closer look at the media and RGB controls.

Usability.

Technically, The Shrimp Model 1 is phenomenal. It is responsive, easy to use, looks great, and is built to last. But, what about its usability? How does this tiny keyboard compare to other market-leading devices? I’ve been able to look at the ROCCAT Vulcan II Max, the ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini, and the SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL. As such, I have a good understanding of the keyboard market. Accordingly, this device is a little restrictive compared to its peers. Without the full range of keys, it takes some getting used to. However, once you accept its limitations, you experience a phenomenal device.

When you team this up with a mappable gaming mouse, such as the ROCCAT Kone XP Air, you get a winning combination. No longer do you need to worry about keyboard inputs as your mouse takes the load. Instead, you can enjoy the simplicity and the minimal nature of this accessory. Moreover, you can sit back and enjoy the insane light show from the RGB setup.

Is The Shrimp Model 1 worth it?

This is one hell of a niche product. However, those who buy it will absolutely love everything about it. From its quirky and dated style to its incredibly easy and functional usability, this is a top-notch accessory. Yes, it takes some getting used to, and it won’t be suitable for every occasion, but this matters not. Why? Well, most gamers already have a great keyboard, and The Shrimp Model 1 will simply be an awesome addition to your setup.

On top of this, its build quality is phenomenal, and its RGB lighting is enhanced thanks to the larger buttons. Furthermore, the excellent and striking magnetic wrist support ensures that it’s comfortable to use for extended gaming sessions. I understand that hardcore gamers may overlook this, but Nordic Game Supply has something up its sleeves to counteract this. As such, keep an eye on their website for some exciting product news. On the whole, The Shrimp Model 1 more than exceeded my expectations. Subsequently, I am happy to recommend that you buy it here!

_{(More information on Nordic Game Supply can be found here!)}