Review: Grapple Dog

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Grapple Dog

The platforming genre has been done to death. Consequently, it is hard to find a unique and original title amongst the plethora of junk games. However, when you do find a great one, it entertains you throughout. Thankfully, Grapple Dog does just that with its whimsy plot, cute characters, and deceptively cruel gameplay.

Developed by Medallion Games and published by Super Rare Games, this is a colourful platforming experience. What’s more, it has plenty of collectables, lots of levels, and loads of extra content to complete. In short, at first, it appears to be a basic and underwhelming game, but you soon realise it is more complicated than first meets the eye.

The overworld is navigated using a small boat in Grapple Dog.
A boat is used to move between each stage.

Grapple Dog proves that underdogs can win.

Unfortunately, the hero of this story is a little dim. Yet, this doesn’t stop this fun-loving pooch from living a full life. However, this gullible creature unwittingly releases a malevolent force and endangers the inhabitants of his colourful world. Undeterred by his stupidity, the hound is determined to right every wrong. As such, he undertakes a monstrous adventure filled with danger, robots, bosses, and many chasms.

The story isn’t particularly original, but it matters not. I adored the cute play on words, the excellent narration, and the tongue-in-cheek undertones. Moreover, the gentle learning curve and interesting stage design ensure that newcomers and veterans are equally tested. On top of this, gamers can alter the difficulty by removing damage and increasing Pablo, the protagonist’s jumping capabilities. Alongside this, you must remember that Pablo is no ordinary, albeit stupid, dog. No, he has been gifted a special grappling hook that’ll help him swing over chasms and explore each stage.

A giant robot dinosaur chases Pablo as the stage is destroyed.
Run as fast as you can!

Standard platforming mechanics.

Like many of its peers, Grapple Dog utilises some well-trodden tropes. You’ll wall jump, double jump, hit boxes, land on your enemies, and so forth. None of these mechanics will surprise you, but when they are combined with the collectables and the additional level content, they work perfectly. The 33 levels of madness are split over 6 different worlds. Each of these worlds comprises a boss battle, bonus levels, and time trials. Furthermore, there are coins to gather and other minor elements to look for.

Though each stage was fun, I enjoyed the additional content the most. The boss battle focuses on a linear level that tests your reactions, memory, and any new abilities you have. This was great, but it was equally frustrating. Why was it so annoying? Well, trying to collect every item while being chased by an enormous robot was never going to be easy. However, this enhanced difficulty certainly increases longevity and is rewarding when you are successful.

The bonus levels and the time trials reek of padding the game out. Yet, I didn’t care. I thoroughly enjoyed the silliness of the bonus stages and the break away from the traditional platforming elements. Furthermore, the time trials pushed me to my limits and kept me coming back for more.

Grapple Dog is wonderfully old-school.

If you consider the best platform games, your mind focuses on any Nintendo title. This platforming powerhouse has cornered the market, and every developer looks at their games for inspiration. Accordingly, Grapple Dog reminded me of Super Mario Bros, albeit with a more polished finish. The vulgar colours, the bold character design, and the hidden paths were reminiscent of this platforming masterpiece. What’s more, the engaging stage design, the variety of enemies, and the combination of additional content ensure that it remains fresh throughout.

What wasn’t so great was the audio. The repetitive soundtrack is annoying as hell even though it works perfectly with the theme. Its chirpy and upbeat nature is wonderful to listen to, but it never changes. Disappointingly, hearing the same song on a loop for hours on end is torturous. Unfortunately, this arduous decision was the biggest downfall in an otherwise great experience.

Pablo is using his grapple hook to swing between two platforms.
Just keep swinging.

Excellent controls.

When a game requires accuracy and speed to progress, you need a fantastic control layout. Thankfully, Medallion Games has delivered on this aspect. With a simple approach and responsive inputs, you’ll master it in no time. What’s more, a basic tutorial ensures that you know exactly what is required from the off.

Grapple Dog is an inexpensive title that is jam-packed with content. Furthermore, the gradual learning curve and game-changing elements make it accessible to all skill sets. Alongside this, you must consider the collectables, the time trials, and the bonus levels. All of these things demand that you keep playing while increasing both replay value and longevity.

Grapple Dog is a fantastic retro experience.

I should probably moan about the lack of originality or the overused platforming tropes. Yet, I won’t! I cherished Grapple Dog because of its reliance on familiar gameplay mechanics. Moreover, I adored the cute characters, the whimsy story, and the excellent stage design. However, I can’t excuse the poor audio and one major issue I had with my save files. Disappointingly, a glitch wiped my progress multiple times. This was understandably frustrating, but I’m assured it is an issue that will be resolved. Despite its shortcomings, I still believe that it’s a fantastic retro experience. Consequently, I recommend that you buy it here! Can you stop the malevolent force from destroying your home? Avoid the chasms, destroy the robots, and find every artefact.

Review: Shatter Remastered Deluxe

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Shatter Remastered Deluxe

The word remastered is used far too often. Consequently, there is an argument that the gaming industry is getting lazy and lacks originality. However, occasionally, a remastered title comes along and impresses you immediately. As such, you forget your hatred of this lazy cash cow. This is exactly what happened when I installed Shatter Remastered Deluxe! When I received my code, I shook my head in disbelief. After all, who wants to play a dated brick-breaking game? Well, as it works out, surprisingly, I do.

Developed and published by PikPok, this is a retro arcade experience. What’s more, it is addictive thanks to its simple but effective scoring system. Shatter was originally released in 2009 and was well-received. Roll on 14 years, and you get to enjoy the same moreish gameplay but it has a modern finish. Subsequently, this combination works perfectly, as the action plays out flawlessly.

Shatter Remastered Deluxe mixes up the perspective from square levels to round stages.
A change of perspective mixes things up.

Shatter Remastered Deluxe focuses on the madness.

With no plot or protagonists to empathise with, you may feel lost. However, luckily, Shatter Remastered Deluxe focuses on its hectic gameplay. With 5 unique modes to explore, 10 bosses to defeat and 71 exciting levels to master, you soon forget what it’s lacking. Instead, you’ll adore the mind-bending physics and the demand for quick reactions.

Each stage concentrates on one simple goal. Consequently, you control a vessel that must prevent your balls from leaving the arena. On top of this, you must destroy every brick in sight. If you do this, the level is completed and you progress. En route, you’ll experience an array of stages that test your resolve. Furthermore, drip-fed mechanics change the way you tackle each level.

Upgrades and gargantuan bosses. 

An arcade game would be nothing without game-changing power-ups. Thankfully, Shatter Remastered Deluxe doesn’t disappoint. As such, you’ll collect unstoppable balls, extra lives, extra shatter pieces, and more. The shatter pieces enhance your score while powering your special weapon. This high-powered gun decimates every block and is the difference between winning and losing. 

Talking of losing, this is likely to happen when you face each of the gargantuan bosses. These overpowered monstrosities are tough to handle. Furthermore, they test your patience and your tactical mindset. Accordingly, each boss requires some trial and error if you wish to be victorious. This was phenomenal, as much of the action was easy to overcome. Therefore, this smattering of challenging gameplay was a welcome change of pace.

The paddle deflects the ball into an explosive block.
Plan your approach and destroy every brick.

More than just the main mode. 

Though the bulk of the gameplay focuses on the “story” mode, there are more strings to this bow. Subsequently, you can while away the hours playing the Endless option, or you can play cooperatively with a friend. On top of this, there is a time attack mode and Boss Rush. Each of these extra modes adds depth to an otherwise simple affair. What’s more, the cooperative option creates some lighthearted competition between friends.

Shatter Remastered Deluxe looks incredible. 

Sadly, the next-gen consoles have yet to be tested thoroughly. However, Shatter Remastered Deluxe tries to change this. With stunning 4K resolution running at a strong 120fps, it runs smoothly and looks incredible. Alongside this, the vivid colours and futuristic design are a treat to the eyes. Yet, the developers played it safe with their stage design. Unfortunately, there are plenty of familiar assets and this was disappointing. Accordingly, it would have been nice if PikPok had been more adventurous. 

If you’ve played the original, you’ll know how great the soundtrack is. Thankfully, you can re-experience this spectacular synth sound. Furthermore, this remastered title has upped the ante by incorporating 5.1 surround sound. This was an excellent choice as it enhances the gameplay while giving the music the oomph it deserves.

Shatter Remastered Deluxe has some immense aliens. Unleash your weapons and take down the boss.
Can you defeat the gargantuan boss?

Easy to play. 

The modernised UI has made Shatter Remastered Deluxe a cinch to play. Moreover, the simple layout and responsive inputs keep you ahead of the game. However, the lack of a tutorial does muddy the water somewhat. Consequently, there are some frustrating moments as you try to understand poorly explained mechanics. 

Thanks to the scoring system, masses of levels, and interesting game modes, there is plenty to do. Furthermore, Shatter Remastered Deluxe has longevity and replay value thanks to its cooperative action. Alongside this, you must consider the large achievement list that keeps you coming back for more. 

Shatter Remastered Deluxe is fantastic.

I still believe that remastered games are undermining the industry. Yet, I can’t help but love Shatter Remastered Deluxe. By retaining its moreish action, it tweaks your heartstrings. What’s more, its modern polish will impress you from the off. Accordingly, I recommend that you buy it here! Can you destroy every brick and boss? Move your paddle, react to the situation, and clear every stage.

How Non GamStop Sites Attract Players With Free Bonuses

Christopher John
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0
How Non GamStop Sites Attract Players With Free Bonuses

A lot of GamStop casinos will offer various free bonuses to players who want to gamble here. They do this due to an obvious reason. Casinos offer these bonuses to attract new players and keep them playing at the same casino as long as possible. This is a win-win situation. Casinos get new players and players get regular bonuses and perks from the casino. These offers are profitable to the casino and appealing to the gamblers. Now you will learn why. 

What Are Free Bonuses?

You do know that free bonuses can refer to all promotions a casino has to offer. As you know, a bonus is an offer the casino has prepared for you once you create an account, register, deposit or etc. One thing we must help you understand is that some bonuses are considered free because you don’t have to deposit funds to the casino in order to claim them. For comparison, we have deposit match bonuses. It means that you will have to deposit funds and the casino will give you a 100% match on that deposit.

Free bonuses are no deposit bonuses. Here we can see two options. You can get free spins without having to deposit funds on many casinos available at https://www.nongamstopbets.com/no-deposit-no-gamstop-bonuses/ where all GamStop players can find the full list of such promotions. Also, you can get free money as well. The latter refers to a small amount of money the casino will offer to you. Some casinos will try to mix the things so you can choose between the two, get special offers, and more. 

It is important to add that free promotions can come with wagering requirements. Some of them don’t have wagering requirements. These are known as no deposit, no wager offers. It means that you can claim the offer for free, win and withdraw the funds as soon as you win. Wagering requirements mean that you will have to bet the bonus amount a specific number of times. So, if you get $10 for free and the wagering requirement is 10 times you will have to bet $100. You will have to deposit more. Most bonuses at online casinos come with these perks. 

Players Can Play For Free

When we say free bonuses, we are referring to no deposit bonuses. It means that a player will get free spins or even money from the casino to use those on the official website. These are considered real money so you can play real casino games and win real money. Yes, the offers are small and they are not something spectacular but they are still worthy of your time. 

Players will want to claim these offers due to numerous, related perks. For instance, they can test a casino for free, play the game they like for free and even win some amount of money. Once they are happy, they can deposit and also get another bonus. This is amazing symbiosis.

Gamblers Will Want Even More

When an online casino offers a no deposit bonus, a player will want to claim it. Once he is done, he will want another bonus. This is typically what the casino wants to get and what a player wants. The player gets another bonus; a match deposit offer and he can continue playing, now you understand why providers outside GamStop offer such deals and how the bonuses increase their popularity. In simple terms, players will deposit more money into the casino, making more profit for the site but they can play more. 

All of this means that online casinos will become more popular and more desirable. At the same time, we can see that players will gamble more at these casinos and they will spread the word about the bonuses so other players will claim these as well.

Sharing The Email Address

Here we can see one interesting fact. Online casinos will require from you an email address. There is no way around it. You need to provide one as soon as you create a new account at the casino. This also means that the casino will share your bonuses and new promotions. They will send you an email and you can click on the link to claim the offer. This also means that players can claim new no deposit bonuses if they are available. These are rare but they can become available when a new game is launched or when the casino makes some improvements. 

One way or another, you will get regular promotions from the casino. You never know when you will get a promotion you must have and you will want to claim it as soon as possible. Once again, this is a win-win combination. 

The Final Word

Casinos that are not on GamStop have been using free bonuses to attract new players for a long time. They do this by offering free spins or no deposit bonuses and these are great for players. In simple terms, we can add that players adore these promotions and they want to claim as many as possible. It is free money and yes, you can win real money using this bonus only. This is better than you may believe. 

Why Video Games Are Beneficial For International Gamblers?

Christopher John
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0
Why Video Games Are Beneficial For International Gamblers?

It is true that gamblers, especially the ones who have gambling issues can get certain benefits from playing video games. As a matter of fact, some experts even recommend that gamblers who are at risk of developing gambling addiction should move to video games completely. Below we are going to explore these benefits and also reveal a few things you need to avoid in this particular case.

All Entertainments Are Free

Yes, video games are free. Well, most of them are available without the need to use your money. You can find sites like those and play in international casinos for free as long as you like and you can always switch to another game. Keep in mind that new games are added to the market every single day and there are already countless titles online so you can imagine the potential.

Here we can see that there is no need to use payment methods, look at the deposits, or anything similar. In a nutshell, all you have to do is to play a game, and you are done.

The Same Results

When it comes to the results, we can see that playing video games is almost the same as gambling. You target the same centres in the brain. You will feel satisfied, and happy when you win and you will have a great time. All of these are present at any given moment and when you play a game you like. As such, this can be a thing to choose if you want to stop gambling. 

It is important to add that some experts recommend playing video games if you have a gambling addiction. This is why. You get the same thrill hence you won’t have a need to play casino games anymore. It is an important benefit and something that we all like.

There is no need to add that you can even find a game that will be more fun and more interesting than most casino games. Of course, you can play video games on any device. These days most PC games come in a form that makes them compatible with your smartphone. As such, you can play these on the device you like. Some even say that more and more people play smartphone games compared to video games on PC.

Some Things You Need To Avoid

Yes, playing video games can be even more appealing than online gambling. However, there are a few things you need to avoid. The first one is to play games where you have to use real money in order to play. These apply to games where you have to pay for playing a game with loot boxes for a specific period of time. When it expires, you will have to pay to play again. These are not recommended and they are like gambling more than you can imagine.

The second thing here is that games that contain loot boxes are a huge problem and you must not play these. First, you never know the content of a loot box which makes it similar to gambling. Then we can see that you can pay to get loot boxes which is another issue. Last but not least, loot boxes may affect you in such a way that you will want to get them in massive amounts. After all, these are appealing. They can make your gaming more successful by giving you the in-game items and things you can use and you will need. 

We must say something about social casinos. These are considered video games and not gambling. But they have a complete similarity to gambling. You will play to win coins that allow you to play longer. Then we have the ability to purchase the coins and use them to play immediately. Wight out this, a player would have to wait a whole day or a specific period of time in order to be able to play again. These are the same as gambling but you can’t get real money. As such, you need to look for other games that are safer and more appealing. Some even claim that social casinos need to be regulated and need to be treated as actual gambling sites. They look more like that than video games.

The last thing here is the fact you should avoid playing games where you have in-game currency. These allow you to use real money to get the currency and play. These games can also force you to use real money to get the money for the game. In addition, these games may force you to play much longer and try new things in order to become rich in the game.

The Final Word

Playing video console games is beneficial for gamblers and especially the ones who have gambling addiction or similar issues. Of course, there are some issues here you need to know about and we have covered all of them. As such, you can make sure to understand the topic completely and stay focused on the things you really want. 

KYC Procedures in Gamling: Brief Overview

Christopher John
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0
KYC Procedures in Gamling: Brief Overview

The online gambling industry has experienced a tremendous surge with various sports betting sites and online casinos offering massive selections of games. The growing number of online gambling sites intensifies financial crime and other opportunities for criminals to launder money. The KYC process is relevant for regulated operators to maximize security and engagement by reigning transparency in the platform. 

Although there are many gaming sites that do not conduct identity verification, many casinos still prefer to adhere to KYC standards to protect their businesses from fraudulent users, problematic gamblers, and money laundering. Since this protective measure has become a prime target to make sure that their platforms are trustworthy, take a look at the key KYC processes that every player must complete.

Common Stages of Identity Verification at Online Casinos

Despite the huge number of online casinos, most of them make customers undergo similar KYC procedures. Usually, those are: 

  • Account registration
  • Email verification
  • Documents upload

Below, we’ll look deeper into each of these stages.

Registering an Account on a Gambling Site

Before everything, you are required to register at your chosen gambling platform which evidently controls your onboarding process and KYC. You need to go to the official website of the trustworthy web-based casino by selecting a suitable link related to the registration step. Once the registration page is opened, you have to fill in some required and personal information. 

For the online gambling site registration, the common details include your full name, current address, date of birth, email ID, pincode, and your preferred payment option. After supplying these common details, you need to create your username and password for your gambling account. Your password must be strong with 6 to 8 characters. Nonetheless, these documents can vary from operator to operator. Generally, the more documents the operators require, the more secure the casino’s usage barrier.

Verifying Your Email Address

Another step is email address verification, something important you must complete in order to start playing. It aims to make sure that the players have the right age to gamble. Therefore, those who skip this process won’t be able to access the platform. Great news for players is that some NonStopCasino.org offers allow gamblers to get no deposit free spins with no verification. In general, you need to provide valid documents to verify your identity. 

Reputed gambling sites always detail what documents they require for this procedure so you will be able to choose the one you want to supply them. It is undeniable to see many newcomers worry about their details during the registration process. Thus, the best option that you have to do is to pick a reliable online casino that you trust. Informed yourself through various steps such as reading the casino’s reviews, learning its operating licence, and understanding its terms and conditions. This way, there is no need to worry about providing your personal details.

Providing Documents for KYC Procedures

One of the reasons why KYC is important is that it helps casinos to ensure that their customers meet all legal requirements. If you are new to a web-based casino, you need to know that KYC is required in two different cases: after your registration and before your withdrawal. In both sign-up and withdrawal approaches, the legit online casinos require you to submit documents to prove your identity, and sometimes to verify that you have sufficient funds. These documents include proof of identity, proof of address, and a bank statement.

  • Proof of identity. Downloading proof of identity documents is common in every gambling site to verify all players. The samples of the documents that the casino can request as proof of identity include a copy of the identity card or driver’s license, or passport. These documents must confirm the user’s full name, date of birth, and pictures.
  • Proof of address. Another KYC document is the proof of address that can include your utility bill and bank statement with your name and address. It deserves to mention that these documents must be issued within the last three months of the date of submission.
  • Bank Statement. Gamblers who use online payment options are required to submit a screenshot of their bank statements that include their names, account numbers, and the logo of the bank. Furthermore, the e-Wallets users can also supply a screenshot of their accounts with their names on online casinos.

In a Nutshell

As online gambling explodes in popularity, so do financial crimes. By evaluating the level of risk each gambler presents, KYC is applied to protect them from illegal funds and transactions. This tool was initially used in financial institutions to ensure that their customers are not involved in money-related crimes. However, now KYC is mandatoryfor gambling operators in several countries including the UK to offer a fair and secure experience to the players. As this industry depends on security to survive, providers should focus on joining these trusted sites. 

How to Play Bingo When on GamStop?

Christopher John
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0
How to Play Bingo When on GamStop?

The iGaming operators are devoted to satisfying their players by filling their games portfolio with a variety of bingo games. These games of pure chance have been ubiquitous in online gaming, and get changes all the time, making them the most popular games so far. Though bingo is associated with low rates of problem gambling, the self-exclusion scheme GamStop is a tool to quit gambling for those who feel to have a gambling problem. Once you register for this programme that restricts your online gambling activities, you won’t have access to your chosen gambling websites and apps licensed in the UK. 

How To Play Bingo If You Register With Gamstop

There are numerous bingo rooms that are under GamStop restrictions and just as many that are not. As you will not be able to play bingo at gambling sites until the end of your selected self-exclusion period, here are a few tips to help you play bingo when on Gamstop.

Go To Non Gamstop Bingo List

More and more bingo lovers desperately seek brands not on GamStop to find a similar excitement to their usual licenced bingo websites. Fortunately, non-GamStop bingo sites are abundant and easy to find in the UK online gaming market. For example, on https://casinogap.org/non-gamstop-bingo/ you can find a bingo site not on GamStop that suits your needs. Nonetheless, it doesn’t mean that these web-based bingo platforms are unlicensed and illegal. They actually register under the regulation of other reputable licensing entities around the world. Hence, if you find a trustworthy non GamStop bingo list, you will certainly find your favourite variants. These well-regulated bingo casinos provide a safe and outstanding gaming experience.

Choose Your Bingo Operator

Once you are sure that you have found a reliable bingo list, you need to pick a reliable bingo operator suitable to all your requirements. As bingo has been the favourite pastime for people across the world, bingo companies have evidently grown so much. This means that aficionados can benefit from the offers and opportunities that boost their chance of winning. Today, you can choose among hundreds of new non-GamStop bingo websites released on a regular basis. When you’ve visited these sites, you will have a large choice regarding the games portfolio provided by the leading game developers. In addition, a wide collection of trustworthy payment methods is accessible to all users.

Go to the Registration Page

When you are sure that you pick the right platform, you need to follow a few key steps to successfully set up an online bingo account. In order to play your beloved bingo variations, you have to go through the registration process. First, you need to go to the registration page and provide some personal information such as your name, address, email, and phone number. You have also to create a username and a strong password. It deserves to mention that signing up at the bingo website takes no more than 5 minutes to complete.

Make Your First Deposit

When you are ready to play bingo for real money, there are some details you need to know to make sure that your gaming experience will be exciting. If you are new to non GamStop bingo casinos, you should know that the majority of the sites provide various types of deposit options. After you made the decision about the banking method you want to use, choose the deposit amount. Apart from the common credit cards like Visa and MasterCard, you can pick among the popular e-wallets, including Perfect Money, Neteller, and Skrill. The bank transfer and mobile billing options are the most common methods for web-based bingo deposits.

Enjoy your GamStop-Free Bingo Games

Bingo was considered a game for a certain age group, but when it embraced technologies, it has become an appeal to the masses. Playing online bingo is awesome chiefly when you pick the best websites. Though you register on a non-GamStop site, you are permitted to play free bingo games before placing a bet. Playing free online bingo games allows you to receive joy and thrill with no need to use your bankroll. In addition, you can become familiar with the game and its various features without financial loss maximising your winning chances.

Conclusion

According to some sociologists, gaming reduces stress, and bingo is not an exception. Despite the decline in popularity of the bingo hall over the last few decades, the online version is also a great opportunity to interact with other players. Nonetheless, when they lose control of their gambling, it can become a serious issue, which can turn into an addiction. GamStop is a renowned tool to help them control their online gambling. The good news is that those who want to play bingo when on GamStop can enjoy this social game if they follow the tips above.

Review: HEROish

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: HEROish

Normally, tower defence games are reserved for mobile phones. These simple-to-play experiences are casually moreish while making your brain work. Moreover, the tactical elements ensure that no playthrough is ever the same. However, when I see anything from this genre on console or PC, I worry. Why? Well, the simplicity of the core concept and repetitive gameplay structure can become old long before you finish the game. As such, when I was given HEROish to review, I was somewhat apprehensive.

Developed and published by Sunblink, this is a deck building tower defence game. What’s more, it has a fantasy theme, some excellent narration, and plenty of depth to keep you going. Alongside this, it is tough to put down and can be enjoyed casually. Accordingly, it has captured the best elements of the mobile market, while delivering a rich and rewarding time for console gamers.

Use your magic to bring the dead back to life.
Time to raise the undead from their graves.

HEROish is a tongue-in-cheek affair.

The story behind HEROish is so crazy that it’s hard to explain. As such, I’ll allow you to enjoy the many twists and turns if you decide to invest. However, I can say there are 6 unique heroes and 3 campaigns to enjoy. Each of the characters is paired with another, and you enjoy a unique vision of the same story. Subsequently, your allegiances change depending on which side of the fence you are sitting. This was incredible, as such a small twist made a massive difference to the gameplay.

Alongside the individual paths, you play with a “faction” specific deck of cards. Therefore, you must adjust your approach and change your tactics for each campaign you tackle. You can pick from the good, the bad, and something in between. The good guys have a classic set of troops and the heroes are OTT and cliched. Whereas the bad guys have a villainous undertone and a creepy undead army to command. Alternatively, the final pair offers a happy medium that allows you to play how you like. Consequently, there is an option that plays to your strengths and one that’ll highlight your weaknesses. Either way, it’ll make you smile while testing your tactical nuance and patience.

Minor exploration and repetitive tasks.

HEROish is split into two key areas. There is the overworld map that funnels you from one location to another as you complete each quest. Then there is the battle arena that must be mastered at all costs. First, as you explore the smallish world, you’ll find chests and enemies to tackle, and merchants to upgrade your cards. Sadly, this approach never changes, no matter which campaign you tackle. As such, this was disappointing, as it set a precedent of repetition that the game never escapes from. Finally, the arena battle is where you spend most of your time. These combat elements were fun and challenging and made up the body of the action.

During each battle, the goal differed ever so slightly. As such, during one fight, you may be asked to fight a certain amount of enemies. However, during the next encounter, you may be asked to destroy a “Soul Gem”. Alternatively, you may have to defend your base from attack or defeat a certain boss. Whatever the task, the core principles were the same. Accordingly, your hero earns mana, and this is spent on 1 of 4 cards. Use a card, and a random one is pulled from the deck to replace it. This pattern continues until the mission is over. Consequently, if you are successful, you earn gold and XP.

The multiplayer action comprises 1v1 or 2v2.
It’s multiplayer action time.

XP and upgrades.

The backbone of HEROish is simple to understand. Effectively, you must complete the main quest line while improving your deck of cards and your hero. If you fail to do this, your hero will not fulfil their potential and the campaign won’t be completed. However, the developers are generous and as a consequence, it wasn’t too hard to improve the protagonist or your army.

The previously mentioned gold and XP are used to upgrade each active card and to level your hero. The latter option is done automatically and you pay little attention to it. However, your deck of cards is your focus, as it is the difference between failure and success. Fortunately, experimenting with your deck was easily achieved, and this was one of the best elements of the gameplay. With a vast selection of troops on offer, you can go on the offensive during every mission, or you can play it safe. Whatever you pick, there is no right or wrong, and this adds a fun edge to the action.

HEROish is colourful but basic.

With 2 unique gameplay areas, the developers could have bitten off more than they could chew. However, the simplicity of the overworld and the stripped-back nature of the battle arenas ensured that HEROish was never overwhelming. Yes, some of the battles could be hectic and hard to observe, but you never felt out of your comfort zone. Furthermore, the basic UI and clean-cut display make the action easy to follow. What was also great was the interesting sprites and the use of a vivid colour palette. On top of this, I loved the trouble-free action and how admirably it performed.

The audio was equally good. The soundtrack combines upbeat songs with some folksy and “ye olde” tracks. This combination of music enhanced the fantasy theme whilst adding to the drama. Alongside this, the sound effects were loud, brash, and annoyingly good. Whether it was the crashing of swords or the ping of magic spells, it worked perfectly throughout.

Both teams charge at one another in another battle in HEROish,
Chargeeeeee!

Excellent controls.

A genre that is designed for mobile phones cannot be complicated to master. Fortunately, HEROish does a great job with its fundamentals and excellent controls. Thanks to a simple tutorial and its amazing UI, you’ll understand the basics in no time. On top of this, the controls and inputs are responsive and well-considered.

Though there are 3 campaigns and 6 heroes to use, the game is concise. Unfortunately, each campaign lasts around 2 hours, and this wasn’t enough. Thankfully, though, the developers incorporated a 2-4 player multiplayer mode to increase longevity. With 1V1 or 2V2 options, you can pick a hero, challenge strangers or friends, and prove your deck building prowess.

HEROish is a fun but short title.

I didn’t expect to enjoy HEROish as much as I did. Its colourful environment, interesting characters, and the charming story kept me hooked from the off. However, I cannot overlook the repetitive nature of the gameplay. Unfortunately, there isn’t enough variety, and this holds the game back. Furthermore, the campaigns are not long enough, and that was disappointing. However, despite these shortcomings, it is extremely moreish and rewarding. Moreover, the narration is great, and it is extremely easy to pick up and master. As such, I recommend that you buy it here! Can you become the hero of your story? Control each protagonist, understand what makes them tick, and build an army of your dreams.

Review: 8BitDo Ultimate Controller with Charging Dock

Andrew Edney
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Review: 8BitDo Ultimate Controller with Charging Dock

Here is our review of the 8BitDo Ultimate Controller with Charging Dock.

The Ultimate Bluetooth Controller delivers pro-level design and functionality, even supporting full motion control when used via Bluetooth with Nintendo Switch. The Charging Dock included, stores, protects and charges the controller when not in use, switching it off when docked and automatically switching it on when picked up for instant play. The bottom of the Charging Dock houses a powerful USB 2.4G adapter, allowing gamers to use it with Windows PC, and the Controller’s powerful 1000mAh Li-on rechargeable battery will keep gamers going for those longer sessions over the Holidays.

When playing on Windows PC, iOS or Android, gamers are invited to download the powerful Ultimate Software from 8BitDo, affording gamers a raft of customisation options to suit their playing style or create custom profiles. Accessed at a flick of a switch located on the body of the Controller, up to three distinct profiles are available at any time with the Ultimate Bluetooth Controller. Map action buttons, adjust thumbstick tension, modify the vibration intensity, tweak the trigger tension, or even create personalised custom macros; it’s all possible via the slick interface for unrivalled ease.

Specifications

What’s in the box?

The box contains the controller and charging dock (with a USB adaptor stored in the dock), charging cable and instructions.

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The controller is designed to work with a Nintendo Switch, Windows 10, Android and now more recently it works with a SteamDeck.

There are two different connectivity options – either via Bluetooth or via wifi. There is a 2.4g dongle included in the charging stand you can use if Bluetooth isn’t an option. There is a switch on the controller itself to select between Bluetooth and wifi.

Both options are really easy to pair with – just follow the instructions and you will be up and running very quickly.

Charging the controller is simple – just place the controller onto the charging stand and wait. The charging stand connects to power via the supplied cable so you will need to connect that cable to your computer or to a plug. A full charge takes between 2 and 3 hours and you should be able to get around 22 hours or play from that charge – so more than enough! And just having to place the controller back on the stand makes it so much easier to remember to charge!

The controller itself is very comfortable to use, even for extended periods of time – the buttons and sticks are well placed and feel good to use and there are even pro-level back buttons that you dont normally find on a standard controller.

The controller is customisable via the 8BitDo Ultimate Software which works on either Windows, iOS or Android. Customise button mapping, adjust stick and trigger sensitivity, vibration control and create macros with any button combination. Create controller profiles and switch between them at any time with the custom profile switch.

If you are looking for a great customisable controller for your Switch, or for Windows or your SteamDeck, then you will really want to check out the 8BitDo Ultimate Controller – you wont be disappointed.

The 8BitDo Ultimate Controller with Charging Dock is available now priced around £59.99.

You can learn more about the 8BitDo Ultimate Controller from their website.

Review: NEScape

Daniel Waite
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Review: NEScape

Escape rooms have always been popular. However, recently, they have evolved to a whole new level. New themes, ideas, and puzzles will test the most logically-minded individuals. Yet, their biggest downfall is the cost. Unfortunately, a day out solving problems isn’t a cheap event. Therefore, what’s the solution? Well, there are some great computer games that tackle this issue while thoroughly entertaining you. One such example is the newly released NEScape.

Developed by KHAN Games and published by 8 Bit Legit, this is a tough puzzle experience. What’s more, it is distinctly retro while offering no hints and absolutely no hand-holding. This brutal approach won’t be for everyone, but if you like to be tested and pushed to your limits, this is probably the game for you.

A green room full of secrets and puzzles.
Where are the clues?

NEScape is harsh but rewarding.

Rarely do games rely solely on their core concept. Yet, this is exactly what NEScape does! With no story in sight and no explanation of why you are locked in a tricky prison, you are left to your own devices. Moreover, you are free to explore the 4 rooms at will, and you must decipher plenty of puzzles while finding every clue.

This is NEScape in a nutshell. It offers no guidance, and it loves to be cruel. Additionally, its pixelated and dated imagery makes the world tough to explore. However, its harsh approach is rewarding. Once you work out what you must do, there are plenty of eureka moments. Whether it is working out a hidden code, moving a ball through a maze, playing a song on a piano, or using “Blacklight” to find secret messages, it is a tough but thrilling experience.

NEScape is full of puzzles.
Can you work out what number to dial?

Too hard for some.

Though I enjoyed every brutal moment, I understand that the steep learning curve and obscure nature of each problem won’t be for everyone. Instead, the lack of help will put many amateur puzzle enthusiasts on the back foot. Alternatively, these inexperienced players may simply stop playing altogether. That would be a shame, as once you understand the developer’s thought process, it is easier to progress.

Much of the action focuses on minor changes to each of the 4 rooms. Completing one puzzle will unlock a new item or problem in another area. Alongside this, there were puzzles that demand an eye for detail and a methodical mindset. With 4 chapters to complete, and a countdown timer, the pressure ramps up the longer you take.

NEScape is beautifully retro.

Though many gamers demand a modern and ultra-realistic approach, I love a dated aesthetic. Thankfully, NEScape is beautifully retro with its garish colours, blunt tones, and simple imagery. However, this dated style does make it harder to play. Sadly, much of the detail is lost and this can be frustrating. This is especially true if you play it on a larger screen. However, if you can work through these issues, you’ll enjoy the simplicity of the action, and the 4 unique fixed-screen rooms that must be explored.

What wasn’t so great, though, was the repetitive audio. The shrill and frankly annoying soundtrack will drive you barmy. Now, the 80s and 90s created some of the best gaming soundtracks ever, yet, NEScape seems to have missed that memo. Unfortunately, it is borderline unbearable even though it works with the era and the theme.

So many books but not enough detail.
So many icons but not enough detail.

Surprisingly good controls.

I expected this to be awful to control. For unknown reasons, I convinced myself that it would be clunky and poorly executed. Thankfully, I was wrong. The rudimentary controls and simple navigation ensure that it is easy to pick up and play. However, there should be more guidance and, potentially, the developers should have created a basic hint system.

4 chapters don’t sound like a lot, but the brutality of the gameplay ensures there is both replay value and longevity. If you don’t use a guide and you go it alone, you will be stumped and pushed all the way. As such, you can fall at the last hurdle, even with the end goal in sight. However, once you cross that finish line, there is unfortunately no reason to return. Luckily, though, this is an inexpensive title, so its limited longevity is both understandable and acceptable.

NEScape is a great puzzle experience.

Though the core concept is tough and borderline sadomasochistic, I loved it nonetheless. There is nothing better than testing your grey matter, and NEScape will do that from start to finish. Yes, the developers could have created a hint system, and the detail could have been better, but these are minor issues. Accordingly, if you like a challenge that is both rewarding and unique, then look no further. I enjoyed it and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you find every clue and escape this unusual prison? Explore the rooms, solve the problems, and escape in under an hour.

Review: Les Mills Bodycombat

James Refelian
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Review: Les Mills Bodycombat

When it comes to gaming and working out, I’m usually sceptical that it will be any good. I will admit I am not the sportiest person in the world either; I haven’t done much since being captain of my university fencing team long ago. So, the New Year has hit and getting in shape is on most people’s minds, but if you’re a VR gamer and don’t fancy an actual gym… Les Mills Bodycombat might offer something of value.

Gameplay

Les Mills is well known for their fitness and exercise programme, and with Les Mills Bodycombat, they have brought this system to virtual reality. The exercises are cardio-based and utilise combat moves in a workout sequence.

This is instructed by 3D scans of personal trainers who guide you through the exercises and offer words of encouragement. The gamification comes in the form of a rhythm game. The music offers a good beat, and you must perform the moves to hit the icons flying at you – like in other rhythm games. This is where VR successfully provides this sort of rhythm game experience, as the moves will be based on punches, knees, dodges, and squatting. It’s the full body movement that gives you the workout, while the rings, with their particle effects, will give you the gamification aspect, especially as these vary depending on the power put into the move.

Visually, the game renders well in virtual reality, and the environment is impressive, but it would be nice if it were varied. The workouts on offer do feel varied, however, which is what counts, and they will get progressively harder as you progress. It’s very clear what you need to do, so I never felt like I had to take too long to react, and it felt like it was a workout right from the get-go.

Les Mills Bodycombat has its limits

The game, or workout application, isn’t perfect. After a while, it can feel repetitive as there aren’t endless workouts on offer, so you will have to repeat workouts the longer you own the game. while this is a shame, it’s to be expected for a fixed-cost application. The other thing that can get slightly irritating is the repetitive audio cues for what moves to perform and the one-liners of encouragement. It was ok for short exercise sessions, but I wouldn’t be able to tolerate it over a longer playtime.

Final Thoughts on Les Mills Bodycombat

Les Mills Bodycombat is a solid fitness offering without too many bells or whistles. It’s not reinventing the wheel or providing anything exceptionally unique in the fitness/game space. What it is doing, however, is providing a very polished experience. After a while, it can feel repetitive, but for a fixed price, you get a lot for your money with Les Mills Bodycombat, and if you’re looking for a gamified at-home workout, this could be for you.

If you want to learn more about PICO 4, check out the full review.

Review: Paper Cut Mansion

James Refelian
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Review: Paper Cut Mansion

When I first booted up Paper Cut Mansion, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I like a roguelite as much as the next gamer, but the art style was more interesting to me than anything else. Thankfully this game has much more to offer than just an excellent design!

Gameplay

In Paper Cut Mansion, you play a detective sent to investigate the mystery of the titular house. This Roguelite puzzle game presents a variety of challenges to the player. Firstly, if you die – it’s game over, and you must start from the beginning. As you explore the mansion, you’ll be able to search the furniture, which includes detailed inspection to turn items around, and open drawers to find clues or coins. If you’re unlucky, you’ll unleash a ghost and need to run away until it goes or, if you help the exorcist, hang out near him. In this primary dimension, you’ll have many puzzles to solve to progress to new areas or solve quests. This could be from finding the combination to a lock to backtracking to search for a power source. Along the way, you’ll be guided by a radar-like moth, but apart from some general sound cues, there’s really very little assistance in your quest.

This, so far, seems like a run-of-the-mill 2.5D puzzler with some horror themes. What elevates this title is the dimensional aspect and how they all interrelate to progress in the game. One minute, you’re in the puzzle dimension and then next, you need to go to the dimension which can cause environmental damage with a small torch beam to explore. Or maybe you’ll jump into the combat dimension. Whatever it is, the game relies heavily on this back-and-forth to drive the story and experience forward.

As you explore the maze-like mansion, the story unfolds, becoming so much more than a horror-themed puzzler. The story is interesting and worth the frustration of the occasional total restart and endless walking in circles to find a clue to open the next locked door.

The combat feels very ‘arcade’, but it’s a welcome break from exploring the maze and completing puzzle-based or item-based quests. The game also makes a point of explicitly taking you there, which ensures a variety of gameplay.

Audio and Visuals

When you think of papercraft games, you would be forgiven to immediately think about a certain plumber and a particular dinosaur, but Paper Cut Mansion uses it perfectly. It’s a joy to see how the mansion is put together and the papery monsters you must fight. The visuals don’t match the genre, so this feels strange as you explore, adding to the creepiness in some ways but taking away from any genuine scares in others. While the game makes some attempts at jump-scares and uses the soundtrack to create atmosphere, it is less terrifying and more eerie. I feel like more could have been done in that respect, although I will admit I do enjoy the art style in general.

Final thoughts on Paper Cut Mansion

Paper Cut Mansion pleasantly surprises with its horror take on the papercraft art style of more family-friendly platformers. If you’re a fan of puzzle games with a bit of combat thrown in, it’s one I recommend.

Review: ROG Phone 6 Pro

Daniel Waite
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Review: ROG Phone 6 Pro

Mobile gaming is the future. As network speeds increase, the ability to game on the move is a viable option. Furthermore, Xbox Cloud Gaming, Amazon Luna, and the late Google Stadia are proof that the concept works. However, like always, it is the hardware that holds it back. Massive games require monster mobile phones. Consequently, this gives manufacturers an enormous headache. Do they produce a top-end device that costs a bomb, or do they compromise and focus purely on the gaming aspects? Well, ASUS hasn’t compromised with its latest device. The ASUS ROG Phone 6D Ultimate or ROG Phone 6 Pro is a market leader.

This high-spec beast certainly pushes the boundaries. Yet, it’ll also test your relationship with your bank manager. Available for a whopping £1199.99, it is an eye-watering price tag. But don’t let this put you off. After all, can we really put a price on your gaming experience? Well, yes, apparently it is £1199.99! However, this to one side, let’s look at what you get when you invest in such a monstrously powerful machine.

What’s in the box of the ROG Phone 6 Pro?

  • The packaging is futuristic, interesting, and unusual. The full cardboard setup ensures its recyclable, and the contents are well protected. Furthermore, it looks stylish and screams to be opened immediately. 
  • The ROG Phone 6 Pro is impressive to the eye. This sizeable device looks sleek and has a futuristic finish. To the rear, there is an offset triple-lens camera and a small display. Alongside this, there are 2 USB-C ports and the normal tactile buttons. 
  • The Aeroactive Cooler 6. This external device clamps to the phone to drive cool air into the phone. Moreover, it has a USB-C port for charging and is easy to equip.
  • Clip on case. This small plastic case clips to the outside of the phone. If you use it, it adds a layer of protection while removing some of the futuristic details. 
  • USB-C cable and power adapter. For this review, I was sent an American version of the power adapter. Luckily, though, a UK adapter works just as well. If you purchase a UK version, the correct adapter will be included. 

Technical aspects.

When I research a gaming phone, I desire three key components: a powerful processor, a massive battery, and a phenomenal screen. Fortunately, the ASUS ROG Phone 6 Pro has these and much more. Why do I desire these components? Well, I want the best gaming experience I can get. Luckily, ASUS delivers a game-changing phone that’ll change the way you play.

AMOLED screens are nothing new. However, a 6.78-inch display that delivers a whopping 165 Hz refresh rate and a 720 Hz touch-sample rate is impressive. These stats combined deliver a seamless gaming experience like no other. Accordingly, FPS titles and racing games look incredible. Furthermore, the HDR 10+ technology pushes deep and rich colours that make every photo and video pop.

A mind-blowing screen is one thing. However, it is only as good as the processor that powers the device. Powered by the MediaTek 9000+, you enjoy an unparalleled performance. This monstrous processor devours anything thrown its way, thanks to its up to 3.2GHz2 clock speed. Consequently, it is hard to put into words how impressive this phone is. No longer do you have loading issues or performance lags. Instead, you enjoy a buttery smooth device that eats any game or program for breakfast.

All that tech, but does it have the staying power?

We’ve all been there. You sit down, relax, and prepare to play your favourite game. However, disaster strikes as the battery runs out of juice! This issue fades away into significance when you use the ROG Phone 6 Pro. With an enormous 6000 mAh battery that can be charged from 0 to 100% in under an hour, you never stop playing. Alongside this, the advanced steady charging facility allows you to control the charging speed. This may seem minor, but this feature ensures that the battery life is extended no matter the phone’s daily intended use.

The battery life is key, but overheating is a major issue as well. Thankfully, this is another problem that has been dealt with admirably. The Aeroactive Cooler 6 drives cool air directly onto the phone. This keeps the core temperature down and optimises performance. Yet, this excellent piece of kit isn’t perfect. The constant fan noise is distracting and the size of the device is a little clumsy. On top of this, it impacts your phone’s microphone and can ruin any recordings you may take. But these are minor setbacks when you consider the enhanced performance.

Style.

The futuristic finish matches ASUS‘ lofty vision for mobile gaming. I adored the clean lines, the mechanical edge, and the rear display. This “gadgety” extra is totally unnecessary, but I didn’t care. With indicators for battery life and other unessential bits, it enhanced the sci-fi look. Yet, when the cooler was attached, it couldn’t be seen, and this was a shame. 

The offset camera comprises a triple-lense from Sony. This enables wide-angle shots as well as up to 8k video recordings. On-screen, the images and videos looked terrific. However, I didn’t print off my efforts, so the final product is a little inconclusive. That being said, it is nice that ASUS included such a great camera that didn’t feel like an afterthought. 

The size and weight of a phone are divisive. Consequently, what I love, you may hate. Therefore, for what it’s worth, I cherished both the large screen and the meaty weight of this device. Moreover, it delivers a sense of high build quality, whilst being robust and hard-wearing. 

Is the ROG Phone 6 Pro worth it?

I could go on for much longer. Yet, I don’t want to dither. But I’m conscious that I haven’t mentioned the incredible DDR5 RAM, the amazing audio, and the phenomenal air trigger controls. These additional elements enhance this phone’s status as a market leader and a true powerhouse. However, does it justify that whopping price point?

The answer? Absolutely! If you love to game on the move and want to stand out from the crowd, look no further. ASUS has delivered another beasty device that will not disappoint you. Accordingly, I recommend that you buy it here!

(More information on ASUS ROG can be found here!) 

Review: Somber

Lee Fairweather
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Review: Somber

Like countless other gamers, I absolutely adore high budget AAA epics. However, devoting 30+ hours to completing one can sometimes feel a bit daunting. This is where the beauty of shortform games lie. They allow you to immersive yourself with an entire adventure, without having to make as much of a commitment. Somber, the game which we will be discussing today, is a stellar example of this concept.

Heavily inspired by the likes of LIMBO and the Ori series, Somber is a 2D, puzzle-platform, Metroidvania side-scroller. It was developed by You Will Get There, a small independent studio based out of Stockholm, Sweden. Considering this is their first official release, it’s commendable what they’ve been able to accomplish.

A tale as old as time.

Somber’s narrative pays homage to the Grimm fairy tales of old. It chronicles the journey of a peculiar creature, aptly nicknamed “The Hero”, who, at the behest of the King, has been tasked with stopping the sinister Witch. Being The Hero, they immediately embark on their quest, vowing in the process to “make things right.”

To be completely honest, the overarching premise of Somber isn’t exactly revolutionary. Yes, the concept of good vs evil is a tried and tested classic, and it certainly has its place. However, in many cases, it often comes across as primitive and clichéd. Thankfully, Somber, whilst having its own fair share of tropes, does manage to slightly break out of this categorisation. And it does so by making one very important amendment.

The developers, in a stroke of genius, decided to keep the internal structure of the story open to interpretation. For example, you could take it at face value as ‘the unlikely Hero overcoming the odds.’ Or, like me, you might perceive the entire narrative as a metaphor for anti- industrialisation. Regardless of the drawn conclusion, the speculative nature of this plot was a much-welcomed change of pace.

Shockingly good gameplay.

On the gameplay front, Somber blends tight platforming action, with light puzzle elements. This generally consists of making precise jumps and dashes, all while avoiding obstacles such as spikes, enemies, and disappearing platforms. Some sequences do require a bit more patience than others, but on the whole, they aren’t too challenging. What they are though is satisfying, and, for a lack of a better term, moreish.

Mercifully, the controls, specifically on a gamepad, are both functional and responsive. This means that you don’t have to worry about the game working against you, and can instead solely focus on your execution. If you do happen to fail a jump, you’ll instantly be able to try again thanks to the abundance of checkpoints littered throughout Gloom. Massive double thumbs up for this.

As this is a Metroidvania game, you can expect to explore a semi-open world. I say semi-open as some areas aren’t accessible until you complete the previous ones. Technically, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it’s something to keep in mind if you like free reign exploration.

Variety is the spice of life.

As you progress through Somber, you’ll be granted a plethora of unique abilities to help level the playing field. For instance, Magic Missiles allows you to fire bolts of energy at your enemies, temporarily eliminating them. Whereas skills like Fling and Wall Jump allow you to leap from catapults, and bounce off of walls respectively.

Besides the unlockable abilities, there are also a couple of permeants passive powerups as well. These come in the form of attribute modifiers which either boost your Magic Missile’s damage output, or improve your Wall Jump’s mastery. They are typically hidden in secret areas, which makes it rather easy to unknowingly walk by them. Fortunately, you should be able to remedy any accidental oversights by exploring each corridor on the map.

Altogether, the addition of these upgrades, especially the unique abilities, prevented Somber’s gameplay loop from becoming stale. Best of all though, the manner in which they were incorporated was both diverse, and, most importantly, entertaining.

Melancholy graphics.

For the vast majority of the game, Somber’s varying art mediums complement each other quite well. The foregrounds, which are approached in a blackened silhouette style, mix together effortlessly with the coloured ink backdrops. It’s a striking, yet oddly beautiful direction, that I feel is best described as mesmerising.

On top of this, Somber also features a vibrant and alluring colour palette. Ingeniously, this has been woven directly into the core identity of the game, and is often used to further drive the anti-industrial motions of the narrative. Assuming this was done intentionally, it’s a brilliant representation of visual storytelling by the developers.

The environments themselves are expertly hand drawn, and radiate with the same sort of exuberant energy that you’d find in a Tim Burton movie. For example, one minute you may be absorbing an intricately planned landscape, only to be blindsided with abstract eldritch imagery moments later. This disparity is cool in of itself, but it also turned out to be incredibly useful in navigating the game’s open world.

All in all, I have nothing bad to say about Somber’s in the graphics department. Every detail from the character and background designs, to the VFX and animations, have been integrated phenomenally. If the developers could retain this measure of quality on all of their future releases, then they’d give companies like Neotro Inc a run for their money.

Harmless audio design.

Somber’s OST contains a collection of tracks that are innately simplistic, but nonetheless effective in highlighting the games prevailing themes. It achieves this by intertwining ambient style instrumentation, with spacious and open production values. In a way, it’s fairly reminiscent to Journey, though, admittedly, I didn’t find it nearly as memorable. Still, it is a competently arranged soundtrack, and it adequately achieves its desired goals.

In a similar capacity to the OST, the SFX in Somber are inherently minimalistic. As a result, I don’t have a whole lot to say about the sound design. Simply put, they remained largely innocuous throughout my playthrough, which is exactly what you want for this sort of game.

Conclusion

In summary, Somber is an incredibly short title, but one that successfully delivers an enjoyable experience. The gameplay, which conforms around well-paced platforming action, is both responsive, and surprisingly varied. A similar sentiment spills over onto the narrative, which I found to be rather engaging, though, at times, somewhat clichéd. Musically, the soundtrack is well put together and wholly inoffensive, but doesn’t do anything special to warrant being remembered. However, the same cannot be said about Somber’s artistic prowess, which is smartly woven into the core ideology of the game, and is downright gorgeous to look at. Unfortunately, Somber is currently priced at just under £6 as of writing this. While that isn’t an exuberant amount of money, it feels a little overpriced for how much time you’ll spend with it. As such, I’d recommend waiting until this goes on sale before considering buying a copy of your own.

Review: Wings of Bluestar

Daniel Waite
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Review: Wings of Bluestar

Shumps have been a go-to genre for generations. Fans love the simple stories, rich colours, and addictive gameplay. However, having played many of these titles, I yearn for something fresh. Thankfully, Wings of Bluestar delivers this with its multifaceted story, multiple endings, and single-player and cooperative action.

Developed by Shinu Real Arts and Eastasiasoft Limited and published by the latter, this is a retro shoot-’em-up. What’s more, it comprises visual novel elements, a fun arcade mode, and a challenging boss battle. On top of this, it can be enjoyed with a friend and has some excellent artwork to devour.

The hero dodges a mountain of projectiles.
Welcome to bullet hell.

Wings of Bluestar focuses on longevity.

An addictive game is all well and good. Yet, I’m interested in the longevity of the plot and the action. Thankfully, Wings of Bluestar delivers this in spades. With multiple endings, and many plot-altering choices to mull over, no playthrough is the same. Alongside this, you may select from two protagonists with a specialist set of skills. Accordingly, when each of these elements combines, you experience a game that keeps you coming back for more.

You control a pair of pilots who must save mankind. Aya is a hard-working trainee with a heart of gold. Whereas, Zarak is top of his field and his modesty reflects this status. However, both characters know their roles and what they must do to be victorious. Sadly, the peace has been disrupted as remnants of an AI rears their ugly head. By exploring strange locations and destroying an array of enemies, these heroes will rise to the top and save the day. Yet, things are never as easy as they seem! Unsurprisingly, enormous bosses and bloodthirsty machines will stop at nothing to halt their progress. Consequently, they must master their abilities and arm their ships if they wish to fulfil their destiny.

One or the characters holds a mysterious piece of tech in their hands.
Oi, what do you have there?

Bullet hell and upgrades. 

Though many of its peers have fast-paced and hectic action at their core, Wings of Bluestar bumps it up a notch. This bullet hell monster keeps you on your toes as you dodge, weave, and shoot to survive. On top of this, there are collectables to grab, risk stars to gather, and plenty of upgrades to be had. Then you must remember the scoring system that ticks over. Each of these mechanics merges to generate a fun but overwhelming experience. Furthermore, the branching storyline and interesting characters keep you hooked.

Yet, the most important element has to be the ship upgrades. As you destroy each enemy, there is a chance they’ll drop new weapons, power-ups, or a shield. Whatever it is, it’ll improve your chances of survival. Fortunately, though, the developers are pretty generous. Subsequently, you have multiple credits and lives to keep each run going. Moreover, if you fail, you simply start over from the top of that chapter. As such, you never lose too much progress and the gameplay isn’t too frustrating.

Wings of Bluestar is polished to a modern standard. 

Wings of Bluestar has a familiar aesthetic. However, the polished finish and vivid colours make it stand out from the crowd. Additionally, the interesting stage design and variety of robotic enemies were great to look at. Alongside this, you’ll adore the masses of projectiles that fill the screen. In short, it’s a messy but well-conceived idea that is pleasant to the eyes. Accordingly, I loved the graphics, but it was the smooth action and lag-free approach that impressed me most of all. With so much going on, it could have performed horribly. Instead, it never stuttered and though it is overwhelming to observe, it never turns your stomach or hurts your eyes.

Graphically, Wings of Bluestar leaps forward. Yet, its audio is distinctly old-school. With a synth style and electronic undertones, it is reminiscent of many great 80s classics. Moreover, the sound effects are shrill and harsh, but well-considered. I adored the booming explosions, the high-pitched lasers, and the high-energy soundtrack. Thankfully, every element worked as it drove the action and story forward.

Wings of Bluestar has a striking artstyle. Here, the hero shoots at a gargantuan robot while on a desert planet.
Unlease hell!

Hit-and-miss controls. 

Normally, Shmups are easy to play but tough to master. However, this one is more complicated than its rivals. As such, its control system is hit-and-miss and poorly explained. Furthermore, I discovered a fault with the shooting mechanics that undermined the action. On top of this, it made it much harder to play! Sadly, this impacted the enjoyment factor and was detrimental to the final product. However, when the analogue shooting option worked, it was brilliant. Yet, it annoyingly failed many times.

If you can ignore this issue, you’ll enjoy a moreish and challenging game. What’s more, it can be played with a friend and this adds to the longevity. There is also a range of game modes to unlock as well as a small achievement list to complete. As such, it is excellent for completionists and veterans of the genre. 

Wings of Bluestar is amazing when it works perfectly.

Wings of Bluestar does a great job of freshening up this well-trodden genre. Yet, I can’t overlook the controls. Every other element is polished and well thought out. But the control system lets it down. I adored the great story, the manic action, and the tough gameplay. However, it is held back by the fiddly inputs. If the developers were to rectify this, it would be one of the best Shmups of recent times. As it is, it’s amazing when it works, but that wasn’t as often as I’d have liked. Consequently, you may be discouraged, but I recommend it despite its shortcomings! Can you save mankind from an old foe? Grab the upgrades and power-ups, and kill everything in sight. 

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