MARVEL have truly managed to make even a trailer feel like a major summer blockbuster release but after nearly a week of hype, we finally have the first full official Trailer for Spider-Man: No Way Home. Thankfully it does not reveal too much over than confirm the villains from across the big screen Spider-Verse will appear and an explanation as to why but the big reveal, the one fans believe is going to happen…..has been cleverly still left unanswered!
For the first time in the cinematic history of Spider-Man, our friendly neighborhood hero’s identity is revealed, bringing his Super Hero responsibilities into conflict with his normal life and putting those he cares about most at risk. When he enlists Doctor Strange’s help to restore his secret, the spell tears a hole in their world, releasing the most powerful villains who’ve ever fought a Spider-Man in any universe. Now, Peter will have to overcome his greatest challenge yet, which will not only forever alter his own future but the future of the Multiverse.
‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ will release exclusively in Cinemas on December 15th in the UK and December 17th in the US.
The game A Pixel Story is something that really brings back the memories of pixelated platform-style games. It has the same classic style, world design being one that you follow throughout and get to where you need to be going. In this case, the game is full of requests made, which turn out to be missions or small quests for you to accomplish. Nothing, but a fun platformer filled with mini-challenges to add to your gameplay!
First things first, the character or in other words, the hero of this game. He reminds me of a pixel or 2d style robot with a similar design to how Rayman had those hands that float on their own without being connected. He also has this cute happy appearance, which is always welcoming in a game to see. Not much to explain. Everything including the creative world style and other characters, good or bad, is just as original in design and not too many graphics to comprehend. All are very simply pixelated in style. So it’s quite a simple game design and yet. Just as simple as how the game appears.
To tell you honestly, I played through each level without minding too much for the story or what the characters had to tell me. It was hard to squint at the screen each time. So I didn’t pay too much attention to it. Actually, I just tend to like to go and keep going. So when I started the game, I just skipped a bunch of the speaking sections. However, where there is a yellow button requesting you to push on the controller, I did use that to help me understand the controls of the game and what I need to know next. It’s just so simple to learn the game, with these helpful tips.
The only thing I thought throughout the game is how fun it is to relax, not worry as much and sit back to play the game without too much to learn or understand. I know it’s best to read what is going on, but I felt the game plays pretty easily even without all the speaking and learning things. I sort of got the hang of things and just wanted to move on to the next part sooner.
The issues I did come across, well the major problem is the design of the game. It might be creative and cute with a bit of a bright and friendly appearance. The same goes for the music that fills the game. However, the ability to reach certain sections with the springboard can be a little annoying or displeasing when it never gets you where you need to go. Some even throw you in danger.
So beware of the springboards, they don’t always mean help, but instead could be leading to doom! Also, some just don’t work like they possibly should and possibly end up like I did, never reaching a section of the game as you wanted to. It’s a bit frustrating, I do like to try to reach all areas and get everything in the worlds or levels, but I had to skip them fully. Hopefully, I don’t ever get to a section where that area is needed to be investigated and part of the quests given to me.
I don’t want to leave you thinking that the game is totally bad. It’s just not well designed in a few areas. Making it a bit confusing, and it doesn’t seem to get you anywhere in these sections. Especially, when it shows much to be happening up or below without a way to check it out. Plus, in some ways, I wish the hero himself had a bit more special abilities.
Unfortunately, there isn’t much more that is stunning or worth mentioning about this game. It does deliver a nice and simple, pixelated game that has plenty of mini challenging quests and new things to discover. However, it is a bit frustrating in some areas as there is no way to get in certain places as it looks like you should be able to.
There are so many fun cooking games on the market. I find it to be hard to decide which one will be entertaining as some others or similar to each another, just a smidge of a difference. However, when it comes to a cooking game, I like it to be easy to understand, challenging, and yet colorful and bright. That is why I’m impressed by the game My Universe – Cooking Star Restaurant.
This is actually a fun and simple game to play. It is perfect to play anytime and doesn’t require too much time to understand as it’s all told to you, clearly with guidance right in the beginning. Every dish is cooked is what makes me jump for joy. It might require you to move the tools of the kitchen to prepare, but it doesn’t require too much work, just to be close enough. I like that, as it’s still challenging but doesn’t have you pushed to cut in a certain time or speed.
The game really plays nicely and has lovely, mellow style music that plays in the background, is very cheerful, and perfectly compliments the game’s graphics and bright, welcoming appearance. The characters are all designed nicely. There is a choice of player you’d like to be, so it’s not limited to a single female option or male. Instead, you can choose a style that you like.
Another part of this game I really enjoy is that it’s simple to do the task, not just the cooking but when you have to bring someone to a table, serve them and even clean up afterward. It’s nothing you need to do or have to worry about. No mini-game to make you do the work correctly and get rated or a star rating. Some games had that included, this isn’t like that, which I do like about it!
Instead, the cooking is the only piece that really matters. I mean you do other things, but it’s just one button press, like the letter A on the controller and it’s done. Plus, it doesn’t need to be a specific side or too close, you can stand to the right, left, or even be a bit away and still get to press A without it counting against you or removing a rating for you to level up. You still get it right and can level up for doing such a good job.
Oh yes, the fun of cooking is another thing that makes this game interesting. You won’t’ be cutting up just the same dish each time. Not that it would be bad too, but can be a bit boring to make burgers all the time. Instead, of the same dish, you’ll learn new recipes to make and prepare for each customer who wants a specific food. It’s then just something new you know now how to make and can prepare over and over.
In addition to the food, you can learn to make. There are other dishes and additions introduced later in the game. I was hoping that after all this joy, there would be no gloom. However, I did realize afterward that I considered the game to be perfect, but there is this one strange flaw, which is easy to see. A few times, the group of people you are seating may almost all aim for the same seat, which can be a bit funny, and then they move to their own chair. Also, the chef is in the kitchen making food, but no food to be seen, just him doing some hand movements. It’s a little funny, but doesn’t really take away from the game, just a bit strange and looks like it’s missing or something is wrong.
Lastly, I’d like to say that this game is cheerful and full of fun cooking challenges. It’s not too difficult and perfect for everyone to play. So if you wanted to play something that isn’t difficult, provides a relaxing appearance in visual graphics and how the game is to be played and allows you to cook and serve at your very own restaurant, this is the game to play!
Buses have always been needed and used. They get you from one location to another. I feel there is some interest in being able to drive a bus, such a large vehicle. Even more so, when one can drive these large vehicles as a profession, helping many get from one spot to the next.
No matter the purpose of riding on a bus, it really does something for anyone who needs a ride. Use to be one main source of getting places, well one of few options. So wouldn’t it be fun to jump into the driver’s seat? Wouldn’t you love to take control of the steering wheel, and travel all over, getting a bunch of people or even a single person to their designated location on time? Maybe the better question to ask yourself is if you think you’re able to take the job of a bus driver for at least a day.
So, let’s get down to it! How does this game compare to the real thing? I can say it definitely brings that realistic feel, right from the start of the game. The character design is even stunning with the options you are allowed to choose for the character, but it can fall short in some areas. I know the main purpose of the game is to drive a bus and understand how to operate it correctly. However, there is always the person that drives the bus that makes the greeting to each who comes on the bus and takes the fee. So having that ability to personalize your own character, well that is a pleasant sim-feature I love!
The only downfall is that with so many clothing options in colors, it falls flat in a few styles. Plus, the body shape is better than many that do a body for a person; a human being. However, it’s not complete! I feel it’s missing a few other shapes, which could be slimmer or heavier. It feels like the option is limited to a bunch and not what a real person could appear or even the player. Cause, I would love to look like myself in the game, but it’s hard to do so if that option of appearance and shape isn’t included. Also, the same with facial appearance, hair, and a huge, HUGE issue the skin color. The three colors they allow for you to be are not accurate for everyone and might seem a bit biased towards many who aren’t either the shades shown.
Unfortunately, if you want to be creative with your character or driver’s appearance in style or look as you can be yourself in this game, well it’s probably not going to happen for many. Additionally, the buses are at least a bit more freely designed and come in a variety of types; big-name busses. This is really an awesome feature and ability to be able to enjoy a little decorating with these big vehicles you’ll be driving around all day.
The controls are right on target when you really need to drive a bus in real-life. Ok, it’s not really a controller that has all the buttons to drive a bus, but in the vehicle, you have a realistic vision of the steering wheel, the left and right light turner, and plenty of other things that need switched on or off. It can be a bit time-consuming because the bus is so much to just learn. I did get overwhelmed a bit, and it’s nothing new, all these realistic sim-style games require you to understand and learn the mechanics before actually playing the game like you’ve played it for years, or in other words, drove a bus for years.
The tutorial stage is very much necessary and will really help you out. The guidance was quite well done, in my opinion. Just maybe because of not knowing my controller and what does what could be hard to recall which or where to locate certain things to operate the bus. I think just knowing where each feature is for the bus took me the longest time.
However, practice makes perfect, and sometimes, one just needs a bit of time when playing a game like this! Nevertheless, it is accurate to a real bus and provides that real feeling of one. Additionally, the bus itself is very nicely designed, like all the top-quality ones out there. It’s got such large and clear windows that you can see all things, people, inside as well as the seats. The way it drives at such a perfect speed, not letting loose when you push on the gas or falling over when you make turns. It drives like a bus and is so much easier than many games that provide you with too much speed, so you are surely going to flip over.
This game, Bus Simulator on the other hand is a bit more helpful and supplies you with the right amount of gas to get your vehicle moving and grooving to each stop and location, without becoming a game of road rage and crashing into everything in sight. That would be quite funny to see happen, which the game would need cops to be added as well! No matter, the game is quite nice without that feature, a bit more relaxing and the weather changing will even bring more life to the game as well!
Oh yes, there are so many other game options, if you get tired of playing just the traditional mission style mode. There is a multiplayer option that can be fun with others to play with, as well as playing alone in a sandbox mode. There are actually a few different ways to play. I do enjoy it when a game allows for a variety of different gaming modes. It makes for a bit more excitement from the traditional play to a more unique and play as you like version. As well as play with others.
Lastly, the game does play perfectly, feels like one is riding and driving in a real bus. Traveling and touring around the many different locations, picking up and delivering everyone to their stops on time. It can be challenging and fun. Plus, the game is such a joyful and original experience that no other game has ever brought to a player. It’s one game to give a try and see what a bus driver does each and every day.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to swing around New York City like Spider-Man, saving people from bad guys and being a hero? Well Yupitergrad isn’t that… but it probably is the closest thing you’re going to get. If you swap out Spider-Man for a soviet astronaut, web shooters for, well, plungers attached to your arms and New York City for a space station, this is what you get. Although the experience is not quite the same nor heroic, Yupitergrad is a fantastic puzzle game in which players must swing around a space station completing challenges with varying difficulty.
The only tools at the players disposal are the plungers attached to their arms which can be used to initiate a swing or rappel up and down as well as a small jet on each arm that can push the player in the direction that they are facing. This jet is especially helpful when the player has to navigate through water or implement fine adjustments to direction when flying through the air. For the most part the swinging mechanic itself is very satisfying and with practice can be mastered and before you know it you really are Spider-Man.
Players should also be on the lookout for the fine but satisfying details. To name one of them, if you stick your plunger close to you and pull in the opposite direction you will notice that the string will have tension and you will even feel a bit of feedback in your controller.
Yupiterad is not without its issues though, from my personal experience the length that the plunger can be shot out is far too long, meaning that the player constantly has to shorten the length of the rope in order to swing properly or manoeuvre around an obstacle. If the rope had a shorter maximum length then this would improve the smoothness of the swinging with less interruptions.
Another issue that I was coming across during my experience was the weight of the player character. Yes Yupitergrad is set in a space station and has a much lower gravity, however I do feel at times the the player character doesn’t feel weighted enough and I began to become disconnected with the movement. Having more of a weighted feel would make the movement feel much more real and would make it much easier to practice perfect swinging as you would no longer be launching your character into the air and completely losing control.
Art Style
Yupitergrad adopts a cell shaded art style which is really one of its stand out features. This art style has been made famous by popular games such as Borderlands. This art style was definitely was the perfect route for the game, especially since it’s built for a VR platform. The reason I say that it’s great for a VR platform is because a lot of VR games have taken a more realistic approach but due to the specs of the quest 2, they can sometimes become blurry and disconnecting for the player. Yupitergrad fortunately does not suffer this same fate and the cell shaded art style is executed beautifully and really suits the vibe of the game.
Replay Value
In terms of replay value, Yupitergrad manages to redeem itself at the perfect time. The actual length of the story is very short, clocking in at around 2-3 hours. Initially I took issue with this as I love long well though out campaigns and there aren’t many VR games that satisfy this. Just when I thought I was ready to put down the game and write about my disappointment with the story length, Yupitergrad comes flying out of the gate, presenting me with the time trial mode.
Time trial is a perfect mode to extend the replay time and gives players a chance to put their skills to the test to beat their personal best times, all while trying new levels and new obstacles. If there was a perfect reason for players to master their speed and swinging skills then this would be it.
Although time trial does offer a great incentive to play and master the game for many more hours, it also opens up the need for a few missing features. Although there is a leaderboard that displays times from the best players all over the world (there are a few suspiciously fast scores by the way) there just seems to be something missing. Yupitergrad’s time attack mode or even a new mode entirely would benefit so much from some form of multiplayer, whether it be local or online. The thought of being able to swing side by side with friends, causing trouble and racing each other is so exciting and would add a new dimension to the game.
VR Comfort
One major talking point that’s has to be addressed with any VR game is the comfort level. Ultimately the comfort level is what decides how long the player is able to spend playing the game and whether they decide to continue playing it in the future. From my experiences Yupitergrad is a game that needs to be played in short bursts rather than all at once. Around the 45 minute mark I started experiencing nausea and I needed to stop playing for a while. This is definitely something to consider if you are considering purchasing Yupitergrad.
Verdict
Yupitergrad is a fantastic VR puzzler game that with practice can make players feel like a real life Spider-Man. The very popular cell shaded art style fits the vibe of the game perfectly and doesn’t suffer any major downgrades or blurriness that plague other games. There are some minor setbacks such as the short story, lack of multiplayer and a comfort level that may be tough for some players however it is an overall fantastically fun experience.
With Christmas not too far away now, we are going to be looking at various things you might want to consider – here we look at Heroes of Goo Jit Zu Galaxy Attack Cosmic Pantaro Hero Pack.
Heroes of Goo Jit Zu have blasted into space to search the galaxy for the origins of the goo. Launch a Galactic Attack with Cosmic Pantaro! He’s back and he’s ready to leap into deepest space.
Pantaro is a Galactic Hero like no other, super stretchy and ready to squish. Pantaro can stretch up to 3 times his size and return to his original shape. Squeeze and stretch Pantaro’s arms and legs to see the cosmic star dust goo move around his body.
Heroes of Goo Jit Zu Cosmic Pantaro has a new space look and a helmet with visor flip action. Each Goo Jit Zu character has a unique goo filling with a different texture and feel. Collect all the Goo Jit Zu Galactic Attack figures for squishy gooey fun. Each sold separately.
Goo Jit Zu toys are amazing squishy fun, providing a tactile sensory experience for children. Sensory toys can help develop communication, fine motor skills and creative play.
Features
Contents: Heroes of Goo Jit Zu Cosmic Pantaro
Pantaro is back with a new space look and Space Helmet
Squeeze to feel his super gooey filling
Squish to see his cosmic star dust goo
Stretch Pantaro up to 3 times his size
Stretch Pantaro and see him return to his original shape
Prepare for the ultimate squishy galactic battle
Collect all 7 Galaxy Attack Series, each sold separately
Dimensions: 13L x 5W x 12Hcm
Heroes of Goo Jit Zu Galaxy Attack Cosmic Pantaro Hero Pack is available now priced around £10.99 and is aimed at children 4 years old and up.
Disclaimer: Heroes of Goo Jit Zu Galaxy Attack Cosmic Pantaro Hero Pack was sent to us for the purposes of an honest review. All opinions are the opinions of our reviewer.
With Christmas not too far away now, we are going to be looking at various things you might want to consider – here we look at Pick-up Pete.
Pete is a powerful pickup truck who loves to lend a helping wheel! Take turns stacking your chairs in the back of Pete as he drives round and round in a circle. It takes concentration and nerve to balance your chair as he drives around. The first person to stack all of their chairs wins!
Features
Accessory List: 1 x Pick Up Pete Motorised Truck, 24x Coloured Chairs
Depth: 65 MM
Height: 270 MM
Width: 270 MM
Age Range: 4+
Warning Message: Warning: Adult supervision at all times. Not suitable for children under 3 years
This game includes Pete and 24 coloured chairs (6 in each of the 4 colours: blue, green, orange, and red)
Pick-Up Pete runs on 2 AA batteries with a full 24-hour run time. Recommended for ages 4 and up.
Pick-up Pete is available now priced around £24.99 and is aimed at children 4 years old and up.
Disclaimer: Pick-up Pete was sent to us for the purposes of an honest review. All opinions are the opinions of our reviewer.
With Christmas not too far away now, we are going to be looking at various things you might want to consider – here we look at the Shoot the Poop game.
Hi folks, meet Tank! He’s the talking toilet who loves to play. It’s up to you and one other player to get your fun flingers and form a doo-doo duo! Be the first player to launch all six of your poopy projectiles into Tank’s mouth.
Tank will cheer you on as you take aim, ready, and fire away! This family dexterity game helps children develop fine motor skills, and it’s finished in a flash. Sink your last floater and win the game! Don’t forget to flush! When you pull Tank’s lever, he’ll always have something to say.
Features
Contents: 1 Shoot the Poop Toilet, 12 Plastic Poops and 2 Launchers
2 player game
Shoot the Poop is a fast-playing game of reflex and humour
Includes a talking Tank the Toilet who’s flush with funny jokes
Enjoy some family toiler humour
Batteries Required: 2 x AAA (not included)
Shoot the Poop is available now priced around £26.99 and is aimed at children 5 years old and up.
Disclaimer: Shoot the Poop was sent to us for the purposes of an honest review. All opinions are the opinions of our reviewer.
Most people just want an ordinary life that’s free from worry and drama. They’ll hold down a respectable job, fall in love and attempt to live happily ever after. However, this existence is fragile, and it takes very little to pop this bubble. Whiskey Mafia: Frank’s Story explores this concept while mixing in violence, alcohol, and a bag full of criminal activities.
Developed and published by ChiliDog Interactive LLC and FastGame, this is a retro linear adventure title. With a heavy dose of deja vu, you’ll experience the hero’s mundane existence before all hell breaks loose. It combines a strange array of mini-games with a rigid linear storyline. Sadly, however, this rigid and repetitive approach stagnated early and decimates its potential.
Burn it all down!
Whiskey Mafia: Frank’s Story should have been epic.
When I first heard about Whiskey Mafia: Frank’s Story I was excited. It seemed my sort of title and was something I could play casually. Sadly, though, I was wrong! Its potential is there for all to see, but unfortunately, so are the shortcomings. It comprises many wonderful mechanics, interesting characters, and intriguing storylines, but it fails to build on any of them. I admit that I was disappointed! I was given a game that should have been amazing, but it was a damp squib.
The gameplay revolves around Frank and his abysmal life. It is set in wartime America in the 1920s. Many of Frank’s friends have gone to the front line, but he stayed behind to deliver the mail. He’s certainly one of the “stay at home heroes”. Lying in a trench while being shot at is dangerous, but at least you have food and a wage coming in. Unfortunately, though, this can’t be said for the army of delivery personnel.
Months pass and no money exchanges hands! Frank is broke, he hates his job, and he can’t take his sweetheart on a date, so what’s a man going to do? He’ll team up with a dodgy pal who is morally corrupt, that’s what. This turning point changes a law-abiding citizen into a criminal monster overnight, and it is brilliant (in theory).
Fight club! Fight club!
Mundane mini-games and missed opportunities.
As you can see, there is plenty of potential, yet every element failed to evolve. Many of the storylines wither and die without a full explanation or exploration of every avenue. This was infuriating as you experience no closure and much of the plot feels heartless and devoid of emotion. Moreover, Frank’s gangster lifestyle dominates proceedings and his mundane family existence disappears. Therefore, the story is imbalanced and is too “Hollywood” but without the razzmatazz.
Disappointingly, the problems don’t end there, though! The mundane and repetitive mini-games lack challenge, finesse, or any level of enjoyment. You open by collecting and delivering the mail to pre-designated addresses. This is dull as dishwater as you meander through the busy but lifeless streets. As you turn to the dark side, you’ll fulfil barman duties, beat the snot out of punks, and earn money from illegal brawls.
These activities should have been enthralling and enjoyable, but they are not! The bar work comprises the ordering of stock and delivering drinks by clicking on the patron’s heads. Fighting is equally shallow, as it requires nothing more than two buttons to complete any battle. Unfortunately, the spicy moments within the story didn’t heat things up, either, and you are left desperately wanting.
Whiskey Mafia: Frank’s Story captures the era nicely.
Most of Whiskey Mafia: Frank’s Story failed to impress me, yet I liked its presentation. Graphically I was reminded of the Sega Mega Drive or SNES thanks to its side-scrolling pixelated world. It lacked finer details, but it oozed charm and used vivid and garish tones. The fighting sections reminded me of Streets of Rage, and this thankfully tugged at my heartstrings. I also loved its era-specific imagery and the faithful representation of motor vehicles and clothing. However, the lazy use of repetitive backdrops quickly became tiresome, and this was disappointing.
The use of jazz music was an excellent choice. Walking around the classic wartime suburbs listening to the buzzing tones was great. The developers cleverly blended upbeat and sombre heavier songs to enhance the emotion and I appreciated the effort. There were isolated moments when the story was captivating and this was enhanced by the wonderful soundtrack. However, annoyingly these times were painfully fleeting.
Stop those goons.
Anyone can control a mobster.
If becoming a gangster is this easy, then anyone can become one. Thanks to the simple controls and minimal input options, there is little to think about. Yet, even with a straightforward approach, there were still issues. When walking, you crash into the scenery repeatedly, and it wasn’t responsive. It was minor, but it was infuriating nonetheless.
The small mercy of this title is how short it is. Fortunately, you can rattle through every achievement in no time and barring one decision, the story has no impact upon the gameplay. If the mini-games were interesting, this would have been disappointing. However, I was glad it ended.
Whiskey Mafia: Frank’s Story is underwhelming.
If you look hard enough, you’ll find a few positives. However, sadly, it’s not really worth the effort. Much of Whiskey Mafia: Frank’s Story is underwhelming and disappointing and I don’t recommend you buy it. Can you leave behind your mundane existence? Forget your morals, step over everyone, and become a wealthy man, no matter the cost.
Clickers have always held a somewhat strange position in the gaming community. Characterised by their overwhelming simplicity, they nonetheless have the ability to scratch some primitive itch in us to keep tapping away. Lord of the Click II is another such title, and given the constraints of its genre, it’s a surprisingly engaging experience.
The game places players in the roll of a king who has to use his army to defeat a series of eleven rival rulers. To do so, they’ll need to continually spawn units that move towards the right of the screen, while their enemy’s units march ever leftwards. When opposing forces collide, they’ll fight to the death and the victor continues on their path. Get enough units all the way to your enemy’s castle alive and you can claim victory before moving onto your next conquest.
It’s in the spawning of units and purchasing of upgrades to strengthen their army that players will interact with the game. All purchases use up either meat, mana, or gold. Meat and mana both continually increase over time, with meat being used to spawn new units and mana being used to cast spells that can heal your troops or impede your enemies. Gold, which is used to buy upgrades like improved spawn times and access to new unit types, is initially collected by killing enemy troops. Once players have enough, however, they can pay to open a mine that will generate income over time like meat and mana.
In terms of mechanics, that’s as complicated as Lord of the Click II ever gets. All players really need to do is keep track of the resources they have available and then use them as quickly as possible. Enemies are continually marching on their base without pause and if they start getting too close, it can be a real struggle to reclaim any ground lost. Far better, then, to always have as many troops on the board as it’s possible to have while amassing upgrades as soon as you can. It’s here that the game’s title proves itself an apt one: despite the simplicity of the gameplay loop, the unceasing nature of the opposing army draws players into having a hyperfocus on micromanaging their own resources and clicking away at the control panel.
Fortunately, despite the simple system, Lord of the Click II does have just enough player unit types, spells, and upgrades to continually give players genuine decisions to make. Instead of just spamming the same base unit over and over again, there are choices to be made about whether it’s better to save up money to access new unit types or to spend it sooner on increased food production for faster spawn times, for example. Even minor choices can have a big impact on the battle and the enemy’s relentlessness really serves to add a level of pressure to each one of them.
Outside of the mechanics, the visuals are certainly charming. So much so, in fact, that it’s a shame that players can’t enjoy them more while their attention is entirely taken up by the control panel at the bottom of the screen. During battles, the screen is split down the middle to indicate which side is winning the tug-of-war that ultimately determines the winner. If the player is losing, then more of the screen will be taken up by a dull, barren wasteland; when they’re winning, the land becomes green and luscious. It’s a nice touch as both a clear indication of the state of the battle and as something of a story hook to show you the cost of your failure should you lose.
Likewise, the character models have all been given unique appearances, attacks, and moves that are surprisingly interesting to examine. Unfortunately, their impact is dramatically lessened by your inability to focus on them during the rapid-fire activity of each battle. That said, this can be something of a blessing; while the character models are interesting, they’re extremely limited. Across the eleven different matches, you’re only going to see a handful of different unit types. For a fully-fledged console game, it doesn’t feel unrealistic to expect each level to have its own unique enemies. That you’re going to see the same few spiders, trolls, and skeletons over and over again is something of a failing.
On the audio side of things, Lord of the Click II feels similarly underwhelming. There’s some well put-together background music, but not a lot of it. If you play more than one match at a time, or if you just happen to have one match that lasts longer than you expect, you’re going to notice the audio looping. It’s not intrusive enough to really throw off the game, but it could have been better served with a bit more variety.
Making the repetitiveness of the game’s visual and audio design worse is that the game is incredibly short. There are only eleven levels in total and they can each be cleared inside of a few minutes. A reasonably low difficulty also means that players likely won’t often have to redo levels more than once. The runtime is padded out slightly by the inclusion of a local multiplayer mode, but this consists of a head-to-head button-mashing contest that grows old very quickly.
Ultimately, these negatives don’t really impact Lord of the Click II’s quietly addictive gameplay. They certainly don’t add to the experience, but the game sets itself up as an incredibly simple product and fully delivers on that promise. In some ways, these criticisms largely stem from the expectations associated with a PC or console game; in both its feel and its gameplay, Lord of the Click II acts much more like a mobile title and if it was one, the failings discussed here wouldn’t be at all noteworthy.
With that in mind, there’s a lot to enjoy about Lord of the Click II. It offers a very stripped-down experience, but the little that it does, it does very well. There’s certainly not enough content for more than an hour or two’s entertainment, but if you’re looking to just relax for a little while, then this one’s worth a look.
Recently, there have been so many sim-style games released, but many don’t compare to Youtubers Life 2. They would normally be designed in a way that provides such a realistic environment and true-to-life gameplay action. Requires you to take the time to understand how to play. For example, you’ll be required to operate or run a device, a vehicle, work a specific job or a few of them, win a race, helping animals thrive, raise money, and many other mechanics needed to play the game. Nevertheless, this game is not anywhere near those games, it doesn’t come close!
So before I started playing this game, one question came to my mind. Will this game make me a top Youtuber in real life, or is it just a bit far from what you really have to do to succeed? I guess it could, but to tell you the truth, there is more to it than what you get from this game. It’s a bit more just for fun and to entertain verse what you could really do to obtain a huge following. Don’t get discouraged, I do feel and see that there are a few relatable ways this game can be similar to reality, but it’s more just a fun sim game.
To be honest, I noticed when starting the game from the first time that Youtubers Life 2 was way off from being realistic. It’s more like the My Sims games, which was a version of The Sims, but a little easier, and felt it was perfect for kids to play. At least, this can be perfect for all ages, especially for the younger crowd, and a safe game for everyone to enjoy. The bright and cheerful music really makes you feel entertained, even feels perfect to play during the holidays or with a group of others.
In my opinion, it ends up feeling a bit too childish, than what it could have been. I guess I could say I’m thankful that this game is one you don’t need to do too much of the work that a real-life Youtuber would have to. Instead, it can be looked like a joyful game if you are looking for an easy, fast way to build a lifestyle as a video content creator on Youtube, especially just for fun!
Plus, I really kept getting reminded of My Sims and how a child or teen may find this more enjoyable. I mean it is very easy to understand and has an inevitable charm to it. Especially, by the colorful and adorable design. Also since you can create your own character, which may be one positive piece of news about this game.
You can avoid the entire sex question when it comes to your choice. It allows you to freely choose your body and what you want for hair, skin color (green is a choice), clothing, and accessories you want to have on your character. It’s awesome to have that ability to be free and not be judged by the appearance you’ve come out with. Just one thing I felt was lacking is the option of choices. It is very limited and I feel could have had more options in colors for the skin. Who knows, maybe a purple character would be awesome! Plus a few other things could have maybe had a bit more options to choose from.
Sadly, a limited way to choose how one’s character may appear, well this was a part I always enjoyed in simulation style games, taking the time to enjoy creating a character is what makes the game a blast and might take a while, but that is just because I love to design my person to be unique as I am. However, that is one issue I had at the beginning. At least it will make that portion of the game a bit quicker for me.
So from my first assessment of the actual game in action, it just doesn’t really hold my attention as much as other games. The gameplay sort of turned me off from the game. Being asked a series of questions, not many but just a few, or having to push certain buttons to make sure you get the right one to make the video correctly. If you do everything correctly in these puzzles, you will get a bigger win. However, it seem like it was ok, but I guess I was thinking this game would be something different.
One last thing, regarding the game, after a few more tries and play-throughs. Even though above is how I felt from the first gameplay. I did happen to play it a few more times and each of the other times I played, I felt a bit differently. Actually, I had to take myself away from the game for a little bit of time. So when I played it again I realized that it’s not as horrible as I felt it to be. Yet, I still feel the game was missing something and was going to be something different.
Therefore, the game is quite different than my first opinion. I will keep playing and yet I still feel it lacks a bit of what I wanted the game to be. It does still bring this charming and original gameplay. So I wouldn’t decide it to be a bad game at all, just don’t expect it to be too complicated, as it’s just a fun version of making it as a Youtuber!
With Christmas not too far away now, we are going to be looking at various things you might want to consider – here we look at Heroes of Goo Jit Zu Dino Power Thrash the Shark.
The Heroes of Goo Jit Zu are back with Dino Power action. Thrash the Shark is a Super Hero like no other, super squishy and ready to bite. Thrash can stretch up to 3 times his size and return to his original shape. Squeeze and twist his goo-filled body to feel his squishy water bead filling stretch and squish.
Heroes of Goo Jit Zu Dino Power Thrash the Shark has fearsome Chomp Attack jaws. Press down on his head to activate jaw-chomping action for epic adventures.
Each Goo Jit Zu character has a unique goo filling with a different texture and feel. Collect all the Goo Jit Zu Dino Power figures for squishy gooey fun. Each sold separately.
Goo Jit Zu toys are amazing squishy fun, providing a tactile sensory experience for children. Sensory toys can help develop communication, fine motor skills and creative play.
Features
Contents: Heroes of Goo Jit Zu Dino Thrash the Shark
Squeeze to feel his squishy water beads
See the fish squish around inside
Press Thrash’s head to activate Chomp Attack jaws
Stretch Thrash up to 3 times his size!
Prepare for the ultimate squishy prehistoric battle
Collect all 7 Goo Jit Zu Dino Power Heroes, each sold separately
Heroes of Goo Jit Zu Dino Power Thrash the Shark is available now priced around £9.99 and is aimed at children 4 years old and up.
Disclaimer: Heroes of Goo Jit Zu Dino Power Thrash the Shark was sent to us for the purposes of an honest review. All opinions are the opinions of our reviewer.
With Christmas not that far away, we take a look at the Treasure X Monster Gold Mega Monster Lab.
Bring your Monster to life and find guaranteed real gold dipped treasure inside the Mega Monster Lab! With 20 levels of Adventure, the Mega Monster lab playset has so much monstrous unboxing fun in one gruesome place! Full of mysterious places, hidden chambers and secret hatches to discover.
Find the Monster’s body part swimming in the Glow-in-the-Dark Ooze. Inject the Ooze into the Monster’s guts and reattach his limbs. Search through the spider webs to find the eyes and heart, then place the brain inside his head! Now it’s time to bring your Monster to life. Connect the power generator and flick the switch… 3.. 2…1 “It’s Alive”! As your Monster’s brain and eyes light up, his mouth opens to reveal real gold dipped treasure! It’s just what the scientist has been waiting for! Upgrade your Monster using the power tools in the lab!
A Closer Look
Final Thoughts
This new Treasure X Monster Gold Mega Monster Lab is so much fun! As usual with all Treasure X toys and sets, there are many levels to go through. These levels including unboxing and putting together which is also fun!
I don’t want to ruin the surprise, or fun (there’s that word again) by going through each of the steps, but needless to say your child (and you) will enjoy it!
And yes, there is ooze, lots and lots of ooze! And this set comes with guaranteed gold dipped treasure!
There is even a light up element included in this set – my trust assistant loved it! This was by far his favourite Treasure X set so far!
The Treasure X Monster Gold Mega Monster Lab is available now priced around £29.99.
Disclaimer: The Treasure X Monster Gold Mega Monster Lab sent to us for the purposes of an honest review. All opinions are the opinions of our reviewer.
Do you love relaxing puzzle games with beautiful illustrations? Then look no further, because Mosaic Chronicles was made just for you!
Mosaic Chroniclesis a story-driven puzzle game inspired by Olga Gromyko’s fantasy stories. Released in August 2021, the early access version of the game is available for players to play 14 out of the 51 puzzles.
Gameplay:
Each level features a lovely illustrated image that players must complete by dragging puzzle pieces onto the board. As the title suggests, the puzzle pieces are broken stained glass, and they snap into place when you find the correct spot. Since they aren’t your typical jigsaw shapes, it makes it more challenging to complete each puzzle. But if you ever feel stuck, you can use the hint button; it has a cool-down feature, so try not to rely on it too much.
At any time, you can change the difficulty level from the main menu. There’s an easy mode if you just want to sit back and relax, a normal mode, and a hard mode if you want a challenge. Depending on the difficulty level, each puzzle can last anywhere between 20-60 minutes.
Whenever I’m working on puzzles, I like to have an area to organize the pieces without cluttering the frame. The glass pieces can be rearranged in the bar, but unfortunately, you can only see about nine glass shards at a time. It would be great if there was a pull-out menu or something where you could organize the pieces better.
Mosaic Chronicles features two main stories: A Bit of Horoscoping and The lucky knot. Even though it’s a story-based game, I didn’t care much for the story. It’s not that it’s written poorly, but by the time I started another puzzle after a day or two, I had already forgotten the story. It would have been nice if the story was interactive, such as having parts of the story unlocked within the puzzle the more you complete it. I think it would make the story aspect more engaging and memorable.
Pros:
Stunning illustrations
Relaxing
Nice soundtrack
Cons:
Mundane gameplay
Needs a better interface
Wish stories were interactive
I loved relaxing to the music while putting together each puzzle. The soundtrack was charming and went perfectly with the art. However, with the number of puzzle games out there, I wish there was something unique about the gameplay to make it stand out from the rest.
Conclusion:
While I’m not a puzzle connoisseur, I do enjoy casual puzzle games. It didn’t make it to the top of my list, but I’d still recommend it. Since Mosaic Chronicles is still an early access game, I have high hopes that it will be much more polished by the time it’s officially released. If you like relaxing games or just puzzles in general, I think Mosaic Chronicles is definitely worth checking out.
