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Review: Aaero2

Daniel Waite

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Dec 1, 2024

Aaero2 is the sequel to the critically acclaimed 2017 title, Aaero. Though its predecessor was well received, the developers didn’t rest on their laurels. Instead, they read and listened to every ounce of feedback they were given. The result is a new and improved title that will appeal to lovers of high-energy music and rhythm-based action.

This sci-fi musical endeavour was developed and published by Mad Fellows Ltd. Furthermore, it is a single-player or cooperative game. I played this alone and cannot talk about the latter option. Yet, I assume it’ll be a challenging but rewarding experience that will cause arguments. However, when you play this alone, you’ll have to be accurate, calm, and alert. Minor mistakes have big consequences, and this can undermine the end result.

Aaero2 lets its action do the talking.

I’m obsessed with a great story. As such, when a game lacks this key element, I’m normally disappointed. However, Aaero2 is an exception to this rule. There isn’t a story in sight and I still enjoyed the hellish action. Your vehicle must explore alien worlds as it follows ribbons of light. The music is pounding and the ribbons adjust accordingly. As such, you must stay alert as the world and the lighting evolves.

Though the gameplay follows a repetitive loop, each world is a joy to explore. The fast-paced movement is challenging to follow and the varied difficulty settings push you to your limits. Alongside this, you have enemies to tackle and boss fights to overcome. This violent element was a nice change of pace. Furthermore, even though this diluted the rhythm-based action, I enjoyed unleashing hell upon my nearest foes.

Simple ideas.

Aaero2 isn’t a mentally challenging title. The action is rudimentary and repetitive. However, I loved the straightforward approach. Moreover, keeping up with the fast-moving light pattern was tough to achieve. Once you got to grips with this basic concept, the boss battles added a layer of depth. Though these encounters were basic by design, they kept you on your toes.

Aaero2 looks great.

The futuristic style complements the weird alien worlds. Though the backdrops are tough to observe, there is enough detail to fascinate you. Alongside this, I adored the vibrant neon hues and the smooth animation. Moving through the world had a real fluid sense of speed. What’s more, the lights flash and flow with the beat of the music. This combination of striking elements makes Aaero2 an unusual game to play.

The audio wasn’t my cup of tea. The heavy bass and high-tempo music were suitable, but loud and obnoxious. Yet, if this is your scene, you’ll cherish every song and every distinct bass line. Alongside this, the limited sound effects were good. The sci-fi edge was great and the weapons enhanced the gameplay.

Responsive controls.

Though the music didn’t float my boat, the game had a dreamy and seamless edge. Floating across each ribbon of light felt sensational. Additionally, your vessel moved between each area with ease. The controls were straightforward to master. However, getting your timing right and completing each stage was no easy task.

Replay value and longevity will vary. If you love the selection of songs, you’ll play this for hours. But if the music grinds you down, you’ll play this in bite-size chunks. Consequently, I can see the appeal and I understand why people return to complete every challenge.

Aaero2 is a good indie game.

Aaero2 had big shoes to fill. Its predecessor was great and this made it a tough act to follow. Thankfully, the developer has done an incredible job. The level design is great and I liked the vibrant tones. Accordingly, though it is simple, it is addictive and I recommend buying it here! Can you complete your mission? Follow the light and destroy every enemy you face.

Review: Sonic the Hedgehog Tornado Biplane

Daniel Waite

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Nov 30, 2024

0

Review: Sonic the Hedgehog Tornado Biplane

The Sonic the Hedgehog Tornado Biplane is a fantastic replica of the Sonic the Hedgehog 2 plane. Moreover, it includes a song from the 3^rd game and it has some funky sound effects, lighting, and a moving propeller. Accordingly, it is a great toy if you love the franchise or enjoy imaginative play. Alongside this, it is extremely robust and much larger than I expected. The ample frame is great and the toy is fantastic to look at. Moreover, kids can fit the included Sonic action figure or other toys into the cockpit with ease.

If your children adore loud and obnoxious items, then they will cherish every moment! The music and sound effects are unbelievably loud. What’s more, they seem to take an age to stop and this may drive adults crazy. Thankfully, though, there is an on/off switch to get some quiet.

What’s in the box of the Sonic the Hedgehog Tornado Biplane?

The packaging is large and bright. Additionally, the plane comes in several pieces, so some construction is required.
The Sonic the Hedgehog Tornado Biplane is a lightweight but large toy. There is a rocket with a yellow light to replicate the flame, a moving propeller, and a large tactile switch to activate the music. Furthermore, the cockpit is large but only suitable for one figure at a time.
A Sonic figure is included.
This needs 3xAAA batteries and these are not included.
Learn the basics with the user guide.

Technical aspects.

The Sonic the Hedgehog Tornado Biplane isn’t the most complex toy on the market. Yet, it has plenty of great and alluring aspects that will make your child smile. Moreover, there are some nice tactile buttons and movement-based sound effects to bring it to life. Behind the cockpit is a large switch that blends with the body of the plane. This switch is a dual-mode device and can be used to activate the music or light the rocket and make it sound.

Alongside this, there is a rear wheel switch that starts the propeller. Word of warning, this goes on for quite some time, so be prepared to leave the room or turn the device off. I loved the movement of the propeller and the design has a nice fluid appearance. Finally, if you tilt the wings either way, the toy makes a swooshing sound. This was pretty cool and really impressive. When you combine this with the engine noise and the sound of the rocket, it works perfectly.

The combination of every high-energy movement sound was spectacular. This toy genuinely delivers a realistic soundscape for imaginative play. However, it is extremely loud and this may put some parents off. If you have kids of varied ages and your youngest children need a nap, this toy won’t be suitable during quiet periods. Thankfully, this didn’t impact my household, but it is something to be mindful of.

Build quality.

The dreaded phrase DIY toy can bring parents out in a cold sweat. Luckily, the Sonic the Hedgehog Tornado Biplane is easy to build. I think it took less than 2 minutes to construct and the plane feels sturdy and great to hold. Additionally, there is a nice balance and the toy is great to hold or sit on a solid surface.

The wings are strong and normal use will see this toy last a lifetime. Alongside this, the switches look and feel great. Each activation point is hard-wearing and should resist the toughest tests. What’s more, the lighting looks great and the wave design on the propeller is pleasant to the eye. I liked the free-moving wheels that allow younger children to move them on a carpeted or hard wooden surface with ease.

You are provided with a small but colourful Sonic figurine. This pleasant toy has partial moving parts and a standard Sonic expression on its face. The figure can fit in the cockpit easily and can be used with any other toy from the JAKKS Pacific Sonic playset range.

Is the Sonic the Hedgehog Tornado Biplane worth it?

Christmas is coming and most kids adore Sonic. As such, getting this toy would be a no-brainer. The excellent sound effects were impressive and I was amazed by the size and straightforward DIY construction. Moreover, the action figure was nice and there is a sense of drama and dynamic energy when you play with this toy. Accordingly, I love it and so do my kids and I recommend buying it here!

_{(More information on JAKKS Pacific can be found here!)}

The Sonic the Hedgehog Tornado Biplane has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

_{(Full disclosure! A free sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)}

Review: So Bomb Bath Bomb Dispenser

Daniel Waite

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Nov 30, 2024

0

The So Bomb Bath Bomb Dispenser is the perfect toy for bath-loving children who enjoy scented bath bombs. Moreover, you can create a unique charm bracelet with 10 special charms hidden inside the bombs. This sense of mystery and surprise had my girls giddy with excitement. Furthermore, there was the occasional argument as each of them wanted to get a charm. However, they appreciated the fun dispenser and the colourful toys once things were smoothed over.

This simple toy is great for children aged 6+. Additionally, your young children should be supervised whilst using this product as small parts and water are involved. Yet, I wasn’t concerned with my older 2 as they rarely ingest random items. The cute dispenser and the bath bombs are water-resistant. This was great as bath times get somewhat splashy and you don’t want your spare bombs to be ruined by overzealous splashing.

What’s in the box of the So Bomb Bath Bomb Dispenser?

The packaging is large and vibrant. What’s more, the contents were secured and the bath bombs were in perfect working order.
The So Bomb Bath Bomb Dispenser is pink and looks like an old-school sweet dispenser. The lower portion has a smooth moving mechanism and the plastic is hardwearing and easy to handle.
A bag of bath bombs is used to fill the dispenser.
Learn the basics with the quick guide.

Usability.

The So Bomb Bath Bomb Dispenser is unbelievably easy to use and fill. The clear dome can be removed by twisting it from the body. Alternatively, you can remove the small plastic lid to refill the bombs. If you wish to dispense a bath bomb, you simply turn the pink handle and one drops into the little area below. If this didn’t work, a small shake of the device made the product drop into place and you try again.

This was great as my kids could grab a bath bomb without making every item wet. Additionally, they could only dispense one at a time and this prevented unnecessary mistakes from happening. If you run out of bombs, you can replace them by purchasing more from Canal Toys or other leading department stores.

Build quality.

I’m not a massive fan of plastic toys. They tend to break easily and then there is the issue with disposal. Thankfully, the So Bomb Bath Bomb Dispenser is robust and the moving parts were smooth and built to last. On top of this, it was easy to remove and replace the clear plastic dome and the pink screw on top. This was ideal as my girls could refill the dispenser without worrying about damaging the base unit.

The item is reasonably compact and will sit on a bathroom shelf. Moreover, the plastic material is water resistant and this prevents the moving parts from becoming damaged or rusty during prolonged usage. Though this won’t last forever, I believe that it will take some rough and tumble. Finally, the charms are simple and small. This is where the major choking hazard can be found. Subsequently, I recommend removing the charms and placing them on the supplied material chain ASAP.

Is the So Bomb Bath Bomb Dispenser worth it?

Bath toys can be hit and miss. Consequently, I’m always careful when investing. This affordable option from Canal Toys is vibrant and useful. What’s more, my kids loved being in charge of the dispenser. If you then consider the readily available refills and the varied charms, this is a great gift for bath-loving children. Accordingly, it’s a great toy and I recommend buying it here!

_{(More information on Canal Toys can be found here!)}

The So Bomb Bath Bomb Dispenser has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

_{(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)}

Review: Super Mario Course Complete Playset

Daniel Waite

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Nov 30, 2024

0

Review: Super Mario Course Complete Playset

Super Mario is a gaming staple no matter your platform affiliation. Adults and children, the world over love this colourful plumber and his band of followers and enemies. Accordingly, whenever a game, film, TV series, or toy is released, fans clamber over one another to get their hands on it. Today I am looking at the Super Mario Course Complete Playset and though it is aimed at children aged 3 years+, I loved every element of it.

This brilliant recreation of the end scene from a Mario platforming game will fill older gamers with nostalgia. Alternatively, younger gamers and kids will adore the moving parts and the vibrant colours. Moreover, if you have any other JAKKS Pacific Mario action figures, they will be compatible with this fantastic playset. This fantastic company has released some brilliant pieces. There is the Deluxe Bowser Airship, Deluxe Bowser Battle Playset, Mushroom Kingdom Castle Playset, and the Super Mario 3D World Diorama set. Each of these toys is perfect for children and diehard fans.

What’s in the box of the Super Mario Course Complete Playset?

The packaging is large and colourful. Moreover, they haven’t used those awful plastic ties to keep everything locked into place. Consequently, there is less to recycle.
The Super Mario Course Complete Playset comes in several parts. Subsequently, some minor DIY skills are needed to put this together.
A 2.5″ Mario action is provided. This colourful character has some moving parts and works perfectly with the rest of the playset.
A guide is provided to help with the construction.

Usability.

This toy is aimed at young children. However, the moving parts make it a fun prospect for adults. The Super Mario Course Complete Playset comprises a block stepway, a small castle, and a moving end goal sliding flag. The latter item has a platform for Mario to stand on as he moves up and down the flagpole. Additionally, the block stepway has a pleasant spinning lever to move Mario from the bottom to the top of the stepway.

This basic movement won’t blow you away, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. Moreover, my kids recreated their favourite moments from their Switch gaming endeavours. Though I helped to put this together, I believe my kids could build it on their own. The DIY skill level is almost non-existent and this makes it an easy building task. What’s more, the helpful nodules ensure that you cannot go wrong.

Build quality.

This all-plastic toy may not impress lovers of wooden toys. Yet, I liked its reassuring build quality and its vibrant colours. Every aspect is Mario-like and there is no way you could get this confused with another franchise. The moving and interconnecting parts are strong and impressively robust. Accordingly, clumsy toddlers and excitable adults will not break this toy easily.

Though there are limited moving parts, I think that the Super Mario Course Complete Playset does enough to keep you entertained. The smooth nature of the spinning lever was impressive and the design creates a seamless illusion that will make you smile. Finally, I liked the minor cloud backdrop. Though this was a subtle addition, it completes the image and brings this toy to life.

Is the Super Mario Course Complete Playset worth it?

The Super Mario Course Complete Playset is a great toy. It ticks every box and its vibrant nature will bring joy this Christmas. Furthermore, the moving parts are fun and I like how compatible it is with the other playsets. My only complaint is the static castle. Had this element been more interactive, then this playset would have been exceptional. As it is, I still like it and I know your kids will as well. As such, I recommend buying it here!

_{(More information on JAKKS Pacific can be found here!)}

_{(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)}

Review: Acefast H7 ANC headset

Reviews
Tech

Daniel Waite

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Nov 29, 2024

0

The Acefast H7 ANC headset is the latest product from this fashion and tech-conscious manufacturer. I have covered many of their products and I’m always impressed with the build quality, audio quality, and value for money. Accordingly, I had high expectations even though the below £100 price tag should have limitations. Thankfully, these comfortable flat-ear headphones deliver on many levels and I enjoyed using them.

Acefast has an eye for detail, shown by the 7 uniquely coloured earmuffs. If you wish, you can customise your headphones for every day of the week. Though this isn’t essential, I liked the approach and freedom to express myself daily. If fashion isn’t your thing, you’ll be impressed by the powerful drivers and the excellent audio quality. Moreover, the battery life is fantastic, and the ANC feature improves your overall experience. Therefore, you get plenty of bang for your buck.

What’s in the box of the Acefast H7 ANC headset?

The box is compact and robust. Furthermore, it is eye-catching and it can be recycled.
The Acefast H7 ANC headset has a white finish. What’s more, the earcups are soft and pleasant to wear. There are on-ear controls to improve usability and the finish is simple and streamlined.
You are provided with an array of colourful earmuffs.
Charge the device with the USB cable.
Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

The Acefast H7 ANC headset uses Bluetooth 5.4 for a stable connection. This lower power option is easy to use and there is a reasonable 10-metre range. This was great as I could use these headphones in my living room without having to carry my phone. Furthermore, if you are in the gym, you needn’t worry about your phone falling from your pocket as you are listening to your favourite tune.

The 500 mAh battery sounds tiny. However, you can get a week of listening power from one charge. Moreover, a quick 1 hour 30 minutes fills the battery to keep you in the game. There are caveats though. If you have the volume cranked up or use ANC, the battery will drain quickly. Yet, the quick charge facility removes many of these issues.

The ANC feature is a game-changer. This familiar feature reduces up to 35 dB of unwanted external noise. Accordingly, you can walk past busy roads or sit on a packed train and not have your listening experience ruined. Though I didn’t always implement this option, I liked the immersive quality and the ability to shut out the outside world.

Audio quality.

Headphones can look great and come with every market-leading feature. However, if the audio is terrible, then the manufacturer has failed. Thankfully, Acefast has created a spectacular audio experience that is incredible. I expected an under £100 headset to have some weaknesses. Yet, this wasn’t the case. The impressive 30mm speakers and double-layer composite diaphragm generate a delightful soundscape. The immersive sound is a joy to listen to and my favourite songs sounded perfect.

The blend of tones can be easily identified and the bass isn’t overbearing. As such, you don’t need to crank the volume up to get the best out of this headset. Moreover, the Acefast H7 ANC headset has 3 audio settings. The aforementioned ANC is great in busy environments. Yet, you may wish to be aware of your surroundings. If this is the case, you can select transparency to allow the outside world in. Finally, you can turn both of these modes off and enjoy a standard listening experience.

Build quality.

Flat-ear headphones aren’t as popular as other styles. This is a shame as I find them to be comfortable and better for longer periods. The breathable material prevents your ears from heating up and the lightweight design doesn’t create pressure on your head or ears. This headset weighs approximately 167g. This is roughly 100 grams lighter than the over-ear equivalent. Though this doesn’t sound like a lot, your head will appreciate the difference.

The flexible headband has a nice padded finish. This reduces pressure on your head while increasing comfort. What’s more, I liked the white finish. Though there is a risk of the product becoming dirty, you can easily clean the material. Finally, the tactile buttons are simple to use and easy to locate. This was perfect as you can flick between modes and adjust the volume with ease.

Is the Acefast H7 ANC headset worth it?

There are plenty of impressive headsets available. However, if you wish to get the best tech, you normally have to pay a high price. Thankfully, the Acefast H7 ANC headset offers plenty of game-changing tech for an affordable price. I love this approach as it allows people with lower budgets the opportunity to buy a high-quality product. Though the flat-ear design may not be everyone’s cup of tea, I like the lightweight design and the comfortable finish. Moreover, the battery life is great and the audio quality will impress you. Consequently, this is a great headset and I recommend buying it here!

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

The Acefast H7 ANC headset has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

_{(Full disclosure! Acefast provided a sample for an unbiased and free review!)}

Review: Call of Duty Ghost Edition glasses

Daniel Waite

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Nov 29, 2024

0

Review: Call of Duty Ghost Edition glasses

The Call of Duty Ghost Edition glasses from GUNNAR are part of their Epic range. These striking aviator-framed glasses are perfect for lovers of COD. They have delightful engraving on the precision-engineered polymer frame. Moreover, the lightweight design ensures that they are comfortable to wear during marathon gaming sessions.

GUNNAR are renowned for their eye health benefits and their interesting design choices. Thankfully, this product maintains this trend. The amber-tinted lenses block 65% blue light and 100% of UV light. As such, you’ll have less fatigue and a reduction in headaches. Furthermore, your eyes are less prone to drying out and this prevents uncomfortable gaming or working sessions.

What’s in the box of the Call of Duty Ghost Edition glasses?

The packaging isn’t eye-catching. The robust box can be recycled and it keeps the contents safe.
The Call of Duty Ghost Edition glasses have large aviator-style lenses. This was a great design choice as it looks fantastic and blocks out more unwanted blue light. Alongside this, the mixture of a darkened frame and light polymer arms was interesting and attractive.
The hard and soft cases have COD-related imagery. This was perfect for fans of the game.
A microfibre cloth helps to keep the lenses clean.
An in-game bonus item is included while stock lasts.

Technical aspects.

GUNNAR’s Epic performance range is its mid-high-level product that includes some special features. First, there is the G-Shield protection to improve cleanliness and reduce smudging and unwanted glare. This is great for streamers or people who use Zoom and other video-calling platforms. After all, no one wants to be distracted by lighting or fingerprints. Second, GUNNAR’s patented lens technology has many health benefits. Consequently, if you work from home or spend hours watching TV, you’ll want a pair of these glasses.

Finally, you can select an Amber sun-shift lens to shift from the much-loved amber tint to a darkened 90% blue light protection in under 15 seconds. This option was perfect for people who like to work on the go. You’ll not require separate sunglasses and gaming glasses with this helpful option. Alongside this, you can purchase prescription lenses if you wish. These come at an additional cost but it increases the convenience level.

Build quality.

The Call of Duty Ghost Edition glasses are exceptionally well-built! The frames are large and strong. Subsequently, they can take some heavy-handed action without getting damaged. The sturdy multi-barrel hinges are smooth while offering some degree of flexibility. Accordingly, they can adjust to different face types. Finally, the polymer frame feels great in your hand. The slim arms are light but strong. What’s more, the ear hooks sit nicely on your ears.

The glasses are spectacular, but I was equally impressed by the accessories. The COD-themed hard and soft cases are pleasant to look at. I loved the dark colour palette and the nod to the franchise. Additionally, the glasses have a pleasant COD engraving as a secret Easter egg. If this isn’t enough, the microfibre cloth is soft and compact enough to carry around with ease.

Are the Call of Duty Ghost Edition glasses worth it?

I cannot hide my love for GUNNAR’s products. I have tried many different styles and I’ve adored them all. The Tahoe glasses have a classic style that may appeal to more refined workers or gamers. Alternatively, the TOKIDOKI range should appeal to gamer girls. However, the Call of Duty Ghost Edition glasses are perfect for FPS-loving gamers who want to look great whilst improving their eye health. Accordingly, I love them and I recommend buying them here!

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

The Call of Duty Ghost Edition glasses from GUNNAR have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

_{(Full disclosure! GUNNAR provided a sample for an unbiased and free review!)}

News: Akko Black Friday guide.

Daniel Waite

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Nov 29, 2024

0

I have reviewed some amazing Akko products. Accordingly, when I see they have an extended sale, I sit up and take notice. This Akko Black Friday guide highlights some of the incredible keyboards they have on offer.

If the up to 50% off Iso keyboards deals are not enough, Akko is offering 20% off everything else! If you enter the discount code BFCM2024 at the checkout, you’ll enjoy a massive saving. So let’s wait no longer to see what is available in the Akko Black Friday guide.

What’s in the Akko Black Friday guide?

5075B Plus Mechanical Keyboard – The keycaps are hard-wearing and great to look at. Additionally, the media and lighting knob create a user-friendly edge that was appreciated. Alongside this, the NKRO functionality was responsive and a game-changer when typing or playing your favourite FPS. _{From €71,39.}

Black on White 5075B Plus ISO – The AKKO 5075B Plus keyboard is available for under £90. Accordingly, this high-spec keyboard is an affordable option. Furthermore, its 75% form factor is great if you are short on space. What’s more, the ability to customise the switches, and the keycaps was a fantastic addition that I wouldn’t expect to see at this price point. Additionally, the responsive inputs and 3 unique connectivity modes make it an attractive option for newcomers and those who want to improve their setup. _{From €71,39.}

Blue on White 3068B Plus ISO DE/Nordic -The Blue on White 3068B Plus ISO DE/Nordic keyboard is a multimode device that is suitable for Windows or Mac users. Furthermore, it is RGB backlit and has double-shot PBT keycaps. If that isn’t enough, it has macro technology and hot-swappable switches. As such, it is great for creative PC gamers. _{From €54,72.}

Head to Akko for savings.

If you wish to improve your gaming set-up, Akko has you covered! Their excellent products are wonderful to look at. Moreover, they are affordable, easy to use, and brilliantly robust. This guide has highlighted only 3 of the incredible offers available. Consequently, I recommend clicking here to see the other deals. (Offers available until December 3^rd.)

Aeno PREMIUM Eco Infrared Smart Heater – Black Friday – SAVE over 20%

News

Andrew Edney

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Nov 28, 2024

0

Aeno PREMIUM Eco Infrared Smart Heater – Black Friday – SAVE over 20%

This Premium Eco Smart Heater is an eco-friendly infrared heater. It features a unique energy saving heating technology designed to help users save money.

Designed with infrared technology this Aeno heater is much cheaper to run compared to traditional heating systems. It uses an infrared and convection heating method for even heat distribution.

Download the Aeno App to your smartphone and you can set and control room temperature remotely so you can take the chill off before you arrive home!

It has an adjustable thermostat with a range from 0 – 40 °C.

Featuring a fall/tilt sensor the appliance will automatically switch off if a child or pet accidentally knocks it over.

The thin glass body is just 11mm wide creating a stylish look in any modern home or office.

The panel smart heater can be mounted horizontally or vertically to the wall or ceiling. There is also the option to fix legs (supplied) to make it freestanding.

Features:

Infrared + convection heating
Control via Smartphone with Aeno app
Overheat Protection : Auto Shut Off
Heating Range : 30m2
Temp Range: 0-40 °C
Child Lock (via App)
Dimensions(mm): 1000 x 365 x 11

Available from Curry’s RRP £259.00 – https://www.currys.co.uk/products/aeno-premium-eco-agh0003suk-smart-panel-heater-glossy-white-10269839.html?searchTerm=aeno

Review: Demon’s Mirror

Saim Khurshid

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Nov 28, 2024

0

Developed by Be-Rad Entertainment and Published by Good Shepherd Entertainment, Demon’s Mirror is a Rouglike Card battler mixed with tile matching.

Days upon days of intense gaming led to the very moment when I made up my mind, and sadly, through thick and thin, I cannot recommend it.

On a serious note, despite having had to play about a hundred Roguelikes/lites, I tried to give this one a fair chance. It fared well for the most part, but I cannot in good conscience place it at the top.

Let’s talk about that.

Large Booty of a Demon’s Mirror

Calling the gameplay of Demon’s Mirror simple would be the lie of the century. By glancing at the images on the Steam page, you would think you are stuck inside a casino version of Alice in Wonderland. The number of things from cards, powerups, card points, and enemies, to the tile board, enemy stats and moves…. A lot is going on here and it can get very overwhelming.

I would leave it here and let you go figure this out by yourselves but I claimed this game was average so I am obliged to tell you why.

The game can be split into 3 parts, each playing an important role in how to win and proceed.

1: The map:

You begin each round, with your chosen character, on a tile board that has many options for traversal. You can choose from any 2 or 3 options at a time. These options can range from enemies, difficult enemies, random encounters, giant stone encounters, campfires and stores.

Enemies lead you to a fight,(more on that later). As for random encounters and the giant stone, these both provide power-ups for you or your already-attained cards. Campfires restore 30 health(you have a total of 60) and shops allow you to buy new cards or upgrades with golden coins that you attain from winning fights.

2: The Demon’s Mirror cards

When you enter a fight, you will have to manage two different yet interlinked games. One is a tile board(more on that later) and the other is a classic card game.

Your cards allow you to attack, defend, cast spells(buffs or debuffs) or make changes to the tile boards. You have points that dictate the amount of moves you have and each card tells you how many points it needs to be activated. Above the deck of cards, you have your enemies. You can see what moves your enemies will make in the next turn and must act accordingly.

3: The Tileboard:

The goal of the tile board is to create sets of the same symbol by drawing a line over them. The amount of symbols in the set equals the amount of effect that symbol will have and each set costs two points from the cards section.

Each type of symbol has a different effect. The swords are for attacking, the shield adds defence, the green orb provides upgrades to some cards and the purple orb when collected enough, allows you to use one of 3 (character-specific special moves.

Enemies can use a move that adds a bomb to the tile board. The bomb can be linked to any card and you must destroy it before it explodes and damages you.

There is more there in all three sections of Demon’s Mirror that is worth noticing but I will leave them for the curious at heart. As for now, I want to go over my reasons for being down on Demon’s Mirror.

What I didn’t like

I don’t like that you cannot stack your unused turns through each round unless you have a special power-up.

Don’t like that all the special powers have confusing descriptions.

Don’t like that the special items pop up in the top left, barely visible on screen.

But all these are tiny niggles…

My real issue with this game is that it is really slow to progress. You can spend 5-10 minutes stuck in a round because the enemy used a defence buff.

It could take hours going through stages and it can all be for nothing. Like every other roguelike or roguelites, when you die you must start from the beginning.

Apart from the first few rounds, Demon’s Mirror does not give you any legitimate logical and fun changes to gameplay via upgrades.

While playing the game is fun, after a while you lose motivation to continue. Other roguelikes have a certain type of fun gameplay, it keeps you engaged. Alas, this with this mix-and-match thing going on, it starts to get boring fast.

So ultimately, it’s a fun game but it’s not worth your time as a roguelike.

A mix and match of a game

Demon’s Mirror certainly has its moments of intrigue and challenge, but as time goes on, the game’s repetitive nature and slow progression dampen the excitement.

While it might appeal to those craving complexity and a bit of a mental workout, for most players, the frustration and lack of meaningful upgrades make it hard to recommend.

Review: I Am Future: Cozy Apocalypse Survival

Josh Blackburn

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Nov 28, 2024

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Cozy Apocalypse? That sits there in the full title of I Am Future and it just feels like an oxymoron. When I think of apocalypses, I think of ruined buildings, scary mutants and angry people with kitchenware selotaped to their faces. None of that is particularly cozy. That said, maybe there is potential in an apocalypse where you’re just left alone to relax and get on with things. Like that Twilight Zone episode before the bloke’s glasses break. Then again, I could barely handle my internet going down for three days, so it could be me that’s the problem.

Anyway, I bring up that bit in the title because that’s the standard I used to judge I Am Future. It comes down to catharsis; how much it calms me down and makes me feel better about life. It’s a tricky thing to measure, but generally it comes down to the satisfaction of completing tasks and working towards some overall goal. I Am Future has definite pockets of catharsis, and it’s a very pretty experience, but it feels a touch shallow.

The Roof Isn’t On Fire

I Am Future opens with us popping out of a pod on top of a roof and encountering the end of the world. Fortunately, the end of the world looks rather pretty. That’s the first thing that struck me about I Am Future: it looks bright, colourful and happy. A lot of apocalypse games assume that the end of the world is going to paint everything brown. In this case, green is the predominant colour. It makes exploring the rooftop a joy, particularly given that different sections of the roof do feel quite different. Though I can’t say that a rooftop mini-golf course seems like a good idea.

Either way, we are trapped on this rooftop, so we make the most of it. We start by slotting our cybernetic hand into place and then ripping apart everything that was left behind. The main gameplay loop involves hunting for basic materials – scrap metal, plastic, that sort of thing – then pouring them into schematics to make new buildings, which will refine those materials into more complex materials. Then you can upgrade your tools and machines even further. You’ll also need to stop every now and then to munch on a sandwich, as there’s a hunger meter that’ll tick down your health until you faint.

It’s a fairly basic loop for this sort of thing, but there are nice elements. For one, slowly carving your way through the rooftop is definitely cathartic. Progress across the roof is gated by what tools you have, and it’s nice that pouring resources into a new tool allows the map to open up. I also like that hunger isn’t just an extension of the health bar. Being full means you can carry more, giving you an incentive to chow down. Best of all, though, is the disassembling. You pick up a kettle, say, and you have to manually unscrew sections and remove components. It’s like the anti-House Flipper, and I really enjoyed it.

Just Not Clicking Together

I could probably isolate all the different parts of I Am Future and say something positive about them, but my main issue is that things don’t really gel together. Sometimes, a game can be less than the sum of its parts. Take the hunger meter, for instance. It only ran out twice for me and never ended in me fainting, because food is everywhere and can be grown easily. Then there are the ‘enemies’. Little leech-like fellas that eat your crops and turn into weeds. Interesting idea, but they’re just a mild annoyance that you can keep at bay with a cheap spray can. Once you plonk down a UV tower, it’s all over for them.

Digging a bit deeper into this issue, I think the problem is that there’s no sense of working towards something greater. Nearly everything we build is done within minutes, as so many materials are just lying around. Once I’d built the bridge to the second roof (the only one, mind), I had no more big projects. I was doing lots of little projects, wondering when the next big job was coming along. A big draw to this type of construction game is having a big project that you can chip away at. It’s these projects that make the smaller machines necessary, so you can build yourself up. As it was, I just following the set goals without any investment.

The other way that I Am Future could have given me some motivation was through the plot. It’s not a bad set up. We’re an amnesiac in a world where people’s personalities have been transferred into machines. Everyone’s sure that we’re the big CEO of the company that was responsible for the transfer, but we can’t remember a thing. We even meet a handful of these machines. Sadly, it doesn’t really go anywhere. It races through plotpoints and never explores its characters. Then it goes through a random twist at the end that doesn’t really add anything. Actually, it probably detracts from the experience.

I Am Future – Pretty But Shallow

Ultimately, I think my feelings are nicely encapsulated by two elements: exploration and minions. Exploration involves sending a drone off to set locations around the world. One of the first ones has you picking apart a downed plane. It’s interesting and interactive, and had potential. Sadly, most of the rest are just text boxes or shop interfaces. Then there’s minions. A nice idea that could allow some complex automation. Unfortunately, the building schematics are so simple that the only automation I ever needed was a basic sprinkler system.

So, where does that leave us with the catharsis test? Well, the lack of meaningful progress in the mid-game did hurt that. I wasn’t getting up in the morning with a plan of what I wanted to do. I was just sort of drifting across the rooftop, picking up this and that and shoving into whatever blueprint was going. This wasn’t like putting together a beautiful jigsaw. This was like tipping out a beautiful jigsaw onto the table, then putting it back in the box piece-by-piece. Yes, things happened but there was no progess made.

(I Am Future: Cozy Apocalypse Survival‘s Steam Page)

Review: Snow Bros. Wonderland

Daniel Waite

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Nov 28, 2024

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Snow Bros Wonderland is back! This 30+-year-old franchise has moved away from its 2D roots and is now available as a 3D isometric platform adventure. This change of approach may annoy fans of its predecessors, but I think it is a great move. The compact levels and array of tasks on hand keep you busy throughout. What’s more, it is loud, vibrant, and easy to pick up and play.

This colourful adventure title was developed by Bitwave Games and published by Clear River Games. Moreover, it is a solo or up to 4-player cooperative title. Accordingly, it is a little hectic and things can get messy extremely quickly. I stuck to single-player action and cherished every moment. However, if you have like-minded friends who love platforming games, then this will be a hit.

Snow Bros Wonderland tells a tale of doom.

The once-peaceful world of Snow Land is now under threat. The snowmen must stay cool and calm as they try to protect the king and his people from the evil King Atchich. This is no easy task as every creature wishes to stand in your way. Additionally, there are plenty of side quests to complete and tough parkour moments to overcome.

This should prevent you from completing your goals, but it doesn’t. As long as you keep a cool head, you can work your way through each of the tiny arenas. As long as you complete each mission, you will open a portal and move closer to the end. Occasionally, you must collect keys to progress or hit waypoints to move on. Either way, it is clearly explained and you shouldn’t struggle throughout.

A blend of new and familiar mechanics.

The game comprises 6 worlds and 36 stages. What’s more, there are 6 boss battles and the Grim Reaper to contend with. Don’t worry too much about death, he only turns up if you are too slow. As you progress through the worlds, you’ll enjoy some familiar platforming mechanics. There are moving platforms, switches, chasms, spikes, fire, and other tried and tested elements. Yet, some unique layers keep things interesting.

Snow Bros Wonderland wouldn’t live up to its name if it didn’t have snow and snowballs at the fore. The heroes can turn every enemy into a giant snowball. This can then be used to activate switches or to bowl your opponents out of the way. Furthermore, you can launch the snowballs to access otherwise out-of-reach foes. If this wasn’t enough, there are golden presents to find to unlock new skills and abilities. Though these don’t change the way the game unfolds, they make it loads easier and finding each ability was fun.

Snow Bros Wonderland looks fantastic.

The move away from 2D to 3D was brave. However, I think Snow Bros Wonderland looks fantastic. The clean lines and vibrant colours are pleasant to the eye. What’s more, the sense of depth and different elements keep things interesting throughout. I liked the varied backdrops and the individual challenges they created. Finally, each character can be customised so that every player has a hero that matches their personality.

The audio has an air of old-school optimism. I loved the upbeat and never-ending soundtrack. Subsequently, the jolly songs give you a spring in your step. Moreover, there were daunting moments with dramatic tunes. This blend of aggression and upbeat hope was a pleasure to listen to.

Tight controls.

The developer recommends using a gamepad. I tested both gamepad and mouse and keyboard and the latter was a little clumsy. As such, if you are happy gaming with a controller, it is the way forward. The excellent tutorial gets you on your way and each new mechanic is thoroughly explained. Consequently, younger gamers can tackle this without concern.

Each world has plenty of collectables and loads of secret missions to complete. Moreover, there is a scoring system where you can return to try and beat your original score. Though this may not interest everyone, I loved the layers of replay value and longevity.

Snow Bros Wonderland is a great addition to the franchise.

If you haven’t played the original games, fear not. You are not penalised for your lack of knowledge and you can enjoy Snow Bros Wonderland regardless. However, if you are a franchise expert, you’ll adore the new style and the excellent story. Additionally, the ability to play this with up to 4 people keeps things fresh. Accordingly, this is a great game and I recommend buying it here! Can you help Snow Land and become a hero? Master your snowball, kill every foe, and save the day.

Review: DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake

Dawid Wisniewski

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Nov 27, 2024

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The Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake has garnered praise and criticism from both critics and players. Built using Square Enix’s HD-2D aesthetic, similar to Octopath Traveler and Triangle Strategy, this remake aims to bring a beloved classic to modern audiences with enhanced visuals, a revamped soundtrack, and various quality-of-life updates.

What’s new?

The remake completely reimagines the original 8-bit game, introducing vibrant 2D sprites set against richly detailed 3D environments. The game includes a fully orchestrated soundtrack performed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Orchestra, partial voice acting, and significant quality-of-life enhancements such as auto-battle options, combat speed settings, and a memory system for saving NPC hints. New content includes an expanded storyline supervised by Yuji Horii, creator of the Dragon Quest series, as well as additional dungeons and vocations.

What Could have been

The Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake succeeds in blending nostalgia with modern enhancements, creating a product that feels both faithful and fresh. The HD-2D aesthetic is undoubtedly the star of the show, providing a stunning visual upgrade that elevates the game’s world while maintaining its charm. From shimmering water effects to dynamic lighting in dungeons, the game’s art direction breathes new life into the original design. Additionally, the orchestral soundtrack beautifully complements the visuals, delivering a powerful auditory experience that enhances both exploration and combat.

The quality-of-life features, such as a mini-map, combat speed settings, and auto-battle, make the gameplay more accessible without compromising its RPG roots. The memory system, which allows you to save lines of NPC dialogue, is a particularly thoughtful addition for players who enjoy solving quests independently but want the option to revisit important hints.

That said, the lack of character animations during combat feels like a missed opportunity. While the first-person perspective is a faithful nod to the original, the static battle sequences feel underwhelming compared to modern RPG standards. Including a toggle between classic and dynamic views could have satisfied purists and new players alike.

The price point, while high, is reflective of the effort put into the visual and audio enhancements. However, players may find the value proposition less compelling compared to other RPGs in the HD-2D line-up.

Final thoughts

The Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is a stunning tribute to one of the most influential RPGs of all time. While not without its flaws, it successfully captures the heart of the original while offering a polished, modern experience. Fans of the series and newcomers with an appreciation for retro-inspired games will likely find this remake a worthy addition. However, for those seeking a more action-packed or dynamically animated experience, the game may not fully meet expectations. With its rich legacy and careful modernization, this remake strikes a delicate balance between honouring the past and embracing the present.

Review: Neo Harbor Rescue Squad

Daniel Waite

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Nov 27, 2024

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Neo Harbor Rescue Squad is a frantic hybrid title that will appeal to lovers of medical simulators and visual novels. The funny but short story will make you chuckle. However, it is the seemingly never-ending mini-games that will have you hooked. Every day is a challenge and you must think fast if you wish to succeed.

This action simulation experience was developed and published by BancyCo. Moreover, it is a single-player and colourful game to play. If you have tackled the Trauma franchise, many aspects of this game will be familiar. Yet, it lacks the depth and refinement of those titles and that may disappoint.

Neo Harbor Rescue Squad: a tale of recognition.

Neo Harbor Rescue Squad makes you play the role of a rookie paramedic. As you start at the bottom, you have plenty to learn. Whether it is your bedside manner, cleaning the equipment, or patching up patients, there is plenty to do. However, it is the not-so-friendly competition with the local firefighters that gets you hot under the collar. Sadly, your team does not get the recognition they deserve. Consequently, you must prove your worth and make the city acknowledge everything you do.

This story is presented in short, sharp cinematic. If this doesn’t interest you, you can skip through it without impacting your progression. Yet, I would advise watching the snappy and often amusing interactions. The characters and their funny ways will make you chuckle. Furthermore, the rivalry between each department was fascinating to watch.

So many patients and so many games.

As the story rolls on, you are expected to tackle an array of mini-games. Bandaging cuts, removing glass, cleaning wounds, CPR, and much more are thrown at the rookie paramedic. The hellish list of tasks can feel overwhelming. Moreover, the different inputs and methods of working can be confusing. This was disappointing as it feels as if you are being punished for not understanding the job at hand.

If you can put that issue to one side, you’ll enjoy a fun-filled medical-based gaming experience. The ability to perform little tasks was great. Additionally, the game evolves nicely to keep things fresh. I adored the silly missions and the rather absurd storyline. What’s more, the rapid-fire tasks were nicely varied and this tested plenty of skills.

Neo Harbor Rescue Squad looks fantastic.

This genre of game is always a visual spectacle. The vibrant colours and crisp imagery are a joy to look at. What’s more, I loved the simple but effective depiction of each injury. Though there is gore and uncomfortable elements, the gameplay can be enjoyed by older children. The developer has avoided a gruesome affair and instead has focused on loud Anime/Manga imagery. This was a great decision as it prevented the story and gameplay from becoming too morbid and uncomfortable.

The audio is slightly understated by comparison. The music and sound effects have a dramatic effect, but they weren’t as powerful or overwhelming as I expected. Instead, the developer allowed the sound effects and imagery to enhance the drama. Though this worked, I expected things to be more OTT and in your face.

The controls could have been better.

The UI and control system are easy to understand. Sadly, you get little time to prepare for each mission and this can cause confusion and unnecessary frustration. Yet, once you know what you are doing, this rarely holds you back. However, there are times when you try to execute each command and nothing happens. This was strange and I was left wondering what I had done wrong and how I could rectify the situation.

Each stage is scored based on your performance. If you save every person and make no mistakes, you will get the highest rank possible. Yet, if people die or you make errors, this will drop like a stone. Consequently, you’ll return to beat your score on each level. This was a simple way to enhance replay value and longevity.

Neo Harbor Rescue Squad is fun but slightly flawed.

If you want a deep and challenging medical simulator, Neo Harbor Rescue Squad isn’t for you. However, if you want a fun story with interesting characters and short, sharp levels, then this will tick those boxes. The gameplay is easy to understand and moving between the levels takes no time at all. Furthermore, the mini-games are enjoyable when they work. Though it didn’t blow me away, I enjoyed it and I recommend buying it here! Can you get the recognition you deserve? Grab your gear, head to each mission, and help everyone you see.

News: PowerA Christmas guide

Daniel Waite

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Nov 27, 2024

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Christmas is just around the corner, and your gaming world may need new peripherals. If this is the case, let PowerA fill that void with its incredible products. Whether you need a docking station or a controller, this company has you covered.

In addition, the designs are incredible, and each item is packed with modern tech. If you want elite gaming features at a fraction of the price, then this PowerA Christmas guide should not be missed!

What’s in the PowerA Christmas guide?

OPS v1 Wireless Controller for Cloud Gaming Fortnite Edition. Feel the win with the PowerA OPS v1 Wireless Controller for Cloud Gaming Fortnite Edition. Furthermore, enjoy the FREE virtual item – The Assault Bomber Epic Glider as a compliment to your Fortnite gaming experience.