re you ready to fight for your immortal soul? You’d better be, as Far Far Games and Fulqrum Publishing are getting ready to whisk you away to a world of Slavic myths and folktales in their brand-new action RPG title Bylina, coming to PC, Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 next year!
Embark on an epic journey to the Far Far Kingdom and challenge Koschei the Deathless to save your immortal soul and become a true hero in Bylina, an action RPG rooted in Slavic folklore and myths.Take on the role of Falconet, a young bogatyr born without hero’s powers, shunned and underestimated by almost everyone around him. Conquer numerous ordeals, overcome insurmountable odds, and become a legendary hero whose tales will be told for ages to come.
Falconet dreams of following in the footsteps of his father, a fabled bogatyr – but during what seems like a simple task, he finds himself in the dark and mysterious Far Far Kingdom where he meets his demise. To his surprise, the young hero is revived by a mysterious spirit with whom he must now share his body. Falconet faces three daunting tasks: reclaim control over his soul, uncover an ancient mystery surrounding his new companion, and save the world from imminent doom.
About Bylina
Discover a vibrant and extraordinary world based on Slavic myths and legends. Journey through the Land of Cities, boasting diverse locales – from sunlit forests to gloomy dungeons and imposing castles, each with its own unique features and atmosphere. As soon as you open new areas, prepare to encounter strange local inhabitants, as well as countless challenges, treasures, and puzzles waiting to be solved.
Improve your skills by mastering unique techniques and spells, and engage in fierce battles with common bandits, terrifying legendary creatures, and brutal bosses in which every mistake could be your last.
Expand your arsenal, embracing mysterious magical powers as well as a variety of armaments, from swords and shields to spears and bows. Level up, increase your strength, create new items, find and experiment with rare types of armour, and fight back against an ancient evil.
The eternal struggle between good and evil is not as obvious and clear-cut as it seems at first glance in the world of Bylina; its inhabitants experience complex inner lives filled with their fears, anxieties, hatred, and scars left by past trials that have shaped them into who they are today. Falconet will have to face not only legions of powerful foes in combat; but also the emotions, feelings and struggles that make a true human soul.
Bylina will be launching on PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S in 2025.
Here is our review of the recently released diskAshur PRO 3 SSD encrypted drive from iStorage.
In a world where safeguarding your valuable data is a priority, the iStorage diskAshur PRO3 is the ultimate choice for ensuring top-of-the-line data security.
Introducing the iStorage diskAshur PRO3 – a state-of-the-art portable HDD/SSD that sets a new benchmark in effortless data security. With its sleek design and user-friendly interface, this brand-new device ensures unparalleled protection for your data.
The diskAshur PRO3 HDD/SSD is pending the new FIPS 140-3 Level 3 validation standard. The recent successful evaluation and issuance of the CAVP certificates demonstrates compliance with the latest U.S. government computer security standards for cryptographic modules.
Specifications
Features
Incorporates a Common Criteria EAL 5+ certified secure microprocessor
FIPS 140-3 Level 3 Validated (pending)
FIPS PUB 197 validated encryption algorithm
Encryption keys are always encrypted whilst at rest
Brute force hack defence mechanism
Tamper proof and evident design
IP56 Certified – Dust and water resistant
Immune to BadUSB – diskAshur PRO3 HDDs/SSDs are not vulnerable to malicious attacks
iStorage is the trusted global leader of PIN authenticated, hardware encrypted data storage devices, that include: USB Flash Drives, Hard Disk Drives, and Solid State Drive formats. We deliver the most innovative products to securely store and protect data to Military specified encryption levels, safeguarding your valuable business information whilst ensuring compliance to regulations and directives.
The iStorage range of products are accredited across the range, include FIPS 197 (Advanced Encryption Standard, Computer Security Standard, Cryptography), FIPS 140-2 Level 2 (Tamper Evident, and seals), FIPS 140-2 Level 3 (Responding to attempts of a Physical attack), IP57 (Protected from limited dust ingress and water immersion up to 1M), CESG (National Technical Authority for Information Assurance), CCTM (Claims Tested Mark).
What’s in the box?
The box contains the diskAshur PRO3, instructions, two cables and a carry case.
A Closer Look
Final Thoughts
The diskAsur3 PRO is bigger than some of the previous iStorage USB drives we have reviewed. It’s still fairly lightweight though so you can carry it around without feeling like you are dragging a brick around!
Including a carry case is also a great idea – it not only keeps the drive clean but it keeps it safe too!
Using the drive is very simple – just enter your code and the drive is ready to use. When you have finished with the drive just remove it and it locks automatically.
One nice feature is the ability to have an Admin code on the drive, so if you forget your code you can use that one to gain access.
You may be wondering why the drive has a keypad and why you wouldn’t just use the keyboard on your computer to unlock the drive. It’s to stop keyloggers and brute force attacks from gaining access to the drive.
If you enter your code incorrectly 15 times in a row (for example if someone else is trying to guess your code) the user code is deleted. The only way to access the drive is to use the Admin code and reset the user code. If the Admin code is then entered incorrectly 15 times in a row that too is deleted and this time all the data on the drive is also deleted thus protecting whatever you stored on it, so you should feel safe in the knowledge that whatever happens your data is safe and secure.
The drive is recharged when it is plugged into a powered USB port, so don’t worry too much about it losing charge.
Using the drive is simple – once you have entered the PIN you use it just like any other drive, only everything stored on the drive is encrypted.
You can set your own unique Self Destruct PIN which can instantly delete the encryption key, all PINs, all data and then creates a new encryption key so that the drive is blank.
There is also an auto-lock feature which you can set. This will automatically lock the drive after a set period of time.
The keypad is even coated with a wear resistant epoxy so that you can’t tell which keys have been pressed more than others. When it comes to security, every little bit helps!
You also get a lifetime licence to Nero BackItUp software and a 1 year licence iStorage DriveSecurity free!
This is hands-down the best encrypted drive I’ve ever used and I can highly recommend it!
The diskAshur PRO 3 SSD encrypted drive from iStorage is available now in a range from sizes started at 512GB and going up to a whopping 16TB. The drive reviewed here is the 2TB version which retails for around £660. There are also HDD versions too if you prefer those to SSDs.
After its initial PC release a year ago, WitchSpring R hits consoles. Is this JRPG worth checking out? Or should it be banished for crimes of terrible witchcraft?
It’s A Wonderful Day For Pie
Developed by Kiwiwalks, (A three-person development team from South Korea), WitchSpring R is a remake of a mobile game of the same name. Released in 2020, the mobile version had its charms but now with its full console release, the developers have attempted to go bigger and better, with mixed results. The story centres around a ten year old witch named Pieberry, who lives alone in a small cottage in a secluded forest. Cut off from the world itself, the only life she has ever known is in the forest. This is because she is protected from it by her guardian who just happens to be a massive stone golem by the name of Balt. He has protected her from the villains of the game for years, the knights of the holy church who coincidentally hunt witches. This beginning helped me understand Pieberry’s feeling of loneliness, isolation and longing to explore, which all set up the main themes of the game. On a fateful day she discovers a black bird in her forest named Black Joe which propels Pieberry and the story away through the forest and beyond.
The aesthetic and charming nature of WitchSpring R fools you at first, but this story is unexpectedly mature and complex which I found fascinating. The theme I most resonated with in this tale is the reality of humanity itself. Its depiction of humanity as a power hungry force which will stop at nothing is far too similar to real life and thus it’s uncomfortable. The focus on the holy church is also excellently presented as the game touches on the theme of religion and how it can be all encompassing. The church views witches and other beings of magical power as demons and because the church says this, the knights blindly follow this. It’s a sobering tale of a world under a religious zealotry reign and one that has twists and turns along its roughly fifteen hour campaign. It is deep, thoughtful and impactful as Pieberry’s conversation and thoughts are displayed for the player to see. The story reaches a satisfactory conclusion to her tale and it’s a credit to the development team that they have successfully managed to alter my initial expectations of the game. They have created a strong mature tale wrapped inside a Disney like charm. Very impressive.
Turn-Based Tension
Gameplay in WitchSpring R is best described as deep and rewarding but not without its frustrations. The very first few moments of the game, when you can control Pieberry help show off the core gameplay loop. As you scour for items to craft, learn new spells to ward off enemies and train to gain attribute points, this game is a true old fashioned RPG. The crafting system is varied and complex, allowing you to create a variety of items from healing salves to magic buffs and even bombs! But it’s the training system that really caught my eye. The system allows you to focus on specific training modules to boost stats such as stamina, health and magic power. What makes this system so good is the mini games tied to each activity that are just a fun distraction to the main game. You can’t help but go back and do more. The system pairs well with the overall levelling structure and the battle system. I loved training so I could hone my skills and make Pieberry more and more powerful. And that’s a common theme in the gameplay- the rising power of Pieberry throughout the story.
The battle system gives and it takes away. I mean this in the sense that the experience points you earn through combat are scarce to say the least. This means every point you gain and where you place said point is impactful and stops the player feeling overpowered early on. The battle system becomes fleshed out the more you level up with abilities, unlocking summoning pets, more spells to cast and new abilities to master. Coupled with the battle system are weapon skill trees which allow you to cater your weapons’ abilities and stats to how you want to play.. As I mentioned, it has its frustrations as the sheer amount of menus and options in the game can be overwhelming for newcomers to JRPGs like myself. It’s daunting at first but I felt fulfilled and rewarded come games’ end.
These systems and functions all funnel into the combat which is a turn-based system. If you have played games like this before, the combat is pretty rudimentary and nothing that will stand out to you, but it does the job. You can use boosts, items, status effects and more. The usual suspects for turn-based combat are all here. Some abilities allow you to cast on multiple enemies which were my favourite moments. Other times, there were so many separate groups of enemies in one area, it felt like a true slog and slowed down the pacing of the story. If you are not into turn-based games this is very much not for you, but the system is serviceable and veterans of this gameplay style will feel right at home. Thankfully, no pets can be harmed in the combat!
A Mixed Bag Beyond The Forest
WitchSpring R is both beautiful and ugly at times in its presentation. You can certainly tell this game was once a mobile game as some environments look blocky and jagged. But that’s not the case all the time. Pieberry’s house looks wonderful and the majority of the areas hold up pretty well in this revamped version. There are different biomes on display from the beautiful forest, dark caves to soaring mountains and glistening oceans. The game has this subtle beauty to it but just small aspects such as trees and bushes look bad, making it hard to focus on the beauty. This is nit-picking as the majority of the game does look brilliant and should be commended due to the small size of the development team.
Pieberry herself looks wonderful and all the characters have been animated and created with care and love, all looking unique. Enemies look fantastic and the bigger creatures in the game become huge spectacles when they appear on screen. The animations for all the spells and combat moves also look impressive and you can see every hit, block and miss burst onto the screen during fights. With the game being told in Japanese or Korean through voiceover, there is a need for subtitles and thankfully these are wonderful with some minor hiccups through typos and grammatical errors. One of the worst parts of the game itself is its UI which can be utterly chaotic and can be a sheer eyesore. However, the presentation overall stays at a fairly consistent level.
What is unquestionably incredible are the music and sound design. When you are in your cottage or scouring for items, the soundtrack has this Disney-like feel to it. It is a charming and soothing theme that you can’t help but smile at whilst you wander the areas. Once combat begins, the tone of the score then shifts to a daunting brooding theme that creates tension whilst you plot your next turn. During the climatic boss battles, the score reminded me of classic Monster Hunter games mixed with a hint of Kingdom Hearts and I loved every second of this OST. Sound design is also particularly strong with every menu click pinging off the screen whilst popping potions or using fire and lightning spells sound powerful and impactful. Whilst presentation is a mixed bag, the sound design and score across the board are absolutely phenomenal.
Verdict
WitchSpring R is a thoughtful, deep and meaningful story which tells a tale of discovering oneself along with the perils of religion and bigotry. Pieberry is an engaging, thought-provoking protagonist who by journey’s end I had come to care for. Solid combat and great RPG mechanics and levelling systems helped keep me invested. It’s a shame that some areas felt too much of a slog at times and the sheer level of menus on offer can feel overwhelming. Visuals are mostly great and an absolutely stunning soundtrack and design help the game really feel unique. Charming is the word that just keeps coming to my mind when I think of this game. See you in the forest!
PowerA is the most popular controller brand in the USA and Canada. Accordingly, whenever I see a new product release, I want to get my hands on it. Whether it is for PC, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch, I’ve adored every item I’ve reviewed. Therefore, I couldn’t wait to get started when I was given the FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller for Xbox Series X.
This wired controller retails for under $70, which is incredible when you consider the amount of tech it contains. Gamers want the best bang for their buck and elite-level peripherals. Thankfully, this ticks both of those boxes. Hall Effect analogue sticks reduce stick drift while improving accuracy and fluidity. Alongside this, there are mappable buttons, a free-to-download app, and an ergonomic design to enjoy. Consequently, this controller has an elite edge without the price tag.
What’s in the box of the FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller?
The box is eye-catching, robust, and compact. It has a sleek finish and plenty of interesting images.
The FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller is lightweight and comfortable to hold. The black shell is understated and the textured grips prevent accidents from occurring.
A 10 ft long USB-C cable is provided.
Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
If you are like me, you’ll flit between genres. Accordingly, you want a controller that is suitable for fast-paced FPS or something accurate enough for a strategy title. Fortunately, the free-to-download app lets you adjust the rumble settings, audio, dead zones, and much more. This app is easy to navigate and you’ll love the sense of freedom as you personalise your gamepad.
Alongside this, there are 4 mappable buttons at the rear. These can be altered on the fly and you can map them to whatever input you like. Though I’m not a massive fan of additional buttons, I found them useful. Furthermore, they are well placed as they sit where your fingers naturally rest. These rear buttons were responsive and easy to master with a little practice.
Finally, there is a 3-way trigger lock system to reduce travel distance for your shoulder buttons. Though this doesn’t work with every genre, it can make FPS games much easier to play. My advice is to play with each trigger point and find your happy place.
Analogue sticks.
I rarely focus on one key element. However, the FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller has incredible analogue stick technology. Unlike other customisable pads, this one has a unique analogue stick twist system. Subsequently, you may adjust the height of each stick without taking the controller apart. The simple twist-and-go method was great as you can change your settings as you play. Not only is this convenient, but it reduces the risk of you losing key parts.
The unique twist system is paired with Hall Effect modules. These contact-free magnetic sensors are usually reserved for elite gamepads. As such, when I realised they were a key component of this controller, I was blown away. The fluid movement was fantastic and the accuracy is second to none. Moreover, it enhances durability and reduces stick drift.
Captivating and immersive.
The dual rumble motors and impulse triggers suck you in. The responsive feedback from every action was fantastic. Accordingly, if you want to be immersed in your game, you need this controller. I was impressed by the lifelike feel of the trigger actuation points. Yet, not every title is designed with this feature in mind. As such, it was disappointing whenever the controller feedback lacked this amazing feature.
Build quality.
Affordable controllers can feel cheap. This is not what you want when you are gaming for hours. Luckily, the FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller has a premium finish and an ergonomic design. The sleek black livery matches the Series X colour palette. Furthermore, the classic input shape and button position feel familiar. The rear mappable buttons have a light travel distance and are large enough to use with ease. The top-mounted USB-C port and the lower 3.5mm audio port prevent unnecessary wire issues. This approach helps retain balance for a pleasant gaming experience.
This controller is officially licenced by Xbox, so you know the build quality is good. However, I didn’t expect the textured grips to be so comfortable. Additionally, the trigger lock switches and audio dial are tactile and simple to use. Consequently, though a user manual is provided, this controller is pretty easy to tweak to your preference.
Is the FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller worth it?
PowerA sells some amazing controllers. The FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller was released alongside a wireless version. However, if you wish to invest in the wireless option, you’ll need to increase your budget considerably. Therefore, this wired product offers top-level tech at an affordable price. If you want a gamepad that is comfortable to use and ridiculously responsive, then this is the accessory for you. Moreover, it is built to last and it has some amazing elite status features. Therefore, I love it and I recommend buying it here!
Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator is a classic gaming experience. This preview demo is available as part of the October 14th to 21stSteam Next Fest. As such, I recommend clicking here to give it a go. The 2.5D world is a joy to explore. It was reminiscent of the best 90s and 00s platforming games and I loved the simplicity and the puzzling elements. Alongside this, the action blends slow methodical layers with fast-paced and easy-to-fail moments. The result is a joyful and nostalgic game that is perfect for older and modern games.
This puzzle platformer was published and developed by Adventure Works L.L.C. Furthermore, it is a single-player 2.5D colourful affair. The demo takes place in ancient Egypt and is filled with drama and hilarious dialogue. Moreover, the cutscenes are nicely polished and the developer has a unique style that is pleasant to the eye.
Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator tells a silly story.
Time travel and all the plot loopholes aren’t a new idea. Yet, Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator does a great job of rehashing this idea. The protagonists are a whacky pair who bounce off each other perfectly. Professor Raventhorpe has a hunger for science and a secret agenda. Whereas Ari is a fun-loving lad who stumbles across his physics teacher’s mad plans. Once the pair travel into the past, their fates are intrinsically linked. If Ari wishes to return to the present and make it to his date, he must help the professor complete his mad plan.
This silly plot was hilarious. The tongue-in-cheek dialogue and the silly cutscenes generate energy and drama. Furthermore, Ari picks up new skills along the way and this expands your exploration tools. Consequently, no ledge is too high and you must look high and low for each solution. This was great as it opened up each stage and kept you looking beyond the obvious.
Fun gameplay.
Though Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator treads familiar ground, it is fun nonetheless. The classic mechanics of double jumping, wall climbing, rope swinging, and more punctuate the action. Alongside this, there are basic puzzles to complete as you remove debris or push and pull crates to activate switches.
None of the problems are too challenging and this adds to the appeal. However, I would like to see the developer up the ante as the game expands. Failure wasn’t a problem and this lack of concern removes a key gaming element. It would be nice if there was an enhanced difficulty setting where failure returned you to the beginning. If this was included, you’d be more mindful of the progress you were making.
Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator looks great.
There is a retro feel to the gameplay. Yet, Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator has a modern aesthetic. The crisp lines and vivid colour were pleasant to look at. Moreover, the Egyptian theme was interesting and I loved the level design. Each cutscene fills the void between each level and this ensures that the action flows nicely.
The audio is well-considered. The upbeat music has a zany edge and the sound effects are loud but not annoying. I liked the stereotypical noises and I hope that this continues if the game visits different locations. Another excellent element was the amusing and interesting acting. The dialogue will make you laugh as the protagonists wind each other up.
Tight controls.
Tight controls are a platforming essential. Thankfully, this has fantastic controller support. The responsive inputs are a joy and clambering across platforms or swinging like Tarzan was a pleasant experience. Subsequently, it will be interesting to see if the developer maintains this standard as the action evolves.
This short demo doesn’t highlight the overall potential. Consequently, I can’t say whether it will ooze replay value and longevity. Hopefully, there will be enough unique elements to make this a thrilling and captivating platform title.
Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator was a joy to play.
This short taster has left me wanting. Accordingly, I can’t wait to see how the developer expands the gameplay and the interesting direction they choose to take. It embodies every great ingredient of platforming classics and I have high hopes for its full release.
No matter what era, any gamer knows the competitive drive that comes from a nicely balanced Competitive sports experience. In events like Evo and Esports World Cup, you can see the drive up front.
However, we know that it exists, but do we know the degrees of height this 1.72 billion USD industry reaches?
A recent research from the Game news site, soulbound.gg, wanted to answer this exact question. Let’s check out what they found.
The Gaming Industry
It does need to be explained exactly how big gaming is these days. A whopping 347 Billion USD in circulation from a 2021 survey shows that there is no competition for this piece of Media. For comparison, The movie industry currently sits at 97.47 billion USD. That difference speaks volumes.
If you want to be a pedantic strickler of rules, saying the mobile gaming market should not count because it’s not ‘real gaming’ (whatever that means) you will be surprised to know that even after removing the 248 billion USD share of the Mobile Gaming Market, you are still left with a 99 billion USD industry on your hands.
The Esports Scene
We all know gaming is huge, but the numbers behind esports are straight-up mind-blowing. In 2024, the top 100 esports games have dished out an incredible $1.72 billion in prize money across 52,451 tournaments, with 131,543 players in the mix. That’s right—$1.72 billion! And this isn’t some niche hobby anymore; the global audience is expected to hit over 640 million by 2025. Esports is officially rivalling traditional sports.
The Top Games Running the Show
No surprise here, but the heavy hitters like Dota 2, Fortnite, CS, League of Legends, and Arena of Valor are leading the pack, raking in $896.8 million in prize money (that’s 52% of the total pot!). Dota 2 alone dropped a whopping $349.7 million in prize pools—thanks to events like The International, which are known for being insanely stacked.
We speak of USD here but that should not make it seem even for the second that this is a US thing. In fact, the hold of Esports is much stronger outside the Red and Blue.
The Big Bucks
Many countries have invested heavily in esports, focusing on player development, tournament organisation, and infrastructure, and are seeing huge financial returns. As the industry continues to grow, their investments are paying off in the form of prize money, sponsorships, and global recognition.
China, for one, is absolutely crushing it in esports, taking home $289.1 million, mostly from Dota 2. The U.S. is right behind with $268.3 million, fueled by Fortnite. And South Korea, the birthplace of esports legends, scooped up $141.4 million, largely from League of Legends.
Here’s the rest:
2. United States
The U.S. has invested in a wide range of games, especially Fortnite. With over 27,000 players participating in 21,365 tournaments, the U.S. sees great returns, especially from major events like the Fortnite World Cup.
Total Earnings: $268.3M
Number of Players: 27,049
Top Game: Fortnite ($47.7M)
3. South Korea
South Korea has long been the esports capital of the world, investing heavily in training players and creating esports leagues. The returns on League of Legends alone show how deeply the country is embedded in the esports world.
Total Earnings: $141.4M
Number of Players: 5,732
Top Game: League of Legends ($36.6M)
4. Russia
Russia has carved out a strong presence, particularly in Dota 2 and CS. Investments in local tournaments and player development have helped drive these impressive returns.
Total Earnings: $81.7M
Number of Players: 5,264
Top Game: Dota 2 ($36.7M)
5. Brazil
Brazil’s investment in CS and Rainbow Six Siege has paid off, with a growing player base and strong showings in global competitions. The country’s esports scene is on the rise, thanks to government support and corporate sponsorships.
Total Earnings: $59.9M
Number of Players: 5,179
Top Game: CS($11.9M)
6. Denmark
Denmark, despite its small size, has invested significantly in esports, especially in CS. Their returns per player are among the highest in the world, thanks to top-tier teams and standout players like Johan- “N0tail” Sundstein.
Total Earnings: $58.3M
Number of Players: 2,078
Top Game: CS ($23.1M)
7. Sweden
Sweden has a rich esports history and continues to invest in its players, particularly in Dota 2 and Fortnite. Their esports infrastructure is well-developed, leading to consistent returns in tournaments worldwide.
Total Earnings: $53.4M
Number of Players: 3,191
Top Game: Dota 2 ($17.2M)
8. France
France’s esports investments have focused on CS and Fortnite, with a growing number of players and events. The country’s esports returns continue to climb as it supports the development of local leagues.
Total Earnings: $53.2M
Number of Players: 6,035
Top Game: CS($9.8M)
9. Germany
Germany is a major player in the esports world, particularly in Dota 2 and CS. Their strong investments in infrastructure and sponsorships are yielding solid returns across multiple titles.
Total Earnings: $47.8M
Number of Players: 6,404
Top Game: Dota 2 ($11M)
10. Canada
Canada’s growing esports scene, particularly in Fortnite and CS, shows strong returns on its investments. With government support and an expanding player base, Canada’s esports future looks promising.
Total Earnings: $46.6M
Number of Players: 4,041
Top Game: Fortnite ($8.5M)
Insane Prize Pools
In 2024, the esports landscape is dominated by several key games that contribute massively to the industry’s prize pools. Leading the pack is Dota 2, with a staggering $349.7 million in prize money awarded to nearly 4,900 players across 1,903 tournaments. This game alone accounts for over 20% of all prize money in esports.
Fortnite follows with $182.1 million in winnings, spread among over 9,300 players and 2,210 tournaments, contributing 10.56% to the total prize pool. Meanwhile, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS) has made a significant impact as well, awarding $162.4 million to a vast pool of 16,441 players through almost 7,000 tournaments, making up 9.42% of the overall prize money.
League of Legends stands strong, contributing $109.9 million from 2,959 tournaments and attracting nearly 9,500 players, while Arena of Valor has carved out a niche with $92.8 million awarded in just 175 tournaments, representing 5.38% of the total esports prize pool.
Mobile gaming is also making waves, with PUBG Mobile awarding $83.6 million through 331 tournaments. When combined with its PC counterpart, PUBG, which has distributed $61.8 million, the two versions collectively show the growing appeal of the battle royale genre.
Other notable games include Rainbow Six Siege, which has awarded $46.1 million to over 3,000 players, StarCraft II with $41.4 million in prize money, and Rocket League, contributing $38.4 million from 4,164 tournaments. Together, these top 10 games highlight the scale and excitement of the global esports phenomenon.
The Hold is Real
Esports is no longer just a niche hobby, it’s a global phenomenon with countries across the world investing millions and seeing incredible returns. As the industry continues to grow, the potential for players, investors, and fans alike is limitless. From the dominance of Dota 2 in China to the rise of Fortnite in the U.S., it’s clear that esports has solidified its place on the world stage.
Want to dive deeper into the data and see the full impact of esports? Check out the full research over at soulbound.gg and explore how this industry is shaping the future of competitive gaming.
Taskmaster the Board Game is madness personified! This Ginger Fox Games product captures the essence of the TV show whilst creating some amusing and interesting fights between friends. I have looked at other Ginger Fox Games previously and I loved The Traitors. Accordingly, when I was offered another quality product to look at, I couldn’t resist.
Though you don’t have to be aware of the spectacular TV show to enjoy this board game, it certainly helps. The tongue-in-cheek nature will be lost on anyone who doesn’t understand the almost juvenile mindset of the TV series. Additionally, you can be as silly or as straight-laced as you like when you tackle the long list of tasks at hand. Either way, the outcome is the same and the points and the Taskmaster’s opinion are final.
What’s in the box of Taskmaster the Board Game?
The packaging is compact and alluring. Its red finish looks great on a shelf and the box is built to last.
The board looks like a mini Cluedo map. Furthermore, it is easy to follow and looks great as well.
Portrait holders are provided for each character.
Easy-to-wipe clean pens can be used.
Question cards for every task are supplied.
Learn the basics with the rules.
How do you play Taskmaster the Board Game?
Playing Taskmaster the Board Game is easier than explaining the rules. Effectively, you can have up to 5 active players or you can have more if one person wishes to be the Taskmaster permanently. If not, each player must assume the role of the head honcho at least once. However, 2 attempts at this role make for a longer and more enjoyable game.
At the start of the game, each player is provided a secret task to complete. If you can execute this job and not get spotted, you’ll earn bonus points at the end. This can be essential if you are competitive or the scores are particularly tight. As the game unfolds, the Taskmaster selects a room for each task. The non-Taskmaster players must execute each objective and the player who wins is awarded the most points. This merry-go-round of madness continues until the final round. During the last stage, a video message plays via a QR code and everyone must compete to complete the final task. The winner is the person with the highest score after the dust has settled.
How easy is it?
Now that the explanation is out of the way, I can happily say that Taskmaster the Board Game was easy to play. The tasks are silly and though each one is loosely connected to its room, there is some flexibility. This was great as no one wishes to feel awkward as they are completing their tasks in a friend’s house.
The best part of the action is the Taskmaster’s responsibilities. No matter how heated things become, you must obey the person in the hot seat. However, as this role fits between each player, revenge and additional points can be dished out freely. This meant that there is a cruel edge to each round and players who do well will always be punished to level the playing field.
The hardest part of the action is trying to complete your secret task. This caused much amusement and many sideways glances as you wondered what your friends were doing. Many a red herring was chucked in for comedy value. Subsequently, the waters were muddied and it was tough to identify whether someone was being serious or pulling your leg.
Build quality.
Ginger Fox Games always makes high-quality products. Accordingly, I wasn’t surprised to see the thickness of the board and the robust nature of the packaging. Additionally, the cards are strong and the font is easy to read. The only element that may become warn or need replacing is the dry wipe pen. As such, you’ll need a deft touch if you wish to keep the pen in perfect working order.
Is Taskmaster the Board Game worth it?
This board game will appeal to fans of the TV series and those with a naughty attitude. The silly action is funny but I wouldn’t want younger players to get involved. Things do get heated and immature mindsets do take over. Consequently, younger players may hear or see things that aren’t appropriate. Yet, if you have an older group of friends who wish to try their hand at some silly tasks, then Taskmaster the Board Game is perfect. Subsequently, I recommend buying it here!
(More information on Ginger Fox Games can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
Dead Season is a cruel, challenging, and often unfair experience. However, it is its chastising nature that makes it unbelievably moreish. I died more times than I’d like to mention, but I couldn’t put it down. Each failure generates a new tactical approach. Furthermore, this harsh learning curve keeps you on your toes as you try to avoid the zombie hordes.
Zombie games have been done to death. Everywhere you look, there is a brain-munching asshat influencing one genre or another. The theme may be overdone, but I still adore it nonetheless. Accordingly, when I was offered the chance to tackle this ball-breaking title, I couldn’t resist.
This turn-based survival game was developed by Snail Bite and published by Iceberg Interactive. Furthermore, it is a single-player title that has a minor customisation edge. The small skill tree offers an additional tactical layer that can change the way you progress. Alongside this, there are elements of luck and plenty of trial and error to play with. Though this won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, I enjoyed the relentless difficulty.
Dead Season feels familiar.
The thought of surviving a zombie horde fills me with dread. Brain munchers hiding around every corner and a lack of resources is petrifying! However, this forms the backbone of Dead Season’s plot. The 4 survivors must work together as they explore an apocalyptic world. No matter where they turn, they are confronted by danger and death. Consequently, they must unite and overcome every obstacle if they wish to survive.
The plot lacks originality, but this matters not. I liked the protagonists’ personalities and the blend of bickering and support. Alongside this, there are plenty of other survivors to assist. This element leads to many moral choices along the way. With so much variety, you enjoy a unique experience during each playthrough. This was impressive, especially when you consider the tried and tested foundations.
Shhhhhh.
The core mechanics are genre-typical. Each hero has action points to spend. These points can be exchanged for movement, fighting, or looting. If the hero runs out of AP, their turn is over. Subsequently, each protagonist must complete their tasks and move to a position of safety or risk getting hurt. This sense of desperation and danger was fascinating. Do you gamble and try to kill every surrounding zombie, or do you run away and allow the horde to strengthen?
Alongside the turn-based mechanics are challenging volume levels. If you break barricades, shoot guns, or turn on a chainsaw, you’ll generate noise. Furthermore, alarms are your worst nightmare as they piss the zombies off. If you fill your noise meter, the zombies become enraged. This is bad news as the horde expands and they move a lot quicker. Accordingly, stealth and melee weapons are your friends during each mission.
Decisions, decisions.
As you move through the overworld map, you have to choose your mission. Dead Season makes this element engrossing and secretive. I loved the sense of risk and the unknown layers. Thankfully, you are told how difficult each stage will be, so you can decide whether you want to challenge yourself or take an easy path.
During each mission, you can loot cars, buildings, and bodies. However, this can divide your attention and spread your team out too much. As such, you must decide whether it is essential to grab extra resources or push towards the end goal. Either strategy works, but when death ends your run, it is sometimes better to escape and fight another day.
Dead Season looks grisly and dark.
An apocalyptic world shouldn’t be bright and alluring. Thankfully, Dead Season is aesthetically accurate. The grim world is horrible to look at. Burnt out cars, broken buildings, and rotten bodies can be seen throughout. Alongside this, the zombies have a classic but scary appearance. This was great as it matches the well-trodden story whilst enhancing the horror nature.
On top of this, I liked the small but interesting stage design. Each map is compact but perfectly formed. Moreover, there are different buildings to explore and every interactive item is well highlighted. This was a great approach as it made playing it much easier.
The audio is fantastic. There is a blend of sombre and dramatic music and chilling sound effects. The screams of desperate people and the echo of each gunshot were phenomenal. This was complemented by the grunts and groans of every zombie you face.
Excellent controls.
The mouse and keyboard layout was great. Furthermore, the opening level acts as a tutorial and this helps to get you up and running. The well-considered control system was complemented by a clean but useful UI. Though it wasn’t anything spectacular, it worked well and was easy to master.
Dead Season is a tough game. Yet, once you get to grips with its quirks and you master the tactical layers, you’ll be hooked. The action is addictive and there are plenty of unique tactical approaches. On top of this, there are usable items and an array of zombies to overcome. Furthermore, there are branching pathways to explore and the risk of death around every corner. Consequently, it is challenging and it draws you back in for more.
Dead Season is a good indie title.
The sense of risk vs reward and failure emanates from every layer of this harsh game. You will make mistakes and you’ll lose key equipment on the way. However, loss and failure make you stronger and a few setbacks will not stop you from completing your goals. Accordingly, though it is tough, it is a good indie title. As such, I like it and I recommend buying it here! Can you survive the zombie horde? Work together, scavenge resources, and hope that luck is on your side.
A World of Haunting Beauty The standout feature of Sylvio: Black Waters is its immersive, haunting world. Players are thrust into an eerie, alien landscape that feels both familiar and otherworldly. The dimly lit, mist-covered environments are filled with strange Earth-like remnants—statues, machinery, and furniture—that seem out of place. The world feels like a dream you can’t wake from, where gravity warps and twists, making navigation both intriguing and disorienting. Every corner of the game has been designed to convey a sense of isolation and unease, with haunting silhouettes and ominous shadows always in the background. The visual design, coupled with the desolate atmosphere, keeps you engaged despite the game’s slower pace, offering moments of quiet horror that creep under your skin.
Sounds That Echo in the Dark In Sylvio: Black Waters, sound isn’t just an accessory—it’s essential to the experience. The game’s ambient soundtrack plays a crucial role in building tension, alternating between calming, almost hypnotic tunes and eerie, unsettling tones. The standout feature here is the use of EVP recordings. As you explore, you’ll capture fragmented audio messages left by previous explorers, and deciphering these snippets is key to unraveling the game’s story. The sound design immerses you in the world, amplifying the feeling of isolation and dread. Wearing headphones while playing elevates this experience even further, allowing the subtle shifts in sound to fully envelop you. The game’s music and audio cues make the world feel alive, even when there’s little action happening on screen.
Where the Gameplay Falters While Sylvio: Black Waters excels in atmosphere and storytelling, its gameplay leaves room for improvement. The main mechanic—finding and decoding audio fragments—starts off engaging but eventually becomes repetitive. Players may find themselves doing the same tasks over and over, which can lead to frustration, especially during the later parts of the game. Combat is present, but it feels underdeveloped. Although you are equipped with air-powered weapons to fend off ghostly apparitions, the lack of distinction between these weapons diminishes the excitement. The combat mechanics aren’t as satisfying as the world they exist in, which may disappoint players looking for more dynamic interaction.
A Puzzle of Clues and Secrets The narrative of Sylvio: Black Waters unfolds in mysterious, fragmented ways. As Juliette, you piece together the history of the strange world through audio recordings and cryptic conversations with a fellow survivor, Lee. The narrative is delivered slowly, through puzzles and exploration, which will appeal to players who enjoy taking their time and piecing together clues. However, the final payoff might not satisfy everyone. The ending, while intriguing, doesn’t quite match the intensity of the journey, leaving some players wanting more closure after the buildup.
Final Thoughts Sylvio: Black Waters is a unique experience that thrives on atmosphere, making it perfect for players who enjoy slow-burn, psychological horror. Its haunting visuals and masterful sound design create an experience that stays with you long after playing. However, its repetitive gameplay and underwhelming combat mechanics may detract from the overall experience for some. Despite these flaws, the game’s story and world-building make it a compelling choice for fans of unsettling, atmospheric horror.
It is that time of year again when Amazon announces huge sales and its faithful fanbase is teased with massive savings. October 8th and 9th are celebrated as Prime Big Deal Days. During this short period, you can find massive savings on some major brands! I plan to create a full guide for the best deals. However, at the moment, I only have a few brands to shout about.
I’ve reviewed their Beetle X31, Tube T31, and the Platinum P41 SSD. Each of these items is incredible and I couldn’t fault them. In fact, both the Beetle and the Tube external SSDs are used for my Xbox Series X. These storage solutions are easy to handle and robust. Furthermore, I have not had an issue with data corruption or overheating. Accordingly, they are perfect for console or PC gamers.
Beetle X31: This stylish and sturdy external storage drive effortlessly allows students, professionals, and gamers to access and organize data wherever they go. Sizes: 1TB / 2TB.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 50% off the 1TB for $64.99.
Tube T31: This portable and high-speed USB SSD makes it easy to store and access large files anywhere. Get your hands on one of the fastest flash drives in the world, and easily play, save, and transport games anywhere across PC and console. Sizes: 512GB / 1TB.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 27% off the 1TB for $61.99.
Platinum P41: This internal storage drive improves the speed of laptops or desktops and upgrades your storage for more games, photos, documents, and applications. Additionally, SK Hynix just launched the heatsink Haechi H02 which can be paired with the Platinum P41 to deliver high-end performance. Sizes: 1TB / 2TB.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 20% off the 1TB for $75.99.
Time to get active!
SHOKZ.
OpenRun Pro: OpenRun Pro are the most premium headphones ever released by Shokz. With proprietary bone conduction technology and an open-ear design that does not block your ear canal, OpenRun Pro ensures all-day comfort for intense endurance workouts. They pack an enhanced bass, a 10-hour battery life, and a quick-charge feature.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 32% off—sale price £109.
OpenRun: Shokz OpenRun are the next-level bone-conduction sport headphones. Engineered with PremiumPitch™ 2.0+, a long-lasting battery, and quick charge to keep you aware and motivated while you power through any workout. Shokz open-ear design sits outside your ears with an ultralight 26g wraparound titanium frame which delivers all-day comfort and allows you to hear music and traffic at the same time – whether you are running on the streets or biking in the mountains, OpenRun brings a secure, high-quality hearing experience without compromising on safety.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 32% off—sale price £89.
OpenFit: OpenFit continues the Shokz open-ear concept to let users enjoy all-day comfort and hear their own soundtrack while staying open to the world around them. OpenFit offers an ultra-lightweight, open-ear construction to hear both your own audio and every sound around you with crystal clarity. DirectPitch™ technology produces a full audio experience to immerse yourself in your favourite songs, podcasts, and audiobooks. A flexible ear hook design combines stability and comfort. Moments are precious, and OpenFit gives you the freedom to hear every one of them.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 22% off—sale price £139.
Data!
PNY.
PNY EliteX-PRO60: The PNY EliteX-PRO60 Class 10 U3 V60 UHS-II SD Flash Memory Cards are the ideal solution for seamless content capture for professional photographers and videographers. Furthermore, these cards are built with the power of UHS-II technology to accelerate your workflow. Moreover, the PNY EliteX-PRO60 SD cards offer transfer speeds of up to 280MB/s read and up to 180MB/s write, guaranteeing rapid speeds for high-resolution content capture and footage editing.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 33% off—sale price $36.99.
PNY Elite-X Class 10: The PNY Elite-X Class 10 U3 V30 microSD Flash Memory Cards are the perfect solution by which to expand the on-board memory of mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, action cameras, drones, and more, allowing users to free up space to enjoy more digital content.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 20% off—sale price $19.99.
PNY’s Turbo Attaché 3 USB 3.0: PNY’s Turbo Attaché 3 USB 3.0 is built for speed & convenience. Experience USB 3.0 next-generation speed performance with transfer speeds up to 10x faster than USB 2.0. It’s the perfect solution for easily storing and quickly transferring all your large documents, high-resolution photos, HD videos, and more.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 16% off—sale price $15.99.
Gaming Glasses.
GUNNAR.
Emissary: With squared-off lenses for an angular look, the EMISSARY blue light-blocking computer glasses are inspired by the past with an eye toward the future. Balanced spring hinges and adjustable floating nose pads provide a fully comfortable fit. They are a modern classic.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 15% off—sale price $84.15.
Humboldt: Inspired by the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, these glasses flawlessly blend nature and sophistication. The aviator-style ebony wood frame features a carbon fibre layer to improve firmness, tensile, and compressive strength. Thinner, lighter, and more durable, this frame sports flexible spring hinges and advanced lens technology to best represent the pinnacle of the ARBOR Collection from GUNNAR Optiks.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 15% off—sale price $98.99.
Call of Duty UAV Edition: Follow the steps of GUNNAR and Task Force 141 and embark on a mission to protect all eyes. With an aluminium-magnesium forged frame, discreet spring hinges and adjustable nose pads, wearing the Call of Duty UAV Edition is the perfect load out.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 15% off—sale price $84.15.
Music time!
Majority Audio.
Majority Little Shelford Portable Bluetooth DAB+ Radio- Black & Red: Whether you want to wake up with FM radio or pump out your playlists over Bluetooth, the Majority Little Shelford DAB Radio offers a lively audio experience. Honouring the trends of the Swinging Sixties, the retro-look radio, complete with a sturdy leather carry handle, provides superior listening both on the go and in the room of your choice.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Save £9—sale price £35.95.
Majority Superstar Kids Headphones-Pink: Calling all music fans under the age of 10!!! The Majority Superstar Kids Headphones are child-friendly in every way. From the volume cap of 85-94db to its lightweight and foldable design, the headphones are ideal for trips, car rides, and distance learning.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Save £9—sale price £14.95.
Majority Teton Plus 2.1 Bluetooth Soundbar & Wireless Subwoofer: The MajorityTeton Plus doesn’t disappoint to deliver room-raising sound. Fill the room and transform your audio experience with the slick and stylish Teton soundbar and subwoofer. Immerse yourself in HD surround sound with bass that packs a punch.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Save £20—sale price £79.95.
ClicKid CAM20: The ClicKid CAM20 is the ultimate all-in-one digital camera for the budding content creator. With a powerful 48MP sensor and the ability to record in stunning 1080p HD video resolution, every moment is captured with remarkable clarity and detail, ensuring your memories are preserved in cinematic brilliance.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Save £17—sale price £52.95.
Cloud Gaming.
Backbone.
Backbone is a market-leading company for Cloud Gaming. No matter your phone, you can improve your mobile gaming experience with their incredible controllers. Android and Apple users can enjoy low-latency gaming and ergonomic design with these lightweight and comfortable controllers. PlayStation and Xbox have both been catered for. Moreover, USB-C and Lightning ports are available.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Save £30—sale price £69.99.
Cameras and Vacuum cleaners.
EZVIZ.
CB5 Solar Outdoor Security Camera: It features 4K video, an integrated solar panel, advanced AI-powered detection functions, an Always-On Video Mode and much more making it an all-in-one security camera. With just a single CB5, users can enjoy non-stop peace of mind with minimal effort.
The CB5 turns every ray of sunshine into a free source of energy. Only two hours of direct sunlight every day keeps the camera running nonstop. Even when the sun isn’t out, the onboard 10,400mAh large battery ensures normal operation of the CB5.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 33% off—sale price £99.99.
RS20 Pro robot vacuum and mop.
Designed to simplify the everyday cleaning experience, the RS20 Pro can truly be placed in a home and left to its own devices. With the help of the multi-functional charging dock, the RS20 Pro can auto-install its dual spinning mop pads, which spin at 180RPM and have 10N downward pressure, whenever it’s set to mop a hard floor. It then auto-detaches them if they are required to vacuum a carpeted area.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 25% off—sale price£599.99.
Tech for babies.
Momcozy.
Momcozy Baby Monitor BM01: Always stay in the know of how your baby is doing, no matter where you are in the house. With a clear 5” HD display, large battery capacity night vision mode and two-way talk system, it’s the next best thing to having your baby in your arms.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 31% off—sale price £109.99.
Momcozy Sunrise Sound Machine Wake-up Light: The Momcozy Sunrise Echo Sound Machine is crafted to guide adults, parents and babies into a restful sleep and awaken gently. Featuring 30 high-fidelity soothing sounds, it effortlessly subdues external disturbances, cultivating a tranquil sleep haven. This versatile device not only functions as an alarm and a clock but also serves as a 7-color night light. The dimmable lighting works great for nighttime feeding sessions and reading.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 20% off—sale price £47.99.
The Prime Big Deal Days tech keeps coming.
VIOFO.
Viofo VS1 Mini Dash Cam: Utilising state-of-the-art Sony STARVIS 2 technology, this new 1 channel dash cam captures clear and detailed footage, regardless of whether it is day or night or whatever the light conditions. With this exceptional image clarity, it promises an unparalleled driving experience. Its slim and streamlined design blends seamlessly with a vehicle’s interior, making it less noticeable to both passengers and potential thieves alike and helps maintain the aesthetics of a car’s dashboard.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 32% off—sale price $94.99.
Viofo A119 Mini 2: The A119 Mini 2 is the newly upgraded version of the A119 Mini dashcam. Accordingly, it makes leaps and bounds in both performance and functionality. One of the standout features is its mini design. It is VIOFO’s smallest dashcam, measuring a discreet 1.8″, 2.9″ and 1.6″; the size of a car key. Despite its powerful performance, it is incredibly compact and can be mounted behind the rear-view mirror, taking up minimal space on a windshield. This makes it ideal for users who prefer a more concealed installation, as it won’t obstruct the driver’s view or draw attention to itself thus avoiding the risk of theft.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 32% off—sale price $94.03.
Eco-friendly tech.
VITESY.
Vitesy Shelfy: With its air purification technology, Shelfy extends food shelf life by up to 12 days. By degrading the molecules responsible for ripening fresh fruits and vegetables, it reduces circulating bacteria by 99% in just 10 minutes. Furthermore, it decreases possible contamination of various foods and ensures food stays fresher and healthier than ever. The device also slows down the ripening process by delaying the appearance of wilt and mould on foods.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 34% off—sale price £99.
Vitesy Eteria Portable Air Purifier: Eteria is an intelligent, eco-friendly solution tailored for the modern home and office combining sleek design with advanced technology. Furthermore, this personal and diffused air purifier is made up of 2 different parts: the air purifier and the monitoring system, composed of as many modules as required. Thanks to a smart network of modules and mobile purifiers, it performs a complete mapping of all spaces to eliminate pollutants and purify every corner.
Prime Big Deal Days Discount: Get 48% off—sale price £99.
Not long to wait.
Prime Big Deal Days are nearly upon us. Consequently, you do not have to wait long to make some massive savings. Each of these companies is impressive and you will not be disappointed if you invest this October!
Spot the Intro board game is the second product I’m reviewing from Cheatwell Games. I’ve recently covered Tension and I applauded its competitive nature and easy-to-use approach. This game takes a slightly more time-pressured approach as 15 seconds and a handful of bars of music is all you have to succeed. This cruel design is challenging and can lead to frustration. However, it is fun, amusing, and highlights everyone’s musical prowess.
It doesn’t matter what age you are, there is a category for everyone. Whether you like 60s music or more modern stuff, you’ll find a tune that you’ll love. Word of warning, though, you’ll need the Internet to play this up-to-date game. As you access each category, you must use the QR codes to select each song. Once the information loads up, you may use an array of popular streaming platforms to play each tune. This was great as the action flows nicely.
What’s in the box of Spot the Intro?
The packaging is small and hard-wearing. Furthermore, the colours are attractive and it will look great on your shelf.
The board is small and robust. Moreover, the colours are vibrant and it is built to last.
There are 6 categories of questions to pick from.
An array of colour tokens can be selected.
Learn the basics with the rulebook.
How to play Spot the Intro.
The concept of Spot the Intro is exceptionally easy. Players have 15 seconds to listen to a track and state the song. Furthermore, there are bonus points for naming the artist. If you can get either of those points, you can attempt to answer the additional question for another point. If you only manage 1 correct answer, you move 1 place. 2 answers, 2 places, and 3 answers, 3 places. As you land on a square, you must pick between 2 categories. This process continues until the winning team has reached the end.
As you scan the QR code, you are given the option of using Apple or Amazon Music on your device. Alternatively, you may use YouTube. The latter option was great as it was free. Yet, be aware that unless you are a premium subscriber, you will be directed to adverts between songs. Accordingly, if you subscribe to a premium music service, this is advised for the optimum experience.
How easy is it to play?
We played in teams of 4 and had a varied age group. Unfortunately, our youngest struggled as the music was a little old for her. However, anyone from the age of 8 who is keen on modern music will have a good time. The songs are varied and the manufacturer hasn’t focused on one genre. Subsequently, there is something for everyone and this will test your musical knowledge.
Moving across the board and keeping track of scores was also simple. The 3-point system was perfect and this kept things from becoming complicated. Most of our games lasted between 40 minutes and an hour. Consequently, it never outstays its welcome and we enjoyed every moment.
Build quality.
Spot the Intro is built to last. The packaging is strong and the small box is ideal for your gaming room or storage area. The small board is perfect for tiny workstations as well. Therefore, if you love to play games when camping or you wish to take this to a friend’s house, the small packaging is ideal.
The board is light but robust and the colours are vibrant. I appreciated the vinyl record layout and the contrasting colour palette. Furthermore, each QR code was easy to scan and I never struggled to access each song. Finally, every part of the game fits snugly into the box and it was easy to unpack and repack the game.
Is Spot the Intro worth it?
Spot the Intro is aimed at a niche music-loving audience. Additionally, you may not be a fan of some of the music choices, so this will put some people off. Yet, I loved the variety and how easy it was to play. Moreover, the board design and the hard-wearing materials ensure that it is great to look at and will last the test of time. Consequently, I love this game and I recommend buying it here!
(More information on Cheatwell Games can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
Construction Simulator Stadium Expansion adds 20 hours of building madness to the core game. I reviewed the base title in 2022 and scored it an 8/10. Here is a summary of my thoughts. “If you adore the genre, this will tick every box. With masses of things to do, plenty of machines to master, and a deep management model to explore, it is incredible. I have few complaints, and therefore, I can easily recommend you to buy it!”.
Needless to say, I was excited to jump back into the construction industry to see what this new DLC offered. Unfortunately, my save was no longer available, so I wasted a fair few hours getting myself to the DLC elements. However, this wasn’t so bad as I was able to familiarise myself with the fundamentals and redo each fun mission.
This ultra-realistic simulation title was developed by Weltenbauer and published by Astragon Entertainment GmbH. Furthermore, it is a solo third-person experience. This may annoy gamers who enjoy first-person perspectives, but it didn’t bother me at all. I liked the external camera position and the clear markers to complete each task at hand.
Construction Simulator Stadium Expansion has a fun plot.
I’m a sucker for a sim game with a decent story. Thankfully, Construction Simulator Stadium Expansion ticks this box. It has 5 main story elements and a handful of generic contracts to complete. Alongside this, there are plenty of plant machines to drive and loads of miscellaneous tasks to follow. As such, there is plenty to keep you busy as you improve your company.
I was a fan of the story but the acting was wooden. The lack of emotion and the inability to refer to the protagonist with the correct pronouns made me laugh repeatedly. I’m not sure why the developer allows you to create a character only for the dialogue not to match up. It was a strange choice, but one that lightens the mood throughout.
Balance the books.
The gameplay demands that you build your business slowly. Expansion is tedious but there is a realistic edge that I appreciated. As you complete each job, you are awarded cash and XP. The money is required to hire equipment and buy materials. Moreover, you’ll need to pay for repairs and fuel. Thankfully, it isn’t that challenging to earn a good wage and your bank balance flourishes as a consequence. XP is a little tougher to collect and levelling up your character takes time and effort. Yet, once you start moving through the ranks, your skills become stronger and each task is easier to execute.
Construction Simulator Stadium Expansion focuses on the revival of the town and a new tourist attraction. The massive stadium is tackled across the 5 core missions and it was fascinating watching everything come together. Much of the 20-hour gameplay revolves around this task and I liked the familiar mechanics and the enormous project that you undertake.
Construction Simulator Stadium Expansion looks rough.
Visually, Construction Simulator Stadium Expansion isn’t that pretty. The textures are rough and items, cars, and trucks appear out of nowhere. Alongside this, items clip through solid objects, and the trees and other surrounding elements appear flat and lifeless. This was disappointing as I hoped a new DLC would have a slightly polished edge. Though the graphics don’t detract from the action, they are tough to look at.
The audio isn’t much better. The basic sound effects rumble away whilst you execute each task. The noise of the engines and the scrape of a bucket on the floor are perfectly suitable. Yet, it’s the constant noise that is tough to swallow. Every element of this game requires high-powered machinery. Subsequently, there is no respite and your ears will hate the continuous drone. On top of this, the acting is laughable and the developers could have done much better.
The controls are okay.
The gameplay is broken down into 2 key aspects; exploration and construction. The latter option is fantastic. The control system is well explained and completing every job was fun. Furthermore, a helpful UI and tutorial keep you on top of each job. The exploration elements are weak and cumbersome. Steering your truck is painful and you’ll spend more time crashing into walls or other vehicles than you’d like. As such, the control system could have been much better.
20 hours of additional gameplay is great value for money. Despite the poor driving controls and the woeful aesthetics, Construction Simulator Stadium Expansion is a great addition to the core game. 11 main missions and contracts will keep you busy and the ideas integrate nicely with the original story. Consequently, this has plenty of replay value and longevity.
Construction Simulator Stadium Expansion is a decent addition.
Despite its shortcomings, this base game and DLC are extremely good examples of the simulation genre. Moreover, the ability to drive massive machines and build monstrous projects is something I couldn’t resist. Subsequently, I like this expansion and I recommend buying it here! Can you improve the fortunes of the town? Complete every contract, hire the correct equipment, and build that stadium ASAP.
Developed by Genolabo and published by Kodansha, Fairy Tail: Dungeons is an RPG deck-building rogue-lite featuring characters from the Fairy Tail anime series.
I will make it clear, I have no idea of the Fairy Tail series. I knew it existed but every time it came into view, it looked like PG- Smut. As far as tie-in games go, this one is no lazy phone-in.
A Fairy Tail accounted for
There are a lot of characters in this deck-building rogue-lite and they come and go as you play. I dared to try and remember all their names but ultimately I had to give up. Maybe if I had seen the 328 episodes of Fairy Tail, I might have an idea but I have a life to live.
Regardless, for the sake of these reviews, I am gonna go through characters via look and their cliche in the world of Fairy Tail.
Story
The deck-building rogue-lite begins inside a giant castle. A boy with pinky-red hair and a thick white scarf is running towards the basement. He has a Blue with white tummy anthropomorphic tom cat with him and they are both in a hurry.
In the basement, they meet a hooded figure that reveals itself to be another anthropomorphic cat but Gray.
The cat tells MC and his sidekick cat that there are secret magical mazes that need to be traversed or something bad might happen. The cat says he is looking for a character(Who will remain un-described) and the MC says that the person is his friend too.
They all enter the maze through a giant glowing teleportation door to find the dude in question.
This is where they introduce the Gameplay. However, I want to finish the story first. Don’t worry, I won’t spoil anything, just giving you the idea.
After we fail to find our friend and are kicked out of the maze, we get reunited with our other buddies. One is a pink girl with armour that protects absolutely nothing on her body and a tall guy without a shirt.
After we give them a summary, We get to pick one of the three humans as our MC. (More on that later)
The way this is introduced made me think that more characters would get unlocked as you play, but in my time, I failed to get any so I don’t know.
Other Characters
We go through the portal again, see a map of progress and the Fairy Tail starts anew.
Now, as the game progresses, we get these little moments called interactions. In these, we will meet other characters on their personal missions. These characters would either be already known by our MC or by the hooded grey cat(#fan service). I’ll get to the purpose of these interactions later.
There are a lot of these interactions and almost every time you meet someone new with their own set of plot and dialogue.
I won’t spoil any of their stories but I will tell you that meeting them has plot significance and I will tell you that Fairy Tail: dungeons does have an ending.
Not just a dungeon crawler
Gameplay-wise, it is a fairly simple ordeal. You go room after room in a dungeon through a map and fight enemies. After each fight ends, the Health from it is carried on to the next fight. If it runs out, you die. Combat is turn-based and deck-based.
You are given 4 cards. Each card has a required ‘power points’ number on them. The cards are one of three: Defence, Attack and effect. These can be punches and kicks or magic attacks. The more the game goes on, the more of these cards you get.
You have 3 ‘power points’ by default.
The enemies are a classic affair of RPG- Cliche. We are talking about orcs, trolls, bats, glob monsters, etc.
You attack in your turn and then take a hit from every enemy in their turn. Yes, it is as unfair as it sounds.
Characters
After the tutorial is finished you are introduced to two playable characters leaving you with a choice of three.
Red hair Kid: Brawler: Starts with moves about punching and kicking.
Pink Girl: Magic: Starts with Magical Attacks
Shirtless Dude: Evader: Starts with a lot of Dodges and blocks(Seriously the best option)
I get the feeling this was supposed to be a party-gathering game. Won’t complain as it has some charm to it with the single-character system.
Upgrade system
Main thing you want to focus on gameplay-wise in the deck-building rogue-lite Fairy Tail: Dungeons, is collection and upgrading cards. This being a rogue-lite, these cards stay with you in future playthroughs but the upgrades do not. So deal with that wisely.
Like a fork with one missing tine, you can new cards/upgrades in three ways:
Trader: A shop set up on the map that you can access to buy either new cards or other usable items such as health, modifiers, etc.
Awards: Winning a fight gives you three basic cards or items. You get a rare award for clearing the stage.
Travellers: Meeting new characters gets you gifts from these characters. These gifts could be cards or items. When you meet a character the second time, you will help them in a battle. Win this battle and they will award you with a special card that does not charge any power points to use.
Journal: before and after fights, you can access your journal. In this journal, you can get yourself permanent upgrades using money.
Campfire: Finally, the rogue-lite has a campfire at the end of every stage. You can replenish 30 points of health or upgrade any card in your use.
Would come again!
A lot to unpack with this game but in the end, it got me wanting to play more. Fairy Tail: Dungeons would throw something new towards me whenever I started to feel a little bit of repetitiveness, and it would be reel back in.
Let me make it clear that I am no fan of Rouge-likes or Rouge-lites and I certainly have not watched a second of Fairy Tail, but still, I had a blast with this one. Now take that as you will but as far as I am concerned, Fairy Tail: Dungeons is a recommendation from me.
Maybe I should watch the show. You know, get addicted to over 300 episodes of Weeb stuff.
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