MainFrames made me feel a little bad. In the real world, I’m a QA Test Manager. It’s my job to break software as much as possible. So MainFrames coming along and giving all the little programs faces and personalities brought on some strange level of guilt. Am I the software equivalent of a supervillain? Perhaps doing QA is the equivalent to walking into someone’s house and putting my foot through TV or tearing down the wallpaper, and then telling everyone that the place sucks. Maybe I’m overthinking it.
Actually, the idea of breaking and destroying things is quite at odds with how MainFrames made me feel. I found it incredibly refreshing. I’ve been in a bit of a slump, video games wise. Nothing has really gripped me in a while (meaning no disrespect to those I’ve reviewed). MainFrames blasted me back to the days of Adobe Flash platformers, with its cute art style and buttery smooth platforming. It’s a pinpoint platformer with an intriguing central gimmick.
Desktop Dangers
MainFrames‘ main gimmick is that everything takes place within a computer, which is connected in turn to a network. Our hero is a li’l floppy disk, called Floppy. If you don’t know what a floppy disk is, then please keep that to yourself. I already feel old. Anyway, Floppy’s little house gets destroyed and he’s cast out into the system. Turns out he is one of a collection of software daemons. These are programs that run processes that are hidden from the user. Unfortunately, the system housing these processes is in the middle of falling apart.
Floppy needs to explore his way through all of the computers connected on the network. This involves a good deal of jumping, as MainFrames is a classic platformer at its heart. First, and most importantly, the movement feels wonderfully precise. Landing precision jumps is quite easy, and there’s a double jump (of sorts) to help dial things in. The end result is that when I died – which was a lot – I always felt like it was my fault. There weren’t any cheap shots. Every death gave me information on how to avoid it in the future.
Added to this is a wealth of mechanics that change things up. Being set inside a PC isn’t just an aesthetic choice. The platforms are all little windows, for instance, and each set of levels plays with that. An early level gives us a mouse pointer, for instance, so we can move around platforms at will. Another lets us BSOD individual windows to give us more platforming space. Each area introduces a mechanic and then puts it through its paces. As a result, MainFrames never gets stale.
Daemon Saving
Despite juggling all these different gameplay modifiers, MainFrames skates along quite a sensible difficulty curve. It hits the sweet spot of being difficult, but never to the point of being too frustrating. Usually it’s just a case of becoming comfortable with the new mechanics. It’s not a particularly long game, mind, but the difficulty was such that it felt like a good challenge. The only real spike was in the middle, with an odd section where you face a running gauntlet of platforming challenges. One way of making sure we’re awake, I guess.
Outside of that, MainFrames has some nice little collectibles in the form of other software daemons. Collecting them requires an optional challenge, which is usually something more complex than the standard levels. It’s good fun, and contributes to the overall idea: that we’re rescuing programs from deletion. There isn’t too much plot here, but I liked the snippets that indicate that the network is falling apart thanks to some big-brained project management moves. On a more surface level, MainFrames also has a lovely, cute art style that manages to somehow inject personality into Floppy. Tall order for an outdated storage medium.
In fact, I’ve only got two itty-bitty criticisms. Firstly, while the abundance of collectible daemons is great, there doesn’t seem to be a way to go back to ones in previous levels. Even if we could, the world is a tangle of interconnected levels and there’s no overall map that I can see. Backtracking would be a bit of a pain in the neck. Secondly, some levels are a bit easy to cheese. I put that down to Floppy’s ability to mantle, which removes the need for too much precision. It also means we can occasionally hop on top of the level and run along it, avoiding all the hazards.
MainFrames – Wonderfully Refreshing
All-in-all, MainFrames feels like a meeting of old and new schools. The platforming feels deliberately retro, albeit improved by all the PC-style shenanigans. The wonderful pixel-art feels pretty old-school too. But the cleverly put together levels, underlying plot notes and general chaotic style to it make it feel fresh and new. There’s a sense of chaotic personality to it. At points, you stumble across a daemon operating a big coffee machine, for instance.
Another puzzle has you turn down the volume slider for an out of control program. It’s little personalities blended with generic programs, and I love that. I would’ve given it high marks for the platforming alone, but MainFrames manages to make its dying electronic world feel alive. Charm drips from every corner. If you’re in the mood to relive the platformers of old, but want something brimming with personality, then you have to give MainFrames a whirl.
As someone who has only briefly engaged with the Yakuza series in the past, never fully completing any of the titles, I approached Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii with a mix of curiosity and scepticism. However, as a fan of pirate-themed adventures, this instalment resonated with me in unexpected ways, leading me to rate it a solid 8 out of 10.
The game transports players to a vibrant Hawaiian setting, a refreshing departure from the series’ traditional urban landscapes. This tropical backdrop is not merely a visual change but serves as a dynamic environment that influences the narrative and gameplay. Players assume the role of Majima, a beloved character who, after losing his memory, becomes a pirate captain. This storyline blends the gritty underworld elements of the Yakuza series with the adventurous spirit of piracy, creating a unique narrative experience.
The combat
Gameplay Mechanics
Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii retains the series’ signature beat ’em up combat system, with Majima employing two distinct fighting styles:
Mad Dog: A speed-focused style showcasing Majima’s agility and unorthodox combat techniques to focuse on single enemies or one to one combat.
Sea Dog: Introduces dual cutlasses and pistols, aligning with the pirate theme and giving more AoE damage as well as better crowd control.
A notable addition is the ability to jump and perform mid-air combos, enhancing the fluidity and dynamism of battles. Beyond land-based combat, players can assemble a pirate crew and upgrade their ship, the Goromaru. Naval engagements are conducted in real-time, allowing players to board enemy vessels, confront rival crews, and claim victory. The ship and crew are also highly customisable, not only visually but give plenty of bonuses depending on the weapon used and crew asembled.
Side activities are exactly what you would expect
The game excels in offering a plethora of side activities, a hallmark of the series. Players can participate in Dragon Kart races or food deliveries among many other side activites. Additionally, the Pirates’ Coliseum stands out as a remarkable minigame, allowing players to engage in naval and physical duels against themed pirate crews which I won’t spoil. This side activity was by far my favourite and responsible for more than half the hours I spent on anything else in the game.
Visuals and performance
Visually, the game captures the essence of the Hawaiian islands with meticulous detail. The lush landscapes, dynamic weather systems, and vibrant locales contribute to an immersive experience. On the technical front, the game performed smoothly on the base PS5 , offering high frame rates along decent graphics. The details and art direction are certainly impressive, but I must say that like a dragon games are not the most graphically advanced.
Nothing is perfect
While the game offers a rich tapestry of activities and a compelling narrative, it is not without its shortcomings. Some players may find the naval combat to be repetitive, but since fans of pirate themes are not exactly spoiled for choice in games (me included), I really did enjoy every bit of it. Another critique I do have is the game starts off very slow. Which is a shame because players that are new to the series may not be willing to give it the time it deserves to captivate them.
Conclusion
Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii successfully marries the core elements of the Yakuza series with a captivating pirate theme. For newcomers and seasoned fans alike, it offers a compelling adventure that is both familiar and refreshingly new. As someone who had not fully embraced the series before, this instalment provided an accessible and enjoyable entry point, solidifying its place as a standout title in my gaming experience. Its blend of engaging combat, diverse side activities, and a vibrant setting make it a noteworthy addition to the franchise.
Here is our review of the PowerA MarioKart Wired Earbuds.
The PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch are officially licensed and sport original designs featuring your favourite video game characters.
Features
Dynamic Speakers – 8 mm drivers to deliver the audio of your favourite games
Ergonomic – In-ear design with 3 swappable tips so you can find the perfect fit
Wired Connection – No batteries or recharging needed. 3.5 mm right angle jack for a lower profile design.
Inline Mic – Chat with your squad and mute the mic the via a switch
Cable Organizer – Adjustable slider to keep the wire tangle free when using the earbuds or storing them
Storage – Includes a drawstring bag to protect your earbuds when not in use
Officially licensed for Nintendo Switch
2-Year Limited Warranty
A Closer Look
Final Thoughts
The PowerA MarioKart Wired Earbuds are small and lightweight and are easy to carry around in a bag or a pocket. They come in a cool MarioKart carry bag too!
The box also contains additional earbud tips so you can swap out the tips if they are not the right size.
The sound quality is very good and the quality of the inbuilt mic is good too. You can easily mute the mic from a switch on the cable.
The PowerA MarioKart Wired Earbuds are available now priced around £19.99 and are a must for any Super Mario fan with a Nintendo Switch.
Here is our review of the PowerA Super Mario Enhanced Wireless Controller.
Officially licensed by Nintendo, the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch features a rechargeable battery, intuitive motion controls, 2 mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons and more.
Features
Wireless controller with Bluetooth 5.0 technology
Rechargeable lithium-ion battery: Up to 30 hours per charge
Two mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons
Embedded anti-friction rings for smooth thumbstick control
Superior ergonomics for hours of comfortable gaming
Intuitive Nintendo button layout
Low battery warning LED indicator
Includes 10ft (3m) USB-C charge cable
Wireless gaming controller officially licensed for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch (OLED model) and Nintendo Switch Lite
Can be used when Nintendo Switch is docked or undocked. Does not support HD rumble, IR or Amiibo NFC.
What’s in the box?
The box contains the controller, a charging cable and instructions.
A Closer Look
Final Thoughts
Using the thumbsticks was smooth and steady – the anti-friction rings allow you to game without issue. Moreover, each additional button is well placed and using them is comfortable and intuitive. Furthermore, the well-positioned 3.5mm audio jack point allows you to game freely.
There are two mappable Advanced Gaming Buttons that you can program quickly mid-game should you want to.
Enjoy super-fun intuitive motion controls with responsive controls let you tilt left or right to control your racing.
Battery wise, when fully charged the controller lasts for mourned 30 hours – so that is more than enough for a really long gaming session.
The artwork on the controller is very cool and will appeal to any Super Mario fan.
The PowerA Super Mario Enhanced Wireless Controller is available now priced around £39.99.
Here is our review of the PowerA Super Mario Game Card Case XL.
The PowerA Game Card Case XL for Nintendo Switch is officially licensed and stores up to 24 game cards and 24 Micro SD cards simultaneously.
Features
Multi-Card Storage – Store up to 24 Game Cards and 24 Micro SD cards
Secure Closure – Sliding closure keeps the Game Card Case secure
Form Fitted – Soft-touch fitted slots hold the Game Cards and Micro SD cards in place
Bookshelf Friendly – Sits nicely with all your Nintendo Switch game cases
Officially Licensed for Nintendo Switch
2-Year Limited Warranty
A Closer Look
Final Thoughts
The case is lightweight and easy to carry in a bag. It opens open to reveal 24 storage slots for either game cards or storage cards. The cards feel very secure when placed inside.
The front and back of the storage case looks great and has some Super Mario artwork and there is a slide lock to keep the case secured when closed and not in use.
The PowerA Super Mario Game Card Case XL is available now priced around £14.99 and is a must for any Super Mario fan with a Nintendo Switch.
Cozy games experienced a continuous boom in popularity ever since the unforgettable year of 2020. With work-from-home schedules and canceled get-togethers for a variety of reasons, sometimes it is just nice to hunker down on the sofa and whimsically divulge into a fantastical world full of home economics.
Hopping on this cozy train is a passenger that radiates a nostalgic 2000s or early internet gaming vibe, visibly comparing to those cartoony, polygon graphics akin to early Spyro and the like. Animal Crossing meets a much more tame Tycoon-esq approach, Ambertail Games’ Amber Isle is a slow-paced, dino-centric cozy simulator all about exploration, crafting, meeting new friends, and managing your very own local shop.
Amber Isle was released in June 2024 and can be played on the PC, Steam, and Nintendo Switch.
Welcome . . . to Amber Isle
The game introduces itself with surface-level bits of lore about a dinosaur coming-of-age tale. This universe is full of “Paleofolk” and you, the player, have hit a certain age where you must set off into the world to embark on a “paleoventure” where one discovers themself through connections and experiences. You will learn your “Saurname,” or a title that “reflects your place in the world” once the paleoventure is fulfilled.
The player character begins their journey on a hot air balloon. Unfortunately, you lean too far over the basket and plummet through the roof of an isolated shop. Somehow this gaping hole in this totally empty, customer-less, and supposedly “newly-renovated” store is worth tens of thousands of ambers in damages. The player is approached by a trigger-haired Mayor Clawsworth and the more down-to-earth courier Maple Swiftwing. A Megalosaurus named Adi – who works for OrbCorps, a task force meant to revitalize the desolate Amber Isle – joins the group as well. These three individuals are pretty much the only residents on the isle, sadly enough.
So, your little player dinosaur gets comfy and moves in (though not by choice) to Amber Isle. You are tasked with running the shop and paying off its debts, as well as aiding OrbCorps with inviting new residents to move into town. Thus begins the player’s paleoventure of crafting and maintenance.
Wherever you are . . . make it comfy
Honestly, the best feature of Amber Isle is its splendidly detailed and charming character customization. Players have loads of different colors, designs, body shape presets (e.g., raport, mammal, theropod, and small or large herbivore), and clothes to choose from. You can also name your own Paleofolk and identify as a lass, a lad, or an apparent gender-neutral “kid.” This will be how the NPCs refer to you.
It is almost crucial nowadays to include some form of character customization! I definitely feel myself returning to my 2000s childhood, booting up the family desktop and customizing my beloved Animal Jam or Toontown character.
All the Paleofolk NPCs look very unique and cute as well. They range from amphibians to sea creatures to birds to invertebrates. Ultimately, you will be able to customize the isle itself by befriending others and recruiting them to open up new cafes, gardens, and community areas. Players can also utilize store profits to develop pathways, foliage, in-store decor and new walls and flooring.
It seems like a world-builder’s dream . . . and while Amber Isle appears to offer it all, it would be a blessing if you could actually play that far into the game to unlock these personalization abilities. Oof! More on that several paragraphs below.
Profit makes perfect
Aside from customization options, the main mechanic of the game is to manage your shop and make the big bucks. Or, well, the big ambers.
Players will gather raw materials, craft items, and sell them. You are able to set the price of your goods which will lead to haggling with customers. You pitch the price, a customer counteroffers, and you either agree with the new price tag or push even harder. The more you sell, the greater the shop ranking increases, and the more inspiration you receive.
While managing the store, players must make sure it looks clean and presentable. Paleofolk will track dirt and mud all over the place. Run from the counter to the store floor to mop up the debris so that customers don’t get repulsed. I mean seriously – RUN! A not-so-cozy feature, more akin to an unbridled low-waged reality, these Paleofolk are quite disgusting. Holy cow. It is so annoying bolting between counter to floor as the line accumulates with quick-tempered shoppers who also do not like to wait around. No respect towards the sole person working I guess! The cleaning mechanic is also just not very fun or satisfying. It is only a tedious and forced challenge that gets in the way of things.
Friendship is inspiration
Aside from general store duties, players can engage in side quests. Paleofolk will request certain shop items for you to craft for them based on their individual wants and behaviors. Or, they might ask something of you like delivering 30 stones directly to their house. The more you interact with and talk to certain characters, the more your friendship with them will increase. As a friendship develops, players will unlock new recipes and the potential to invite the character to move to Amber Isle and open up new infrastructure. The more buildings and decor you have, the overall isle rating will go up (much like Animal Crossing). Having successful friendships and profit margins at your shop will also boost the player’s inspiration. Inspiration can be used to upgrade the store itself, as well as improve tools and new recipes.
Another day, another dollar
The map of Amber Isle is quite decently sized and full of vibrant colors and varied landscapes to explore. Travel all around to places like Shell Creek, Kem Kem Canyon, and Mount Morrisong to recruit new residents, harvest resources, and upgrade tools. There will always be a useful mini-map in the bottom right corner so that you do not get lost; undiscovered areas will be obscured by clouds until you reach these locations.
The game operates on a low-key day cycle: it is not like Animal Crossing where it correlates to reality, nor is it like the Sims where time flies in the blink of an eye. There are four phases: the morning, afternoon, evening, and night. By engaging in activities, like running the shop or setting off to harvest rocks and wood, time will pass. Simply standing idle will not allow time to progress! Certain Paleofolk will only be available for certain hours of the day as well. You may be able to obtain a night permit to keep the store open for later hours, so the time mechanic is not really stressful at all. There is always the following day.
Beautified beasts
Amber Isle‘s art style is adorably nostalgic for those who grew up in the late 90s or 2000s period. I believe that a major reason people were quick to purchase this game is because of its cutesy charm. Also, who doesn’t love dinosaurs?
The characters are all colorful and unique in appearance. They mumble like Animal Crossing critters but with a bit more gruff. There are 48 kinds of Paleofolk in total, with their own personal characteristics and quests, suitable for the biome you find them in (e.g., a shark at the beach area). However, when it comes down to interacting with the NPCs . . . it feels pretty mechanical and boring. There are options to give them gifts and simply talk to them, but the game never truly encourages you to do this. While each Paleofolk has labels of their “unique” traits, that’s about it. Just labels. They all speak similarly, and nobody aside from the main few, have much life behind them to incite genuine care and relatability to and from the player.
The customer is always right
On the other end, the soundtrack is engaging and whimsical; calm at other moments, making for a natural, cozy sensation of day transforming into night.
The UI can be a bit overwhelming. The organizational trees are nice, and as you are crafting you can see the specific categories/traits new recipes hail from (e.g., artisan, stylist, chef, et cetera). But, it gets complicated once you actually begin a shift at the store. You cannot craft anything during store hours, and worse, players are not able to re-check what the traits and sizes of the items they are selling are. So, if an NPC comes up and vaguely requests an item they might want, it is hard to suggest the right thing if you do not have the memory of an elephant. Also, don’t get me started on the grid-based mechanic . . .
“It’s funny cozy doesn’t always mean ‘comfortable,’ hm?”
The building system is grid-based in that, to my knowledge, you cannot turn off. For one, it is hard to see what in the world you are doing. It feels clunky, especially with the top-down approach which obstructs vision even more. In the few instances where the the grid is not top-down and you are moving around architecture, the camera has a severe issue with clipping; the hills and landscapes will just totally annihilate your field of vision.
Amber Isle‘s camera is egregious. Oh my.
The camera centers on the player at all times and can really only move horizontally and a little bit vertically. Players can zoom in and out, but cannot tilt it around. Again, the decorating portions are top-down, so all this camera rigidity breaks the immersion, especially with the overly frequent issues of clipping and violent, abrupt zooming in and out occurs. This is quite the letdown for a modern game, and something that can hardly be excused anymore unless you are intentional mimicking the N64 camera capabilities.
For a lot of players, myself included, Amber Isle even after eight months since its release has a plethora of bug issues (at least on the Nintendo Switch). Bugs range from minor visual glitching and lag to more intense issues like soft-locking and total game crashing. My game crashed during the opening lore sequence. I also experienced moments where my camera or buttons would become totally unresponsive. Others have reported issues like their map being permanently obscured, or objects straight up disappearing or moving to the incorrect location. While the developers are continuing to update and fix these problems, I mean, Amber Isle could have truly benefitted from another year in the oven.
Final thoughts
Amber Isle has so much potential but is tainted by a plethora of grievances, not just the crazy UI (aside from the map and crafting tree) and boring dialogue, but also a lack of story and character depth, grindy nature of extrapolating resources, paying off debts, and the horrific grid and camera mechanics. These problems, plus the potentially game-breaking bugs are a deal breaker for many people. Not to mention, the tutorial is needlessly long and sluggish. When I play a cozy sim, I do not want to waste 2-3 hours on a tutorial alone. Absolutely not.
The end of the game is sort of strange as well. The undercurrent of community-building versus enterprising aside, and this is not necessarily a spoiler – the introduction to Amber Isle states that getting your “Saurname” is a signifier for a successful paleoventure. This game ends when the player receives their “Saurname.” While the ending does wrap up the basic story elements, hm, I don’t know . . . it would be nice if there was a postgame maybe? Or just more to do? It feels weird that a game like this just comes to an end after a repetitive 10 or so hours.
Otherwise, Amber Isle is cute and has a lot to it, but the game seems to have been released too early. Character customization, the art style and music, and the overall premise are wonderful, but the bad glitches, shoe-horned stressors, and clunky mechanics get in the way of things. Hopefully the developers continue to make improvements. If you are someone who enjoys this genre of video games and has played something along the lines of Animal Crossing or Bear and Breakfast, then maybe try it out. Be weary of the price point, though.
The Overwatch Reaper glasses from GUNNAR are divisive but badass to the eye. The chunky style won’t be for everyone, but if you want a statement piece that keeps your eyes safe, these are the glasses for you. They have a striking style, and the patented GUNNAR technology reduces fatigue, dry lenses, and headaches.
The medical benefits are great but it is the lack of fatigue that impresses me most. Whenever you wear a pair of gaming glasses you remain focused for longer. This is great if you work or game for extended periods. Additionally, I adore the hardwearing material and the comfortable style. Accordingly, if you want a pair of glasses to wear during work and play, I suggest you look no further.
What’s in the box of the Overwatch Reaper glasses?
The packaging is discreet and robust. Furthermore, it can be recycled.
The Overwatch Reaper glasses use a chunky military-style frame. Alongside this, there are some nice Overwatch Easter Eggs for fans of the franchise.
Clean the lenses with the branded microfibre cloth.
The soft case keeps the glasses protected.
Technical aspects.
The Overwatch Reaper glasses can be purchased as sunglasses or amber-tinted lenses. Moreover, you can buy prescription lenses of -5 to +5 if needed. This versatility was great as you can get the glasses that match your needs and style. I opted for the 65% blue light-blocking amber-tinted lens and didn’t regret my decision. The slightly yellow colouring reduces harsh contrasting colours for a pleasant work and gaming experience.
On top of this, you enjoy 100% UV light protection. Subsequently, if you wear these glasses when out and about, you know your eyes are protected. The patented GUNNAR lens technology keeps your eyes moist to reduce that horrible itchy feeling. What’s more, eye strain is reduced because of the lack of harsh blue light. I’ve worn GUNNAR glasses for years and I’ve noticed a vast difference in my eye health. Consequently, many gamers will benefit if they stare at a monitor, mobile phone, or TV for extended periods.
Build quality.
Though the frames won’t be for everyone, you cannot question the exceptional build quality. The chunky material has a deep and rich black livery. This is juxtaposed with a vibrantReaper logo. The eye-catching design will be a winner if you are a fan of the franchise. Moreover, if you like your glasses with larger arms, then the Overwatch Reaper glasses will tick that box.
I’m somewhat heavy-handed with my glasses, so I appreciate strong hinges. Luckily, the multi-barrel hinges will take some rough and tumble. This is ideal if you chuck your gear around or you are a little clumsy. Finally, the lenses have the G-Shield lens coating. This anti-reflective and smudge-resistant layer is great as it helps to keep your glasses and visibility smudge-free.
Are the Overwatch Reaper glasses worth it?
Gaming glasses are a growing market. Professional gamers rock them and feel the benefits daily. However, everyday players are still catching up with the trend. I won’t work or play without a pair and I suggest that you do the same. The Overwatch Reaper glasses are unusual, bold, and wonderfully built. Accordingly, if you wish to stand out from the crowd, I recommend buying them here!
Developed and produced by Good Mood Games, Eyes of War is a real-time strategy game set in the medieval era, offering both single-player and multiplayer experiences where you can control every unit in character mode.
The RTS Genre are almost as old as computers themselves. Safe to say that every idea you can think of has been done. Imagine my surprise, when I started playing Eyes of War and mid-battle, it went from a top-down point-and-click to a dodge-rolling hack and slash extravaganza. Oddly, Eyes of War captures war in a rare, realistic way.
Every Soldier’s a Pawn
On the front, Eyes of War is a simpler Age of Empires. The basic gameplay is the same: you take control of an army, manage scavenging, defences and lead to a fight. However, everything takes a huge turn when the battles truly begin.
In Eyes of War, you can take control of any one of your soldiers. The transition is seamless, and you can switch to other soldiers by simply pressing ‘E’ in their direction.
If you remember, Ultimate Battle Simulator had a very similar mechanic that allowed you to take control of your soldiers. It was a fun gimmick that Eyes of War has pushed to its full capabilities.
Types of Play in Eyes of War
Of course, the ability mechanic does not only play on the war side of things. There are a few modes you can play in Eyes of Wa,r and each mode is amazing in itn way.
Strategy Mode
In war mode, you and your opponent start with a castle, a few guards, a horse and some money. This is the default Age of Empires-esque game mode and plays exactly as you would expect.
You gather resources and build barracks, stables, mines, etc. Ultimately, you get an army, and you go to war.
Battle Mode
In Battle mode, you don’t have to build or mine any resources. As the name implies, you start with an army of 200+ men, you get to pick what types of soldiers you get.
Next, you create a formation, give instructions, and ideally take over a soldier to lead the charge.
I find this mode to be thrilling. It captured the feeling of ancient warfare quite nicely.
Arena Mode
Finally, you have the Arena.
No armies, no buildings, no large-scale strategies. Just Fighting!
In this mode, you select 5 soldiers. 2 teams of two and 1 single soldier. The game is a best of 5. The first 2 games are 2v2 and (if needed) a final 1v1 fight.
Not the best mode of Eyes of War, but it’s a very fun one.
Multiplayer Problems
Now that the glazing is out of the way, I think it is time to consider the shortcomings of Eyes of War.
For one, there is no story mode, nor single player mode, nothing of the sort. You can play rounds with Bots but not having a proper story mode is big miss for me.
Another issue, I pondered over sharing, was the lack of match making or public servers. I feel this may be an early game issue and we will have some sort of way to play Randoms in the future but for now, Eyes of War only has Lan Play.
Eyes of Bloody War!
All in all, Eyes of War brings a fun spin to the RTS genre with its seamless blend of strategy and action. The ability to jump into the shoes of any soldier mid-battle is something you don’t see every day, and it spices up the experience.
Sure, the lack of a story mode and matchmaking can be a bit of a bummer, but if you’re into the tactical side of things and love getting your hands dirty in the heat of battle, there’s still a lot to enjoy here. It’s got its quirks, but Eyes of War deserves a spot on your radar.
Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is a gothic masterpiece that filled me with nostalgia. Additionally, I loved its Metroidvania edge and the brutality of the demi bosses and the cruel guardians. I didn’t play the original, but that matters not. I could follow the plot without a problem and no previous knowledge is required.
This side-scrolling pixelated adventure was developed by PixelHeart and published by PQube Ltd. Moreover, it is a single-player game with a grim and dark aesthetic. If you don’t like pixelated games, this won’t be for you. However, if you love a trip down memory lane, you’ll want to jump in with both feet.
Beyond the Ice Palace 2 tells a story of revenge and redemption.
The King isn’t alive or dead! Instead, he sits in limbo imprisoned in a basement and tied by chains. However, his captors underestimate his strength and determination. The chains that once bound him are now his weapon of choice. This fallen leader must crush everything that stands in his way as he reclaims his throne from those who betrayed him.
The gritty story is dark, sinister, and cruel. Moreover, the dialogue is fantastic, and uncovering the foul lore was a fascinating experience. As you explore each area, you will encounter monsters, ghosts, wizards, beasts, and bosses. Each one wishes to put you into the ground, but you cannot allow this to happen. If you fall, you will respawn, but your cash will be taken and you must restart at the last checkpoint.
Straightforward mechanics.
Though the core concept is brutal and it is borderline unfair, the mechanics are straightforward. The hero is a shadow of his former self. Yet, once he gathers power crystals, he can regain his strength, vitality, rage, and much more. Additionally, he will unlock new skills as he takes down each of the guardians that stand in his way.
This is easier said than done as the demi bosses and guardians are brutes to overcome. Accordingly, I swore much more than I should have and I admit I nearly slammed my controller in rage. Thankfully, I remained reasonably composed as I studied each boss’s movement pattern and identified their weaknesses. Though this is key to success, there is an awful lot of luck required and this may drive you insane.
Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is wonderfully gritty.
Pixelated games may not be for everyone. However, I adored the grim colour palette and the wonderful stage design. There are many amazing locations to explore and loads of secrets to discover. This was phenomenal as you were forced to search every nook and cranny for hidden crates and treasure chests.
The audio blew me away. The oppressive soundtrack was a joy to listen to. Every overpowered tune matched the daunting action that unfolded. Furthermore, the slash of your chains and the explosion of fire sounded incredible. Consequently, the developer has created a dated but aesthetically pleasing game.
Great controls.
The controls are somewhat complicated. You can slide, dodge, fight, climb, jump, and more. Moreover, you learn new skills that increase your arsenal of tricks further. This makes mastering Beyond the Ice Palace 2 a bit of a tricky endeavour. Yet, once you get used to the finer points, you’ll leap between rings and dodge attacks like a pro.
The drip-fed skills and hidden treasure chests ensure that longevity and replay value are a central concept. What’s more, the Metroidvania edge demands that you explore each location once new abilities are unlocked. This was great as it made the time-consuming task a rewarding experience.
Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is a fantastic old-school title.
I was blown away by Beyond the Ice Palace 2. The gameplay is tough but enjoyable. Furthermore, the lore is fascinating and the grim aesthetic makes your skin crawl. Though the bosses are occasionally tough, you will enjoy euphoria when they fall at your feet. Accordingly, this is a fantastic old-school game and I recommend buying it here! Can you rise from the dead and reclaim your throne? Master your skills, unlock new abilities, and thwart those who rebelled against you.
New year, new me is all but done and dusted. Accordingly, it is time to look at the big events coming up in 2025. The first major one I can think of is Mother’s Day 2025. Now, we know it can be stressful to find that perfect gift. As such, I hope to take that edge off with this gift guide.
Flowers, a card, and chocolates are all well and good. However, why not go the extra mile and get something truly special this year? Whether it is a stylish case, a gadget, or some tools for the house, this article will highlight them all. Therefore, sit back, relax, and let me show you some amazing products.
COSORI TwinFry Dual Blaze 10L – The COSORI TwinFry Dual Blaze 10L Air Fryer boasts a generous 10-litre capacity, making it the perfect addition to any kitchen, especially for those who enjoy hosting or cooking for large families.
The appliance’s dual-chamber design, featuring a removable separator, allows for simultaneous cooking of main courses and side dishes, ensuring a nutritionally balanced meal every time. Whether it’s crispy chicken paired with roasted vegetables or perfectly air-fried fish accompanied by golden fries, this air fryer delivers versatility and convenience in every use.
Mother’s Day 2025 introductory price £199 from Currys.
VQ.
Laura Ashley China Rose 3.5L Slow Cooker – Make cooking a stress-free experience with the VQ Laura Ashley stainless steel slow cooker. It has a generous 3.5-litre capacity, perfect for making family stews, soups, and casseroles.
Use the 3-heat settings, including a keep warm function, and you will always have a delicious dinner ready when needed. The tempered glass lid traps the moisture and flavour of your dish, also allowing you to watch the cooking process.
Cath Kidston designed VQ Skylark Earbuds – The Skylark boasts possibly the loudest sound for TWS earbuds in the market. Deep, rich bass, defined mid-range, and crystal-clear high-end. Whether streaming tunes, enjoying a gripping podcast, or being immersed in the latest audiobook, Skylark’s Hi-Fi stereo sound quality ensures the users hear, feel, and experience the music like never before.
VQ Cath Kidston Tablet case – A designer Cath Kidston Universal Tablet Case by VQ really is the perfect way to ensure your 7/8 or 9/10 inch tablet stays protected, but also looks stylish and feels personal to you.
Palma 2 – The Palma 2 has advanced hardware and software and is equipped with dual microphones and speakers, it doubles as a portable audio player for music and podcasts. Its 16MP camera with LED flash serves as a document scanner for on-the-go office needs.
PhotonMask – The PhontonMask is designed with a contoured fit for full facial coverage, Unlike traditional LED lighting, it combines four powerful therapy modes with multiple wavelengths technology into each mode to enhance treatment effectiveness.
After years of testing, Flikeze found that multi-wavelength technology delivers superior results for specific skin concerns. That’s why they’ve combined four powerful therapy modes with multiple wavelengths into each mode to enhance treatment effectiveness.
SpectraPanel Elite – The SpectraPanel Elite features four modes powered by patented FSE7 Pro Chips, with seven effective wavelengths, andadjustable intensity from 20% to 100%. designed to achieve optimal results. Tailored for everything from pain relief to skin treatments and energy boosting, the SpectraPanel Elite offers a versatile approach to overall wellness.
OpenRock S – The OpenRock S embraces innovation at its core by harnessing the power of advanced open-air conduction technology. This not only results in a natural and safer auditory encounter but also allows users to stay attuned to their surroundings while indulging in their preferred audio content.
Neoruler Smart Ruler – Accurate measurements are crucial in the world of design, where even the smallest details can make a significant impact. NeoRuler boasts a host of features that make it an indispensable tool for architects, engineers, graphic designers, and hobbyists.
M-Cube – M-Cube is the ultimate modular multi-function laser measure distance meter with an innovative magnetic locking design that makes switching modules and accessories effortless. Versatile and adaptable for surveying, construction, design, DIY Projects and home renovation.
This guide is but the tip of the iceberg. There are plenty of great companies offering amazing products as well. Kokoon, SwitchBot, Dangbei, UREVO, and Enabot are pushing some incredible tech and health and beauty items that will appease the toughest recipients. Accordingly, you can avoid those awkward gifting moments, and shine this Mother’s Day 2025.
