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Review: Monster High Skulltimate Secrets

Daniel Waite

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Oct 29, 2024

Review: Monster High Skulltimate Secrets

Monster High Skulltimate Secrets is the ideal game for your youngsters this Halloween. Though this isn’t a game for adults, it is perfectly balanced for children aged 7+. However, competent younger players may be able to tackle the latter mechanics with a little help. This spooky title focuses on short, sharp levels and a collectathon approach. As such, it can be enjoyed casually and there is plenty to see and do, even though it is repetitive.

This action platformer was developed by Petoons Studio and published by Outright Games. Moreover, it is a single-player title that concentrates on simple missions and ghoulish friendships. Sadly, the action is paper thin and the story depth is thinner still. Accordingly, if you are after an epic and fulfilling experience, you best look elsewhere. Yet, if you want something fun and filled with lighthearted dialogue, then this is the game for you.

Monster High Skulltimate Secrets tells a magical tale.

Today is your first day at Monster High. Luckily, all monsters are welcome and you are met by one of the Boo Crew. This mismatched bunch are sassy, amusing, and always up to mischief. Yet, it is their inquisitive ways that grab the attention of the headmistress. Strange things are happening at this wonderful school and you must collect the energy orbs to regain order. This is easier said than done as secret rooms and hidden keys must be found if you wish to complete your task.

The plot is a little fickle, but my girls enjoyed the storytelling and the larger-than-life characters. Additionally, the simple storyline is easy to follow and the main and side quests can be managed with your iCoffin. This cheeky Halloween-inspired phone allows you to check your goals, change clothes, and select available missions. As such, it is a handy tool that organises your life whilst progressing the story.

Platforming basics.

Monster High Skulltimate Secrets’ action revolves around collecting skull coins and special runes, vials, and emblems. On top of this, you will discover chests loaded with funky clothes. Though these have no bearing on the story, my girls loved each unique outfit. As you explore the overworld, you will find special hidden rooms. If you activate the portal, you may find a secret key to unlock new skills, or a platforming challenge to test your patience and ability.

No matter which test lies before you, the action follows the same route. You’ll explore each compact arena whilst overcoming obstacles, chasms, and other traps. On top of this, you may have to dash into Garbage Goblins or activate switches. During each of these sub-quests, you’ll look for 2 chests and a set amount of skull coins. At the end of the hidden room, you’ll discover the orb of energy. Once you collect this item, you are transported back to the overworld and the game continues.

This short quest structure was ideal. My girls were able to cope with the 4-5 minute objectives without becoming overwhelmed or bored. What’s more, the platforming elements did test them, but the difficulty and reward were nicely balanced. Consequently, though they struggled at times, they enjoyed the different objectives and the sense of achievement.

Monster High Skulltimate Secrets’ camera work is vomit-inducing.

I’m not going to be too critical of the graphics. I didn’t expect Monster High Skulltimate Secrets to be a masterpiece and therefore, I wasn’t surprised or disappointed. I enjoyed the cinematic and the vibrant colours were pleasant to look at. However, the scenery is a little repetitive and bland and the camera is vomit-inducing. The pace at which it moves around the protagonist is awful. Additionally, some frame rate problems were uncomfortable. This was a shame, as I’d have preferred a better-optimised experience.

The audio shines through! The varied soundtrack was upbeat and fun and I loved the acting. My girls enjoyed each personality and the cinematic was rarely skipped as a consequence. Alongside this, there were some well-conceived audio clues for each special collectable. This was a great design choice that helped my kids discover each magical item.

Excellent controls.

Though the camera was woeful, the controls were tight and easy to understand. Furthermore, the layout was straightforward and your children will not struggle when playing this game. Though Monster High Skulltimate Secrets isn’t an advanced platforming game, there were some challenging elements. Subsequently, had the controls been poor, this would have been terrible to play.

Replay value and longevity aren’t at the fore. Though there are plenty of collectables and side quests to complete, you soon blast through each task. Unfortunately, there is no way to track missing items and this was frustrating. I spent hours looking for elusive skull coins, only to discover them in a room I thought I had searched. The developer could have removed this issue by adding a tracker for each location.

Monster High Skulltimate Secrets will have a niche appeal.

This is a kid-friendly title and it should be played with that in mind. As such, I’m going to overlook the tedium and repetitive nature of the core gameplay. My kids adored running through the halls and searching for collectables. Moreover, the minor platforming elements tested them even though it looked pretty straightforward. On top of this, the inclusion of minor magical skills adds another slither of depth. Accordingly, this is the ideal game for youngsters who love the franchise and Halloween and I recommend buying it here! Can you bring order to Monster High? Create your monster, help the Boo Crew, and find every secret room.

SEGA and ImageNPay launch Sonic the Hedgehog Virtual Mastercard Collection

Gaming

Andrew Edney

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Oct 28, 2024

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SEGA and ImageNPay launch Sonic the Hedgehog Virtual Mastercard Collection

To coincide with the recent launch of the highly anticipated SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS™ game on October 25^th, ImageNPay and SEGA are pleased to announce today’s release of the Sonic Virtual Mastercard collection, an exclusive series of Sonic-themed digital prepaid cards. Featuring characters and scenes from SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS, the collaboration combines the iconic Sonic the Hedgehog and ImageNPay, a digital wallet and mobile adtec platform. ImageNPay is on a mission to make the payments ecosystem plastic free.

Sonic fans can help reduce plastic consumption by downloading a prepaid digital card from the ImageNPay app on the App Store or Playstore and selecting their favourite Sonic image to pay with. Cardholders will also have the option to donate to Save the Children, a charity that creates lasting change for children around the world, and the Priceless Planet Coalition, a global initiative to fund the restoration of 100 million trees, each time they upload money onto their Sonic-branded prepaid card.

Michael Donald, Founder & CEO of ImageNPay, said, “The SEGA and Sonic collection represents a significant advancement in our mission to make payments hyper-personalised, plastic free, financially inclusive and fun for everyone. This collaboration also showcases animated Sonic images on digital payment cards for the first time, adding an element of fun to payments. We are proud to have developed this innovative technology in the UK which enables brands to build deeper partnerships with their customers and which is leading the fight to reduce plastic waste in the payments industry.

“This collaboration with ImageNPay for the release of the Sonic Virtual Mastercard Collection allows us to connect deeper with our ever-growing community. To be able to educate our fanbase as well as contribute to the reduction of plastic produced on a global basis, is an opportunity we and the Sonic Team want to be a part of.” said Ivo Gerscovich, Senior Vice President and Chief Business and Brand Officer of Sonic, Head of SEGA Brands.

“At Mastercard, we work with the gaming industry to enable game-changing solutions and deliver unforgettable experiences,” said Simon Forbes, Divisional President, UK&I at Mastercard. “This collab with ImageNPay and Sonic delivers on all these fronts, and we’re proud to work with the world’s most famous hero hedgehog, helping reduce plastic consumption and raise funds for good causes.”

Review: Hatch Tales

Khloe Turner

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Oct 28, 2024

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The wait is finally over. Developer Atooi’s six-year-long Kickstarter project, formerly titled Chicken Wiggle Workshop, had been transformed exceptionally into Hatch Tales: A Heroic Hookshot Adventure. This 2D-platformer comes with a brand new protagonist, Hatch, alongside novel story elements separate from Atooi’s previous title Chicken Wiggle.

Hatch Tales was released on October 22nd, 2024 and can only be played on the Nintendo Switch.

A journey through frost and fire

A little flightless hawk named Hatch must journey through Talonreach by request of the Queen. She warrants for Hatch to face the evil frost wraith Nazar, who’s hunger for destruction is “unsatiable.” Nazar has stolen Talonreach’s eight sacred artifacts and have buried them in frozen dungeons. Hatch, with his little self and trusty hookshot, must battle Nazar and save the world from his “icy grip.” Ember Sprites can be collected so that Hatch can use their fiery magic to restore peace to the world.

The story starts off strong despite being rather cliche. Aside from the opening act and the final fight, the plot is somewhat irrelevant. Players blast through levels gathering collectables and solving platforming challenges. There are no “Koopaling-like” mini boss stages per se, but there are tower levels at the end of each world.

I am unsure as to what is so special about Hatch the hawk, and as to why he looks so . . . angry all of the time? Then again, Mario is a plumber who, for some reason, saves a princess of mushroom people from a tyrant bull-turtle. Like Mario, Hatch can get special power-ups, like “Sorio’s Speed” and Gindoh’s Ghost.” These abilities allow for extra speed or let you go through spikes unharmed and damage ghost enemies respectively.

A world of content and chaos

Hatch Tales plays simply as a 2D-adventure platformer yet it is surprisingly challenging. There are eight worlds with six levels each, but players can unlock bonus throwback stages to Mutant Mudds (and to me, these stages are really hard). Also, once players beat the main game, you get a chance to blast though eight more worlds Chicken Wiggle-style. Get ready for many hours of gameplay if you dig it, with a jam-packed 96 levels total.

The goal of the game is straightforward: beat each stage, complete each world, and fight the boss. There are three or four Ember Sprites and 100 gems per level. Gems are needed to unlock Tower stages at the end of each world, and the Ember Sprites will grant access to the Mutant Mudds levels. “Side Quests” are unlocked by finding scrolls, which only means even more levels to complete. So yeah, loads of collectables, loads of content.

Hookshots make everything perfect!

Hatch has his hookshot, which is needed to scale walls, attack enemies, and do pretty much everything. This mechanic is honestly very fun and fluid. Hatch can also peck enemies to death, and peck at the screen. There are occasional vortexes per level that Hatch can directly peck at, warping the world into a purplish haze. Here, players can collect hidden gems and Ember Sprites otherwise unseen. Hatch can also attain power-ups as aforementioned.

The feeling of the game is kind of heavy. You are not floaty or whimsical like a Mario title; the movements are more precise, rigid, and aware of a gravitational pull.

Hatch Tales is a difficult platformer that might take some getting used to. While there are several checkpoints per stage, they are not very consistent. Sometimes there are none at all, or the checkpoints are widely and unpredictably spaced apart. Dying can be a bit of a bother, and I personally had some frustrating redoes in the Mutant Mudds levels. Hatch has two hearts–or two chances of being hit before death. This is different from Chicken Wiggle, who only had one heart despite being two characters in one. This is an odd choice, but frankly, having two hearts does not make it any easier.

2D-platformers never die

The game looks cleaned and polished, like a modernized SNES title. There are lots of fine details and a variety of curious, goofy enemies, as well as multiple level themes of fluffy clouds and gloopy magma. Despite its attractive look, I do feel as if Hatch Tales lacks a certain charm, or perhaps its own truly unique visual identity.

Hatch pecking at the screen in Hatch Tales

The sound design is alright, not particularly attention-grabbing, but enough to get players bopping their heads from time to time. Overall, the music helped me focus, which is probably what a challenging platformer soundtrack should do.

Final thoughts

Hatch Tales: A Heroic Hookshot Adventure looks fine, sounds fine, and plays fine. The game is not remarkable, but definitely worth your buck in terms of content and challenges.

Hatch Tales had its unusual start, having been crowdfunded over six years ago and facing a constant onslaught of release delays. To me, the quantity of delays should have resulted in a better product, but regardless the game is certainly a solid platformer and old fans of Chicken Wiggle will thoroughly enjoy it.

As a bonus, similar to Chicken Wiggle, there is an in-game level editor for players to mess around with. This is always a fun treat!

Review: Phasmophobia

Daniel Waite

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Oct 28, 2024

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Phasmophobia has been available in Early Access on PC for a while. However, I’ve been blissfully unaware of this spooky title. I guess my focus on recent child-friendly Outright Games experiences has blindsided me. Luckily, I have been put on the straight and narrow as this title is in Game Preview for console gamers. Though I’m not a massive fan of Game Preview titles, I couldn’t resist this hauntingly good time.

This scary game was developed and published by Kinetic Games. Furthermore, it is a solo or up to 4-player cooperative experience. There is also Cross-Play for anyone with friends on another platform. This was a great idea as it keeps the horror-loving community together whilst expanding the already faithful fanbase. If you are thinking about testing this out, I’d recommend finding like-minded individuals. Though it is fine as a solo title, it excels when you work together as a team.

Phasmophobia relies on your sense of fear.

I use the phrase horror title in the loosest of senses. Whenever this genre is discussed, people think of zombies and other cliched foes. What’s more, there is a sense of gore and cheap jump scares. Thankfully, Phasmophobia doesn’t rely on any of these parlour tricks. Instead, it lets your sense of fear and isolation take centre stage. Additionally, it is wonderfully easy to understand. As such, you can start running long before you can walk. This false sense of security was incredible as the ghosts trick you and cause all sorts of shenanigans.

Unfortunately, there isn’t much of a backstory to this. Instead, the action focuses on 10 different haunted locations and an array of spectres and ghosts for you to identify. Moreover, you don’t tackle and remove the spectral entity. No, you are there to identify the cause of the disturbance and get out alive. Sadly, the latter goal can be challenging and you will spend time observing your teammates from another realm. However, I digress and I’ve moved way ahead of myself. What’s more, I want to be careful as I do not want to spoil the surprises and fun that you will discover.

Simple tools.

The gameplay loop is straightforward. Each of the haunted locations has plenty of rooms and areas to explore. As the stage starts, you must grab equipment from your van. Each player can carry 3 items and this makes completing the mission much tougher. You’ll wander through each room or area looking for obvious clues. Yet, if nothing jumps out at you, you may use your thermometer, EMF reader, UV torch, and other tools to find evidence.

Each of these tools was remarkably easy to use. What’s more, the use of audio signals to trick you or lead you to your goal was impressive. The rattle of a chair or whisper of a ghostly apparition makes your skin tingle. On top of this, the ghost can hear you speak! These voyeuristic beasts can tell when you are panicking and they pick their time to up the ante. This was terrifying as one slip-up caused untold misery.

Identify your foe.

As you enter each stage, you must work out what is causing the problems. With over 20 ghosts to nail down, this is no mean feat. However, your specialist equipment can be used to narrow down the search. If your EMF reader goes off the chart, you can scratch off a handful of spooks. Moreover, if the temperature drops or you see UV footprints, you can grab your journal and work out what’s happening.

In theory, this is a straightforward endeavour. Yet, as the game evolves, the ghosts become more cunning and they can hunt you. Though this isn’t always deadly, it is truly terrifying when you hide behind a piece of furniture or in a cupboard. The scrape and scuttle of each ghost will make your skin crawl. Moreover, you best hope that your teammates don’t give away your position on the radio.

Phasmophobia is uncomfortable to play.

Saying a game is uncomfortable to play can be deemed a negative experience. Yet, Phasmophobia gets this aspect just right. The creepy lighting, excellent stage design, and claustrophobic nature of every mission were phenomenal. What’s more, though there are some visual glitches, the attention to detail and relatively smooth gameplay must be commended. I adored the use of cliched icy breath and the movement of furniture. Furthermore, the equipment is well-considered and it enhances the sense of danger and tension in every situation.

I’m a huge fan of exceptional audio. Luckily, this game blows it out of the water! The clever use of spatial sound and ambient sound effects creates an immersive world that sucks you in. Additionally, you will jump repeatedly as alarms sound and doors slam. Though this may be familiar or dare I say cliche, I didn’t care. Where the audio excels is the ghost’s understanding of the group’s intentions. If it senses fear or failure, you are doomed. Any slight chink in your armour will be highlighted and you will perish and fail miserably.

Fantastic controls.

Game Preview and awkward controls normally go hand-in-hand. Phasmophobia has bucked this trend with its easy-to-understand tutorial and fantastic control layout. Subsequently, though the ghosts will break your balls, you can rest assured that you can be up and running in no time at all.

The developer has done an incredible job to enhance replay value. There are custom difficulty settings to help people out and an array of missions and goals to complete. Alongside this, the Cross-Play functionality allows you to play with global players no matter their platform. As the game evolves, I can see more content being added and the fan base expanding exponentially.

Phasmophobia will scare you silly.

I’ve played many horror games and Phasmophobia is probably one of the best I’ve experienced. This Early Access title will chill you to the bone and petrify the toughest gamers. It is tough, enjoyable, and trouser-soilingly brilliant. Improve your Halloween and get yourself a copy of this game here! Can you become an undead detective? Grab your gear, identify the threat, and hope to get out alive.

Review: Don’t Be a Dik Dik

Daniel Waite

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Oct 28, 2024

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Don’t Be a Dik Dik from Ginger Fox Games is an immature but amusing card game that tickled me. The adult humour, casual gameplay, and easy-to-understand rules were attractive. What’s more, it can be enjoyed by 3-6 people. Accordingly, it is simple to get a game going even if you are hanging out in a tiny crowd.

The rude creatures and questionably named plants will make you snigger. Furthermore, I adored the cutting one-liners that enhanced the childish situation. I’d love to say this colourful and silly affair suits youngsters, but I can’t. Though many kids will miss the innuendo, I’d be worried about unintentional consequences. Subsequently, keeping young minds and eyes away from this game is probably best.

How do you play Don’t Be a Dik Dik?

If you have played Chase the Ace or Old Maid, you’ll be familiar with the fundamentals of Don’t Be a Dik Dik. The small pack of cards has many pairs of animals and plants that must be combined. As you pass from player to player, you must pick a face-down card. If it matches any of the cards in your hand, you place the pair on the table in front of you. This process continues until one player is left holding the Dik Dik.

Games last up to 20 minutes and are usually more complex if you have 6 players taking part. I found that 4 players was the ideal number and each round was completed in around 15 minutes. As this is an adult-focused affair, you don’t need to worry about your kids hiding cards and slowing things down. Consequently, things move smoothly even though laughter often causes the game to stall for a moment or so.

Build quality.

Card games tend to be a little flimsy and easy to damage. This is made worse when you use the cards when on holiday or during car/train journeys. Thankfully, Don’t Be a Dik Dik is built to last. Each of the cards is thick and the glossy finish is robust. Moreover, the deck feels substantial and shuffling and dealing each card is a joy.

This game relies on its cheeky messages and colourful imagery. Thankfully, the manufacturer has focused on high-end materials and printing to guarantee quality. As such, I’m not worried about fading or damage to each card. I’m not saying that they can withstand a heavy-handed approach, but they will last the test of time with normal use.

Don’t be a Dik Dik is immature but hard to resist.

People think that making others laugh is easy. However, there is more to it than simply writing smutty words and schoolyard stupidity. Delivering the perfect one-liner that matches the theme of each card is easier said than done. Thankfully, Don’t Be a Dik Dik gets the balance just right. Furthermore, there is a pleasant blend of guttural humour and intelligent jokes that will increase its appeal.

Alongside this, the colourful and often suggestive imagery never gets old. I found my favourite cards in the pack and the picture of a plant in the shape of male genitalia always made me chuckle. Accordingly, this straightforward game will not disappoint adults who wish to have some fun with their friends. Though it is silly and borderline unnecessary, I loved it and recommend buying it here!

_{(More information on Ginger Fox Games can be found here!)}

Don't Be a Dik Dik has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Enhanced Nintendo Switch Wireless Controller Fortnite

Daniel Waite

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Oct 27, 2024

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Review: Enhanced Nintendo Switch Wireless Controller Fortnite

The Enhanced Nintendo Switch Wireless Controller Fortnite from PowerA is a colourful and advanced peripheral. The eye-catching design, additional rear buttons, and ergonomic finish are bound to be a hit. Moreover, it has a spectacular battery life and a low-latency Bluetooth connection. Accordingly, it is the perfect companion for your Nintendo Switch.

Alongside this, the colourful design is stunning. The controller is adorned with instantly recognisable figures. Peely, Coral Castle, Cuddle Team Leader and more can be seen. On top of this, it is officially licenced by Nintendo and Epic Games. As such, you are assured of the best quality gaming experience.

What’s in the box of Enhanced Nintendo Switch Wireless Controller Fortnite?

The packing may be small, but the bright colours make it stand out. Furthermore, it is robust and recyclable.
The Enhanced Nintendo Switch Wireless Controller Fortnite is great to hold. The design is robust and ideal for gamers who wish to make a statement.
A USB-C cable is provided to charge the device.
Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

Though the Enhanced Nintendo Switch Wireless Controller Fortnite promises advanced features, it is a remarkably simple device. First, you are struck by the familiar style and the helpful LED lights. These lights highlight connectivity and your battery status. Consequently, you shouldn’t get caught out whenever you game. To the rear are 2 mappable buttons that can be altered on the fly. I’m not a massive fan of additional inputs, but they were handy for FPS and other fast-paced genres.

The low-latency Bluetooth 5.0 connection was stable and simple to sort out. It took me less than a minute to connect the controller, and I had no connection drops or issues. Another key feature of this gamepad is the intuitive motion control. This immersive experience doesn’t work on every game, but when it does, you are sucked into the action.

Build quality.

The Enhanced Nintendo Switch Wireless Controller Fortnite is officially licensed. Accordingly, it feels familiar to the Nintendo wireless pad. This was a great approach, as no one wants an awkward transition between gaming peripherals. The buttons feel robust, and the position of the rear buttons was spot on. Each paddle is placed in a natural resting location. As such, your fingers rarely feel strained whenever you use these inputs.

If you decide to use the customisable buttons, you can alter the inputs with the touch of a button. This was phenomenal as it was a streamlined and user-friendly experience. This advanced approach continues with the embedded anti-friction rings. If you want accurate and smooth inputs, this controller is for you. No matter how much I punished this device, the analogue stick responded positively. Moreover, I discovered no dead spots and this was ideal when playing demanding games.

No matter how robust a controller can be, issues can occur. Thankfully, PowerA offers an impressive 2-year warranty for peace of mind. This doesn’t mean you can deliberately smash your gamepad, but PowerA has a mindful customer service team who try to assist as best they can.

Is the Enhanced Nintendo Switch Wireless Controller Fortnite worth it?

Wireless gaming is convenient and easy to set up. Moreover, the inclusion of motion control ensures that your experience is immersive. If you run low on juice you can plug the controller in with the 10-metre cable. Yet, with a 30+ hour battery life, I can’t see this being an issue. If you love Fortnite and you want a vibrant and eye-catching controller, then this device should be on your horizon. It is officially licenced and the customisable inputs have an elite edge. Accordingly, it is a great peripheral and I recommend buying it here!

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

The Enhanced Nintendo Switch Wireless Controller Fortnite has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Preview: Bandit Knight

Daniel Waite

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Oct 27, 2024

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I cannot condone breaking the law. However, whenever I get the opportunity to be a little naughty in the virtual world, I can’t help but get carried away. I recently played Thief Simulator 2 and loved sneaking in the shadows. Accordingly, when I was offered Bandit Knight to play, I couldn’t resist. Now, the 2 games are different and the only similarities are the sticky fingers and the naughty theft.

This 2.5D pixelated adventure title was developed by Game Float and published by Spiral Up Games. Furthermore, it is a single-player experience set in a vast world. If you are a Steam Deck gamer, you’ll be glad to know that this works perfectly. What’s more, if you prefer to use a gamepad, this has you covered. I’ve only had the opportunity to look at the demo version, but this was enough for me to become hooked and enjoy every moment.

Bandit Knight is all about the life of a thief.

Being a thief is a dirty and frowned upon profession. These sneaky individuals hide in the shadows waiting to pounce. Moreover, they have no honour and do not care who they hurt as they get rich. However, occasionally, these law-breaking individuals do some good. This is exactly what happens in Bandit Knight! As the thief roams different environments, they take the opportunity to right some wrongs. This was great as the “bosses” don’t know what has hit them, and you improve your skills and your bank balance at the same time.

The game revolves around a petty thief who wishes to prove themselves. They have joined a thief clan and wish to get rich in the process. As they explore each wealthy area, they must steal as much treasure as possible. Moreover, they will find magical artefacts to improve their skills and unlock new abilities. This was great as each stage looks to become progressively harder. Subsequently, improving your base skills and upgrading your abilities to steal goods without being spotted is important.

A fun opening chapter.

The demo allows you to look at the opening chapter. This action-packed level is filled with gold, jewels, and plenty of hidden rooms. It is your responsibility to smash glass boxes and steal as many valuables as you can. Yet, word of warning, if you are caught pickpocketing or if the guards spot you, you’ll find it difficult to complete your quest. I loved this gentle difficulty curve as you were rewarded for taking your time and hiding in the shadows.

As I could repeat the level as many times as I wished, I tried many approaches. First I used stealth and this was fantastic. Knocking the guards out and stealing goods whilst evading capture was great fun. Yet, bum-rushing every encounter and using brute force was equally good. Accordingly, you may choose the style that works for you.

Unlocking each artefact and improving your hero will be a key aspect of Bandit Knight. I believe that this will enhance your gameplay style and as the levels evolve, it will become a driving force behind success and failure. Though I had limited visibility on how this will unfold, I enjoyed the small snippets I saw and I can’t wait to see how it impacts the latter game.

Bandit Knight looks fantastic.

I’m a fan of pixelated games. Though they do not punish modern systems, I adore the old-school edge. Bandit Knight does a particularly good job with its level design and character models. Moreover, the animation was fluid and I liked the level of detail. The trailer highlights the varied stage design and it will be interesting to explore the other exciting locations.

The audio was great. The opening stage has a regal and upmarket atmosphere. Consequently, the music captured this perfectly. Additionally, there is a sense of drama and energy as you sneak through each room. On top of this, the sound effects are fun and I loved the smashing of glass and the clunk of every unlocked door.

Excellent controls.

I tested this on Steam Deck and PC. I used a gamepad and mouse and keyboard and it works well with both. While playing on Steam Deck, I didn’t have to adjust any settings and it worked as soon as I loaded it up. This was nice as I’m pretty lazy and I don’t like to waste time tweaking my controls. When I used the gamepad, the movement felt fluid and the inputs were responsive and easy to follow.

Replay value and longevity are limited within this demo version. Each stage appears to have plenty of collectables to find and this should force you to return. Alongside this, there are plenty of artefacts to steal and loads of different abilities to improve. Therefore, I can see this forcing you to play it repeatedly.

Bandit Knight has a bright future.

Previewing a demo is tough. The game can change considerably and this can confuse. However, I believe that Bandit Knight will stay on this excellent path and the game will excel as a consequence. My short experience has been an enjoyable endeavour and I can’t wait for the developers to release more content. Accordingly, it has a bright future and I recommend trying it here! Can you become a master thief? Learn your trade, hide in the shadows, and get rich any way you can.

Review: Manic Mechanics

Daniel Waite

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Oct 26, 2024

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Manic Mechanics is a simple but chaotic affair. Like Overcooked, Moving Out, or Tools Up, this crazy title offers bite-size stages and plenty of obstacles to overcome. However, this genre is saturated and perhaps this is one step too far. Sadly, this game lacks originality and that was unfortunate. Yet, the action is fun and the variety in level design and the interesting ideas offer enough to keep you busy. Accordingly, though it doesn’t have any fresh ideas, it is still enjoyable, regardless.

This action-adventure game was developed and published by 4J Studios Ltd. Moreover, it is a solo or cooperative experience. The multiplayer action can be enjoyed locally or online with 3 other gamers. As such, this has the perfect ingredients if you wish to make the most out of this hectic title. 30 levels stand between you and victory. Furthermore, each level has a scoring system for you to perfect. Consequently, there is plenty to do as you race around each stage.

Manic Mechanics tells a poor tale.

Octane Isle is a petrolhead’s dream. Everywhere you look, there are garages and competitive individuals. Each person believes they are better than the last, and this creates the ultimate sense of competition. Sadly, though, there is a serious lack of depth. Though every garage and stage has a minor backstory, there is not a lot to inspire you. When you consider its peers, you’ll understand that a hilarious plot can be included. Therefore, it was a shame the developer missed this opportunity.

Though the story didn’t inspire me, I loved the drip-fed mechanics and the interesting level design. Additionally, no stage is the same and this was truly fascinating. During the solo endeavour, you must fly across each stage picking up parts, repairing them, and fitting them to each car. The quicker you go, the better your score. However, you must be mindful that too much speed can be a bad thing. With flammable liquids and paint on the floor, you must watch your step.

This excels as a coop title.

The single-player action was great, but this excels as a coop title. Manic Mechanics is hectic at the best of times. Yet, when you add 3 like-minded individuals to the mix, things go crazy. Each stage plays out differently and you cannot plan for all eventualities. Therefore, if you are trying to maximise your score, you’ll be kept on your toes throughout.

Gamers may work together to pass faulty or repaired items to each other. Furthermore, you can clean oil, paint, and other obstacles. However, avoiding every hurdle is practically impossible and you must communicate if you wish to score 3 stars. On top of this, there is a large final stage per world to test your skills. This was great as it ups the ante without being too unfair.

Manic Mechanics is a colourful affair.

This genre is renowned for its whacky settings and vibrant colours. Thankfully, Manic Mechanics doesn’t disappoint. Each character model is interesting to look at and adds a layer of humour. Alongside this, each world is varied and the obstacles are well-balanced. Accordingly, the level design does enough to keep you entertained from beginning to end.

The audio is as upbeat as you’d expect. The loud soundtrack enhances the madness that unfolds. Furthermore, the sound effects are crass but accurate. I liked the fantasy elements as the aliens and other strange moments keep you on your toes.

Accurate controls.

The opening level acts as a tutorial. Here you will learn how to operate the machinery and the more advanced techniques. This was great as there was no pressure and each player could get to grips with the fundamentals. If you have played any game in this genre, you will not need long to master every element. However, the drip-fed mechanics prevent you from becoming bored.

The accurate and easy-to-pick-up controls help Manic Mechanics to flow nicely. The well-considered layout was easy to understand and the inputs are responsive. Subsequently, this is ideal for newbies and veterans alike.

Manic Mechanics is let down by its replay value and longevity. If you don’t care about maximising your score, you’ll finish this in around 4 hours. Thankfully though, the cooperative action keeps you coming back for more. Additionally, you can unlock new characters and there are hidden Easter eggs in each world. As such, there are a few things to keep you busy.

Manic Mechanics is a fun but well-trodden game.

Unfortunately, Manic Mechanics does not tread any fresh ground. The action is very familiar and the story lacks oomph. However, it is fun and the level design is great. Furthermore, playing with friends was exceptional. As such, though it lacks originality, it is perfect to fill a void. Accordingly, I recommend buying it here! Can you compete with every garage? Mind the obstacles, repair each car, and challenge every petrolhead.

Review: Silent Hill 2

Matt Cooper

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Oct 26, 2024

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It’s been twenty three years since the now seminal classic Silent Hill was released. Now reimagined for modern consoles, the question is: is it a worthy retelling of the beloved game? Or should it have stayed as a relic in time?

Into The Fog

I have to admit something immediately; I hate most things to do with the horror genre. I am not someone who enjoys being scared through film and bar a few games ( Mainly Resident Evil 5 and Alan Wake 2) I steer clear of the genre. But I had always been intrigued by why so many people consider Silent Hill 2 one of, if not, the greatest horror games of all time and now finally, I understand why. Released originally on PS2, the game captivated fans around the world with its blend of survival horror, mixed with a narrative that focused on the psychological elements of horror. It has virtually no ties to the original Silent Hill, nor does it tie into its subsequent sequel, thus making this game stand completely on its own. Now it’s back in full scale remake form, with development duties being handled by Bloober Team who are best known for their work on Layers Of Fear. In collaboration with Konami, the story once again focuses on James Sunderland, a widower who decides to return to the American midwestern town of Silent Hill. He decides to do this after receiving a letter from his supposedly dead wife Mary. As someone who hadn’t played the original version, the opening is superb and drew me in almost instantly. The monologue from James, coupled with the journey to the town, really helps set the sombre yet creepy tone.

From here, as James ventures further and further into the town, strange and terrifying encounters begin to occur. James is a fantastic protagonist as he desperately seeks to find answers to his biggest questions, alongside dealing with his own inner demons. So, it’s here I think that Silent Hill 2 is one of the best games I have ever played for displaying mental health issues and using mental health as a tool for horror. It’s simply astounding how effectively the story is able to weave in these elements with traditional survival horror. As you venture further into the narrative, you begin to question more and more what is real and what is not for James, and very few games have been able to achieve this so superbly. It’s a truly unsettling, yet utterly absorbing story that will stay with me for a long time as it deals with the themes of grief, guilt and punishment. The tightly woven subplots are also superb as James meets townsfolk and attempts to uncover and help with their own struggles. Its twists and turns that I did not fully know also had a profound impact and I implore anyone like myself who did not know much about the plot, to go in with as little knowledge as possible.

Depending on your choice, there are multiple satisfying conclusions to the story and I cannot believe it has taken me this long to finally experience this tale. It reminds me fondly of the wonderful Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice by Ninja Theory. For veterans of the original, everything is here that you know and love: the wonderful, yet thought-provoking horror tale and the multiple endings on offer, yet Bloober have managed to expand on the original with new areas to explore and new endings to uncover. It’s clear the development team are huge fans of the original game and this has been displayed so evidently in their retelling of the classic tale. And whilst the story follows the same beats, the team have done so much more with the gameplay itself.

Claustrophobic Chaos

The original gameplay of Silent Hill 2 is somewhat of a relic nowadays. You controlled James from a third-person perspective whilst having virtually no HUD, which forced players to pause the menu to check health and items, whilst maps could only be viewed if James had obtained a flashlight or had enough natural light. Gunplay itself was very rigid and troublesome at times whilst melee combat was as basic as it could possibly be but thankfully, with the remake, the gameplay has been modernised, with superb results. Again using the third-person camera perspective, controlling and traversing as James feels smooth and natural and is very similar to the modernised Resident Evil games. The HUD once again is almost non-existent but there are quality of life improvements like the red outline for your health dropping or the health symbol displaying in the bottom corner when critically injured. Menus are basic but easy to navigate, making fans of the original feel right at home. Furthermore, the combat system has been reimagined, making it the real star of this game for me.

Combat, like the original is achieved through melee combat, with either the wooden plank or the metal pipe as weapons or ranged combat with the shotgun and handgun as your tools of destruction. Melee combat feels weighty and brutal; it truly felt like every time I fought one of the many creepy and disgusting monsters, my next move could be my last. James is no combat expert and that is superbly shown in gameplay as he frantically swings and evades attacks. It’s so simple to use, yet it feels complicated at the same time and I adored this system. Boss battles are the true example of this as I felt almost powerless as I attempted to evade the iconic pyramid head. Ranged combat also feels superb. Moving and aiming feel slick and help diversify combat. Alongside combat, the puzzles return and they are thought-provoking and deep in their design and scale. It helps break up the story doing these tasks, while also heightening tension as you search for items in drawers or cupboards to help you.

The design of the levels and areas themselves also create superb results in combat. As most areas are narrow corridors or claustrophobic environments, I really felt an enemy could jump out at me at any corner. It’s a brutal and unforgiving game at times but thankfully the game’s accessibility options are some of the best to be released in recent memory. These options allow you to tweak combat to how you see fit and also give you options for puzzles which I think is a superb choice for gamers who want to focus on pure exploration or pure combat. There are also great control options and quality of life improvements, such as the ability to add an icon for traversal points to help you navigate your way around or visual aides for people who suffer from colour-blindness. Everything in gameplay has been crafted to make you feel desperate and increasingly hopeless as you control James. It really accentuates the survival and the psychological horror for the player and it’s a new benchmark for this genre.

Beauty In The Bleak

Twenty three years is a long time and boy has technology come a long way. This version of Silent Hill is simply breath-taking. The hauntingly beautiful fog that covers most of the town is back and looks phenomenal, but what looks just as good is watching James push through it. The draw distance is so expertly achieved that every time I walked into the fog, I feared what might pop out at me. The town is like a character in its own right; every wall and street is so detailed you could spend hours scouring the vast buildings on offer. However, it’s inside the buildings where the game truly shines.

The apartment buildings are so disgustingly beautiful in their design, which is true art. Corridors are eroding and damaged, lights flicker and spike to heighten tension and fear. It’s a near pitch perfect creation for survival horror as every environment has so many different layers to it and when environments change due to puzzles and story events, it truly is a modern marvel. It reminds me of Alan Wake 2 in the way it tells the story through environments and texts that you can pick up. A true feat. Lighting is also excellent with James’ flashlight so narrow and short in distance, you really don’t know what is around the corner. Coupled with strong animation design and solid if not spectacular character design, you have top class presentation and Bloober Team should be lauded for their efforts.

Similarly, sound design and soundtrack are absolutely stellar. The sound design is quite simply some of the best I have experienced in a horror game. Each footstep sounds loud and powerful as you wander through each area and creaking doors sound so eerie, it’s unbelievably nerve racking. Enemy sound design is among the best around, as at every turn you can hear the enemies wandering around. This created such fear for me it was extremely uncomfortable. Melee weapons sickeningly boom off enemies as you hit them, whilst bullets echo through the corridors to tremendous effect. The tension the developers have created alone through sound design is phenomenal. The soundtrack is quietly powerful yet booms when dramatic moments occur. It is a true horror soundtrack that really exacerbated my growing discomfort and fear as I ventured further and further in. The voice acting on display is solid and the dialogue is quite cringey at times but overall a fantastic audio that helps propel this story to new heights.

Verdict

Simply put, Silent Hill 2 is a complete horror masterpiece. It is a superb thought-provoking story that hit closer to home than I had expected and it is propelled by a new combat system that really helps create the feeling of desperation. Sublime graphics, haunting environment design and truly chilling sound design and score help make this the quintessential horror game. I have never loved horror. But I truly love this game. See you in the fog!

A Closer Look at the Official Atari 3D Wall Art – Cartridge Collection

Andrew Edney

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Oct 26, 2024

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A Closer Look at the Official Atari 3D Wall Art – Cartridge Collection

With Christmas not that far away, you might be looking for a unique gift for the retro gamer in your life. If that’s the case, take a look at the Official Atari 3D Wall Art – Cartridge Collection.

Step back into the golden age of gaming with the Atari Iconic Collection, a tribute to one of the most influential names in video game history. Atari’s legacy has not only shaped the gaming landscape but also sparked creativity across pop culture. Now, with this collection, you can bring a touch of gaming nostalgia into your everyday life, featuring stunning pieces that blend functionality with retro charm.

Retro Revolution: Dive into the past with the Atari Games Cartridges 3D Wall Art, bringing the iconic cartridge design into your modern space.
Colourful Nostalgia: Each piece captures the vibrant essence of Atari’s game cartridges, adding a splash of colour and retro flair to any room.
Interactive Artwork: Not just a visual treat, this collection invites viewers to engage with a piece of gaming history on their walls.
Dynamic Décor: Whether it’s for a gaming den, living room, or office, these cartridges offer a versatile touch that complements any decorating style.
Unique Gifting Idea: Ideal for the gamer who appreciates the roots of video gaming, or anyone looking to add a distinctive piece to their collection.
Legacy Collection: A celebration of Atari’s pioneering contributions to the gaming world, making it a must-have for enthusiasts and collectors.
Time Capsule: Each 3D wall art piece serves as a portal back to the golden age of gaming, evoking memories, and admiration.

The collection includes more than just wall art; it also features an Atari Joystick Decanter Set, a Pint Glass, and dynamic 3D wall art inspired by iconic Atari games like Pong and Asteroids. The Joystick Decanter Set is crafted to elevate your drinks experience, shaped like the original CX-10 controller and complete with two action button glasses, a must-have for any collector. The Atari Beer Glass is perfect for enjoying your favourite beverages, blending the classic Atari logo with practical design.

Whether you’re a gamer, a fan of ’80s nostalgia, or simply someone who appreciates unique collectibles, the Atari Iconic Collection is designed to celebrate your love for gaming history. Ideal for home décor, entertaining, or as the perfect gift, these pieces evoke memories of the golden era of video games while fitting seamlessly into any modern lifestyle.

Official Atari 3D Wall Art – Cartridge Collection: £39.99 from ThumbsUp.com