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Review: Black Myth: Wukong

Dawid Wisniewski

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Sep 24, 2024

Black Myth: Wukong, developed by Game Science, is an action RPG that thrusts players into the mythological world of Journey to the West. This title has captured attention for its jaw-dropping visuals, engaging combat, and ambitious storytelling, making it one of the most anticipated releases in recent years. While it succeeds on many fronts, some aspects prevent it from being a genre-defining experience.

Visual Splendour and Artistic Direction

The first thing you’ll notice about Black Myth: Wukong is its breathtaking visual presentation. Built using Unreal Engine 5, the game brings the mythical world to life with stunning detail and artistry. Every environment, from lush forests to snow-capped mountains, feels meticulously crafted. The game’s lighting effects, weather patterns, and textures are a marvel, offering a cinematic experience throughout. The character models, particularly the design of Wukong and the variety of enemies, are intricate and polished, adding to the game’s immersion.

However, it’s not just about technical brilliance; the art direction of Black Myth: Wukong is equally impressive. Drawing inspiration from Chinese folklore and the classic novel Journey to the West, the game creates a rich mythological world that feels both ancient and fantastical. The attention to detail in the landscapes, character designs, and architecture pays homage to Chinese culture, giving the game a distinct identity within the RPG genre.

Dynamic Combat, But Not Without Flaws

Combat in Black Myth: Wukong is fast-paced and engaging. It combines basic attacks, combos, and dodging with more intricate systems such as transformations. Wukong can transform into various creatures he defeats, adopting their skills and abilities. This adds an extra layer of depth to combat, allowing players to switch up their playstyle depending on the enemy or situation. The array of magical abilities, including defensive spells like turning into stone or offensive ones like summoning clones, provides a variety of tactical options.

Boss battles are where the game truly shines. These encounters are visually spectacular, with each fight demanding precision, timing, and strategy. The difficulty ramps up, and players will likely find themselves retrying certain bosses multiple times. While this could be frustrating for some, it also provides a satisfying challenge for fans of the genre.

Despite its strong points, the combat system isn’t perfect. The game’s gear and crafting systems, although present, feel somewhat superficial. The lack of meaningful equipment variety or impactful gear progression may leave some players feeling unmotivated to explore and loot. This shortcoming is a missed opportunity in a game that could have benefitted from a more robust system akin to Nioh or Dark Souls. The linearity of certain environments also detracts from the otherwise engaging combat loop, as exploration doesn’t always feel rewarding.

A Mythical Journey

Black Myth: Wukong tells its story in a somewhat minimalist fashion, relying heavily on cutscenes and environmental storytelling. For fans of Journey to the West, the game offers a fresh take on the familiar tale of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King. The cutscenes are beautifully animated and seamlessly integrated into the gameplay, enhancing the narrative experience.

However, the storytelling approach can feel vague at times, with important lore details conveyed through cryptic dialogues or hidden within the game world. While this “show, don’t tell” method may appeal to fans of the Souls series, those unfamiliar with the original Chinese myth might find themselves lost. Despite this, the game’s characters are likable, and the story remains intriguing, even if it’s not groundbreaking.

Gorgeous, But Demanding

Visually, Black Myth: Wukong is one of the best-looking games of recent years, but that comes with a cost. The game is demanding on hardware, requiring a high-end PC to fully appreciate its visual splendor. Performance is generally smooth, though some players have reported issues with crashes, audio desynchronization, and occasional frame drops, particularly on less powerful setups like the Steam Deck.

For players willing to overlook some minor technical hiccups, the overall experience remains enjoyable, especially if played on a powerful PC. However, the game’s current lack of optimization may frustrate players who experience repeated crashes during challenging boss fights or extended exploration.

Verdict

Black Myth: Wukong is a visually stunning and mechanically sound RPG that offers a fresh spin on a beloved myth. Its engaging combat, especially the epic boss battles, and impressive art direction make it a must-play for fans of action RPGs. However, the game’s linear exploration, underwhelming gear system, and occasional technical issues hold it back from being a true masterpiece.

For those looking for a challenging action RPG with deep roots in Chinese mythology, Black Myth: Wukong delivers an unforgettable experience, even if it stumbles in a few areas.

Review: Warhammer 40,000 Ultimate Guide

Daniel Waite

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Sep 24, 2024

0

The Warhammer 40,000 Ultimate Guide brings together years of lore, units, and spectacular ideas into one phenomenal location. This encyclopaedia is the one-stop shop for fans of the game. Furthermore, if you wish to upgrade your knowledge or you wish to impress your Warhammer-loving mates, then this is the book for you. Gavin Thorpe and Guy Haley are experts in their field. This writing team has incorporated their years of knowledge and love of Warhammer lore to create this eye-catching and information-packed experience.

I have been involved in Warhammer for as long as I can remember. However, I do not claim to be an expert and I certainly cannot name every unit, faction, and other lore-based idea that has ever been created. Accordingly, I was thrilled when this book landed on my doorstep. Page after page of highly detailed images and text unfold before your very eyes. Moreover, it is easy to navigate to your desired section as everything is laid out in a simple to follow and methodical way.

Warhammer 40,000 Ultimate Guide discusses key lore and evolution.

I knew Warhammer 40K was massive, but this book blew my tiny mind. I didn’t realise how much the world has evolved and the fine tweaks to the lore and each unit. The authors’ attention to detail and the well-written captions help newbies and veterans piece together layers they may have missed. Moreover, you gather the sense of enthusiasm and love that the pair have for this incredible subject matter.

If this wasn’t enough, the imagery and the spectacular miniatures are awesome. Whether it is the backstory of the Ultramarines or the inner workings of the Brides of the Emperor, the Warhammer 40,000 Ultimate Guide has it all. Details on weapons, armour, coats of arms, and much more fill every page of this book. Furthermore, you can enjoy the exceptional paintwork and jaw-dropping detail of every Ork or Tyranid that has ever existed.

A book of pure quality.

Though the imagery and text were impressive, I expected nothing less from the authors. What amazed me most was the level of print quality. This hardback book feels great to read. The weight is impressive and the thickness of every page has an element of pure quality. Unlike cheaper books, this one doesn’t feel like it’ll rip and tear as you turn each page. What’s more, I didn’t experience any horrible creasing or binder issues.

Alongside this, the writing is easy to digest, which is important in such a lore-heavy text. If you were looking for key information, this book would be a great source of knowledge. However, if you wish to flick through the pages, you’ll never feel overwhelmed or out of your depth. As such, this is the perfect tome for newbies to the game or long-term lovers of the franchise. Accordingly, I adore this book and I recommend buying it here!

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

The Warhammer 40,000 Ultimate Guide has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Marko: Beyond Brave

Josh Blackburn

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Sep 24, 2024

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When did moustaches go out of style? This thought popped into my mind as I watched the opening cutscene of Marko: Beyond Brave. The three-headed dragon bit was very interesting, of course, but I was fixated on the moustache. You don’t see many without a beard these days. A full moustache-beard combo is great. But moustache alone? Somewhere along the line it became creepy, or the property of hipsters. Some societal switch was flicked, and we would no longer tolerate another Tom Selleck.

Still, I’ve not seen anyone with as magnificient a moustache as Marko. That thing would tickle the ears of people sitting next to him. Still, the game that the moustache is housed in is a bit less impressive. It’s a lesson in how an otherwise solid core can be dragged down by smaller annoyances. Marko: Beyond Brave is a metroidvania that hesitantly ticks the right boxes, but makes missteps in the fine details. A magnificient moustache, yes, but it’s full of lice.

Moustachevania

Let’s put the moustache to one side for a moment, and talk about that three-headed dragon, Entropy. It opens by trampling over the land of Zagora, including the village that Marko, a woodcutter with the aforementioned fascinating facial hair, lives in. He fights back with his axe, but the only result is the crumbling of the bridge beneath him. Lost down under the village, he finds a mystic sword in a cavern and begins cutting his way back up to the surface. The moustache – and the rest of him – then set out to give Entropy the what-for.

It’s a story that’s slathered in Slavic mythology, and Marko: Beyond Brave presents itself well in that regard. The art style is great, for one. There’s something almost Max Flesicher in the design of Marko, and the hand drawn art fits the fairytale theme well. I rather like the boss designs too. A recurring boss fight involves genie-like women coming out of urns and dancing in the background. It was almost mesmorising, which is a problem as I had to focus on the lightning storms they were summoning. In short, the general design of Marko: Beyond Brave is top dollar.

Gameplay-wise, it has some promising notes. It’s a metroidvania, for one, which is a genre that always puts a smile on my face. It’s a genre that has three main pillars holding it up: exploration, platforming and combat. Exploration puts in the best showing. It’s a reasonably expansive map, with lots of corners to poke into that will net you upgrades. That said, it’s not the best at guidance. The map has no fog-of-war, making it hard to tell where you’ve been. In fact, I’ve only managed to reach the bad ending so far because I have no idea what I’m missing to progress, despite having scoured the map. Some doors are still closed, and one of the merchants is bugged and won’t sell me anything. That’s not good.

Falling Flat

The other two pillars of Marko: Beyond Brave don’t fare too well either. Platforming is probably the worst of the bunch. Being a metroidvania, we have a standard suite of movement upgrades. Problem is, the standard jump doesn’t feel right. It’s something to do with the platform detection. Sometimes jumps cause Marko to suddenly shoot up and on to a platform; other times he’ll smack into it. It makes tough platforming segments feel frustratingly unpredictable. When combined with a finicky teleporting mechanic, it becomes maddening. A shame, because Marko feels quite pleasant to control outside of that, particularly when dashing.

Combat suffers a bit as well. Firstly, I had a few issues with poorly sized hitboxes, as well as a lack of i-frames when hit. However the developer has been diligently working on these, which I do approve of. There are bigger issues, though. The basic melee attack has no real weight to it. Combat feel is a tricky mistress, but dealing and taking damage just doesn’t feel exciting. Boss fights lack the excitement factor too. While interesting in design, their attack patterns are very predictable, making success more an inevitability than a test of skill.

I’m kicking Marko: Beyond Brave a lot, but the overarching issue seems to boil down to this: the game feels unfinished. There’s a whiff of ‘early access’ about it. It’s not just in the fine details either. There’s a ‘Bestiary’ page on the menu, for instance, which is completely empty. There are plenty of strange graphical bugs, too, and one boss fight – with a rat wizard, who I would normally celebrate from the rooftops – which I could keep repeating forever. All these are signs of a game that was pushed out onto the stage long before it was ready.

Marko: Beyond Brave – Metroidvania, Uncooked

It’s a shame, because deep in the core of Marko: Beyond Brave is a decent metroidvania. Slavic myth is a spring that is certainly under-tapped in video games. Combined with the lovely art, this could really have been a winner. Hell, it’s even got a nice variety of environments, enemies and boss designs. It’s unfortunate that the cluster of frustrations that cling to the gameplay serve to drag it down so much. I went in really trying to like it. After ten hours of play, I couldn’t sustain that feeling.

To end on a note of positivity, though, it’s heartening to see the developers work on these issues. A lot of them, like the platforming, are surmountable with time. I write reviews like this with hope that I’ll be eating my words in a few months time. I can only review what’s right in front of me, after all. Meaning, I have to conclude like this: there is a lot of promise in Marko: Beyond Brave, but as things stand, it’s not living up to that promise. Give it longer to cook before you check it out.

(Marko: Beyond Brave’s Store Page)

Review: Tiny Battles

Daniel Waite

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Sep 23, 2024

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Tiny Battles is a problematic indie title that is unfortunately broken. If you love to unlock achievements, you cannot. Disappointingly, this game cannot connect to the Microsoft servers and at the point of writing this review, it must be played offline. Though this seems minor, it is a poor user experience. Furthermore, it slows loading times and causes numerous crashes. Accordingly, you’ll need to be understanding and patient before you even play this game.

This auto battler was developed by MyDreamForever and published by Samustai LTD. Moreover, it is a single-player title that uses a top-down perspective. Additionally, it has refined mechanics and a little trial and error allows you to thrive. However, it is this simplicity that reduces the tactical ideas. What’s more, there was a sense of luck that frustrated me throughout.

Tiny Battles has no story.

I love a good plot. Annoyingly, Tiny Battles ignores this basic idea. This is particularly disappointing as there is a host of antagonists to challenge you and plenty of chances to create minor storylines. Though the lack of story was unsettling, the gameplay and core mechanics work regardless.

You play the role of a general who must oversee the creation of his army. As time progresses, your squad expands and new upgraded units can be selected. The aim is to control the central mine to enhance your supply of gold. In turn, this increases your production of warriors and you turn the tide of each war in your favour.

Too much luck and not enough judgement.

The core idea should be interesting. However, Tiny Battles relies on too much luck for my liking. No matter how hard you plan, your opponent always feels one step ahead. What’s more, controlling the central point was like walking through quicksand. Unfortunately, you rarely hold it for long enough for it to aid your advances. Consequently, your opponent is always powerful and this creates an unbalanced approach.

First, you have basic units to overwhelm your foe. You can pay to open a tier of soldiers as you gather gold. This opportunity adds wizards and assassins to your ranks. This is essential if you wish to create a line of defence and keep moving forward. During the end game, you can upgrade your options one more time. If you get to this stage first, your opponent stands no chance and victory is all but assured. However, getting to this stage first is difficult, and you, like me, will get your ass handed to you regularly.

Tiny Battles is brilliantly pixelated.

Though the simple gameplay and lack of story were unfortunate, the graphics are great. I adore the pixelated sprites and the blocky but vivid surroundings. Additionally, the animation is suitable and brutal. Each character dies and fades to keep the battlefield clear. This rudimentary design was perfect, making it easier to follow the action.

The audio enhances the madness. The upbeat soundtrack and loud sound effects were great. Though they lacked originality, they were serviceable and pleasant to listen to. Unfortunately, there isn’t much variety and this was a shame. The audio would have been vastly improved if the developer had increased the number of tracks and sound effects.

Clumsy controls.

Flitting from squad management and on-field observations were clumsy at best. Furthermore, the lack of a tutorial was shortsighted. Though you’ll pick things up with ease, a clearer UI and a thorough explanation would have gone a long way. Other than these issues, the gameplay flows nicely.

You face an army of evil overlords. Theoretically, this should generate hours of replay value and plenty of longevity. Yet, this wasn’t the case. Instead, the action is repetitive and this can only be enjoyed casually as a consequence.

Tiny Battles should have been better.

I loved the core concept. Auto battlers are fun and there is a sense of freedom and minor tactical moments to keep you hooked. Unfortunately, Tiny Battles doesn’t do enough to keep you focused. Additionally, the lack of achievements and the server issues undermine any positives. As such, though it was fun, I cannot recommend it. More information can be found here if you wish! Can you become the champion and overcome every foe? Scan the battlefield, pick your troops, and hope that luck is on your side.

Review: Hive Jump2: survivors

Dawid Wisniewski

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Sep 23, 2024

0

“Hive Jump 2: Survivors” is a fast-paced bullet-hell roguelite that successfully merges chaotic, action-packed gameplay with strategic progression elements, albeit with some notable limitations. Developed by Midwest Games, the game offers an exciting mix of familiar roguelite mechanics, such as upgrade systems and procedural enemy waves, but it adds a unique twist with its emphasis on vertical movement using a jetpack.

bullet hell with a twist.

The core gameplay loop involves controlling a “jumper,” equipped with a limited array of weapons, as they fight through relentless swarms of alien bugs. The jetpack is one of the standout features, allowing for quick manoeuvres over enemies and obstacles. This mechanic creates a dynamic layer to the typical bullet-hell experience, adding tactical decisions as players must manage their fuel usage while dodging enemies. Many upgrades are tied to the jetpack itself, enhancing movement speed, fire rate, and the effectiveness of utilities like grenades. This helps keep the action fluid and engaging, even as the screen fills with enemies.

One of the game’s most enjoyable features is the progression system. Players earn goo from defeated enemies, which acts as both currency and experience for upgrading equipment. There’s also a meta-upgrade system that offers permanent enhancements across multiple runs, encouraging players to dive back into the game repeatedly. The various “jumpers” with distinct stats and starting abilities add further replay ability, making each run feel a little different.

same map, another run.

However, the game has some drawbacks. The limited variety of weapons can make longer play sessions feel repetitive. While the few available weapons are fun to use, expanding the arsenal would provide more tactical depth. Similarly, map variety is somewhat lacking, and the environments, though beautifully rendered in pixel art, can start to feel monotonous after a few hours of play. These issues are compounded by an upgrade system that, while robust, limits experimentation. Players are constrained by only having three active item slots (to begin with), forcing tough decisions about which upgrades to use.

Despite some shortcomings, “Hive Jump 2: Survivors” shines in the sheer joy of its chaotic combat. The satisfaction of narrowly dodging swarms of enemies, upgrading your character, and taking down enormous alien hives never really gets old. The addition of optional challenges and hive-destroying missions also adds strategic depth, allowing players to earn extra rewards while risking their survival

In summary, while “Hive Jump 2: Survivors” doesn’t reinvent the genre, it offers a solid, enjoyable experience for fans of bullet-hell roguelites. Its jetpack mechanic adds a unique touch to the action, and the upgrade system provides enough depth to keep players coming back for more. However, the limited weapon and map variety, along with some restrictive mechanics, hold it back from being truly exceptional.

Review: TRU 1 Wireless Earbuds

Reviews
Tech

Daniel Waite

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Sep 22, 2024

0

The TRU 1 Wireless Earbuds deliver high-end audio without breaking the bank. These mighty earphones are great if you love to listen to music or podcasts, or if you want to enhance your gaming experience. Whatever the reason for buying them, you will not be disappointed.

The button-designed earbuds have taken over. However, I like the original elongated style. The extended casing feels more comfortable and there are fewer concerns regarding accidents and dropping. Moreover, I find them easier to handle and more suited to vigorous activities.

Whenever you look for any audio device, sound quality is king! Thankfully, these earbuds deliver incredible audio and a user-friendly approach. Moreover, the battery life is impressive and I liked the lightweight finish. Accordingly, they are comfortable and I never worried about running out of power.

What’s in the box of the TRU 1 Wireless Earbuds?

The packaging is tiny. Key selling points highlight every major element and the box can be recycled.
The TRU 1 Wireless Earbuds utilise a classic style. The elongated body is comfortable to hold and wear. Furthermore, they are light and simple to use. What’s more, they are available in black or white.
Charge your earbuds with the robust case. This charging solution allows you up to 30 hours of playtime.
3 sets of ear tips are provided.
Charge the case with the USB-C cable.
Learn the basics with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

Majority Audio has been surprisingly generous with its tech-based approach. The TRU 1 Wireless Earbuds are packed with modern features. Accordingly, I was surprised by their affordable price tag. Bluetooth 5.3 is perfect for a stable connection and minimal power draw. This upto date feature allows you to connect to any suitable device in seconds. Moreover, you enjoy a stable 10-metre connection.

On top of this, the battery life was great! You’ll enjoy 7.5 hours from one charge and 3 full charges from the handy carry case. Furthermore, a 30-minute boost gives you an impressive 2 hours of playtime. Therefore, if you are in a pinch, you can still play or listen to music without worrying about running out of power.

Audio quality.

The TRU 1 Wireless Earbuds have placed all their eggs in one basket. They have gambled with high-quality audio to blow away every user! As such, I was impressed by the range of tones and the power of the bass line. The 13mm drivers create a punchy and rounded audio experience that does not disappoint. Moreover, you can identify the range of tones without any distortion or crackling.

Thankfully, the built-in microphone was great and I had no reports of poor quality or changing volume levels. What’s more, there were no latency issues and this was ideal if you use these earbuds whilst gaming. Though there isn’t an external voice and gaming balance controller, most modern machines allow you to do this to create the optimum experience.

Build quality.

The classic design choice may divide people. However, I found the TRU 1 Wireless Earbuds extremely comfortable and secure when worn. The elongated body is easy to handle and the 3 different silicone tips ensure you get a snug fit. I tested these earbuds when walking and running, and they stayed put throughout. Yet, if you want to run, I’d contemplate the Tru Sports Earbuds instead.

The black or white finish is alluring and discreet. Moreover, the touch controls are hidden at the top of each device. This was great as they kept the finish streamlined whilst improving the user experience. The handy carry case has an LED to highlight the charging status. Moreover, the earbuds are secure whenever they are stowed away. Though the tiny case can be slippery to hold and open, it is robust and can take a few knocks.

Are the TRU 1 Wireless Earbuds worth it?

Affordable earbuds that deliver impressive audio are hard to come by. Thankfully, the TRU 1 Wireless Earbuds do just that. The pleasant range of tones and a clear microphone create an exceptional audio experience. Furthermore, they are well-built and the battery life will make you smile. As such, I love them and I recommend buying them here!

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

The TRU 1 Wireless Earbuds have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Melobot: The Last Song

Saim Khurshid

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Sep 22, 2024

0

Melobot: The last song, developed by Anomalie studio and published by Microïds, is a Musical Rhythm based Puzzle game about robots and plants.

I won’t beat around the bush with this one, I am not a big fan of the music or genre in gaming but Melobot: The last song really phoned this one in.

Melo-plot

In Melobot – A Last Song, you play as a cute little robot with the oh-so-important task of saving the world through music. Because why not? Equipped with the power of rhythm and plants that hum catchy tunes, you’ll explore yet another post-apocalyptic wasteland where the only way to stop mechanical baddies is by tapping buttons to some alien flora’s greatest hits.

It’s not exactly groundbreaking, but hey, at least it’s pretty to look at. And if you ever dreamed of battling robots with a keyboard or controller while being serenaded by quirky plants, well, Melobot might just be your thing.

Musical waste

I would like to applaud the opening section of this rhythm-puzzle game as it perfectly captured the true essence of the sup-par gameplay that was to follow

The idea of gameplay is that these robo plant thingy’s in the game will be down and your music, played via three buttons on the Keyboard, will bring them back to life. This is the bread and butter of this game and it will be the key to every lacklustre puzzle found in Melobot.

You’ve got 8 notes to hit in rhythm, and your performance gets a star rating, just in case you’re obsessed with perfect scores. You can run, but don’t get too excited—the sprint overheats, so you’ll end up waddling along most of the time.

Oh, and there are boss fights, if you can call dodging attacks and spamming your “shockwave” ability exciting. There’s also an upgrade system, but don’t expect anything revolutionary—just basic boosts to healing speed and sprint duration.

But it look good though

I will admit it though, this was one beautiful game. Melobot’s world is undeniably charming, built around soft colours and simple designs that give it a cosy, almost dreamlike quality. It has its own aesthetic, with a range of environments that are just begging to be explored—if only you weren’t moving at a snail’s pace.

The unique locations may not be massive, but they’re rich with little details that catch your eye, from the unique plants to the carefully designed landscapes. Each area feels thoughtfully crafted, and there’s always something visually appealing to discover.

The connection between the instruments you find and the environment is a nice touch, adding a sense of harmony between gameplay and the world.

Whether it’s the soft glow of alien flora or the subtle shifts in atmosphere, these small details elevate the game’s overall aesthetic, making exploration feel somewhat entertaining.

If you’re going to play, the looks are one thing I can recommend. The rhythm-puzzle game doesn’t try to wow you with flashy graphics or over-the-top effects, but instead, it relies on subtle beauty to carry the story. I honestly hated the gameplay but found myself stopping just to admire the world they’ve created.

Just missed it!

At the end of the day, Melobot: The Last Song had potential… but that’s about it. The gameplay is basic, repetitive, and frankly, nothing special.

Like a pretty lady that actually wants to talk to you, the slow pace and underwhelming mechanics drag it down.

So if you’re into some genuinely nice looking grass, trees, rocks, etc, and don’t mind mediocre rhythm-puzzle gameplay, go ahead and give Melobot a try. Otherwise, you’re not missing much.

Review: Ship Graveyard Simulator 2

Daniel Waite

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Sep 21, 2024

0

Ship Graveyard Simulator 2 is a vast improvement on its predecessor. This sequel utilises many of the original core mechanics but improves on practically every element. As such, if you loved the first instalment, you’ll adore this beefed up version. However, word of warning, you will grind like never before. The ships are huge but the rewards are bigger. Accordingly, salvage has never been so exciting.

Ultimate Games developed and published this simulation experience. Moreover, it is a single-player experience set in a fictitious world. Additionally, it lacks a sense of realism as the protagonist is as strong as an ox and your haulage truck appears to have no weight limit. Yet, if you can ignore these silly elements, you’ll quickly become hooked.

Ship Graveyard Simulator 2 has no plot.

No plot, no plot, and again, no plot. I know sim games don’t need a story, but how hard can it be? Why not create a sense of drama and reward as you compete against your childhood best friend? Alternatively, maybe you’re divorced and you want to prove your ex wrong. Whatever the reason, give us something to grab hold of.

Unfortunately, Ship Graveyard Simulator 2 ignored this basic element and focused on the ship salvaging instead. Consequently, you’ll drive a large truck and purchase an array of enormous derelict ships. As you explore each proverbial gold mine, you must work out how best to strip it. One foul move and you’ll damage your valuable cargo. Therefore, you must take your time and understand that physics and poor planning undermine your profit margin.

Smack, smack, cut, cut, burn!

The basic gameplay loop Is repetitive and simple, but addictive! You begin with a free but basic salvage opportunity. Once you strip this vehicle down, you open new chances with larger and more complex vehicles. Alongside this, you can visit the local store to sell your materials or you can buy blueprints to improve your equipment. If you choose the latter, you must use your salvaged resources and your money to improve your gear. This is essential as the larger ships are time-consuming and the better equipment reduces effort while speeding things up.

As you explore each wreck, you must cut through metal, burn through welding, and hit screws and nails to remove material. Additionally, you’ll pick up equipment, oil, plastic, and more. Each of these items must be thrown into your awaiting truck and taken to the recycling yard to be sorted. This mini-game was enjoyable but basic. Alternatively, you can automate this task but you lose some resources doing so.

Contracts.

The gameplay loop rolls around and around and around. What’s more, you may revisit previously completed vessels if you wish to get specific products to improve your tools. However, this isn’t the only reason to return. Each mission has a small list of subcontracts that pay handsomely. Consequently, you’ll want to complete each one to increase your bank balance.

These contracts demand that you scour each location carefully. They’ll ask for metals, liquids, or specific equipment. If you fail to dismantle the ship correctly, it’ll collapse and you’ll lose precious cargo. Therefore, planning and patience are required to maximise your profits.

Ship Graveyard Simulator 2 looks rough.

No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t ignore the rough textures and poor graphics. Each NPC looks like they were designed in the early 2000s. Moreover, the animation is rudimentary and the lighting is all over the place. Subsequently, it isn’t the prettiest game, but it performs well, and that’s all that matters.

The audio won’t blow you away either. The basic sound effects are suitable but not impressive. The weird OTT sounds of huge bangs as you break each heavy weld were unusual. I appreciate what the developer was trying to achieve, but it undermines the realism and is unfortunate.

Tough to navigate UI.

The UI wasn’t great. This has been ported from PC and it suffers as a consequence. The controls are clumsy and moving between tools or highlighting contracts was slow. Moreover, the hero appears to run at 100 mph and he can throw over 100kg without breaking a sweat. As such, this was unrealistic and the package wasn’t in line with my simulation expectations.

If you dislike grind, you will not want to play this game. Every level feels like it lasts a lifetime. Furthermore, the never-ending bolts and interactive items can drag on. However, it is strangely addictive and I couldn’t put it down. If you invest in this, you’ll lose hours of your life without realising it.

Ship Graveyard Simulator 2 is a strange experience.

Everything tells me that I shouldn’t enjoy Ship Graveyard Simulator 2. The action is rudimentary, repetitive, and grindy. Yet, I cannot stop thinking about it. I loved smashing the hell out of each ship and the challenge of dismantling everything correctly. Yes, it is flawed, but I didn’t care. As such, I like it and I recommend buying it here! Can you get rich from salvage? Complete your contracts, improve your tools, and make cash from another man’s waste.

Review: Tru Sports Earbuds

Reviews
Tech

Daniel Waite

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Sep 20, 2024

0

The Tru Sports Earbuds from Majority Audio are compact, comfortable, and reassuringly well-built. Furthermore, they have an IPX7 waterproof rating and an exceptional 30-hour playtime. As such, they are ideal if you love to walk, run, cycle, or hike. These affordable earbuds offer incredible audio quality and I wasn’t disappointed by the stereo sound.

Alongside this, Bluetooth 5.2 offers stable connectivity with a low power draw. This helps boost the battery life to keep you in the game for longer. Finally, if you like to talk as you walk, the built-in microphone and responsive touch controls make this possible. Though this wasn’t a feature I needed, it was handy to have, nonetheless.

What’s in the box of the Tru Sports Earbuds?

The tiny packaging is attractive and robust. The contents are well-protected and the box can be recycled.
The Tru Sports Earbuds use an over-the-ear hook for security. The sleek design is eye-catching but compact. The discreet design may disappoint flamboyant sportspeople, but I liked the subdued finish.
Charge the earbuds on the move with the high-powered charging case.
3 sets of ear tips are provided for different-sized ears.
Charge the case with the USB-C cable.
Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

The Tru Sports Earbuds tick plenty of boxes. Whenever you are exercising, you want comfortable accessories that are simple to use. Additionally, a stable audio connection and amazing battery life are a must. The Bluetooth 5.2 feature lets you connect these earbuds with ease. Furthermore, they have a 10-metre range before your connection drops. Though this wasn’t essential, it was nice whenever I roamed around my house.

The charging case was impressive. A 30-minute power boost gives you 2 hours of playtime. Consequently, you can keep listening to music without the worry of running out of juice. Moreover, the impressive 30-hour total playtime is great. If you love cycling, hiking, or running long distances, these earbuds will not disappoint you.

Audio quality.

Affordable earbuds usually deliver low-end audio quality. However, the Tru Sports Earbuds are different. The 13mm speakers are powerful enough to deliver crystal-clear audio and a hearty range of tones. Furthermore, the bass was comfortable without cracking or distortion whenever the sound was cranked up.

I was able to distinguish between each key tonal region and my playlist sounded great no matter the volume. This is ideal as high-speed sports generally battle uncomfortable wind and rain noises. Thankfully, this wasn’t a problem as I could push the volume without undermining the clarity of each track.

In my eyes, a built-in microphone isn’t essential. However, this one was handy to have. Every phone call I made was clear and there weren’t any horrible echoing sounds. Additionally, the voice pickup was accurate and the conversation didn’t have that distant hollow sound associated with hands-free communication.

Usability.

Each of the earbuds has touch controls that take some getting used to. Yet, once you master the inputs, you’ll love the user-friendly experience. You can play with your media settings and answer or reject calls with ease. This is ideal as you don’t want to mess with your phone whenever you are out and about. Finally, I love the charging case and its rudimentary design. A handy LED shows when it is charging and the case is easy to handle.

Build quality.

I was impressed by the finish and the discreet colour. The black earbuds have silicone earhooks that sit around your ears. Though they cannot be adjusted, they are designed to hug your ears without applying pressure. During my runs and cycling, they felt secure and I wasn’t concerned about them falling out. Additionally, there were no air gaps to reduce audio quality.

The IPX7 rating is essential. Sports accessories get soaked in dirt, sweat, and rainwater. Thankfully, the Tru Sports Earbuds will take each of these elements in its stride. The pebble case feels great in your hand. However, it can be a bit slippery when it gets wet. Luckily, though, it is hard-wearing and it can take a few knocks.

Are the Tru Sports Earbuds worth it?

If you want an affordable audio solution that is hard-wearing, robust, and easy to use, then the Tru Sports Earbuds are for you. Not only are they comfortable to wear, but the battery life is great and the audio quality is phenomenal. Furthermore, if you like to make phone calls on the move, these earbuds tick that box as well. Subsequently, it is a no-brainer and I recommend buying them here!

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

The Tru Sports Earbuds from Majority Audio have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Funko Fusion

Daniel Waite

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Sep 19, 2024

0

Funko Fusion is a modern twist on the much-loved LEGO gaming franchise. This colourful affair is jam-packed with memorable characters and interesting worlds. Additionally, there are puzzles to complete, quests to undertake and plenty of baddies to defeat. However, there is also an array of bugs to deal with and plenty of repetitive action to endure. Moreover, there is currently no multiplayer mode, and this wasn’t acceptable. Yet, I can see the potential, and I’m going to forgive plenty of the shortcomings as my review unfolds.

This 3D adventure title was developed and published by 10:10 Games. In its current format, it can be enjoyed alone. However, there are plans to incorporate cooperative action to bring it in line with the LEGO franchise. This will be fantastic as the difficulty balance isn’t perfect for a younger audience. Yet, once things are sorted, this will be the ideal game for families to waste some time.

Funko Fusion delivers some amusing moments.

Like all great adventure games, Funko Fusion incorporates many minor subplots into its hearty storyline. This was great as there are 7 familiar tales to experience alongside the overarching story. You can spend time in Jurassic World or discover what hides in the murky waters of JAWS. Alternatively, maybe you wish to grab a blaster and enjoy Battlestar Galactica or rummage through the streets in Hot Fuzz.

No matter which story you pick, it doesn’t alter the main storyline. The classic tale of good vs evil and the rise of a fallen king won’t amaze you. Yet, I enjoyed the occasionally witty moments and the snippets of an evil lord gaining power. Though this plot lacks depth, it works well with the 7 unique chapters and the madness that unfolds.

A collectathon.

Funko Fusion blends hack-and-slash action with a desire to smash everything in sight. Your surroundings can be hit or shot to unleash vinyl. This in-game currency is spent on health boosts, character regeneration, and other elements. Accordingly, finding as much as possible is essential. Though I understood the necessity of this layer, it doesn’t feel as fluid or enjoyable as the LEGO experience. Unfortunately, it is a bit of a grind and gaining enough vinyl to unlock everything is a bit of a ballache.

Alongside this, you must find hidden objects, meat, fossils, characters, and silver crowns. Each of these items can be used at the central game hub. As such, searching every nook and cranny becomes a key part of the gameplay loop. Therefore, if you don’t enjoy collecting every minor item you stumble across, you will quickly become tired of what is required.

The same mission again?

The witty cutscenes and silly one-lines punctuate every chapter. However, this isn’t enough to distract you from the rehashed mission cycle. Every chapter utilises the same core mechanics and boss battle. This was unfortunate as this forces you into a casual gaming mindset. Though the quests were fun, it was disappointing to experience a rehashed version 7 times.

Where Funko Fusion excels, is its puzzle elements. These enjoyable moments demand an eye for detail and quick reactions. Additionally, you may need to unlock new items to proceed and this requires some exploration and a patient mindset. If the rest of the game incorporated this varied and challenging approach, the end product would have been much better.

Bugs.

Oh Funko Fusion, what have you done? This game is riddled with bugs. Minor bugs, annoying bugs, and game-breaking bugs flit around the place and ruin your fun. Luckily, the developer has released several patches to iron out these creases. Accordingly, I’m hopeful that these issues will be resolved and the game will improve as a consequence.

The game-breaking bugs leave a bitter taste in your mouth. Losing progress through no fault of my own was infuriating. Moreover, corrupted puzzles, frozen cutscenes, and no clear progression drove me to distraction. Yet, I have seen an improvement, so I am confident these early teething issues will fade away.

Funko Fusion is a colour explosion.

Despite the glitches, Funko Fusion is a much-loved project. The little details in each unique world will make fans smile and chuckle. Furthermore, the characters are remarkably well-designed and I loved the mannerisms and the likeness of each leading protagonist. The detail can also be enjoyed in the stage layout and the smooth animation.

Unfortunately, the camera angles were occasionally off and this made combat and exploration somewhat tricky. Had this been tweaked, it would have been much more enjoyable to play. Though I haven’t experienced the multiplayer elements, I can imagine a split-screen solution will be a viable option.

The audio was vibrant, exciting, and loud. Each chapter complemented its unique setting and there are some snippets of famous music to enjoy. The sound effects were good and I liked the zap of each blaster and the crude crash of each shotgun. What’s more, the occasional moan of odd characters and the OTT slapping noises will make you chuckle.

What do I need to do?

The control system is well-considered and easy to master. Consequently, learning the fundamentals was a cinch. Youngsters and adults will both enjoy the action, though younger gamers may need some assistance. My only complaint is the lack of guidance with missions and key objectives. Had the developers made things more obvious, or if a minimap had been included, then things would have been much clearer.

In theory, Funko Fusion has unlimited potential. The developer can add new chapters and create impressive side quests to keep people coming back for more. This idea creates a moreish layer that will intrigue Funko Pop fans. Moreover, the volume of collectables will appeal to completionists. As such, this has plenty of replay value and longevity.

Funko Fusion needs more time.

Unfortunately, I feel that Funko Fusion was a little rushed. The volume of bugs and the lack of cooperative action support this claim. However, this will be a great adventure title once the issues are ironed out. Yes, it is repetitive, but I’m not sure that matters. It will be the perfect family game that can be enjoyed casually. Accordingly, despite its issues, I like it and recommend buying it here! Can you overcome the evil king and save the day? Complete each chapter, collect the crowns, and make the king whole again.