Warhammer 40,000: The Ultimate Guide hopes to shed some light onto the vast world of Warhammer 40K. This much-loved franchise is a global phenomenon. However, if you are late to the party, it can feel daunting. There are challenging tactics to understand, as well as a barrage of units, factions, and other elements to comprehend. Accordingly, I know why people turn their backs on an otherwise incredible gaming experience.
This officially licenced product from DK Books aims to change the mood. It is the first-ever official guide of its type, and it has been created by DK Books and Games Workshop. Consequently, if you are a newcomer or a battle-hardened veteran, you are bound to discover some gems of knowledge.
More information on the Warhammer 40,000 The Ultimate Guide.
Written by the legends who helped craft much of the Warhammer 40,000 lore and fiction, Warhammer 40,000: The Ultimate Guide dives into the vast universe of the 41st Millennium with the miniatures at its core. It has hundreds of beautiful photographs showcasing world-famous miniatures from every faction. Moreover, this book follows key characters through the evolution of their models and explores Warhammer 40,000 in pinpoint detail through an expert lens.
Whether a new or hardcore fan, this essential visual journey through the history of Warhammer 40,000 is a difficult one to put down. It is written by New York Times bestselling authors Gav Thorpe and Guy Haley and is packed with insight into the game’s defining miniatures which have been built and battled since 1979.
About the Authors.
Gav Thorpe is a New York Times best-selling author who has worked on numerous tabletop and video games as a designer, writer, and world creation consultant. Including 14 years as part of Games Workshop’s development team. He has also delivered writing workshops and appeared at numerous discussion panels at literature and genre events. He lives near Nottingham with his partner and son.
Guy Haley is a freelance author and journalist. He is a former editor of White Dwarf(the Warhammer magazine) and the author of numerous Warhammer 40,000 novels, including Valedor and Baneblade. He lives in Yorkshire with his wife and son.
(The hardback version can be pre-ordered for October 3rd 2024. Click here for more information.)
The Tomba! Special Edition is a delightful revival of a game that has long been cherished by its fans but often overlooked by the broader gaming community. Originally launched in 1997, Tomba! stood out for its whimsical world, quirky characters, and an engaging blend of platforming and exploration. The game’s protagonist, a wild, pink-haired boy named Tomba, embarks on a bizarre adventure filled with strange tasks and even stranger enemies, namely a gang of evil pigs. Despite its charm, the game never achieved massive commercial success, becoming more of a hidden gem in the PlayStation library.
The Old
This Special Edition does a great job of preserving the unique charm of the original while also making it more accessible to a modern audience. Built using the Carbon Engine, the game runs smoothly on modern hardware, offering a nostalgic experience that’s true to the original while benefiting from some contemporary enhancements. Features like save states and a rewind function are particularly welcome, as they help smooth out the difficulty curve that might have frustrated players back in the day.
The New
Visually, the game retains its vibrant, 2.5D style, though the graphics can appear quite pixelated on today’s high-definition displays. To address this, the Special Edition includes various display options, including a CRT filter that emulates the look of older TVs, helping to soften the edges and maintain the nostalgic feel. While this doesn’t completely update the visuals for modern standards, it does enhance the retro experience, making it feel more authentic.
One of the standout features of this edition is the wealth of additional content. This isn’t just a simple port; it’s a comprehensive package that includes a variety of extras, such as high-resolution box art, scans of the original instruction manuals, concept art, and video interviews with key figures from the game’s development. These additions provide valuable insights into the game’s creation and its place in the history of indie game development during the 90s.
The Bad
However, it’s important to note that Tomba! is still very much a product of its time. The controls, while serviceable, can feel somewhat clunky, especially Tomba’s exaggerated jumping and the sometimes awkward combat mechanics. Additionally, the game’s open-ended structure, which was innovative at the time, howeever feels aimless to modern players. Yet, these quirks are part of what gives Tomba! its unique character, and for those willing to embrace its eccentricities, the game offers a fun and quirky adventure that stands out even today.
In conclusion, the Tomba! Special Edition is a lovingly crafted tribute to a game that deserves to be remembered. While it may not be for everyone, especially those who prefer more polished, modern experiences. It’s a must-play for fans of retro games or anyone looking to explore a unique piece of gaming history. This edition goes above and beyond, offering a mix of nostalgia and new features that make it a worthwhile experience for both old fans and newcomers alike.
Tomba! special edition came out August 1st 2024 on Playstation 4 and 5 , Nintendo Switch and Microsoft Windows.
Hairdresser Simulator lets you show off your creative side. This simple but oddly addictive title will appeal to beauty-loving gamers. Furthermore, if you love running a chain of salons, you won’t want to miss out. However, glitches, poor graphics, and a familiar gameplay loop prevent this from reaching its potential.
This simulation title was developed by Console Way and published by Frozen Way. It is a single-player experience that plays out from a first-person perspective. Each of the salons is unique, but the mechanics are sadly refined. This rudimentary gameplay is easy to master, but the lack of depth creates an unfortunate plateau effect. Accordingly, it outstays its welcome far too quickly.
Hairdresser Simulator: all hair and no pig tales (pigtails).
Simulation games and a flimsy plot are all too familiar. I often moan about the lack of a story; today is no different. Hairdresser Simulator lacks a central tale or an antagonist. Consequently, there is no sense of empathy and no hero to lean towards. However, there is career progression that helps fill this void. Disappointingly, though, the developer missed the opportunity to create a layer of fun or competition. As such, I was left wanting once I unlocked every skill.
The gameplay loop follows a simple pattern. You have 9 hours to cut, style, and blow dry as many heads of hair as you can. Once you hire some staff members, they will pick up the slack and the cash begins to roll in. This much-needed cash injection lets you invest in new salons and better employees. In return, you increase your cash flow and your decor. This simple pattern continues until you own 9 salons, and you have 27 competent hairdressers at your disposal. Moreover, you’ll unlock 11 hairdressing tools as you aim to become the next big thing.
Simple mechanics.
11 hairdressing tools sounds like a complicated affair. However, each task is simple to execute and many of the mechanics are undeniably refined. Straightening hair requires the downward flick of an analogue stick. Whereas curling hair needs an upward flick of the same analogue stick. Disappointingly, brushing hair and blow-drying are just as complicated. This lack of challenge paired with the rinse-and-repeat action defines the flow of the game.
Things aren’t always simple. Cutting hair requires more finesse and I sucked at this aspect. Leaving people with strange bobs and weird perms was my specialist area. I’m not sure if this was what the developer intended, but I chuckled as each customer left with an interesting and often lopsided haircut.
If you are not dealing with your customers, you are improving your salon. Placing decorations and improving your gear gives you some creative freedom. Furthermore, the better the gear, the more experience points you earn. Subsequently, investing in each salon is essential if you wish to improve your character and your reputation.
Hairdresser Simulator could have looked better.
I didn’t expect Hairdresser Simulator to be polished or to be next-gen. However, I also didn’t expect it to have terrible textures, repetitive character models, and so many visual issues. Unfortunately, the action is punctuated by strange colours, weird highlighting, and plenty of blocky moments. Thankfully, this doesn’t detract from the hairdressing elements. Additionally, the poor finish was hilarious.
The audio has a hotel lobby air to it. The upbeat but easily forgettable tracks are mindless but suitable. This was unfortunate but understandable. What stands out, though, is the accurate sound effects. I loved the buzz of the clippers and the crunch of each tool passing through the hair. What wasn’t great, however, were the annoying sound bites. Strangely, most of the characters shared the same voice and they said the same thing. This was ridiculous as it reduced the level of realism.
Decent controls.
Brushing, curling, straightening, and cutting hair are a precise art. As such, the controls had to be tight and easy to understand. Luckily, Hairdresser Simulator delivers with its simple layout and responsive inputs. Additionally, you can grab layers of hair and adjust each area to increase accuracy. This was fantastic as it helped you cut and sculpt each cut to the customer’s liking.
Though there are 9 salons to buy and a handful of unique customer stories to hear, the action is repetitive. The gameplay loop and mechanics do not offer enough to increase replay value or longevity. Subsequently, once you unlock everything, there is little reason to return.
Hairdresser Simulator will thrill you for a while.
If you love the idea of becoming a hairdresser, or you want a mindless experience, then this is the game for you. There is a smattering of depth, but most of the action is simple and easy to achieve. As such, this won’t test you. However, the amusing glitches and the chance to ruin people’s hair were too much to resist. As such, it was limited but fun, and I recommend buying it here! Will you run a hair-cutting empire? Learn the trade, upgrade your salon, and become the next big thing.
Thief Simulator 2 is a game that will play with your moral compass. The idea of breaking into innocent people’s homes and stealing their belongings didn’t feel right. However, there was a sense of excitement and suspense as you crept around and pocketed every valuable item. This rinse and repeat gameplay never gets old and the fear of getting caught keeps you on your toes. Yet, bugs and some terrible acting hold this back from truly excelling.
Ultimate Games published this crime simulation experience. Moreover, it is a single-player title mainly from a first-person perspective. Furthermore, there are cars to steal and drive, houses to break into, and a character progression element that adds depth. Consequently, there is plenty to work towards as you venture into the seedy life of a low-life burglar.
Thief Simulator 2 takes you on a rapid journey.
Pressure and mistakes can set you on the wrong path. Sadly, this is exactly what happens in Thief Simulator 2! The protagonist has stolen thousands from a criminal organisation, and now they must pay the consequences. However, a stranger extends an olive branch and your road to redemption begins. The path isn’t always smooth and overcoming every obstacle will test you in more ways than one. But if you can succeed, you’ll learn new skills while appeasing the criminals who are hell-bent on revenge.
The plot may be sinister and uncomfortable, but it plays second fiddle to the unfolding action. As you explore 2 unique streets and undertake challenging heists, you must remain undetected or pay the consequences. Yet, remaining undetected is not easy as dogs and their owners are never too far away. Moreover, every neighbour is a busybody, and they love to shop you to the Po-Po! As such, you must learn the habits of each mark and plan your break-ins accordingly.
Loads to do, but not much variety.
Thief Simulator 2 offers plenty of scope for naughty law-breaking ways. However, the simple gameplay loop lacks variety. Effectively, you are tasked with hiding in the shadows whilst stealing an array of objects. The hero can carry a limited number of items and this makes each trip somewhat arduous. Furthermore, some items are more desirable than others. Yet, it isn’t always clear which one is worth your time and effort. Subsequently, you steal everything in sight and worry about the finer details afterwards.
When things go well, you’ll freely open cupboards, drawers, and safes. Additionally, you’ll pick locks, climb vines, and clamber through windows. Yet, whenever the police are called, you have to run like a demented chicken. If you are seen, there is no point hiding in a bin or under a bed. Unfortunately, they have a keen sense of smell and find you immediately. However, if you give them the slip, the police are ridiculously short-sighted. Accordingly, the action feels unbalanced and occasionally ridiculous.
Thief Simulator 2 lacks polish.
The first-person perspective works exceptionally well. I loved the sense of immersion and I genuinely felt tension when hiding in the shadows. Disappointingly, the rough textures, awful character models, and repetitive assets undermine the finish. This lack of polish wasn’t unexpected and the varied bugs and glitches didn’t prevent me from progressing. Yet, I wish it was more refined and the developer had focused more on the environment and the finer details.
The audio does a great job of enhancing the atmosphere. The use of sombre and quiet moments builds suspense. Moreover, the realistic sound effects work well with each lock-picking task. But it was the awful sound bites that held it back. The repetition of stupid one-liners was mind-numbing. With so much scope and plenty of different characters, I expected much more.
Occasionally clumsy controls.
Though Thief Simulator 2 is perfectly serviceable, it could have been much better. The gamepad accuracy is pretty rough and accessing each drawer or cupboard was occasionally challenging. Matters are made worse when you are under pressure. If you are being chased, or you wish to avoid detection, you want responsive inputs. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the case and clipping furniture or running into doors was a common occurrence. As such, you will become frustrated and curse repeatedly.
If you can overlook the handful of issues, there is plenty of replay value and longevity. There are loads of unique items to steal, quests to complete, and heists to plan. Additionally, there are cars to steal, and you can upgrade your hideout if you want. Alongside this, you may pickpocket people and break into vans and containers. Consequently, there is plenty to do if you love to break the law.
Thief Simulator 2 has its shortcomings, but it is fun, nonetheless.
Breaking the law isn’t my go-to route. However, Thief Simulator 2 lets you experience that naughty and seedy path. The action is captivating and I loved the sense of tension. Furthermore, the freedom to explore each small area or plan an elaborate heist was impressive. Yes, there are shortcomings, but this rarely matters. Accordingly, I love it and I recommend buying it here! Redemption and money are too hard to resist. Choose a house, steal everything in sight, and buy your freedom.
Core Keeper focuses on the desire to farm, mine, explore, and fight. The Terraria/Stardew Valley gameplay is incredibly addictive. Moreover, the relaxed approach makes this an unbelievably moreish affair. As you explore the dark world, you are free to do as you wish. This freedom may be overwhelming for some, but I adored every moment.
This relaxing indie game was developed by Pugstorm and published by Fireshine Games. Furthermore, it can be enjoyed alone or online with 8 players. The latter option is where it truly excels. However, if you love to play solo, you won’t be disappointed. As you explore the cold and dark cave, you’ll discover an array of unique and interesting biomes. Each area has individual challenges and its own fauna, creatures, and monsters. As such, you never know what is around the corner.
Core Keeper tells a mysterious story.
This genre normally delivers a heartwarming tale of loss and redemption. Harvest Moon and Stardew Valley are prime examples of this model. Yet, Core Keeper does things differently. Instead of guiding you through seasons and an array of romantic encounters, it lets the action do the talking. As such, mystery and intrigue sit front and centre stage.
The action revolves around a hero or group of stranded heroes. This bunch of nobodies awaken in a mysterious cave. The solo adventurer or group of heroes are surrounded by strange alters and miles of dirt, rocks, and resources. if the hero(es) is/are to be successful, they must venture into the unknown and find a way out of their predicament.
Lose yourself in the action.
Core Keeper is wonderfully casual but uniquely complex. There are plenty of character builds to play with, and it is easy to lose yourself in the action. If you want to run a farm, you can. Alternatively, maybe you love to build a massive base whilst getting your creative juices flowing. You could be the violent sort that loves to smash bosses, or you adore exploring because of your adventurous side. Either way, you have the chance to play this however you wish.
What makes this truly great is the ability to integrate each of these roles into an 8-player world. Each gamer can select their favourite role, or you can share the load. This sense of belonging and the lack of pressure makes Core Keeper a fun and unique experience.
Time to improve yourself.
Personal improvement is the name of the game. Whether you are improving your gear or your skills, it is all relevant. Running, mining, crafting, and cooking are just some of the skills you can improve. Furthermore, melee, ranged, magical, or summoning can be specialised and refined.
Every action improves your skills. Consequently, if you specialise in one task, you’ll soon become an expert. However, Jack of all trades can equally enjoy improving their character, albeit at a slower and more relaxed pace.
Alongside this, you can upgrade your equipment and base to improve your chances. Workbenches and a shiny new house are par for the course. Furthermore, storage, furnaces and areas to repair your gear are essential. This simple idea of gathering resources to improve your chances is well-trodden, but Core Keeper executes it perfectly.
Core Keeper looks great.
Isometric pixelated indie titles may not appeal to everyone. But I think Core Keeper looks great. The dank cave system is juxtaposed with vibrant and fascinating biomes. Moreover, the lighting effects are great, and I love how the world expands and evolves as you explore. Though the animation is rudimentary, the movement is smooth and this makes combat a joy to experience.
Despair and loss from central themes during the early action. However, as your character gets stronger, and you become familiar with your surroundings, things are more upbeat. These ideas are complemented by the varied and well-executed audio. The blend of exciting and bleak melancholy songs was fascinating. Additionally, the sound effects are well-considered. The thwack of a ranged weapon or the twunk of your sword brings a wry smile to your face.
Accurate controls.
Core Keeper was ported from PC. As such, I was concerned that the controls wouldn’t work particularly well. Thankfully, the excellent UI, responsive inputs, and intelligent button layout make this a joy to play. Alongside this, a helpful crosshair improves your accuracy whilst enhancing the user-friendly experience.
On the face of it, this has countless hours of gameplay. Each world is unique, and you can do as you wish. As such, you will tackle this casually unless you have an active online lobby. This relaxed idea makes it moreish and stupidly addictive. As such, this can be enjoyed between AAA titles or independently with friends.
Buy Core Keeper, you’ll have no regrets!
This is a genre that attracts a large but particular audience. Yet, the freedom to do as you wish, and the multiplayer action make it more viable for casual gamers. What’s more, the fascinating character progression, the hidden secrets, the unlockable vendors, and much more make this stand out from its peers. Accordingly, Core Keeper is fantastic and I recommend buying it here! Can you uncover the mystery and survive? Choose your role, unlock your equipment, and see where the adventure takes you.
Here we take a closer look at the b.box Drink Bottle.
Made from tritan, the unique big kids’ drink bottle is ideal for kindy and school kids. Its unique triangle shape bottle is designed specifically for little hands, making it easier for kids to grip. Easy push button pops open the lid, keeping straw tops hygienic when closed and never goes astray. Spill-proof bite valve straw top prevents accidental spills. Robust carry handle makes it easy for kids to carry and remove out of school bags.
Its 450ml capacity and angled silicone straw lets kids drink to the very last drop and stay hydrated throughout the day. Minimal parts and ultra easy to assemble / disassemble and clean.
Dishwasher safe (top rack only) . Plus, customise the look with removable bumper.
9m+
Unique ergonomic triangular shape bottle fits the two-hand grip of a child perfectly.
Easy to open/close lid. Lid pops open at the press of button and locks into place to prevent hitting the child in the face when tipped forward.
Spill-proof bite valve straw top prevents accidental spills
Robust carry handle makes it easy to carry and remove out of school bags
Silicone straw top and angled straw – allows kids to drink even when tilted.
Large opening to easily refill and insert ice cubes
Minimal parts makes it easy to clean, assemble/disassemble
Removable bumper, to customize the look
Dishwasher Safe
450ml / 15.2 fl. oz
Dimensions: 77mm (d) x 75mm (w) x 232mm (h)
BPA, PVC & Phthalate free
The b.box Drink Bottle is available now priced around £12.66.
KAKU: Ancient Seal is an open-world, Zelda-like, Action-RPG with a cartoon Nickelodeon-style animation.
It is not fair to say Zelda-like, it would be like calling every 2d-platformer a Mario-like or Sonic-like. I have genuine things to say about KAKU: Ancient Seal and will do without any mention of Zelda.
A Cartoon Plot
In KAKU: Ancient Seal, you step into the role of a young child named Kaku, who starts off simply minding his own business. However, his life takes an unexpected and extraordinary turn when he stumbles upon an ancient prophecy that has remained hidden for centuries.
This prophecy reveals a daunting mission: Kaku must reunite the elemental souls, powerful entities that once formed the very foundations of the world. These souls were the pillars of balance and harmony, but something went terribly wrong long ago, leading to a catastrophic event that shattered the world and plunged it into chaos.
The plot of KAKU: Ancient Seal manages to do its job quite well but it would be remiss to say that this is the strong point of the game.
Let’s talk gameplay.
A Cartoon Game
Combat in the game is particularly satisfying. The standard combo inputs are easy to pick up but can be expanded as you unlock new abilities, allowing you to chain together longer more powerful attacks.
The variety of enemies you face, from smaller minions to massive bosses, keeps battles fresh and challenging.
Each enemy type has its own weaknesses, pushing you to experiment with different elemental bombs, attacks, and even new weapons.
This level of variety ensures that combat never feels repetitive, keeping you engaged throughout the game.
It’s easy to feel lost at the beginning with the skill tree but as you progress and start unlocking new skills, the game encourages you to experiment and adapt to your own playstyle.
Whether you prefer straightforward combat or a more tactical approach, Kaku: Ancient Seal lets you shape your journey to suit your preferences.
Beyond the combat system, the game excels in its traversal mechanics.
You’ll learn new abilities that make moving through the world both easy and enjoyable.
The simplicity of executing these abilities is one of the game’s strengths, allowing you to focus on exploration without getting bogged down in complex controls.
The last thing that comes to mind is the puzzles.
While I am not one to love puzzles in most games, the ones in this Action-RPG give that welcome break from the action, offering a chance to slow down and think strategically.
Think about it like being at a safe point in Resident Evil 4, adjusting items in your briefcase. A refreshing restart.
Solving them also rewards you with new gear and resources that further enhance Kaku’s abilities
Tak and the Power of Juju
Don’t know how many remember this show. It used to air on Nickelodeon about a decent set of years ago.
The reason I mention it is because the first time I laid eyes on this RPG, the first thought in my head was Tak and Power of Juju. I honestly thought the game might have been a tie-in. Then I remembered that THQ no longer exists. (No, THQ-Nordic does not count!)
Back to the topic:
The art style is nearly a copy and I am all for it. The whole vibe coming off this game is like a brand-new take on Tak and the Power of Juju. Even down to the moves and somewhat the story.
I am serious, go take a look. Watch an episode if you can find it. It’s great!
On It’s own Two Feet
KAKU: Ancient Seal is a delightful surprise that brings a nostalgic vibe with its Nickelodeon-style animation and engaging gameplay. While it may draw comparisons to other action RPGs, it stands on its own with a charming world, satisfying combat, and a unique blend of exploration and puzzle-solving.
Though the story might not be its strongest point, the gameplay more than makes up for it, offering a variety of challenges that keep you hooked from start to finish.
The game’s art style, reminiscent of nickelodeon’s Tak and the Power of Juju, adds a layer of whimsy that makes the experience feel fresh and familiar at the same time.
If you’re looking for a game that balances action with moments of thoughtful puzzle-solving, KAKU: Ancient Seal is well worth your time. It’s a journey that, much like its art style, feels like a warm, playful nod to the past while carving out its own space in the present.
Here we take a closer look at the b.box Lunch Box.
Large compartment fits a whole sandwich or bagel/roll. Remove tray to use for pasta or salads
Gel cooler pack (included) sits underneath sandwich tray to help keep food cooler and fresher for longer
Custom divider (included) enables you to adjust the compartment size. Or remove to fit a whole banana or wrap
Leak-proof silicone seals secure wet foods, like watermelon and yoghurt (no liquids) . Seals are removable for easy, hygienic cleaning
Unique whole fruit compartment with stretchy seal means no need to cut fruit into small sizes
Easy to open design, with handles and large grip clip – encourages independence
Hand wash recommended
Made from PP and silicone
BPS, PVC, BPA and Phthalate free
Age guide: from 3 years plus
Dimensions: 253mm (h) x 215mm (w) x 73mm (d)
Weight: 0.47 kg
Capacity (ltr): 2
The lunchbox features a large compartment that fits a whole sandwich. Plus, sitting underneath the tray is an included gel cooler pack to keep food fresher and cooler for longer. Or, remove the sandwich tray and the compartment now easily fits pasta and salads.
Its unique flexi whole fruit holder lets you store a whole apple, as the stretchy seal bends around the shape of your fruit – no need to cut fruit into smaller sizes! Leak-proof silicone seals lets you store wet foods like watermelon and yoghurts (no liquids).
The custom divider slides across enabling parents to adjust the compartment size as they need, or remove it to fit a whole banana or wrap.
The b.box Lunch Box is available now priced around £30.
After its initial Japanese release back in 2022, Tales From Toyotoki: Arrival Of The Witch lands on PS5 and Nintendo Switch with an updated English subtitled version. Is this worth checking out? Or should it have been left in its original format?
Love And Self Worth With A Sprinkle Of Magic
I’ll admit, I had never heard of this game before. Developed by Aksys Games, Tales From Toyotoki is a visual interactive novel that captured my emotions and intrigue from the get go. This isn’t your traditonal video game, as you essentially watch and read a novel and occasionally make choices. Set on the fictional Toyotoki island, you play as Hikaru Nishime, a high school student who has been sent away from Tokyo to live with his grandfather on the island(an island set in the Okinawa province). When he arrives on the island, he finds out his grandfather has fled, and therefore he is homeless and alone. With the island locals extremely weary of outsiders, Hikaru is left to fend for himself, and on the first night, sleeping in a field, he meets the intriguing and mysterious Lilun. Whilst they are initially hostile, they begin to warm to each other and decide to break into Hiraku’s grandfather’s house for shelter. It’s from here the story is set in motion as Lilun reveals herself to be a witch, not from Japan or its surrounding islands. And so the mystery begins.
The way in which I would describe the story of Tales From Toyotoki would be a story about romance and finding yourself, whilst being wrapped in a fantasy themed mystery, and I loved it. At the heart of the story are Hiraku and Lilun whose slow burn romance plays out painstakingly at times but is satisfying by the time the credits roll. These two characters’ conversations are wonderful, thought provoking and emotional at times. I loved learning more about them and loved watching them fall in love over the course of the journey. Once the prologue has finished and the intrigue and mystery has been established, the game takes a surprising turn.
On finishing the prologue, the game introduces side characters who become the main focus for a while, as chapters are split into stories about them. Hiraku and Lilun are still present, but they take a backseat as characters such as Kiriko and Akari are fleshed out with their own struggles. The common themes of the game are loneliness, friendship, self-worth and sacrifice. Each character in the game is unique and has memorable moments as you try to help Lilun and uncover her secrets and the island’s mystery. The story is best experienced with as little knowledge as possible, as the mystery and intrigue drew me to continue watching this novel play out. As the story draws to its conclusion, there are twists and turns, and plot points established by supporting characters are wrapped up, leading to a thoughtful and satisfying ending. But by far my favourite parts of the game were the conversations with the characters as they navigate early adulthood. Hiraku and Lilun’s conversations become so deep and emotional that it’s hard to not get invested in their love story.
The Importance Of Expectations
With this game being a visual novel, it is important to understand the mechanics and expectations of gameplay. I use the word ‘game’ in the loosest of terms, as you are essentially watching a story play out. There are no real gameplay elements available in Tales From Toyotoki bar a few choices you can make which do not create any massive changes in the overall experience. This is certainly not for everyone and if I’m honest, I did not expect myself to enjoy just watching as I love interactive narratives. However, the characters kept me interested and intrigued. It’s a story that is best experienced simply loading up the game and putting your controller down whilst watching the events of the story play out. I have not played many visual novels before but I would definitely try another thanks to this game and maybe more players like myself will be drawn to this style of entertainment.
As mentioned, there is not much for the player to actually interact with, as the main controls simply allow a skip button if you wish to speed through dialogue or an auto button simply puts the story on auto pilot and you are essentially watching a movie. Menus are very basic in this game and there are not many other options on offer for you, except the log. The log allows you to scroll through all lines of dialogue from all characters which is a great way for you to refresh yourself with events of the story if you are not playing the game in one sitting. Lengthwise, this story can be experienced in around four to six hours so it’s not going to outstay its welcome. Overall, gameplay is non existent so it’s vital you know what you sign yourself up for. But the visuals and presentation made me long for more.
Presentation Precision
Graphically speaking, Tales From Toyotoki looks absolutely gorgeous. All scenes in the game looked as if they had been taken straight out of a comic book or animated show – it looks that good! All environments are static and mainly just backgrounds but they are so detailed and stunning sometimes I would not forward the conversation so I could marvel at the view. It has what I can only describe as a washed out pastel look to it, and it’s truly beautiful. Images of the island look wonderful and realistic throughout, whilst tense and dark moments look creepy and chilling. The characters also look incredible, particularly Lilun with the level of detail in her outfits being something to behold. Aksys have made stunning character art really feel alive in this game, which is some feat considering the characters are not animated or have any real movements. This game is a great showcase for visual novels in that it contains some breath-taking art.
Along with a wonderful art design, the soundtrack and audio design in this game are top notch. The soundtrack blew me away with how serene and calming it was during the day time; I could sit and listen to the music when exploring the island all day long. Just as impressive was the way in which the soundtrack ramped up during the nights where the story became eerie and mysterious; the music really helped set the tone in those climatic moments. Similarly, audio design is wonderful, with great sound effects on simple items like the doors creaking open or windows smashing. The voice acting is also great, with the cast pouring so much emotion into their lines. This really helps the story feel weighty and meaningful. This is a true masterclass with its visual and sound design.
Verdict
Tales From Toyotoki: Arrival Of The Witch is a feat in visual art design and a compelling story of love, friendship and social hardships mixed in with fantasy mystery. With this being a visual novel, gameplay here is non-existent so it’s important to set your expectations right, but if you are looking for a gripping and intriguing story, this is the game for you. While I wish the game could have been just a little bit longer, the audio design and soundtrack help propel this into a truly memorable experience. See you on Toyotoki!
September is nearly upon us and that means one thing… school is open! Children and parents will celebrate this magical time of year. However, getting the right gear for the new year is no mean feat. Whether it is new tech for your room or the ability to store every essential file safely, you want the best bang for your buck. As such, we’ve put together a Back to School Deal guide.
This is where PNY, SK Hynix, and Majority Audio come to the fore. These amazing companies deliver some of the best products for tech-savvy shoppers. Additionally, your wallet will be pleased as they do not break the bank. So let’s wait no longer, and let’s jump into the madness.
What’s available in the Back to School Deal guide?
PNY.
RP60 portable SSD.
The RP60 USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C Portable SSD was designed with creative wanderlusts and on-the-go professionals in mind to provide a highly portable and extremely durable data storage solution. With a compact form factor and convenient clip loop, the RP60 can easily go wherever the adventure takes you.
Travel with the confidence that your data is secure and protected with the RP60’s tough, outer silicone shell which makes the drive resistant to drops3, water and dust1, 2. Plus, experience top-tier performance with read/write speeds of up to 2,000 MB/s and 1,800 MB/s4, respectively, and broad compatibility across various devices, thanks to the USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C connector.
I reviewed the Beetle X31 in November 2023 and here is my summary. “Though the Beetle X31 SSD is restricted to 1 TB, this shouldn’t put you off. This fashionable SSD is robust, lightweight, and perfect for commuters. Moreover, its read and write speed is impressive, and I believe that the 3-year warranty is more than adequate. Accordingly, if you want a striking SSD, then I recommend that you buy it”. The full review can be read here.
Unmatched reliability: Equipped with buffer DRAM for superior stability
Outstanding performance: Sequential read/write speeds of up to 1,050MB/s and 1,000MB/s due to efficient heat management
Stylish and ergonomic design: Compact size (74x46mm) and lightweight (53g). Durable aluminium casing in metallic champagne gold
Versatility: Multi-purpose storage solution optimised for gamers, remote workers, content creators, students, and creative professionals
Accessories: Two USB connection cables (C-to-C and C-to-A). Clear silicone case to prevent damage
512 GB $59.99 until September 1st 2024. 1 TB $69.99 until September 1st 2024. Available here!
Majority Audio.
Bowfell Compact Bluetooth speaker.
The Bowfell compact soundbar is a Bluetooth speaker with a built-in subwoofer. Experience your favourite TV, films and media with the small and slim design of the Bowfell.
Despite its mini soundbar footprint, it can be easily connected to your television via RCA or Optical (Optical not included) – as well as Bluetooth, USB stick/drive and AUX.
Majority Bowfell Plus 2.1 Bluetooth Soundbar & Subwoofer.
The Bowfell is a compact soundbar and subwoofer combo that fits perfectly on desks and sits comfortably under your TV. Fill your room and immerse yourself with cinematic sound in your very own home.
Despite its mini soundbar and subwoofer footprint, it can be easily connected to your devices via Bluetooth, RCA and Optical (Optical not included) – as well as USB stick/drive and AUX.
Bringing Dolby Atmos to every home, the Majority Elias transforms home entertainment with 3D surround sound, up-firing speakers and a full metal grill to fill the room with cinematic sound.
Designed for the growing needs of modern-day entertainment, the Majority Elias offers a wide range of connectivity including HDMI ARC, Optical and AUX.
Don’t miss out on these great Back to School Deals. Furthermore, Majority Audio has plenty of other great discounts on Amazon. As such, if you want a party speaker, earbuds, or PC speakers, they have your back.
