Events

Broken Spectre Review

James Refelian

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Jul 15, 2024

Broken Spectre, developed by Games by Stitch and in collaboration with one of the makers of The Blair Witch Project, delivers a hand-tracked horror experience for the Meta Quest 2 and PCVR (this review was carried out on Quest 2). Does it provide bone-chilling scares and innovative gameplay, or is it a spectral disappointment?

A Haunting Setting and Intriguing Story

Broken Spectre throws you into the atmospheric wilderness of Coldwood Mountain. You search for your missing father, drawn by a mysterious signal and whispers of a dark entity. The narrative unfolds organically through environmental storytelling and cryptic messages scattered throughout the environment. While the story might not be groundbreaking, the setting is undeniably effective. The dense forest, shrouded in mist with creaking trees and haunting soundscapes, creates a pervasive sense of unease.

Hand-Tracking: A Double-Edged Sword

One of Broken Spectre’s unique features is its reliance on hand-tracking technology. You interact with the world using your bare hands, picking up objects, manipulating controls, and even fending off spectral threats. This approach fosters a greater sense of immersion as your virtual hands become extensions of your own. However, hand-tracking technology on the Quest 2 is still in its early stages. While it works reasonably well for basic interactions, finer movements can be imprecise and sometimes frustrating.

Horror More Atmospheric Than Jump-Scares

Broken Spectre leans towards a more atmospheric brand of horror than a jump-scare fest. The game builds tension through unsettling visuals, eerie sound design, and the constant feeling of being watched. You’ll encounter shadowy figures and distorted whispers, keeping you on edge throughout your exploration. However, those who crave jump-scares might find the experience underwhelming. While there are a few well-placed scares, they are not the main focus.

Broken Spectre Is A Short Experience

Broken Spectre can be completed in roughly 2-3 hours, depending on your exploration pace. While some might find this length short, it feels appropriate for a VR experience. The concise playtime allows the atmosphere to maintain its potency without dragging.

Visuals and Performance: A Mixed Bag

The visuals in Broken Spectre are a bit of a paradox. While the art style itself is effective, with a dark and foreboding atmosphere, the technical execution leaves some room for improvement. Environments tend to be simple, with low-resolution textures and some noticeable pop-in. Additionally, frame rate drops can occur in more demanding scenes, impacting immersion.

Final Thoughts on Broken Spectre

Overall, Broken Spectre is a decent VR horror experience for Quest 2. It provides a solid foundation for hand-tracked horror, and the atmospheric setting is unsettling. However, technical limitations and a short playtime might hold it back for some. Broken Spectre is worth checking out if you’re a VR enthusiast looking for a spooky escape that emphasises atmosphere over jump-scares. Just be prepared for a few rough edges around the spectral corners.

Review: Switchback VR

James Refelian

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Jul 15, 2024

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Switchback VR, a PSVR2 exclusive developed by Supermassive Games, takes players on a white-knuckle ride through a haunted amusement park. Players can expect a spooky atmosphere, pulse-pounding scares, and thrilling on-rails shooter action as the game leverages the Dark Pictures Anthology franchise. But does Switchback VR deliver a well-rounded VR horror experience, or is it all thrills and no chills?

A Haunting Carnival of Nightmares

Switchback VR’s gameplay revolves around navigating a series of haunted roller coaster tracks. The PSVR2’s impressive field of view and smooth tracking perfectly translate the feeling of speeding through twists, drops, and inversions. The developers have meticulously crafted diverse themed environments, each oozing with atmosphere and creepy details. While the pre-rendered visuals might not push the boundaries of the PSVR2’s hardware, the effective lighting and shadow create a genuinely unsettling ambience.

Shooting from the Hip: Fast-Paced On-Rails Action in Switchback VR

In Switchback VR, you are tasked with fending off various grotesque creatures that emerge from the shadows. Utilising intuitive motion controls with the PSVR2’s Sense Controllers, players blast away at these hostiles with a satisfying arsenal of weaponry. Shotguns provide a close-range punch for swarms of enemies, while pistols offer precision for taking down distant targets. The game cleverly uses the rollercoaster’s on-rails nature to its advantage, throwing enemies at you from unexpected angles and keeping the action dynamic. While the shooting mechanics are simple and accessible, the constant barrage of scares and the need for quick reflexes keep the gameplay engaging.

A Story Light on Scares, Heavy on Atmosphere

The narrative in Switchback VR takes a backseat to the rollercoaster thrills. Players piece together the story through environmental clues and disembodied voices, unravelling the mystery behind the haunted amusement park. While the overarching plot might not be particularly deep, the voice acting and unsettling atmosphere create a sense of unease that complements the rollercoaster ride. However, some horror fans might find the scares predictable and the story lacking emotional impact.

Final Thoughts on Switchback VR

A complete playthrough of Switchback VR takes just over four hours. While the concise length ensures the experience doesn’t overstay its welcome, it might leave players wanting more content. Especially considering the single-player focus. The game offers some replayability with hidden collectables and branching paths that alter certain rollercoaster sections, but it’s unlikely to hold players’ attention. It’s an enjoyable, atmospheric experience with fast-paced VR shooting action.

Review: MonsGeek M1W V3 HE-SP keyboard

Daniel Waite

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Jul 13, 2024

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The MonsGeek M1W V3 HE-SP keyboard combines style and usability. This sturdy reduced form factor device is perfect for gamers and office workers. Additionally, this is the product for you if you want something that offers flexibility and a wireless connection.

This special keyboard can be used on a PC, Mac, consoles, or via Bluetooth for your mobile devices. This flexibility was impressive. Moreover, it’s unbelievably easy to set up and adjusting the settings was straightforward. If you download the MonsGeek drivers, you may alter the RGB, trigger sensitivity, and actuation distance with ease. Alongside this, there are preset options that make this task easier still.

What’s in the box of the MonsGeek M1W V3 HE-SP keyboard?

The packaging is sturdy and attractive. What’s more, it has a professional and alluring edge that highlights the quality.
The MonsGeek M1W V3 HE-SP keyboard is surprisingly heavy. The aluminium case is reassuringly chunky and I love the streamlined finish.
Miscellaneous replacement components are provided.
Charge the keyboard with the coiled USB-C to USB-A cable.
A wireless dongle increases your connectivity options.
A keycap puller and switch tool can be used to customise your device.
Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

Gaming is at the core of MonsGeek’s mission. Accordingly, fully adjustable settings make this device stand out from the crowd. Furthermore, a media control knob ensures that the user has full control over their audio. This was spectacular, especially if you love to play fast-paced and competitive games. Alternatively, if you enjoy casual gaming, you’ll adore the rapid inputs and the glorious RGB display.

Adjustable actuation, rapid trigger, dynamic keystrokes and mod-tap are features that improve your gaming experience. Each of these elements allows the user to adjust the keyboard to their needs. Consequently, fans of FPS titles can design a four-point keystroke or design a dual-behaviour keytap. Either way, you can enjoy a match-winning edge by customising your keyboard through the MonsGeek software.

Connectivity.

The impressive customisation features were great. However, I adored the connectivity options. If you are a Mac user, this keyboard can be connected with the flick of a switch. Alternatively, you may use the Bluetooth 5.0 function to connect to 3 unique devices. This stable option delivered low latency performance that was perfect for my typing and gaming needs.

Finally, you may use the USB cable to utilise an old-school approach. This method may not be as clean as the other methods, but it is reliable, and the coiled cable is as robust as the keyboard. Moreover, this option lets you charge the device, so if you run out of juice, you can continue playing whilst the keyboard charges. The 6,000 mAh battery withstands lengthy gaming sessions. However, if it runs low, it can be charged quickly for your convenience.

Usability.

No one wants a slow or challenging-to-use keyboard. Luckily, the MonsGeek M1W V3 HE-SP keyboard is a cinch to set up and alter. The exceptional free-to-download software allows you to alter every element. Accordingly, you can program dynamic keystrokes for four different key operations. Though this wasn’t something I used heavily, I was impressed with its responsive nature.

Alongside this, you may create your own RGB patterns or use the FN and shortcut buttons to cycle through 20 options. Additionally, you can alter the brightness and the cycle speed. If you love to change your audio on the fly, the handy media knob is a game changer. When you combine this with the FN shortcuts, you can adjust your volume and your audio settings with ease.

Finally, it is simple to select your connectivity options. A switch is hidden under the tab button. When activated, you can move between Mac, Windows, wired, and wireless. Moreover, Bluetooth can be activated using the FN and shortcut buttons.

Build quality.

This keyboard is jam-packed with features. Yet, it was the build quality that blew me away. The spectacular linear magnetic switches are accurate and smooth. Additionally, they deliver that wonderful mechanical sound. Furthermore, they utilise Hall Effect sensing for an ultra-accurate experience.

On top of this, the aluminium frame and the plate-mounted stabilisers deliver a comfortable typing and gaming performance. Moreover, the metallic finish is pleasant to look at and I loved the streamlined appearance. This is continued with the side-printed backlit keycaps. This stylish look takes some getting used to. However, once you get to grips with it, it is a real conversation starter. Lastly, the OEM profile feels comfortable and familiar and the PBT double-shot keycaps ensure that the colour remains true for longer.

Is the MonsGeek M1W V3 HE-SP keyboard worth it?

This device stands out from the crowd. The unusual side-printed font and the incredible build quality are a head-turner. What’s more, the connectivity options and the free software make this impressively versatile and user-friendly. If you then consider the 8K polling rate and the stable wireless options, this is ideal for competitive gamers. Subsequently, I love this device and I recommend buying it here!

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

The MonsGeek M1W V3 HE-SP keyboard has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Moss Book 2

James Refelian

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Jul 13, 2024

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Moss Book 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the beloved PSVR title, whisks players back into a world of miniature wonder. Reprising your role as the “reader,” you guide the courageous mouse heroine Quill on a thrilling adventure through a captivating storybook landscape. Building upon the first game’s strengths, the sequel boasts improved visuals, refined gameplay mechanics, and a spellbinding narrative that expands upon Quill’s world.

A Breathtaking World Reborn

The most striking improvement lies in its visual presentation. The PlayStation VR2’s enhanced resolution and graphical fidelity bring the world of Moss to life with stunning detail. From the lush greenery of overgrown forests to the glistening metallic sheen of ancient ruins, every environment is brimming with charm and personality. Quill herself benefits from the graphical upgrade, with her expressive animations and detailed fur adding to the overall immersion.

In Moss Book 2, You’re More Than Just a Guide

Moss Book 2 refines the core gameplay established in the first game. Players guide Quill through intricate environments, solving puzzles by manipulating objects in the world and utilising her newfound arsenal of gadgets. New mechanics like picking up blocks as the Reader and environmental puzzles add a layer of complexity that keeps the gameplay fresh without ever feeling overwhelming. The true highlight, however, remains the interaction between you and Quill.

An Unfolding Epic

The story picks up where the first game left off. This time, Quill ventures deeper into the world to confront a new threat. The narrative is surprisingly engaging, delivered through a charming mix of environmental storytelling and narrated cutscenes. While the core themes of heroism and friendship remain familiar, Moss Book 2 delves deeper into Quill’s backstory.

Final Thoughts on Moss Book 2

Moss Book 2 builds upon the success of the original VR adventure, offering a delightful return to Quill’s charming world. New weapons, abilities, and environments keep the gameplay fresh, while the core strengths of storytelling and VR immersion remain intact. The balance between combat and puzzles provides a satisfying experience, enhanced by the PSVR2 hardware. However, a potentially repetitive mission structure might hold it back for extended play sessions. Overall, Moss Book 2 is a charming and engaging VR adventure. It delivers more of what fans loved about the first game, and that’s never bad!

Review: Jurassic World Aftermath

James Refelian

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Jul 13, 2024

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Jurassic World Aftermath brings players face-to-face with the terrifying aftermath of Isla Nublar’s destruction in a VR experience I reviewed on PlayStation VR2. Developed by Coatsink, the game focuses on stealth and puzzle-solving as you navigate a perilous abandoned research facility overrun by escaped dinosaurs. Does Jurassic World Aftermath capture the thrill of the Jurassic Park franchise, or does it get lost in the jungle of repetitive gameplay?

A World Reclaimed by Nature

Jurassic World Aftermath’s greatest strength lies in its immersive atmosphere. The PSVR2’s impressive visuals bring the overgrown ruins of the research facility to life in stunning detail. Sunlight filtering through shattered glass illuminates dusty corridors while the ever-present threat of lurking dinosaurs hangs heavy in the air. The haunting sound design, featuring dripping water, creaking metal, and the distant roars of predators, further amplifies the tension and vulnerability. While the cel-shaded art style might not be for everyone, it provides a unique aesthetic and helps the game run smoothly on the PSVR2 hardware.

Outsmart, Not Outrun: A Focus on Stealth

Jurassic World Aftermath emphasises stealth mechanics over open combat. Players take on the role of a stranded operative, Sam, who must use their wits and scavenged tools to navigate the facility. The gameplay revolves around avoiding detection by the park’s most dangerous inhabitants – the raptors. Using your glove you can activate loudspeakers and other devices to lure raptors away. This unblocks key areas or creates temporary safe havens. The game excels at building suspense as you inch through narrow corridors, holding your breath and listening for the telltale signs of approaching predators. One wrong move can result in a swift and brutal demise, making each encounter with a raptor a heart-pounding experience and potentially a frustrating restart.

Light Puzzle Solving and Environmental Storytelling

While the core gameplay revolves around stealth, Jurassic World Aftermath throws in some light puzzle-solving elements to keep things interesting. These puzzles usually involve hacking into terminals or manipulating objects in the environment to progress. The puzzles themselves are not overly complex, but they serve to break up the tension and provide a sense of accomplishment. The narrative unfolds organically through environmental storytelling. Scattered audio logs, data pads, and visual clues paint a picture of the desperate final days and the fate of its inhabitants.

A Frightening Frenzy or a Frustrating Fumble? The Shortcomings of Jurassic World Aftermath

While Jurassic World Aftermath excels at building tension, the experience is hampered by a few shortcomings. The repetitive nature of the core gameplay – avoid raptors, solve puzzles, move on – can become monotonous after extended play sessions. Aside from a last-ditch defence tool, the lack of combat options might leave players craving more. Additionally, the game’s relatively short campaign length, clocking in at around 5-6 hours, feels like a missed opportunity in such a rich franchise.

Final Thoughts on Jurassic World Aftermath

Jurassic World Aftermath delivers a tense VR experience set amidst the abandoned research facility of Isla Nublar. The game shines with immersive visuals and a haunting soundscape that perfectly captures the atmosphere of dread. Stealth gameplay takes centre stage as you outsmart cunning raptors using tools and distractions. While light puzzles break up the tension, they are relatively easy. The lack of combat options and a relatively short campaign will leave players wanting more depth. Overall, Jurassic World Aftermath is a thrilling but brief VR adventure. It’s ideal for die-hard Jurassic Park fans and those seeking a short but intense scare. However, its repetitive gameplay and limited scope might not hold the attention of players seeking a more expansive VR experience.

Review: Unplugged

James Refelian

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Jul 13, 2024

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Unplugged straps you into the electrifying world of virtual reality rock stardom. Developed by Anotherway, this rhythm game ditches the plastic peripherals and lets you shred on air guitar using your VR controllers.

The Thrill of the Performance

Unplugged’s core gameplay is undeniably fun and intuitive. The feeling of gripping a guitar neck and strumming is convincingly mimicked when you hold the Sense Controllers. The game’s tracking is not just good. It’s impressive, accurately translating your movements into in-game actions. Hitting notes is not just a task; it’s a satisfying experience, with successful strums producing feedback from the Sense Controllers’ haptics that add to the immersion. As you progress through songs, the difficulty ramps up, requiring faster movement and more precise fretting (simulated by pressing buttons on the controllers). The game cleverly incorporates body movements like tilting the virtual guitar for whammy bar effects, adding another layer of immersion to the experience. However, the lack of hand-tracking technology limits the complexity of guitar-playing techniques.

A Diverse Playlist for Every Rocker

Unplugged boasts a diverse and extensive selection of licensed tracks that span various rock genres. There’s something for every musical taste. While the initial song list might feel a bit limited, downloadable content packs offer additional tracks to expand your virtual repertoire. The game also features a practice mode that allows you to isolate specific sections of songs to perfect your technique, a valuable tool for aspiring virtual guitar heroes.

Beyond the Stage: Building Your Rock Star Persona in Unplugged

Unplugged goes beyond simply replicating guitar playing. The game features a robust character customisation system, allowing you to personalise your virtual rockstar. From selecting different guitars and outfits to customising your stage presence with various poses and effects, Unplugged lets you create a unique persona to embody on stage. The energetic virtual crowds that cheer you on during successful performances further enhance the immersive rock concert experience.

The Limitations of Going Unplugged

While Unplugged excels at capturing the basic mechanics of guitar playing, it does have limitations. The PSVR2 version’s lack of hand-tracking technology means the game can’t replicate the nuance of accurate finger placement on the fretboard. Complex chords and advanced techniques are impossible, which might be a drawback for experienced musicians hoping for a truly authentic experience.

Final Thoughts on Unplugged

Unplugged straps you into the electrifying world of VR rock stardom. The core gameplay is fun and intuitive, with impressive tracking that translates your movements into in-game actions. However, the lack of hand-tracking technology limits the complexity of guitar-playing techniques. While the diverse licensed soundtrack offers something for most musical tastes, the downloadable content might be necessary for dedicated rockers. The ability to personalise your virtual rockstar persona adds another layer of immersion. Overall, Unplugged is a solid VR rhythm game that delivers a fun and accessible way to unleash your inner rockstar. Still, it might not satisfy experienced musicians craving a more authentic experience.

Review: After the Fall

James Refelian

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Jul 13, 2024

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After the Fall, a fast-paced VR shooter from Vertigo Games arrived on the PSVR2 with a bang. Stepping into the icy wasteland of a post-apocalyptic Los Angeles overrun by grotesque, mutated creatures known as the “Snowbreed,” players band together to survive, scavenge, and fight back to civilisation. While the core concept might feel familiar, After the Fall injects a shot of frenetic VR action and innovative mechanics to create a thrilling, albeit repetitive, experience.

Shooting Your Way Through a Frozen Apocalypse

After the Fall throws you headfirst into the frozen chaos. The PSVR2’s impressive field of view and smooth tracking create a truly immersive experience. Dodging swipes from grotesque creatures, wielding an arsenal of powerful (and satisfyingly weighty) VR weapons, and sprinting through crumbling buildings all feel incredibly natural. The Sense controllers’ adaptive triggers add a layer of immersion, with each weapon feeling distinct and impactful. Dismembering a Snowbreed with a well-placed shotgun blast feels gratifyingly brutal but it’s missing a dedicated melee attack for last resorts. Still, it’s the constant movement and frenetic action that keeps the adrenaline pumping.

Cooperative Camaraderie is Key

After the Fall is best experienced in co-op although it doesn’t have to be played with others. Up to four players can squad up (other players or AI), sharing the burden of survival and the spoils of victory. Communication and teamwork are crucial. Reviving downed teammates, coordinating strategies, and covering each other’s backs during intense firefights create a strong sense of camaraderie, which is lacking in an AI team. The game offers various difficulty levels, making it accessible for seasoned VR veterans and newcomers looking for a thrilling challenge.

Beyond the Bullets: Progression and Customisation

While the core gameplay revolves around intense shootouts, After the Fall offers surprising depth. Completing missions unlocks new weapons, gadgets, and character abilities, allowing players to customise their playstyle. The hub world acts as a social space where players can interact, purchase upgrades with the Harvest they’ve collected, and prepare for upcoming expeditions. While the repetitive nature of the missions can wear thin after extended sessions, the steady stream of new gear and challenges keeps gameplay slightly more engaging.

Technical Considerations and Accessibility in After the Fall

After the Fall takes full advantage of the PSVR2’s capabilities, the visuals, while not groundbreaking, are detailed and atmospheric. The crisp resolution ensures clear sightlines during combat, which is crucial for survival. Thankfully, the game offers a robust suite of comfort options, including smooth locomotion and teleport movement, mitigating the risk of motion sickness for players with varying sensitivities.

Final Thoughts on After the Fall

After the Fall offers a fun, albeit limited, VR co-op zombie shooter experience. The game excels in its core mechanics, delivering satisfying VR gunplay with a good sense of immersion. The diverse enemy types and the unique frozen Los Angeles apocalypse setting create a compelling atmosphere. However, the repetitive mission structure and the grind for weapon upgrades can make the gameplay feel shallow.

A Closer Look at So Slime Sugary Crush Milkshake

Family
Toys

Andrew Edney

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Jul 13, 2024

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Here we take a closer look at So Slime Sugary Crush Milkshake from Canal Toys.

With the Sugary Crush Milkshake, discover a sensational collection of different compounds and decorations to mix and make a delicious looking creation.

Mix all the ingredients together in the cute milkshake cup and deorate with frosting and sprinkles.

Includes everything you need with Easy-to-Follow recipe. Enjoy all the different sensations while creating your treats.

Don’t forget to take a picture and share before you crush it!

CREATE: Make a amazing looking Milkshake with the different compounds!
DECORATE: With all the accessories, take a photo and share!
CRUSH IT: Enjoy the sensation of all compounds and decorations mixing.

Everything you need is included in the box, so all you need to do is get creating!

So Slime Sugary Crush Milkshake from Canal Toys is available now priced around £9.99.

You can learn more from the Canal Toys website.

A Closer Look at Build Your Own Gromit

Andrew Edney

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Jul 13, 2024

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If you are a fan of Wallace and Gromit, there are some great Build Your Own sets available, here we take a closer look at Gromit!

Simply slot together the cardboard parts to build your very own Gromit. The clever mechanics are cracking fun! Wag his tail for a realistic walking legs action; press Gromit’s head to raise his expressive ears and eyebrows. Atta boy, Gromit Lad!

Everything you need is provided in the kit – simply follow the instructions: press out the pre-cut parts, build, play, and display. There’s no glue, no mess, no fuss!

Includes Gromit’s personalised dog bowl, tasty bone, cosy slippers, and a framed photo of Wallace and Gromit.

Mess-free, slot together cardboard construction
Perfect family time activity
60-minute build
Skill level rating: 3 stars out of 5
85 press-out parts
High-quality sustainable cardboard
Full instructions included
Designed in the UK
Fun, educational and supports STEM

Made using sustainable cardboard. 100% plastic-free; both kit and packaging are fully recyclable.

Suitable for age 10 years – 100! Best enjoyed as a family experience.

Build Your Own Gromit is available now priced around £14.99.

You can learn more from the website here.

Review: Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III

Daniel Waite

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Jul 12, 2024

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Review: Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III

Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III is nostalgia personified. This wonderfully retro experience will impress fans of the genre. Furthermore, newbies will love the simple action and the garish colours. If you adore mindless gameplay that is easy to pick up, then this is the game for you.

This old-school platform title was developed by TAITO and published by United Games Entertainment. Moreover, it can be enjoyed alone or locally with a friend. Alongside this, there is a leaderboard to top and plenty of hectic enemies to thwart. Accordingly, there is plenty to do even though the action is rudimentary.

Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III focuses on madness.

Like its peers, Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III concentrates on maddening gameplay. Consequently, the story, or what little there is of it, plays second fiddle. Now, I don’t mind this, as I love the basic ideas and the straightforward mindset. Yet, if you want a complex affair, you may want to look elsewhere.

The story follows Bubby and Bobby as they take on a mission to save their solar system. Each of the planets is overrun by crazy creatures and the colourful heroes must do their best to use their special powers and their umbrellas to save the day.

Cruel creatures.

This short but enjoyable experience revolves around 8 worlds and 56 core stages. Alongside this, there are some secrets to discover and plenty of bosses to overcome. As you explore each world, you’ll notice unique themes and an array of different monsters. Additionally, you must master each drip-fed mechanic and learn about an array of special powers.

The levels use either a fixed-screen perspective or some basic side-scrolling movement. Either way, the goal remains the same. The hero or heroes must use their umbrellas to catch water and other orbs to tackle each creature. Alternatively, you may use your umbrella to float from grand heights or to act as a shield. Moreover, you can grab your enemies and chuck them at their friends. This simple idea is made a little tougher as your foes roll, jump, sprint, and move around in unpredictable ways. Subsequently, you need luck on your side to win.

Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III is a pixelated dream.

Retro gaming is all about garish colours and blocky pixelation. Luckily, Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III captures this from every angle. Each level has a unique background and the varied enemies keep you entertained. What’s more, the animation is smooth and I love the fast-paced action. As each stage evolves, the arena expands. This adds a challenging layer that ups the ante. This was a great move as it keeps you focused from beginning to end.

The audio is upbeat and entertaining. I loved the repetitive soundtrack and the uncomfortably shrill electro tones. Moreover, the rudimentary sound effects capture that dated arcade feel. This was a great move by the developers as it enhanced the retro edge.

Easy to play.

If you want a game that you can play with your kids, then look no further. Thanks to the basic control layout and easy-to-understand inputs, this can be mastered immediately. Alongside this, the gameplay is simple to understand and though you may die a lot, you can easily continue from where you left off.

This generous approach enhances replay value and longevity. Furthermore, there is an arcade and a challenge mode to test your skills. If you are competitive, you’ll love the leaderboards and the challenges they pose. Finally, there is no auto-save facility. As such, if you wish to avoid disappointment, make sure you save this regularly.

Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III is a step-down memory lane.

I remember playing Bubble Bobble as a child. Subsequently, this franchise brings back many wonderful memories. Though this latest endeavour won’t push modern consoles, it is a brilliant retro experience. I loved the gaudy colours and the upbeat music. Moreover, the simple controls are effective and each level is fun to explore. Consequently, it is a joyful game and I recommend buying it here! Can you save the solar system? Master your umbrella, use your special powers, and wipe out every monster.