Review: Warhammer 40,000 Special Pack DLC

Daniel Waite
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Review: Warhammer 40,000 Special Pack DLC

The Warhammer 40,000 Special Pack DLC for PowerWash Simulator is intense! This latest addition to the OCD-focused gameplay will test your patience like never before. Moreover, fans of Warhammer will adore the attention to detail and the insane jobs that you have to undertake. In typical PowerWash fashion, this endeavour is filled with massive filth-ridden items and a fine edge of fantasy creative licence.

This simulation add-on was developed by FuturLab Limited and published by Square Enix. Furthermore, it can be enjoyed alone or cooperatively online. As such, you and your friends can grab a pressure washer, load up on special detergents, and clean the filthiest of items until they sparkle like a new pin.

The Warhammer 40,000 Special Pack DLC doesn’t hold back.

Unlike some of its predecessors, the Warhammer 40,000 Special Pack DLC doesn’t hold back. Instead, it chucks gargantuan builds at you from the off. This overwhelming experience will fill Warhammer fans with joy. However, if you buy this simply to complete the achievements or to get a fix of new cleaning jobs, this will be slightly off-putting.

On top of this, if you tackle this alone, it can be time-consuming and tough to handle. Yet, if you enjoy the slow and methodical gameplay and the weird sense of reward from cleaning each item, you will cherish every moment. Additionally, with 5 stages to complete and a host of 40K items to wash, this will get your fantasy juices flowing.

A fine blend of tasks.

At its core, the Warhammer 40,000 Special Pack DLC doesn’t break the mould. However, when you consider the variety of each stage, I was happy with the price-to-content ratio. Additionally, the familiar gameplay will make fans of the franchise smile. With nothing new to learn and familiar tools at your disposal, you can simply jump into the action and focus on the task at hand.

The 5 unique levels highlight the level of detail and the crazy nature of each fantasy vehicle. These massive machines vary from a Dreadnought to a Land Raider. Furthermore, there is a tank to polish and an Imperial Knight to make shine. Each of these tasks takes ages to complete, and I found this to be more challenging and time-consuming than the Back to the Future or Sponge Bob Square Pants alternatives.

The Warhammer 40,000 Special Pack DLC looks incredible.

Staring at each level for minutes at a time is standard practice for PowerWash Simulator. However, the Warhammer 40,000 Special Pack DLC takes it to a new level. With so many nooks and crannies to clean and large vehicles to clamber on, you need to keep your wits about you. Thankfully, the fine graphics and simple stage design keep you on track. Moreover, the ability to highlight dirt and tag team with another player helps to speed things up.

I adored the graphics. Yet, the audio has always been a sore subject. The continual whoosh of water drives me insane. Sadly, there is no way to turn this off and there isn’t much of a soundtrack to distract you. I’d have liked it if you could reduce the sound effects whilst enjoying an upbeat or theme-specific soundtrack.

Excellent controls.

The developers have done an amazing job with the control layout. Thanks to the well-labelled diagram and the familiar setup, this can be mastered in no time. Moreover, if you are new to the game, you will understand the fundamentals without the need for a long-winded tutorial.

Though the Warhammer 40,000 Special Pack DLC is tougher than its predecessors, it has limited replay value and longevity. Available for around £7, you’ll get between 5 and 7 hours of gameplay if you wish to complete everything. Consequently, I believe this is great value for money and well worth an investment.

The Warhammer 40,000 Special Pack DLC is a fantastic addition to the franchise.

I love it when you get something unusual to play. This fantasy add-on to a well-trodden franchise is worthy of your time and your effort. The enormous vehicles and familiar Warhammer items will make fans smile. Additionally, the time-consuming levels will test your patience and resolve. Subsequently, this is a must-buy for lovers of PowerWash Simulator. Grab your pressure washer, pick your detergent, and clean every mind-blowing level!

Review: Shiren The Wanderer: The Mystery Dungeon Of Serpentcoil Island

Sam Butler
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Review: Shiren The Wanderer: The Mystery Dungeon Of Serpentcoil Island

For the first time in 13 years, Shiren The Wanderer returns for a new adventure. The roguelike from Spike Chunsoft sees Shiren traverse randomly generated dungeons as he fights monsters and climbs Serpentcoil Island in search of treasure. While the difficulty spikes may turn some players away, those looking for a difficult roguelike should consider checking this game out.

The Adventures of Shiren The Wanderer

The story starts as Shiren and his pet ferret, Koppa, hear rumors about an island called Serpentcoil Island and how there is treasure to collect. Later, in a dream, a mysterious girl asks the heroes to help rescue her, and it is off to the island they go to. The next thing you’re fighting the big boss, where you instantly get obliterated. You wake up on Serpentcoil Island with amnesia and must find your way back to the top to defeat the monster.

The setup of this game is not great and felt very cliche. As you progress deeper into the dungeons, more characters reveal themselves, and side stories unlock. You meet a pirate crew who only takes treasure that they need as they oppose a rival pirate faction that wants to take everything. You meet a village of ninjas who defected from their old clan and are afraid for their lives. Old characters from past games pop up along the way to help you as well. Optional side paths open up to give players extra challenges along the way. There is nothing earth-shattering here, but it does a good job of fleshing out Serpentcoil Island and gives players a reason to keep running through the dungeons.

Deciphering The Mystery Dungeon

Of course, the main part of the game is the dungeon crawling. Shiren and enemies move on a grid. When you move, the enemies move. Floors are procedurally generated, and you pick up items as you explore each floor. In other roguelikes, such as Hades and Slay The Spire, the depth lies in what power-ups you get and how you build your character. Power-ups do not exist in this roguelike. Instead, the depth of this game lies in how you approach the dungeon. How you move to influence the enemies’ movement. As the player, you must influence the enemy’s movements to avoid taking unnecessary damage or getting overwhelmed by multiple enemies. Learning about the different enemies to navigate each dungeon efficiently is key to surviving this roguelike adventure. Managing your items, health bar, and fullness bar is also a crucial part of the game.

This game is difficult. Enemies hit hard, especially at the beginning when you’re just picking up items. Many runs have ended early for me because of unfortunate enemy placements or because I didn’t pick up a weapon or shield to deal with enemies. Not knowing what to do against certain enemies can lead to untimely deaths. In particular, I’ve had a lot of trouble dealing with these mudslimes that can surround and trap you in place before beating you to death. Your runs can end if you don’t have items to escape certain situations, which can be frustrating. That frustration turned into some fun ah-ha moments the more I played the game.

Shaking Off The Rust

While strategizing how to tackle these dungeons is fun, the combat itself is unsatisfying. You press a button, attack the enemy, and the enemy attacks back. Rinse and repeat until someone dies. You can throw items at enemies or use weapons and magic, but executing combat is not fun. This is a shame because this genre has games with excellent combat. The other big problem I’ve had is with movement. I’ve been in situations where the game would move me one more space than intended, which led to unintentional damage. Other times, the grid system would make talking to NPCs along the way frustrating.

A lot has changed in the roguelike genre since Shiren’s last adventure. Many of those evolutions in the genre make playing this game feel a little dated. I wish there were more to do in the hub world. I wish I could build my character in the dungeons rather than rely on items to survive. Despite not having those things, learning how the game works is still fun. For those looking for a challenging roguelike, Shiren The Wanderer offers a dungeon crawler that makes players think about how they move. While there is strategic depth, its clunky movement, unengaging combat, and generic fantasy plot keep this game from being a great roguelike.

Review: E7 Standing Desk

Daniel Waite
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Review: E7 Standing Desk

The E7 Standing Desk from FlexiSpot is the younger sibling of the E7 Pro desk I reviewed in August 2023. I adored that product and admired its build quality and safety features. Moreover, it is an undeniably affordable option for office workers or those who like to game. Consequently, when I saw this desk available at an even more impressive price point, I had to have a look!

This striking piece of furniture is available in a choice of frame colours and different worktop materials. Additionally, you may pick a variety of shapes and sizes depending on your office and your needs. This was phenomenal, as the one-size-fits-all approach isn’t always appropriate. On top of this, though this desk is better for your pocket, FlexiSpot hasn’t skimped on the safety features or the build quality. As such, I had high expectations for this product.

What’s in the box of the E7 Standing Desk?

  • This item is supplied in 2 large and heavy parcels. The understated boxes are robust and recyclable. As such, they follow FlexiSpot’s environmentally friendly aspirations.
  • The E7 Standing Desk is heavy but stylish to look at. The 2 metal legs are strong and large and the worktop is slim but sturdy. Accordingly, this combination is perfect for a professional workstation.
  • You are provided with every tool and screw to complete the job.
  • A user manual talks you through the build process.

Building the desk.

The E7 Standing Desk is a hefty and large product. I picked the 180×80 cm worktop, so I had my work cut out for me. However, with the help of my partner, I was able to move each heavy part and build the desk with ease. Thankfully, there are pre-milled holes for every bolt and the user manual gives you step by step guide. Yet, if you wish to speed things up, a battery-powered screwdriver with Allan key bits will save you time.

Each part is well-labelled and adjusting the frame and the legs is a cinch. What’s more, connecting the motors and the handy control panel is straightforward. Word of warning though, you will have to find a suitable position for each of these bits as there are no pre-drilled holes. This wasn’t an issue, but using the provided screwdriver may not be as simple as an impact driver or powered screwdriver.

Once you get your head around the layout of each section, the desk can be constructed with ease. Together, we had the desk made in around 20 minutes. If you have to do this alone, it will be closer to 30 and turning it over onto its legs will be hard work. Consequently, you will need to be careful that you don’t injure yourself. Finally, I recommend using the supplied cardboard to keep the desktop from becoming damaged during the build.

Technical aspects of the E7 Standing Desk.

A standing desk alters the way you work and improves your health. Sitting at a desk isn’t good for your back or hips. Additionally, it reduces productivity and concentration. These issues can be removed if you invest in the E7 Standing Desk! The ability to alter the height of your workstation is a game-changer. Furthermore, if you share the desk with colleagues or your family, it ensures that everyone has the perfect seating position. Alternatively, you can adjust the worktop height to a comfortable standing position.

This desk has a range of 58-128cm and a lifting capacity of 125kg and a static load bearing of 161kg. Subsequently, it is ideal for youngsters and adults, and it will easily lift most gaming rigs or professional layouts. Alongside this, it can fit into many office spaces as the desktop dimensions are 120-200cm wide and 60-80cm deep. 

If you work in a shared office, no one wants to hear the whirr of loud motors. Thankfully, this desk operates at under 50 dB. Though this isn’t whisper quiet by any stretch of the imagination, you won’t get any complaints from your neighbours. On top of this, the low-power draw ensures that you will not run up huge energy bills by having it plugged in. This element is further improved as the control panel has a sleep mode that saves energy whenever it is not in use.

Build quality.

In typical FlexiSpot fashion, build quality and safety is at the fore. I chose an all-white finish using a rectangular worktop. This clean finish is complemented by the slim worktop and the wonderful wire tidy system. Additionally, the control panel is simple, effective, and pleasant to look at. The 4 programmable settings allow you to preset 4 unique heights for each user. Alternatively, you may have a favoured standing and seated position that can be selected at the push of a button.

Alongside this, the hard-wearing metal frame looks fantastic. The solid base colour can take some minor knocks, and it can be colour-matched to the desktop. Each independent motor is strong and sturdy. Consequently, it easily lifts your monitor, case, and other essential items. 

Safety. 

On top of this, there is anti-collision technology to ensure that your children or animals don’t get crushed. This safety system can be altered at the control panel, and you can adjust the sensitivity or turn it off altogether. When switched on, the desk will highlight if there is an obstacle and prevent the worktop from lowering. Furthermore, if the anti-collision tech activates, the desk rises slightly to release any item that may become trapped. This is impressive as it reduces the risk of injury with youngsters or fur babies running around.

The excellent wire housing system reduces the risk of trip hazards. Moreover, it prevents your workstation from becoming an unsightly mess. This easy-to-fit tool is well-positioned under the worktop. Additionally, it is easy to open if you need to alter your setup. 

Is the E7 Standing Desk worth it? 

If you suffer from sore hips, a bad back, or poor productivity and concentration, then a standing desk could be the answer. The E7 Standing Desk helps to correct poor posture. What’s more, the ability to stretch and move is a game-changer. If you then consider the striking and professional finish, this is the perfect addition to any office space. Accordingly, I recommend buying it here! If you wish to save some more money, have a look at the FlexiSpot Spring Sale!

(More information on FlexiSpot can be found here!) 

The E7 Standing Desk has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

(Full Disclosure! FlexiSpot provided a sample for this review!)

6 Reasons Using a VPN Makes Sense as a Video Gamer

Andrew Edney
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6 Reasons Using a VPN Makes Sense as a Video Gamer

Being a gamer is more of a lifestyle than a hobby. Sure, you play a lot of games, but you also mingle in these online spaces, organize your life around massive events and releases, and identify with some of these communities.

This is why it’s so hard to separate the real world from the digital world sometimes. It’s also why a gaming obstacle seems like a massive obstacle (far bigger than it actually is). Fortunately, some of these obstacles can be bypassed with the use of a VPN.

Here’s how this can be done and why using a VPN makes perfect sense to a video gamer (in general). 

source

  1. It allows you to play geo-blocked games

Some games are only allowed to people in certain regions. This means that if you’re outside of the region, you may not be able to play, even if you are willing to legally purchase the game.

In fact, there are some consoles (primarily Switch) that create this sort of problem. For instance, the Nintendo store is not available in some countries, which means that, in order to get the game, you would have to buy a physical copy. This is a huge problem, mostly because you have to order a copy from a local supplier (and hope they have it). You also need to wait for it to arrive instead of just downloading it and playing it right away.  

Now, while VPN cannot help you with the Nintendo store, this is a recurring problem with many different games and stores. So, what you can do is get a VPN and solve it yourself. According to Techopedia, a paid VPN is best, as, with free VPNs, the main drawback is the very low number of servers and geos covered. Aleksandar Stevanovic continues with the fact that this may be a showstopper if you need to access resources from specific geos or a wide range of locations around the world, which is certainly the case when gaming.

  1. Keeping you safe from swatting

It’s important to understand one thing – swatting is a serious threat, and some communities are notoriously toxic. 

Let’s say you’re a 4X strategy gamer. Most of the time, you play a single-player game, hunting for achievements. The most scramble you’ll get into is an occasional subreddit argument about the best starting strategy for your faction of choice. 

Most of the time, you’re just trying to get better, and even if you do play multiplayer, the audience is, on average, more mature. These are usually people working their 9-to-5, looking to unwind a bit after the office.

FPS games, on the other hand, are something entirely different. Not only are you at threat of doxing but you might also get swatted just for headshotting someone three times in a row. This is a serious threat, and you need to take it seriously. Needless to say, a VPN can help keep you safe. 

  1. Avoiding bandwidth throttling

ISPs (internet service providers) are known to throttle during specific times of the day. This way, they reduce the overall pressure on their network and ensure that the average user has a better internet browsing experience.

Now, there are a few problems with this. First, there are a lot of games with high data use. These are mostly online games like MMOs and competitive multiplayer games. Now, if the ISP decides to throttle while you’re playing, you’re in for a world of lag. Even if it doesn’t outright ruin your chances of performing at the best of your abilities, it will reduce your overall enjoyment of the game. 

Once again, the amount of data you’re using (and the amount of data you need) depends on the game you’re playing. 

By encrypting your data, a VPN will help you avoid data throttling. In other words, the ISP won’t know if you’re playing the game or not. They’ll assume that you’re just using the internet. All in all, It’ll be a lot harder for ISPs to throttle your data. 

  1. Bypassing IP ban

Is bypassing a ban ethical? Well, it depends on the point of view. Sure, the developer has the right to choose who can use their game, but if it’s a free game, a case can be made that it’s free for everyone (or it’s not free). If it’s a paid game, how ethical can it be to ban you from something you’ve paid money for?

All in all, not all bans are justified. Sometimes, you are a bit toxic, but for a good reason. Sometimes, a person much more toxic taunts you, and they don’t get a ban (you do). 

As you can see, there are plenty of ways bypassing the IP ban can be morally justified, but how do you do it?

Well, starting a new account is the most obvious way, but a lot of game developers and support teams are aware of that. So, what they do instead is ban the IP. fortunately, changing your IP is not that hard when you use a VPN. You’ll be back in the game in no time, and they’ll be none the wiser. 

  1. Early availability of some new releases

Sure, some releases have the same global time. This means that you get to see the release and the time zone. Most likely, if you’re using a great platform, you’ll even see the time when the game will be released in your region.

However, this is not always the case. Sometimes, for whatever marketing reasons, the game is set to release at a set time and date, regardless of the time zone. A game may launch at 22:22 or 11:11. The thing is that, if that’s the case, you might be able to access it sooner by using a VPN.

By tricking the system into thinking you’re at a different location, you’ll have earlier access than some of your friends.

Now, this is not just important for those who are impatient (although, sometimes, even a few hours means a lot). For a reviewer, a chance to release an early video can make a massive difference in views and engagement.

All of this is for just using a VPN.

  1. Safer way to play via public WiFI

Gamers don’t always play from home. This is especially the case if they’re using mobile games, tablet games, or just have a gaming laptop. 

Now, the very point of gaming from a portable device is the idea of playing on the go. A sleepover at a friend’s house is never problematic. What about playing from a park, a coffee shop, or a hotel that you’re staying at?

Sure, these can be completely safe and innocent, but is this really the risk that you’re willing to take?

Now, the best form of protection is definitely to be cautious when using public WiFi or to avoid using it altogether. Alas, since the latter is never really an option, it’s important that you start using a VPN.

This will give you that extra layer of encryption that may be just enough to avert a massive disaster. 

For a gamer, a competitive edge is all that matters

Regardless of whether it’s allowing you to play a video game, you wouldn’t otherwise be able to, keeping you safe online, or allowing you to bypass a ban, there’s no doubt about the usefulness of a VPN. Nowhere is this as important (or as appreciated) as in this field. In other words, a VPN is something that every gamer should have installed on their device of choice.

Review: Fortnite Peely Switch Protective Case

Daniel Waite
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Review: Fortnite Peely Switch Protective Case

The Fortnite Peely Switch Protective Case from PowerA is a fantastic accessory. This hard-wearing case looks incredible, and it’ll show your love for this fast-paced game. Additionally, it is versatile as it will house any Nintendo Switch. On top of this, it includes a bonus content code to spice up your in-game content.

If this wasn’t enough, the handy insert lets you carry 9 of your favourite games. As such, this is the perfect choice if you are commuting or going on holiday. Alongside this, the build quality is exceptional. Therefore, you know your precious console will be safe if it’s dropped or knocked.

What’s in the box of the Fortnite Peely Switch Protective Case?

  • The packaging is striking but minimal. It can be recycled and it highlights key selling points. 
  • The Fortnite Peely Switch Protective Case is great to look at. Moreover, the attention to detail and robust nature is impressive.

Technical aspects. 

Whenever you consider a protective case, you don’t think about multi-use functionality. However, the Fortnite Peely Switch Protective Case can be used for a couple of tasks. First, it does exceptionally well in its primary goal. The protective nature of this product is incredible. Additionally, thanks to the striking markings, you’ll always open it the right way up.

Second, there is a handy stand built into this case. With little effort, you can play your Switch hands-free. Though this wasn’t always essential, it was nice to have. What’s more, it worked perfectly when combined with the Fortnite Peely Wireless controller. This robust stand is secure, and it prevents your Switch from moving. Consequently, it is ideal if you are commuting on a train or travelling by car.

Build quality. 

Where the Fortnite Peely Switch Protective Case excels is its build quality and versatility. I adored the stunning theme and the little bits of detail. For example, the zip captures the Fortnite essence perfectly. Alongside this, the zip is strong and flexible and the rubberised handle is comfortable to hold. Then you must consider the interchangeable insert to fit every type of Switch.

The aforementioned hands-free stand is straightforward to operate. Thanks to the Velcro system, you can change the layout of your case with ease. Furthermore, the handy cardholder will keep your games safe. Accordingly, this accessory is perfect for clumsy youngsters and heavy-handed adults. 

Is the Fortnite Peely Switch Protective Case worth it?

No matter how careful you are, accidents happen. If you damage your console, it can be disheartening. However, matters are made worse when you can easily avoid it. Consequently, investing in this case could be the best decision you make this year. Not only does it look amazing, but it is versatile and well-built. Therefore, I recommend buying it here!

(More information on PowerA can be found here!)

The Fortnite Peely Switch Protective Case has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

(Full Disclose! PowerA provided a sample for this review!)

Review: Potions: A Curious Tale

Laurence Wall
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Review: Potions: A Curious Tale

Journey with Luna as she embarks on a mystical adventure to become the potion master she was always born to be. Engage with a colorful cast of characters you may recognize from popular fairy tales, myths, and legends. Seek the help of witches, concoct powerful potions, and delve deep into the temples of the land to uncover an evil plot that threatens to swallow the world whole.

At first glance, Potions: A Curious Tale is a sweet little indie title brimming with charm and witty writing. The opening cutscene sucks you into the world and sells you on the idea of experimental potion crafting. Luna seems charismatic, accompanied by her faithful companion Helios, and right from the get-go you find yourself rooting for her. The first fight holds so much promise, as you find yourself battling a towering Kraken and must use the surroundings to ward him off. But don’t be deceived, it is a great shame that this is about as deep as any boss battle will get.

Potions: A Curious Tale has a lot of things going for it, creative writing, an interesting world, a bestiary brimming with monsters, and dozens of mysterious brews to discover. Yet it is seriously let down by the lack of polish. As soon as you arrive in Old Haven, the town feels dead, which wouldn’t be a huge problem if this issue was rectified down the line, yet even as you recruit (and that’s a word used lightly) more townsfolk, the town never really feels more alive. There are four buildings of which you will only ever use one, Granny’s house, where you mix your potions and get ready for the next adventure. The inn is small, the NPCs fairly one-dimensional, and the other two buildings can’t even be entered, which is a shame. In addition, when you recall home you’re automatically plopped into Granny’s house, even if you don’t need to be there, which makes getting back to the world map more of a chore than it needs to be.

It would be remiss to ignore the good points, however. This title is built on a brilliant foundation. Unlocking new pages in the bestiary and mixing different animal parts to fill out the recipe book is certainly a lot of fun. Fascinating ingredients can be found by interacting with creatures in different ways, and these new potions can have varied effects on the world, from growing vines to reach new places to controlling a bull with a pot of red dye. But how useful are these potions in actuality? I found myself using the same three or four potions for the majority of the playthrough (water potions, lava potions, and spike potions), despite having crafted and tested most of them. Using all of the potions in your arsenal should be a crucial part of the adventure, but in reality, many were rather underwhelming and wholly unnecessary. Also, some potions wreaked havoc on my sense of immersion, namely, the Greater Summon Cloud, which honestly looks like the development team just copied an emoji onto Luna’s head and called it a day.

In terms of difficulty, a casual player won’t find themselves struggling much with this potion adventure. I wouldn’t class myself as a particularly skilled player, and yet throughout my quest, I never died a single time. I’m still not sure what happens when my health bar depletes to zero. Similarly, the puzzles encountered in the temples were embarrassingly simple, featuring uninspired block-sliding puzzles, brazier lighting puzzles, and a lily pad ‘maze’, with none of the intrigue that made similar puzzles in The Legend of Zelda so captivating. None of these temples will challenge you or take more than 10 minutes of your time, though perhaps this is for the best. On another note, twice I became stuck, once after pushing a large block onto a pressure plate and being trapped inside the temple, and another in the Temple of Life, where I found myself out of water potions and trapped on a small platform by the darkness behind me. These, however, were rectified by teleporting home and trekking to the temple again, yet this feels unnecessary. It certainly shows a lack of playtesting that this game sorely needs.

Perhaps the final nail in the coffin lies in the story. Or rather, the lack of story. Even now I couldn’t say what it was about, something about fairies and darkness? By the time it starts to become clearer (and I thought the story was about to unfold) you press three switches and the game suddenly ends. It took me by surprise and I felt myself feeling a little cheated, or at least underwhelmed. One could argue this isn’t about the story, it’s about the potions and Luna’s journey, but I can’t help but disagree. A powerful story would make that journey feel more important, and the characters would feel more fleshed out. It also doesn’t help that every character only has a single portrait and a fixed expression, which makes them feel lifeless and hollow. Luna’s rival Emily feels particularly rushed in this regard, as her redemption happens in the span of a minute and she’s left with a frown on her face. Are we supposed to feel sorry for her, or Prince Charming who has a similar change of heart? It’s messy, confusing, and more than anything, rushed. These atonements don’t feel earned, and as such, I find it hard to care for any of the characters, (apart from Helios, he’s great).

Whether it’s discrepancies in visual style, stiff animations, or the surprising shortness of the game, Potions: A Curious Tale struggles to find its place among the growing swathe of popular indie titles. And what makes this particularly difficult to write, is that I truly wanted to love this game. It has so much potential, yet almost none of that is fully realized. It could be incredible with enough time and a little more effort, but right now, it seems that this potion needs a little more time in the cauldron.

Review: Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore

Isabella Cerullo
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Review: Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore

Review – Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore developed by Seedy Eye Software.

Did Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore truly lived up to the Zelda CD-i’s expectations, is it meme-worthy, or it was finally taken seriously?

Hold the horses, and scimitars. Because I’m about to uncover my most honest review with all the answers + some review curations from other excellent experts with very controversial and distinct opinions.

Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore - GalleryImage
Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore – GalleryImage

1.The Music is Impeccable & A Classic

Maybe you will think this isn’t the most important aspect to consider as our first appreciation to the game.

But for me, it deserves all the attention!

If we are comparing this game to Zelda CD-is such as Zelda: The Wand of Gamelon. It means this project could be classified as the perfect match to the 90’s, extremely characteristic kind of game.

Why?

The music aside from being sensational and fun. Indeed reflects that style from those times perfectly.

It sets the ambience in such perfect way. That I felt I was playing another CD-i Zelda game solely for this reason.

And I don’t know what you might be thinking.

But the music and overall sound design can be one of the most crucial aspects to determine if a game or movie could be considered ”good”, or reflect what they intend in the best way possible.

I’m very curious to know your opinion as well. Does music choices truly matters to you?

2. Arzette has brought a lot of controversial opinions

The thing is. If you aren’t familiarized with this type of gameplay and CD-i Zelda games I mention several times through this review.

It could be possible to primarily feel like is a bad game with no interesting aspects, or without a profound reason to actually play it.

But I personally feel you will be missing out in a game that you can tell it was created and developed with care.

With a hand-made backgrounds, colorful characters, and story-rich/funny game. Which I can imagine was a tough thing to accomplish.

Sets this game a part.

There are some gamers that criticized it for being visually unattractive or ”too similar” to the Zelda games.

And it was interesting to see some comments:

YouTube comment to Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore review.

Or captivating observations as:

YouTube comment to Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore review.

3. Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore a ”love letter” to the Zelda games?

digitaltrends.com wrote an entire article about it. And if you would like to know what they think of the game, you can always check out the link provided!

And I must say that they are talking facts!

Some gamers said that even though those Zelda games were ”terrible” and meme-worthy. Were absolutely better than Arzette.

For reasons such as: ”too spacy with lack of features”, ”the dialogues were too long to keep it up”, ”way too ugly visuals”, etc…

But I don’t think the only reason why Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore exists, is entirely to copy those Zelda games or to be an improved version as everyone is saying.

I think they simply wanted to create an inspired version with it’s own unique voice!

Is fun, lovely, funny, characteristic, and absolutely unique.

Arzette:The Jewel of Faramore - Photo Property Pushsquare.com
Arzette:The Jewel of Faramore – Photo Property Pushsquare.com

4. A feminist game

I mean, this will be considered detestable for a huge amount of people.

And since it was Women’s Day very recently. I wanted to highlight this fact.

Also! As a woman, is super cool to play a game where a female is the leader and heroin!

I don’t think comparing to Zelda games was the most important part to talk through the article, but doesn’t she look like a Gerudo member? I love it!

Hey! Have you seen her scimitar?

This in particular was absolutely beautiful. I adore the scimitar she uses, and makes me feel empowered during the game.

Arzette's beautiful and feminine scimitar.
Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore – Photo Property noticiasdelmundo.news

5. Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore – Has an extremely long story

Yes and no!

The dialogues were funny and accomplished an amazing story-rich game.

Aside from excellent frame choices to compile a cinematic story I enjoyed so much.

This is positive for gamers like me that enjoy deeply this type of game narrative and care about it.

But if you prefer more straight-forward games such as Medieval Machines Builders, then, this isn’t for you.

And of course, I understand we really want to keep advancing with the gameplay and being trapped with the same scene for too long, can make us a bit impatient.

Which is something to observe.

As much as I’m a naturally patient person and enjoy these aspects. It could get slightly boring at times.

But not a huge problem for me in particular.

Photo Property pushsquare.com
Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore – Photo Property pushsquare.com

6. Conclusion: Is it worth the trouble & Deserves more than a ”meme-worthy” label?

Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore has space for improvements, that’s for sure.

But for me in particular, covers most of the qualities I look in a good game:

  • Strong music choices.
  • Excellent platform gameplay.
  • Story-rich I mentioned I truly value.
  • And dedicated to curious gamers.

I don’t think is by far a meme.

If the idea was to take this game seriously compared to the cd-i Zelda games.

Then, is accomplished!

Review: Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster

Jorge Castilho
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Review: Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster

A long time ago in a year far, far away…

…The FPS genre was in its early infancy, with games like Doom, Wolfenstein 3D, and Duke Nukem dominating the imagination of PC gamers. At the time, LucasArts was known for making point-and-click games, and this was their first venture into another genre. Influenced by the new FPS craze, Star Wars: Dark Forces was created.

Returning to the present day with the title “Remastered”, with the mission of bringing a classic game from 1995 to modern audiences. It was initially released for PC and later ported to Playstation 1.

I was lucky enough to play this around the 2000s and I loved it. The idea of playing anything Star Wars was enough for me. But today’s review doesn’t focus on my childhood experience, but rather on my slightly more “professional” perspective.

The debut of fan favorite Kyle Katarn.

In Star Wars: Dark Forces, we dive into the story of Kyle Katarn, a skilled mercenary and former Imperial soldier who is recruited by the Rebellion to carry out secret missions against the Galactic Empire. And what is our mission? To steal the plans of the Death Star… THE PLANS OF THE DEATH STAR!!!! Almost as if Rogue One was inspired by this LucasArts classic.

Throughout the story, you will face iconic Star Wars enemies, from Stormtroopers and Imperial droids to the iconic Darth Vader. Given you thrilling battles and memorable locations from the Star Wars universe.

Some times the old ways are the best.

The Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster brings back the original game’s cinematic cutscenes, now fully updated. The sequences that combined 2D and 3D have been masterfully remastered, providing a stunning visual experience.

The audio has also been enhanced, revitalizing the game’s memorable music and sound effects. Given you an immersive Star Wars atmosphere and experience every moment with intensity.

For those who have already played Dark Forces, you will not find anything new in terms of gameplay as the original adventure has been preserved as we know it. Like the games of the time, it features fast-paced movement on a map that resembles a maze. While most games were limited to a horizontal plane, Star Wars: Dark Forces invited you to explore the verticality of the environments as well. Climbing stairs, scaling platforms, and using elevators were essential elements to unlocking all the secrets of the map.

Newer players may find this concept “outdated”, but this is the purest form of FPS. A simple formula that, to me, still works perfectly.

A recommended experience for fans of the franchise and the genre.

Star Wars: Dark Forces is undoubtedly a classic. A remaster was a surprise, to be sure, but a welcome one. There is still room for improvement, the menus and maps could have been perfected. Overall, it is a good update to a game that is close to my heart and that recommend to all fans of the franchise and the genre.

Review: Fortnite Peely Wireless Switch controller

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Fortnite Peely Wireless Switch controller

The Fortnite Peely Wireless Switch controller from PowerA will make you smile. Its vibrant design and wonderful ergonomic design ensure that it looks great and is comfortable for marathon gaming sessions. Moreover, its Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity is compatible with every Switch model. Accordingly, this is ideal no matter which Switch you own. Additionally, a code for bonus content is included in the box.

On top of this, the battery life lasts a whopping 30 hours. Therefore, you needn’t worry about running out of juice. However, if you forget to charge it, a helpful LED warns you, and you can power it up before you run out of power. Alongside this, 2 mappable rear buttons can be changed on the fly. As such, you can program this beast no matter the genre you are playing.

What’s in the box of the Fortnite Peely Wireless Switch controller?

  • The compact packaging is pleasant to look at. Moreover, it is robust and recyclable, and it keeps its contents well-protected.
  • The Fortnite Peely Wireless Switch controller is fantastic to look at. The yellow finish is vivid, and I loved the attention to detail. What’s more, it feels like an official controller, and it is certified by Nintendo.
  • A USB-C cable is provided to charge the device.
  • Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

On paper, the Fornite Peely Wireless Switch controller is a straightforward device. However, it has some wonderful tech that makes it stand out from its peers. First, the rear mappable buttons are a stroke of genius. These well-placed inputs are easy to find and simple to map. Moreover, the helpful button at the front ensures that it is simple to adjust your profile. This on-the-fly approach enables you to maximise your potential no matter what genre you are playing.

This controller can be used with the Switch when it is docked or undocked. However, it does not support HD rumble, IR or Amiibo NFC. I never found this to be an issue, but other gamers may find this restriction problematic. The motion controls make this controller exceptional for many Switch games. I was impressed with the accuracy and the responsive nature of this unexpected feature.

Finally, if the 30-hour battery life isn’t enough for you, you can simply plug this device in to charge as you carry on gaming. Luckily, I never struggled with the battery level, so I didn’t have to use this feature. However, I can imagine gamers who love marathon sessions will find this an important element.

Build quality.

Third-party controllers are renowned for their awkward design and clumsy finish. Thankfully, the Fortnite Peely Wireless Switch controller feels great in your hand. If you’ve used an official pad, this is reminiscent of that experience. Additionally, its ergonomic design is perfect for lengthy gaming sessions. Furthermore, my kids had no problems using this controller even with their small hands.

We’ve all experienced rough and inaccurate analogue sticks. Fortunately, this controller has anti-friction rings that generate buttery smooth movement. The result? Increased accuracy and less fatigue for your thumbs. Last, but not least, the positioning of the rear mappable buttons was well-considered. Each input is placed where your fingers naturally rest. As such, it feels comfortable to use the additional buttons even if the concept is slightly alien.

Is the Fortnite Peely Wireless Switch controller worth it?

If you want a controller that looks fantastic whilst including some match-winning tech, then this is the pad for you. Its familiar design is complemented by the elite rear mappable buttons. Moreover, the low-latency Bluetooth connection ensures that you are ahead of the game. Additionally, the anti-friction rings and exceptional battery life help to create an upmarket gaming experience. As such, I love it and I recommend buying it here!

(More information on PowerA can be found here!)

The Fortnite Peely Wireless Switch controller has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

(Full disclosure! PowerA provided a sample for this review!)

Tech Used in Horse Racing Competitions

Andrew Edney
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0
Tech Used in Horse Racing Competitions

[https://unsplash.com/photos/a-group-of-men-riding-on-the-backs-of-horses-zXqizKxnbBU]

The Cheltenham Festival is just around the corner. Taking place between the 12th and 15th of March, this is one of the most popular events in the horse racing calendar, home to some of the most historic racing moments, including Dickinson’s ‘famous five’ in 1983 and the Star vs Denman clash in 2008. 

These racing moments in question, however, began all the way back to 1860. Originally named the ‘National Hunt Meeting’, the Cheltenham Festival has been running for 164 years, and it’s fair to say that a lot has changed over that time. Horse racing is different in 2024 than it was even twenty years ago, with advances in tech making the festival – and every festival, for that matter – safer, more immersive, and more entertaining than ever for the audience.

In the lead up to the Cheltenham races, then, we wanted to take a look at the tech used in horse racing competitions and how they have changed the experience for both participants and spectators. Starting with the track itself.

Analysing Tracks

Every horse racing track is different. Some are entirely natural, and some have been developed through materials like fibresand, tapeta, and polytrack, helping them overcome stress and extreme weather. Whatever the surface, however, it has become easier than ever to gauge the state of a racing course and ascertain its suitability. This is done through advanced measuring devices that can enable a detailed reading of the ground.

Identification Chips

Any horse racing event organiser will tell you how difficult it is to organise a festival, especially one as big as Cheltenham. With hundreds of horses entered and exiting the course throughout the day, identification chips have become crucial in ensuring things go smoothly. They do this by automatically checking horses in on arrival, bringing up a passport that includes their breed, age, and name. Before this tech was introduced, it was incredibly difficult to ascertain what horse should be in what race, with plenty of incidents in which horses have run the wrong race due to misidentification. 

Wearable Tech

Wearable tech is booming in the market, but in terms of horse racing, we’re not talking about strapping horses with an Honor Watch GS3. In the game of rugby, for instance, new tech has recently been introduced into gumshields to monitor heavy impacts and measure the performance of players. This kind of wearable technology is also being developed in other sports, including football, swimming, and now, horse racing. Horse racing wearable technology includes heart rate monitors, GPS trackers, and sensors to provide real-time racing data. This not only helps trainers improve their performance, but helps them to spot health problems before they become serious.

AI Analysis

Even ten years ago, trainers would have to analyse races and training sessions themselves, without the aid of technology to identify areas of improvement. In 2024, however, artificial intelligence is starting to help trainers and horse owners make the best decisions. It does this through analysing various pieces of data – including the data harnessed by wearable tech – and identifying key factors that may have been missed. From this information, AI can then predict details about their future performances and conjure up informed tactics and strategies to ensure success. While this technology is still in its early stages, it’s likely that AI will continue to develop as more trainers implement it into their systems.

VR Headsets

Another burgeoning technology that is finding its way into horse racing is virtual reality. Some racecourses have already set up VR stages at their events, allowing their audience to experience the racing in an entirely new way. Offering this experience can not only offer a new, interesting perspective for spectators, but it can also help to promote horse racing to a potential audience that hasn’t yet found an ‘in’ to the sport – ensuring the sport’s popularity for the foreseeable future. 

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