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Review: Fortnite Midas controller

Daniel Waite

-

Mar 6, 2024

The Fortnite Midas controller from PowerA is a fantastic piece of kit. Not only does it look amazing, but it is packed with elite gaming tools as well. Accordingly, this affordable device is ideal for competitive newbie gamers. Also, it is perfect for anyone who loves this addictive title.

Looks to one side, this controller gives you a match-winning edge. Thanks to the trigger locks and rear mappable buttons, you can maximise your potential. Moreover, the textured grips and enhanced rumble features are immersive and comfortable to use. As such, this wired controller is spectacular when used during marathon gaming sessions.

What’s in the box of the Fortnite Midas controller?

The compact packaging looks fantastic. The Xbox colour theme is complemented by images of the controller. Additionally, it can be recycled.
The Fortnite Midas Controller looks impressive. Furthermore, it is lightweight, comfortable, and officially certified by Microsoft.
The detachable USB cable is long and robust.
Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

If you want a simple but effective controller, you can’t go wrong with Microsoft’s official pad. However, if you want something that enhances your gaming experience, then you want this Advantage Wired Controller. The well-placed rear triggers can be customised on the fly. Accordingly, you can adjust them for each genre you tackle. Moreover, the trigger buttons can be changed to affect the impact point. Subsequently, you can improve reaction speeds for FPS titles.

On top of this, as this pad is wired, you needn’t worry about latency issues or battery life. This makes the Fortnite Midas controller a spectacular choice for long gaming sessions. Finally, the dual motor rumble and immersive impulse triggers add depth to your gaming endeavours. Though these features won’t impress strategy fans, they are ideal for racing and FPS gamers.

Build quality.

An inexpensive controller shouldn’t be this well-built! Every aspect of the Fortnite Midas controller is impressive. First, the diamond-textured grips feel great to hold. Additionally, I never suffered from sweaty palms. Consequently, it reduces the risk of accidents. Second, the style of this pad is almost identical to the official Microsoft alternative. As such, every moment feels familiar. Finally, the travel distance of each input was comfortable and easy to feel. This responsive nature was reassuring and enjoyable to use.

If you then consider the detachable USB cable and the mappable buttons, it makes this a versatile device. Other wired controllers are defunct once the cable is damaged. However, you may use any suitable USB cable to power this pad. Moreover, the mappable buttons are easy to operate and straightforward to change. Subsequently, they may be altered on the fly without concern.

PowerA Gamer App.

Test the accuracy of your controller directly from your Xbox or your PC. The handy PowerA Gamer App is free to download and straightforward to use. Additionally, if you have concerns about stick drift or input issues, you can test each button. This was a fantastic tool that highlighted the responsive nature of each button and the accuracy of each analogue stick.

Is the Fortnite Midas controller worth it?

PowerA sells some impressive peripherals. Furthermore, they are eye-catching and they vary in price. If you wish, you can go all out and get a Fusion Pro 3. Alternatively, you can light up the room with their Lumectra controller. Yet, if you want to show your love for Fortnite, you can’t go wrong with this affordable and striking pad. As such, I recommend buying it here!

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

The Fortnite Midas controller has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Avoiding Match Fixing in Betting: How Serious Is It?

News

Andrew Edney

-

Mar 6, 2024

0

Avoiding Match Fixing in Betting: How Serious Is It?

Lately, sports cheating in games has become a big problem for fans and athletes. Even people who like to bet on the results are worried about it too. Messing with the result of a money game has ruined how honest sports are and made people who just want to play lose their cash. In this story, we will look at how big match-fixing is in betting and what problems it causes for sports and people. We’ll also talk about methods to stop it from happening more often.

How Big is the Problem of Rigging Outcomes in Gambling?

Fixing games is a big crime that can have huge effects. It not only changes the result of the game but also hurts what people think about players, teams, and even sports entirely. Here are some reasons why match-fixing is a serious issue:

1. Financial Losses: Fixing bets can cause big money problems for people who put their stakes based on real guesses. This can make gamblers not trust or feel let down, and this can hurt the betting business even more.

2. Integrity of Sports: Cheating in games ruins sports by making them not fair and unenjoyable. This can also make fans and watchers stop believing in the sport, as they might think it’s not real.

3. Legal Consequences: Cheating in a game is bad, and it can lead to legal issues. Those who cheat in games may be jailed, pay money, and not play their sport.

Preventing Match Fixing

To stop lying in games, we need a plan that uses many people linked with sports and IPL betting cricket.

Here are some ways to prevent match-fixing:

1. Strict Laws: Governments and sports bosses should establish powerful rules against dishonest behavior in games to stop those who could do it. We must see that these rules are obeyed well. When folks break rules, they should receive a strong punishment.

2. Education and Awareness: Teachers, coaches, and officials need to learn about the risks of cheating in games. It can harm sports and the community. This will help them to make smart choices and stay away from anything bad.

3. Monitoring and Surveillance: The people who make the rules for sports should set up good watching systems to spot any odd actions by players or team leaders. This will prevent any attempts at cheating from turning into major scandals.

4. Collaboration: Organizations that handle sports, and online betting at https://india-1xbet.in/line/cricket should team up with police agencies and others to stop dishonest actions in games. This will help in passing on knowledge, tools, and abilities to stop any future cheating plots from starting.

Conclusion

Cheating in sports is a big problem. It hurts the games, community members, and those who like to bet on them. It hurts the honesty in sports, creates money problems for those who only want to bet and it’s not okay. To stop cheating in games, we must use several methods. These kinds need assistance from individuals who work in playing and gambling jobs. By putting strong rules in place, teaching and making people aware of programs, watching over careful systems, and working with those who help we can deal properly with match-fixing so sports stay fair for everyone involved. As we keep doing sports and betting, it’s important to stop cheating in games. It’s better to act now so that we don’t have problems later. Let’s team up to make sure sports stay true and enjoyable. Ensure it remains fun for children in the coming days!

News: FlexiSpot

News
Tech

Daniel Waite

-

Mar 5, 2024

0

FlexiSpot understands that movement is the key to happiness. They also understand that small changes make a huge difference to your well-being and your productivity. However, how do they push this ethos when businesses focus on traditional working practices? Well, they create innovative solutions that seamlessly blend into any current working environment.

On top of this, they create office furniture that can be enjoyed by those who work from home, office workers, or marathon gamers. Wherever you sit in this equation, you know that FlexiSpot has a solution for you. Additionally, they have designed some phenomenal home furniture that allows your body and mind to relax.

Why is FlexiSpot a market leader?

The office furniture marketplace is ruthless, cut-throat, and difficult to navigate. Every brand states that it is producing the most sustainable and aesthetically pleasing product. Moreover, there are reams of health benefits that each chair and desk offers. In all honesty, it is hard to pick from such a saturated market. Yet, in this murky water of confusion, one brand stands head and shoulders above the rest. FlexiSpot is a market leader that has won mountains of awards for its design, build quality and innovative approach.

On top of this, there are design options and a choice of colours to customise each desk or chair to your liking. Consequently, you get to match each piece of furniture to your office space. Then you must consider the sustainability of every product. FlexiSpot researches the best methods of upcycling and ways to develop recycled materials. Furthermore, they use responsibly sourced wood for every desktop they create.

Story 1.

Being stuck behind a desk is no one’s idea of fun. Additionally, your body hates being stationary for so long. Therefore, FlexiSpot has designed some incredible standing desks that free you from this office-based prison. No longer will you need to feel restrained and uncomfortable. Instead, you can use the E7 Pro Standing Desk to change the way you work.

Story 2.

Life doesn’t have to revolve around work. As such, when you want to kick back and relax, you’ll want a chair that takes the strain. Thankfully, the X2 Recliner does just that with its spectacular design. This stylish chair has Italian design influences and is made from high-quality materials. Moreover, it looks great and demands to be sat in after a long stressful day.

Story 3.

The BS12 Pro is a chair that can be enjoyed by office workers or games. With multipoint adjustability and a breathable mesh back, this is the ideal companion for marathon gaming sessions. What’s more, it is so comfortable that your aches and pains will fade away.

FlexiSpot = Award winner.

FlexiSpot has received many positive reviews. We have looked at many of their products and they always exceed our expectations. However, a quick look at their site proves that we’re not alone in our admiration of their goods. Nearly every item has a 5-star review and everyday people are raving about their experience. Yet, this pales into insignificance when you consider the awards that they have won.

Die Welt recognised the high level of customer satisfaction. Whereas, Bild Siegel gave a thumbs up with the headline, Highest Recommendation. Alongside this, there is a German Health Award in 2022 and finally, an Innovation Award in Ergonomics in 2023. Subsequently, you know that FlexiSpot backs up its promises with incredible customer service and even better products. If this article has taken your fancy, why not buy a FlexiSpot product with up to 50% off in the Spring Sale?

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

Review: GXT 833 Thado Gaming Keyboard

Daniel Waite

-

Mar 5, 2024

0

The GXT 833 Thado Gaming Keyboard from Trust is an eye-catching and affordable device. Moreover, its simple design ensures that it is ideal for console or PC gaming. If you then consider the plug-and-play approach, you know that this is a no-nonsense peripheral. As such, it is ideal for consumers who want a user-friendly product.

It is also made from 69% recycled materials and has a robust and lightweight metal backplate. Accordingly, this is ideal for environmentally conscious gamers. Furthermore, the TKL design is perfect if you have a smaller workstation, or you have to take your keyboard on your daily commute. Either way, the compact design doesn’t impact usability.

What’s in the box of the GXT 833 Thado Gaming Keyboard?

The lightweight packaging is pleasant to look at, and it can be recycled. Moreover, it is jam-packed with key selling points.
The GXT 833 Thado Gaming Keyboard is a TKL wired keyboard. The 1.5m braided USB 2.0 cable is suitable for most gaming setups. On top of this, the dark livery is complemented by the rainbow RGB backlighting.
A user guide can be downloaded from the Trust site.

Technical aspects.

The GXT 833 Thado Gaming Keyboard is inexpensive. As such, I didn’t expect it to have the bells and whistles of its peers. Consequently, I lowered my expectations as I thought it would be understated and too refined for most gaming rigs. However, I was wrong. Though it isn’t as flashy as the latest Ducky, SteelSeries, or ROCCAT products, this device more than holds its own. Not only doesn’t it have anti-ghosting tech, but there is a gaming mode to reduce errors.

Alongside this, the travel distance of the keys was pleasant, and the backlighting can be increased, decreased, or switched off altogether. Furthermore, it has 12 built-in media buttons to improve usability. If you then focus on the standard UK QWERTY arrangement, it feels familiar and comfortable to type on. Altering the settings was a cinch, and the handy FN button is the gatekeeper for each setting change.

Though I was impressed with the ability to adjust the RGB, I was happier with the simple, but effective gaming mode. No one likes to make mistakes when you are in the heat of the battle. Well, thankfully, the gaming mode deactivates the Windows key. Now, this may seem like a minor feature, but it makes a huge difference! Subsequently, if you are new to gaming, and you are mastering your keyboard layout, this small option will keep you ahead of the competition.

Build quality.

The idea of recycled materials isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. I, however, love the concept! Additionally, when this is mixed with an exceptional metal backplate and anti-slip feet, I was impressed. No matter what solid surface I placed this device on, it wouldn’t move or slip. As such, this was reassuring, as no one wants their keyboard to move in the heat of battle.

A wired keyboard fills me with concerns. If your USB cable becomes damaged, the item is effectively dead. Yet, the GXT 833 Thado Gaming Keyboard addresses this concern with a high-quality braided cable. Furthermore, at 1.5 metres long, this is more than suitable for most standard gaming rigs. Consequently, my worry about damage and failure quickly melted away.

Usability.

A gaming keyboard can look amazing and be built from the best materials. However, if it is uncomfortable to use, then it is a big turn-off. Thankfully, the GXT 833 Thado Gaming Keyboard is pleasant to type with. Additionally, it is comfortable for marathon gaming sessions as well. My only complaint is the one-size-fits-all approach to the support feet. This will annoy many gamers as there is no ability to adjust the typing or gaming angle.

Is the GXT 833 Thado Gaming Keyboard worth it?

I have looked at some amazing keyboards in my time. Yet, I must remind myself that this device is a fraction of the cost. Moreover, it has some excellent features, and it is guaranteed for up to 5 million keystrokes. On top of this, its compact design is ideal for smaller workspaces and its lightweight nature ensures that it can be easily transported. As such, when compared with its price point peers, this is an absolute winner. Therefore, I recommend buying it here!

_{(More information about Trust can be found here!)}

The GXT 833 Thado Gaming Keyboard has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

_{(Full Disclosure! Trust provided a sample for this review!)}

Review: Ships Simulator

Mani Naghshbandi

-

Mar 5, 2024

2

Simulation games have always been popular in the gaming industry. Many simulation games have been released over the years, and all gamers have probably played this type of game at least once.
Even though many games in this genre have been released to date, the absence of a ship simulator is felt among them, and gamers pay less attention to these games compared to car and flight simulators.

Ships Simulator game was released in 2017 for PC, in 2022 for Xbox, and finally in late 2023 for PlayStation.
At the beginning of the game, you can buy a cargo ship with the initial money that the game gives you. Then, you need to repair it and start your first mission.

SHIPS AND MISSIONS

There are three types of watercraft that you can buy: the cargo ship, the construction rig, and the heavy-duty lifting ship.

The game has 24 missions, and after completing all of them, the 25th mission (a special mission) will be unlocked for you.

Cargo ship: In two missions, you only work with a crane and move the ship’s loads. In two missions, you take the ship from one point to another. In one stage, you pull the ship with a tugboat and then take the ship to where the game wants you. In the remaining three missions, you put out a fire on the ship, rescue crew members from drowning, and fight pirates.

Construction rig: This has eight missions in which you do things like installing a wind turbine, repairing a ship, installing a bridge, etc.

Heavy lifting ship: This one has eight missions too, and in each mission, it requires you to pick up something from the middle of the sea and take it to the marked location.

GAMEPLAY

The gameplay of the cargo ship is very boring, I set the speed of the ship to max and set the direction of the ship to the direction that the yellow arrow in front of the ship showed, then put the controller down and started walking in my room and sometimes I looked at the monitor screen and once or twice there were hills which blocked the way and I had to cross them by turning left and right and put the controller down again until when I reached the destination, the sea had no waves and the ship never deviated from the course it was going, no challenges except one or two hills. There was no effect around the ship to show that the ship was moving, and if I was in a part of the sea where there was nothing on the right and left side of the ship, it was not clear whether the ship was stationary or moving.

The loading and unloading missions were just repetition, carrying the crane hook from one side to the other and that’s it.

The mission that you should put the fire out: the camera will switch to top-down, there are white and black squares on the ship with the shape of fire on them, squares with human shape (crewmates) and squares with fire extinguisher shape, you should select the crewmate squares and then select the fire extinguisher and when the crewmate reached the fire extinguisher select the square with fire shape to put it out, the dry and annoying controls have made these missions very difficult and unpleasant, the pirate mission and rescue mission are both similar to the fire mission. In the construction rig missions, you have to move the rig with the d-pads and reach the marked location, and then use its cranes to move things, and the construction rig missions are more of a crane simulator rather than ship simulator. In the Heavy Duty lifting ship missions, you have to move with controls similar to the cargo ship, and after reaching the marked location, by pressing the square button the part that carry the cargos of the ship goes under water and moves with controls similar to Construction rig, then you should move it to under the object on the water and then by pressing the square button again the ship will come back to the water surface and carry the object you picked up, and then you should move the cargo to the marked location with the same boring controls and gameplay from the first cargo ship. The ship repair section is just a menu with the names of the parts of the ship, and if they need to be repaired, you must repair them, for this you only need to select the part that has a problem from the menu and press the X or triangle button, and after repair the repaired part will just be cleaned and nothing more. The ability to increase the speed of the gameplay up to 4x was very good, and if it wasn’t there, ships simulator would be completely unplayable. It takes between 3 to 3.5 hours to complete the entire 25 levels of the game and the 15$ price tag doesn’t seem reasonable at all, although I was really glad it was short because I couldn’t stand this game any longer.

VISUALS

The visuals are very awful, low resolution, very low quality and low resolution textures that I think the resolution of the textures is 360p or 480p, all the things you see in the game have their pixels visible and it is very annoying. The sea water is as if it is a flat stone surface and has nothing similar to the water, the water does not react to anything even the movement of ships on it, and even there were many bugs that made it difficult and annoying to see and it wouldnt get fixed with restarting the game. In 2017, there were many games for smartphones whose visuals were far better than this game.

The sound design is low quality and noisy and causes headaches in the rainy mission.

CONCLUSION

The gameplay and controls are boring and annoying and there is no challenge in the game, the content of the game is very little and it can be finished in less than three and a half hours, the visuals are bad and unbearable, half of the missions have nothing to do with ship simulator at all, the sound quality is low. I do not recommend this game at all.

Review: Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition

Daniel Waite

-

Mar 4, 2024

0

Review: Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition

Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition is the perfect opportunity for newcomers to enjoy this challenging experience. The full package approach includes all DLC as well as an array of new weapons and other in-game items. As such, if you fancy stepping into a tough but rewarding world, then this could be your best opportunity.

This hellish Souls-like was developed by Team Ninja and published by KOEI TEMCO. Moreover, it utilises some familiar mechanics from other much-loved Souls titles. Accordingly, you get to “enjoy” the brutal but rewarding gameplay that we’ve all come to love. Yet, there are some frustrating elements that you cannot avoid. As such, you have to roll with the punches as every boss slaps you in your armoured face.

Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition tells a historical tale.

Admittedly, my understanding of the Chinese dynasties is somewhat rusty. I further admit that I had to research the Three Kingdoms Dynasty to get a greater understanding of the compelling adventure I was about to undertake. However, my limited knowledge didn’t hold me back, and I fell for Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition’s charm.

The year is 184 AD and you are a nameless warrior trying to survive in a dark fantasy version of the Later Han Dynasty. Unfortunately, survival is a tough ask as demons plague the land and ungodly humans stand in your way. However, combining razor-sharp swordplay and martial arts is your key to survival. Furthermore, working with historical warriors to tackle ridiculous overlords rarely becomes tiresome.

A pinch of other titles.

The Souls-like genre is vast, overbearing, and tough to nail down. People bemoan the statement Souls-like as it is overused and often refers to anything that kicks your ass. Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition is 100% a Souls game, and it cleverly borrows elements from its peers. You’ll be right at home if you have tackled Sekiro or Nioh 2. Thankfully, though, it is nowhere near as tough as the latter. This was a relief as I almost lost my hair trying to master the refined elements and the tough combat.

Talking of combat, this is where much of the action shines. The incredibly challenging fights require a fine understanding and the poise, rhythm, and balance of a professional dancer. Parrying is king and manipulating your Spirit meter to keep you on track is an art on its own. Yet, where this gives you some breathing room is the ability to defend yourself at all costs. As long as you have some Spirit power, you can block incoming blows.

Focus on that meter.

Remaining focused on your Spirit meter and the movement of your foes is no easy task. Each hulking enemy pieces together combos for fun. Additionally, they sway and bluff to get you to react and drop your guard. However, once you piece together their telltale moves, and you spot a weakness, you can go in for the kill.

Alternatively, you can risk it all by using this meter to slay anything in your path. Understandably, the more juice you have in reserve, the more powerful your blow. Yet, this risk vs reward approach can leave you vulnerable. Consequently, you must weigh up this all-or-nothing approach or respect the fact that you could lose it all.

Plenty to see and do.

Losing yourself in an epic main story is what makes these games phenomenal. Luckily, though Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition has an impressive selection of side missions to complete as well. Battling epic bosses or mopping up waves of lesser beings never gets old. Additionally, it supports the incredible morale system perfectly.

This balanced approach to the gameplay allows you to enjoy a separate progression system. Moreover, you can weigh up your tactics as you tackle challenging mobs of enemies or pick off weaker creatures. Either way, you can generate harder hits to lower morale enemies or sustain massive damage if you approach the wrong person. This fine balancing act is spectacularly simple but oh-so rewarding.

Loot!

Love it or loathe it, loot is a massive part of Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition. The masses of shite that you gather drove me insane. However, it is this level of detail and depth that impresses fans of customisation. Additionally, it helps you to mould your gameplay style as you test new builds and trial different weapons.

Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition looks fantastic.

A dark fantasy twist on a brutal era is worthy of Hollywood status. Thankfully, Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition doesn’t disappoint. The flashy combat, large opponents, and exceptional environments are a treat. Moreover, I loved the excellent animation and energy of each combat encounter. If you then consider the impressive cinematic, you have to agree that this lives up to the hype.

The audio complements every element. The booming and impressive soundtrack is punctuated by awesome dialogue and mind-blowing sound effects. This is then supported by crunching weaponry, cruel screams, and amazing ambient noises. In short, it is grim but aesthetically pleasing.

Superb controls.

Getting the most out of this isn’t easy. You must be dexterous, alert, and nimble. Moreover, you need to study your opponents and learn every telltale weakness. Thankfully, though, each of these complex elements can be countered by the superbly responsive controls. Additionally, the button layout is simple to understand and relatively easy to master.

This will keep you playing for hours! There is plenty of DLC to tackle and there is cooperative and competitive online action to enjoy. As such, if you wish to prove your worth, you can. Alternatively, if you wish to go on an adventure with your friends, the option is there. Either way, this delivers masses of replay value and longevity.

Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition is fantastic.

This souls-like is a phenomenal addition to the genre. If you then consider the included DLC, the online action, and the interesting morale system, it offers plenty of food for thought. On top of this, I liked the occasionally forgiving mechanics that juxtapose some of the harsh realities of these titles. Subsequently, I love it and I recommend buying it here!

Review: WRATH: Aeon of Ruin

Josh Blackburn

-

Mar 4, 2024

0

WRATH: Aeon of Ruin is banking on nostalgia. That’s not me making a point, even the Steam description nods towards the original Quake. Hell, it’s built on a modified version of the same engine. It’s slightly awkward for me, because I have no nostalgia for the original Quake. I’ve got a little bit for Quake II and a small slice for DOOM, but Quake? No dice.

So WRATH (I’m going to drop the silly subtitle for the moment) started on the back foot somewhat. Well, that and the fact that it slid on to early access back in 2019. That’s quite the lengthy cooking time. Still, WRATH has done a lot to bounce back. I’m going to bring up my usual list of complaints but let me say this up front: killing things in WRATH: Aeon of Ruin feels really, really good.

Stop Worrying And Love The Knife

It took a little while to click with me, though. I was about a quarter of the way through the game, and I was running out of ammo for pretty much everything. It made every fight doubly stressful. Particularly ones that involved those bloody floating, four-faced things. After a pitched battle with a handful of these lads, I got annoyed and just brought out the knife. I lunged at one of the floaty buggers in frustration and it promptly exploded into gibs. Turns out the knife isn’t just for breaking pots. It can one-hit kill most enemies. Risky to use, but if you’ve got more health than ammo, you might as well throw yourself at the enemies instead.

This made the combat a lot more enjoyable to me. WRATH is a lot of fun when it’s just letting its combat breathe. That brings me to my standard litmus test for shooters: the shotgun. If the shotgun feels and sounds good, then you’ve probably got a good combat system on your hands. WRATH‘s shotgun made my ear drums rattle and turned everything in front of me into clouds of gore. There isn’t a damp squib amongst the guns, actually. Even the special energy laser has an alternate mode that turns enemies into solid lumps of crystal. They’re fun to use and interesting to boot, even down to the knife.

Vitally, I found myself using every single gun available and not just because I ran out of ammo. That’s good design. Still, the other half of good combat are the things you’re shooting at. Enemy design is pretty solid. For one, they look gross. The standard ranged lad has one shotgun hand, one knife hand and a bunch of actual hands instead of a collarbone. It’s wonderfully horrific. They all fit into their niches too. Ranged ones to keep you moving, melee ones to keep you focused, the giant vomiting things to make sure you’re watching your feet and the giant flying, face guys to keep your blood pressure sky-high. The second-by-second combat is good fun.

Beyond Saving

There’s also a whole lot of it. WRATH has three hub worlds, with five levels apiece. These levels can last up to an hour each (depending on how often you die), so there’s quite a lot of content on display here. It layers the weapons and enemies throughout the progression, so it does keep things interesting to a point. The BFG is even a melee weapon, which is nice. I did feel like some of the tricks get repeated though. The usual ’90s shooter-esque key hunts are a big factor here and picking up a key always spawns in new enemies. So when you see one, you just sigh and get it over with. WRATH almost gets DOOM 3-esque at times, with its obsession with spawning in enemies every time there’s a break.

On top of that minor gripe, I have two major ones. Let’s start with the one that didn’t make me quite as angry: the level design. For the most part, it’s pretty good. Each level feels roughly distinct, with its own gimmicks. Some are more welcome than others – any level that had parkour was always a miss, as our hero forgot to take off his rollerskates. The biggest issue is that the fairly murky graphics make it hard to figure out where you’re supposed to go next. I was constantly getting lost and accidentally backtracking, which wasn’t helped by the levels in each zone looking pretty similar.

But let’s get to my biggest, angriest gripe: the limited save system. Let me drop my usual casual hyperbole and speak plainly: I hate this system. See, quick saves are a pick up. If you run out, you can only save at set checkpoints. This is annoying for a few reasons. First, it assumes we have no lives outside of the game and punishes up for having one. Second, it means that we have to be hesitant about saving and as we’re not clairvoyant, we’ll often save in poor places. Just let me quicksave! Losing a ton of progress after a tough fight is nail-bitingly frustrating. During the insta-kill parkour sections, I was chomping through to my metacarpal.

WRATH: Aeon of Ruin – Worth The Wait?

The save system damn near killed WRATH for me. Still, something kept me coming back. Probably wasn’t the plot, which is told in a series of cryptic statements by a four-eyed bloke, who looks like he had a run-in with Tom Sawyer. No, it was the combat that kept me coming back. The boss fights proved that. Three fights against things far bigger and scarier than me. The final boss fight was excellent, combining all the threats we’d encountered previously into one giant arena. Absolutely insane and good fun all around.

I guess the only question that’s left to broach is whether WRATH: Aeon of Ruin was worth the wait. I’m probably not the best person to answer that question; I only really heard about the game last week. Still, if you have been hanging on for four and a bit years, then you’ll be pleased to know that WRATH has turned out to be an enjoyable old-school shooter, with great guns and exciting enemies. The save system is a fundamental misstep, but the shotgun will drag you back in, kicking and screaming.

(WRATH: Aeon of Ruin’s Steam Page)

Review: Balatro

Daniel Waite

-

Mar 3, 2024

0

I was introduced to Balatro by a friend from another reviewing website. He is obsessed with this game, and he decided that I should become part of its cult-like following. Sadly, this absorbing title has got under my skin and its moreish mechanics and old-school visuals make it a tough game to put down. Furthermore, a simple gameplay loop can be easily mastered even if the action follows a repetitive and often cruel approach.

This deck-builder was developed by LocalThunk Inc. and published by Playstack Ltd. Moreover, it keeps you on your toes as it is a harsh and unfair rogue-like title. As such, you’ll rue your luck as your progress is wiped out during every failed run. However, it is this brutal approach that keeps you coming back for more.

Balatro focuses on its cruelty and little else.

A game with no story and repetitive mechanics is asking for trouble. Yet, Balatro somehow makes it work. You play as a nameless and faceless individual. Your opponent? A mystical being that ups the ante on every round of cards you play. Accordingly, the game becomes progressively tougher, but your opponent effectively remains the same. This strange blend of nothingness should be doomed to failure, but it is so addictive that you quickly forgive the lack of a plot or an antagonist.

The aim of the game is unbelievably simple. You must tackle 3 stages per round as you complete each playthrough. As the stages unfold, the “blind” or required score increases. Consequently, the chances of success are reduced and the pressure and stress levels increase. You increase your score by picking from an array of poker hands. As such, if you have any poker knowledge, you get a slight advantage. Thankfully, though, Balatro does a great job of explaining the scoring system.

A tactical mindset.

The base game is easy to understand. Yet, things become more complicated as you start to delve deeper. As the “blinds” increase, you must manipulate your cards and multiply your score to progress. Now, this is easier said than done as you need luck and some money to improve your cards. At the end of each stage, you earn coins. These coins can be spent on an array of cards that have differing effects on your deck of cards.

First, there are the Jokers. 150 unique Joker cards can be unlocked to change an array of playing conditions. Whether you improve your multiplier or the number of hands you can play, they change your tactical mindset. Additionally, there are consumable cards that improve your cards or increase the score for each poker hand you play. Either way, you must weigh up the cost of each item and the benefit when combined with your Joker set.

On top of this, you need to be mindful of the final stage of each round. The boss battle has a sneaky element that can ruin the strongest of cards. Consequently, they may debuff every heart card you own or prevent you from playing the same hand twice. Additionally, you may get no discards, or you may have to complete the stage with 1 hand. Whatever the task, you must navigate it if you wish to overcome each of the 8 rounds.

Balatro: Gloriously old-school!

Balatro captures the essence of old-school gaming. Its basic animation and gaudy colour palette belong to a bygone era. On top of this, it is brilliantly rough around the edges and is simple to look at. If you then consider the excellent UI, you will love its dated but clean appearance.

I loved the audio. However, like the gameplay loop, it is unfortunately repetitive. Yet, the aggressive music and simple sound effects work to create a dramatic atmosphere. As such, as you get into the latter stages, your heart will be racing and your blood pressure will go through the roof.

Excellent controls.

I played this on Xbox, PC, and Steam Deck. No matter the platform, I enjoyed the exceptional controls. Flitting between each menu was straightforward and the control layout and responsive inputs worked extremely well.

Despite its repetitive nature, this is an addictive and tough-to-put-down title. Furthermore, the minor tweaks in the gameplay and the ever-changing boss battles keep you on your toes. Additionally, the more you play, the more card decks you unlock. Consequently, there are plenty of different gameplay styles to test out.

Balatro is a fascinating and challenging indie title.

Balatro has taken the world by storm. As such, you probably have the game on install as you read this article. However, if you haven’t pulled the trigger and purchased your copy of this addictive title, then I suggest you do so here! Can you overcome every “blind” and complete a run? Pick your cards, choose your hand, and allow tactics and fate to do the talking.

Review: Mario vs Donkey Kong

Andrew Edney

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Mar 3, 2024

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Mario vs Donkey Kong is a delightful and captivating game that brings classic characters to life on the Nintendo Switch. With its captivating gameplay, charming graphics, and nostalgic appeal, it offers a fantastic experience for players of all ages.

The game follows the timeless rivalry between Mario and Donkey Kong, as they embark on a thrilling adventure through multiple levels filled with puzzles, obstacles, and enemies. The goal is clear: rescue Pauline and thwart Donkey Kong’s mischievous plans. The gameplay mechanics are simple yet engaging, allowing players to maneuver through each level with precision and skill.

One of the standout features of Mario vs Donkey Kong is its nostalgic visual style. The game beautifully combines modern graphics with the iconic design elements of its predecessors, creating a visually stunning experience. The vibrant colors, detailed environments, and expressive character animations breathe new life into the beloved classic, making it a visual treat for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

In addition to its visual appeal, the game’s sound design is equally impressive. From catchy tunes that pay homage to the original soundtrack to whimsical sound effects that add depth to the gameplay, every auditory aspect of Mario vs Donkey Kong contributes to its immersive and endearing atmosphere.

The level design in Mario vs Donkey Kong is nothing short of exceptional. Each level presents unique challenges and puzzles that require a blend of creativity, strategy, and quick reflexes to overcome. As players progress through the game, they’ll encounter increasingly intricate obstacles and clever level layouts that keep the gameplay fresh and exciting.

The multiplayer mode in Mario vs Donkey Kong offers an entertaining experience for friends and family. Whether teaming up to tackle challenging levels together or competing in head-to-head showdowns, the multiplayer mode adds an extra layer of fun and camaraderie to the game, making it a fantastic choice for social gaming gatherings.

While Mario vs Donkey Kong excels in many aspects, it’s not without minor flaws. Some younger players may find certain levels to be particularly challenging, potentially leading to moments of frustration, though the overall experience is rewarding and enjoyable (according to my trusty 7 year old assistant).

Mario vs Donkey Kong shines as a must-have title for Nintendo Switch owners, delivering an enchanting blend of classic charm and modern gameplay. With its captivating visuals, engaging level design, and delightful multiplayer experience, it stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of the Mario and Donkey Kong franchises. Whether playing solo or with friends, players are sure to find themselves immersed in the captivating world of Mario vs Donkey Kong time and time again. And if you were a fan of the original, you will love the new additions!

Review: Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Staring Lara Croft

Daniel Waite

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Mar 2, 2024

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Review: Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Staring Lara Croft

Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Staring Lara Croft is a nostalgic treat. If you are not old enough to remember the original games, then this is a must-play trilogy. Additionally, you may worry that the games have aged horribly, but you can put these fears to bed. Each of these exciting adventures has been updated in many ways. Accordingly, it’ll appeal to younger and older audiences.

This remastered adventure trilogy was published and developed by Aspyr. Furthermore, it comprises a whole heap of action and plenty of mind-scratching puzzles. On top of this, there are some death-defying jumps and plenty of humans and animals to slaughter. If you then consider the globe-trotting locations and the excellent storytelling, you realise that this is an experience that you cannot afford to miss.

Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Staring Lara Croft hasn’t lost its charm.

The original Tomb Raider games were a massive hit. Consequently, this franchise has expanded and evolved to appeal to modern and varied audiences. Thankfully, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Staring Lara Croft has retained much of its original charm. Furthermore, the modern aesthetic and updated control system will be a hit. Yet, the fluid nature of Lara’s movement takes some getting used to and this was my only bugbear.

Each of the stories revolves around different dramatic scenarios. However, the narrative is nicely linked and there are familiarities across each of the games. On top of this, there are nasty villains to take on, some testing problems to overcome, and some phenomenal scenery to witness. If this isn’t enough, there is a fine arsenal of weapons and plenty of humans and foul beasts to tackle. As such, there are twists and turns on every level.

What has changed?

Unlike other remastered titles, this hasn’t polished every element. Instead, many of its building blocks remain the same. This may seem like a strange approach, but the core gameplay and the settings were never an issue. Subsequently, Aspyr has done an amazing job of modernising this game while remaining faithful to the original content.

If you so wish, you can select between the original graphics or the modern remastered version. The difference? Well, the latter looks amazing! The sense of depth and detail was impressive. Additionally, those murky skies are now filled with stars and each water pool looks inviting and realistic. Furthermore, you can picture a more defined route across each dangerous environment. Therefore, the exploration elements feel more fun and alive.

Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Staring Lara Croft takes you on a whirlwind world tour.

Where Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Staring Lara Croft excels is its incredible whirlwind world tour. The varied locations and mind-blowing scenery impressed me years ago. However, when you give it a modern polish, it simply sparkles. As such, you’ll adore each vibrant, exciting, and awe-inspiring arena.

The music is equally good. Little has changed regarding the music, acting, or sound effects. I don’t believe that any aspect of the audio has been upgraded or altered. Consequently, you’ll enjoy the original soundtrack and every grunt, shot, and footstep.

Jump in a kayak and enjoy Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Staring Lara Croft.

Questionable controls.

The original titles were renowned for being ever so slightly clunky. Yet, it was this rigid approach that helped you to navigate each ledge and leap every chasm. Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Staring Lara Croft attempts to add fluidity to the controls and this doesn’t quite work. Instead, you find that Lara runs an awful lot and this can have devastating consequences. Additionally, it was challenging to line up jumps or run and shoot your opponents. As such, you may find that you flit between modern and old-school controls to get the best out of this.

This remastered trilogy is as moreish and enjoyable as each of the original games. Moreover, you can enjoy them one after another as you romp from one adventure to the next. Additionally, there are plenty of challenging achievements to complete and loads of exciting locations to explore. As such, this oozes both replay value and longevity.

Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Staring Lara Croft is a great step down memory lane.

Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Staring Lara Croft had to do something terrible not to impress me. I loved the originals and I adore the remastered titles. My only complaint is the modern control system. However, this is a small price to pay for such a great experience. Accordingly, I love it and I recommend buying it here! Relive the early Tomb Raider titles. Explore the globe, solve problems, and become a great adventurer.