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Review: Primal Light

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 23, 2022

I’m of an age where 16-bit gaming was considered revolutionary. The Sega Mega Drive and SNES were turning points for console gamers, and I remember them fondly. As such, when developers revisit this wonderful era, I become giddy with delight. Consequently, when Primal Light was given to me, it brought a smile to my face. This distinctly old-school affair is tough and gaudy, but tough to put down.

Developed by Fat Gem and published by No Gravity Games, this is a retro platformer. Furthermore, it has an array of difficulty settings and its plot is bizarre. Accordingly, it won’t be for everyone, but I revelled in its madness and its harsh ways.

Primal Light is full of hideous monsters. The lizard boss is cruel and tough. — What’s your problem?

Primal Light is a story of tragedy and triumph.

Though Primal Light has a strong and familiar story, it plays second fiddle to the action that unfolds. Subsequently, it was easy to forget what was happening as you died for the n^th time. Moreover, the standard platforming tropes keep the action honest. You are required to climb ladders, search for secret areas, kill monsters, and more. En route, you’ll find special abilities and artefacts to assist you on your journey. However, many of the abilities are progress-specific, and this was a shame. Instead of making the hero all-powerful for fun, you couldn’t advance if you failed to do so.

The plot revolves around Krog. He is a blue-skinned being who witnesses the decimation of his people. Furthermore, his home has been destroyed, and he has been left on a dangerous planet to survive. Yet, if you collect the 12 artefacts, you can thwart the phantom that inflicted such sorrow, and save the day.

The checkpoints in Primal Light are bonfires. — A bonfire checkpoint.

Repetitive mechanics

Like many Mega Drive games, the developers have relied on rinse-and-repeat mechanics. Consequently, the action follows a simple gameplay loop that could be considered tedious or monotonous. Luckily, though, there are enough drip-fed elements to challenge you throughout. What’s more, the fresh abilities and powerful artefacts help to keep things fresh. On top of this, you’ll encounter a range of monsters, traps, and obstacles as the stages become more convoluted.

Alongside this, there is the occasional smattering of Metroidvania moments, and the gargantuan bosses keep you thinking. Every stage concludes with an almighty boss battle. These harsh beasts shoot fire, blast lasers, drop bombs, and so forth. However, fortunately, they follow a set routine, so beating them comes down to practice and patience. Yet, if you die, you respawn at the nearest campfire. Here, you’ll be given fresh health potions and a full health meter. As such, dying isn’t as harsh as it could be, and I appreciated this approach.

Primal Light takes us back to the 90s.

90s gaming won’t be for everyone. The vivid colours, pixelated sprites, and simple backdrops are considered too rudimentary. However, Primal Light has its retro style nailed down. I adored the basic animation, the rough imagery, and the simple side-scrolling camera. Moreover, the enemies looked great, and the bosses were incredible.

The audio follows suit with its dark, ear-splitting ways. With an electronic finish and a sinister edge, the creepy and daunting atmosphere was well and truly set. On top of this, the basic, but effective sound effects were awesome. I loved the sound of magic, the swinging of your weapon, and the cries of your foes.

The hero is leaping over fire while attacking an ugly troll-like monster. — This alien world is full of ugly monsters.

Surprisingly good controls.

I cherish retro gaming, but a dated control system is infuriating. The 4-point d-pad movement was restrictive and frustrating. Luckily, though, Primal Light has designed its levels to mitigate this problem. Instead, the game flows nicely, and the combat excels as a consequence. Alongside this, there is the familiar input lag that enhances its dated appeal.

This isn’t an easy game to complete. Even on its lowest setting, you’ll be tested from start to finish. Consequently, if you wish to be tested, the hardest setting will push you to your limits. As such, there is both replay value and longevity if you have sadomasochistic tendencies.

Primal Light is a nostalgia-fuelled treat.

Fat Gem has done an amazing job of revisiting a much-loved gaming era. Furthermore, their balanced approach and challenging mechanics will test you throughout. I adored this nostalgia-fuelled experience, and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you turn a tragedy into a triumph? Leap chasms, avoid traps, and defeat every enormous boss.

Review: Lego Bricktales

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 22, 2022

0

Lego is a brand that has a loyal and headstrong following. No matter the theme or genre, it never disappoints. Consequently, every game is a hit and I always look forward to giving them a good go. However, when I saw Lego Bricktales advertised, I wasn’t so sure. Instead of the usual big-named themes, this goes a little off-tangent. As such, its original plot may underwhelm gamers.

Developed by ClockStone Studio and published by Thunderful Publishing AB, this is an amusing adventure title. What’s more, it blends an original story with classic block-building mechanics. Accordingly, it wonderfully crosses the divide between gaming and creative play. Thankfully, it also retains the hilarious one-liners and whimsical charm we’ve all come to expect. Subsequently, this slow burner is likely to grow on you the further you progress.

Lego Bricktales is a family affair.

Many of us would agree that family comes first. Therefore, the key elements of the plot will resonate with most people. You control the grandson of an eccentric inventor. This whacky genius has bitten off more than he can chew, and requires your help. However, this is easier said than done. Fortunately, an accident somehow opens up a rift in time and space, and the professor’s handy robot Rusty appears out of nowhere. This ultra-intelligent being has been upgraded by aliens and must now use his special powers to aid you on your adventure. In order to save the day, you must find happiness crystals from each of the 5 worlds. If you do this, you’ll rebuild the rundown fairground, and you’ll become a hero.

So, the story is a bit out there, but its zany ways are fun, nonetheless. During your journey, you’ll encounter an array of amusing characters, as well as unlocking new abilities. On top of this, you’ll search for secret chests, find an array of animals, and complete missions to progress the story. Furthermore, there are puzzles to complete, loads of building work to tackle, and items to buy in each of the shops. The adventure takes you across sweltering deserts, a medieval world, a bustling city, and more. In each environment, you must interact with the locals and assist them in any way you can.

A pirate island with a Lego pirate ship. — Explore the island and find the treasure.

Small zones, but plenty to do.

Each small zone was jam-packed with things to do. Moreover, like other Lego titles, there are skills and abilities that are progress-based. As such, there is plenty of back and forth if you wish to find every collectable. However, the core element of the gameplay focuses on the building mechanics. You are asked to repair bridges, make steps, construct vehicles, and much more. Alongside this, you are given creative freedom with a sandbox mode. Accordingly, this should be an incredible and moreish experience. However, it can be extremely frustrating.

Because of the lacklustre and tough-to-manage controls, Lego Bricktales is infuriating. What’s more, the solution to each puzzle isn’t always obvious. Therefore, there is a lot of trial and error, and many mistakes because of the terrible controls. Disappointingly, this is compounded further by the camera angles. Yes, you are free to adjust it how you wish, but this rarely made a difference. Instead, you desperately tweak your viewpoint only to be left gritting your teeth with frustration.

Sheer disappointment.

The Lego games are normally extremely user-friendly. Moreover, they are designed with younger gamers in mind. However, Lego Bricktales goes against this normal approach. Consequently, this was too hard for my children to play, and I found much of the action to be tough to handle. Understandably, this led to disappointment. This was especially true, as I expected it to be a fun and straightforward game. Instead, you’ll sigh whenever you see a building task.

What was great, however, were the interactions with the NPCs. In normal Lego style, you’ll be left chuckling because of the immature humour. Yet, sadly, this isn’t enough and much of the action feels a bit of a drag. This was unfortunate, as there is plenty of potential, but most of it feels poorly executed and underworked.

Lego Bricktales creative mode with a pirate theme. — Build each structure and be as creative as you like.

Lego Bricktales is fun and colourful to look at.

Like many of its predecessors, Lego Bricktales has a fun art style. With vivid colours, interesting backdrops, and whacky NPCs, it is great to look at. However, I found the lack of a free-flowing camera to be an irritant. Annoyingly, the fixed camera made adventuring tough, and this prevented you from fully exploring your surroundings. Matters were made worse by the appalling building viewpoint. Though you could freely move the camera and zoom in and out, it never really worked. As such, building elaborate structures and elegant architecture was the last thing on my mind.

Lego Bricktales successfully delivered a high-energy and enjoyable soundtrack. Each zone has a unique vibe that is supported by a range of tunes. Alongside this, the sound effects will make you smile and chuckle. If I were to improve the audio, I’d add soundbites to bring the characters to life. Other than this, the developers have done an amazing job.

A colourful desert market town. — Can you solve the mystery of the curse?

Oh, those darn controls.

As you enjoy the adventure elements, the controls are spot on. Sadly, though, this can’t be said during the fiddly building moments. The clinical nature of each task demands accuracy. Yet, this is hard to achieve because of how each brick is carried. Subsequently, creating any complex structure is a no, no, and that is so annoying.

In theory, Lego Bricktales has plenty of longevity and replay value. Yet, instead, you’ll easily tire of what you experience. With so much back and forth and poor building mechanics, it quickly becomes tiresome.

Lego Bricktales should have been amazing.

I really wanted Lego Bricktales to be exceptional. However, its poor execution and woeful controls undermine its potential. Yes, there are some hilarious moments, but there aren’t enough to paper over the cracks. Accordingly, I can’t recommend that you buy it. But you can find more information here! Can you overcome the poor controls and complete your adventure? Find the happiness crystals and save the day.

Review: Sail Forth

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 21, 2022

4

I have a soft spot for procedurally generated titles. The random nature of their gameplay and the endless surprises keep me playing. As such, when Sail Forth landed on my desk for the second time, I couldn’t resist. This is a game that I previewed 18 months ago, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Consequently, will its full release be worth my while, or will it be a bit of a damp squib?

Developed by Festive Vector and published by The Quantum Astrophysicists Guild, this is a water-based adventure. What’s more, it is full of magic, plenty of side quests, and it’s overflowing with charm. As such, this quaint and unusual title will make you smile as you battle pirates and the elements. Furthermore, its random nature ensures that no playthrough is the same. Subsequently, it’s a game that’ll keep you playing for hours.

A sea battle with hardy pirates. — Shoot those pirates and win the battle.

Sail Forth tells a tale of mystery.

Unlike many of its peers, Sail Forth isn’t full of lore, nor is it story-rich. Instead, it has a loose plot that drives you forward. Accordingly, it’ll demand that you explore far-off lands while taking on unruly brutes. On top of this, you are rewarded for helping stranded creatures and finding fish. Moreover, there are some nice fantasy elements that add mystery to this cute title. By helping the locals, you’ll improve your fortune, expand your fleet, and become a force to be reckoned with.

Alongside this, you are expected to take on delivery jobs and become a photographer. Then, you must consider the never-ending wave of pirates, the forts that must be demolished, and the shipwrecks to explore. Furthermore, there are races to compete in, shooting competitions to win, and other minor tasks. Each of these quests is optional, but by doing them, you get the most out of the game.

A snippet of the upgrade tree. — What upgrade will you pick?

Zany characters and wicked combat.

Where Sail Forth excels is its zany characters and wicked combat. A quaint and charming game would be nothing without interesting locals and fun missions. Thankfully, this is overflowing with unusual creatures, rewarding tasks, and challenging moments. It doesn’t matter whether you are fishing for rare fish, hunting clams for resources, or delivering questionable goods, it was great fun.

Alongside this, you are free to purchase new vessels, upgrade your equipment, and hire a new crew. Each of these elements takes time and effort and they are progress-dependent. Consequently, getting the best gear and the biggest ship is no mean feat. However, the bigger the boat, the more chance you have in a fight. Therefore, this is essential if you wish to survive each encounter and destroy every fort.

Sail Forth is pleasant to look at.

I adore a pastel-infused title that is relaxing and pleasant to the eye. Fortunately, Sail Forth is all these things and much more. Its soft colour scheme and open areas look amazing. Moreover, each small location is unique and full of surprises. On top of this, the inclusion of different weather fronts was an amazing decision. As such, you’ll enjoy sailing in blistering sunshine or battling monstrous waves as a storm swells.

The wonderful world is complemented by atmospheric audio. I adored the blend of music, the environmental noises, and the cruel sound effects. Consequently, it was easy to get lost in this simple but stunning creation.

Sail Forth is full of weird characters. One of them this sailor frog in his submarine. — Hey Frog, what do you want?

Excellent controls.

The developers have done an amazing job with their UI and their controls. Accordingly, Sail Forth is easy to play and quick to pick up. What was particularly great was the wind mechanics. You must set your sail, adjust its position, and move as fast as possible. Once this skill is mastered, you can focus on the excellent combat. During every battle, you must line up your sights with each of your foes. Failure to do this will waste your ammo and put you at risk. However, if you can successfully perfect the sailing element, you’ll win every fight with ease.

The combat, exploration, and procedurally generated world create a moreish experience. Subsequently, once you fall for its charms, Sail Forth is tough to put down. However, there is the concern that it could become repetitive in the long run. Yet, if you tackle this casually, you’ll return over and over again.

Sail Forth is ready for its full release.

The developers have done an amazing job with this game. When I tried its Early Access build, I was impressed. However, I wondered about its depth and longevity. Thankfully, these questions have been answered as Sail Forth is addictive, fun, and full of interesting tasks. On top of this, the exploration elements are fascinating and full of surprises. However, the story is lacking depth and lore. Furthermore, it can become repetitive and should be played casually. Consequently, I loved my time with it despite the shortcomings, and therefore, I recommend that you buy it here! Can you master the ocean and solve its mysteries? Expand your fleet, hire a new crew, and let nothing stand in your way.

Review: The Callisto Protocol

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 20, 2022

0

I’m not a massive fan of comparing a game for the sake of it. Normally, I can appreciate influences without prejudice. Consequently, I’ve been disappointed when I read other reviews for The Callisto Protocol. Many gamers have bemoaned its core concept and fighting mechanics. Furthermore, they state it’s the poor relative to Dead Space. However, I can’t entirely agree.

I can, of course, see the resemblance, and I appreciate the thought process, but I certainly can’t entirely agree with their conclusion. Instead, I think this gory and story-rich endeavour is atmospheric, brutal, and horrific. As such, I enjoyed it on many levels, and won’t be comparing it to the phenomenal Dead Space series, for the most part, anyway.

Developed by Striking Distance Studios and published by KRAFTON, Inc, this is a horror-adventure title. What’s more, it has some puzzle elements, grim combat, and an amazing cast of actors. As such, it is a captivating tale that hooks you from the very beginning.

The Callisto Protocol is a bleak vision of our future.

Fantasy games with a bleak outlook fill me with dread. The modern era is bad enough. Yet, when you hear tales of zombies, mutants, and mankind’s downfall, I think maybe we’re doing alright after all. Thereupon, The Callisto Protocol drags you through a grim version of humanity’s battle with existence. Instead of peace and harmony, our greedy and destructive traits get the better of us. Subsequently, humans must abide by some strict laws, and failure to do so lands you in deep shit.

This is exactly what happens in The Callisto Protocol. You control Jacob Lee, who is a pilot with a dodgy side hustle. Sadly, this ropy interest gets him into serious trouble, and his life gets flipped upside down. Accordingly, his freedom is taken, and he becomes an inmate of the cruel and grim Black Iron Prison. While serving his time, strange things happen. The prisoners become ill as they mutate into unrecognisable beasts. As the outbreak occurs, the prison’s high-tech security fails, and all hell breaks loose. Consequently, Jacob must fight for his life while uncovering the deepest and darkest secrets of Jupiter’s dank moon.

Jacob resists being bitten by a giant mutated beast. — No tongues, thanks!

Exploration and lore.

The plot of this horror title is unbelievably incredible as it is held together by some fantastic key components. The gameplay unfolds in a strictly linear fashion. Now, this may seem small-minded, but in this case, it works well. The funnelled style creates a tense atmosphere that will make you jump. Of course, the developers have relied on some familiar and almost tacky jump scares, but it matters not. With face huggers to avoid, tentacle beasts, and hulking creatures, it is overwhelmingly unnerving.

Alongside this, the hidden voice recordings add depth while padding out the story. Therefore, much of the plot feels voyeuristic and surreal. This was incredible, as it enhanced both the drama and the tension. What’s more, the audio bites unveiled hidden truths and fragments of each character’s personality.

Upgrades and combat

These elements were great, but the upgrade system and combat mechanics were better, still. I adored how the developers incorporated a tough but fair learning curve. As the game progresses, you’ll face a larger and more challenging roster of abominations. Accordingly, you will need weapons and combat skills to take them down. Thankfully, The Callisto Protocol has a progression system that can be tailor made for your play style. Whether you enjoy hand-to-hand combat, gunplay, or advanced tech, the options are all there.

Alongside this, improving and unlocking the new gear is as easy as gathering credits and advancing the story. As you do these things, you’ll find new gear that you can pay to improve. You’ll discover guns, electric poles, a crazy stun glove, and more. These new tools enhance your arsenal of moves and turn you into a badass killing machine.

Talking of combat, I’m going to have to mention Dead Space. I know I promised I wouldn’t, but the slick movement and definitive timing mechanics are unbelievably similar. Furthermore, the gruesome decapitation and bone-crunching blows will make you wince. However, its timing is too generous, and this undermines the difficulty. I would have liked this to be tightened up to make it more hardcore and rewarding.

Hanging upside down, the hero sees an eerie figure walking towards him. — What the hell are you?

The Callisto Protocol is stunning.

A gruesome and bloody title shouldn’t be beautiful. However, The Callisto Protocol is morbidly intriguing. Whether you are creeping past monsters, crawling through vents, or exploring vast spaces, it never gets old. Moreover, the animation is buttery smooth, the violence will make your skin crawl, and the variety of monsters is incredible. Consequently, Striking Distance Studios has tackled the eerie and uncomfortable elements of horror without being clichéd. On top of this, the cinematic is jaw-dropping and unmissable.

If I was to complain, I’d say there is a reliance on a familiar stage design. Sadly, the developers have a rigged formula that holds the action back. Unfortunately, there are an awful lot of vents to crawl through, claustrophobic spaces to navigate, and boxes to vault. As such, you soon beg for a change of pace and approach.

This aside, I couldn’t fault the incredible audio. Your blood will chill as each monster snarls, growls, and screams in your direction. Furthermore, the drip of water, crackle of electricity, and thud of footsteps get your heart pumping. This is before you consider the incredible soundtrack and awesome acting. Every cinematic is performed perfectly as the gruff protagonist contemplates his fate. Moreover, the phenomenal soundbites add depth and drama to the horrific plot.

Jacob Lee the hero of The Callisto Protocol having his mask ripped off by a monstrous being. — I need this mask to breathe.

Responsive controls.

When a game relies on reactions to succeed, it needs responsive controls. Fortunately, thanks to the excellent UI and controller layout, The Callisto Protocol is superb to play. I loved flitting between each weapon, utilising each ability, and dodging every monster. However, my complaint, as mentioned earlier, about dodging each enemy is valid. Though it is enjoyable and entertaining, it is far too easy.

A linear game limits its replay value and longevity. At around 15 to 20 hours of action, this isn’t the longest of titles. What’s more, a lack of an NG+ mode is disappointing. Yet, the developers are working on free content for 2023 and a New Game + option is in the pipeline. Other than this, the collectables and the enhanced difficulty options are the key reason to return.

The Callisto Protocol is a wonderful but horrific experience.

No matter how much it tries, The Callisto Protocol will be forever compared to Dead Space. This isn’t entirely unfair, but it should be enjoyed on its merits. I adored the gruesome combat, the atmospheric setting, its incredible audio, and the amazing visuals. But I was frustrated by its simple combat and the familiar level design. However, these issues shouldn’t put you off an otherwise excellent game. Accordingly, I recommend that you buy it here! Can you uncover the dark secrets and survive? Explore, fight, and unravel the unnerving mystery on Jupiter’s dankest moon.

Review: High On Life

Cody May

-

Dec 20, 2022

0

I challenge anybody to find a game as bizarre as High on Life.

High on Life is a first-person shooter from developer Squanch Games, and Rick and Morty creator Justin Roiland. One moment you’re a regular teenage boy, the next, your planet is being invaded by an alien race who plans to destroy the earth. It’s up to you and your talking alien gun to stop them, yes… you read that right.

Being High on Life

From the get-go, High on Life exudes style and creative wackiness, which fans of Rick and Morty will be no strangers to. This game had me laughing within the first five minutes, and the more I played, the more addicted I got.

Most surprisingly, the combat is really good. I assumed the story, dialogue, and world would all be fantastic, but I feared gameplay would suffer. Thankfully, I was wrong, High on Life is a joy to play. The gun you’re fighting with being the voice for the silent protagonist is nothing short of genius. It just makes every combat encounter hilarious and unpredictable.

It’s ideas like these combined with the right people that make them shine. Without Justin Roiland’s comedic style, I’m not sure this game would have been as enjoyable. His delivery and edginess make for a perfect marriage without becoming too annoying.

Beauty in the Absurdity

If I were to try to sum High on Life up in one word it would simply be “Absurd.” Honestly, throughout my play-through, I never knew what to expect next. Whether it’s hearing what ridiculous 4th wall breaks your gun Kenny would say, or finding a knife that is addicted to stabbing people.

I found myself laughing often and building a connection with these strange characters. So much so that it was hard for me to put Kenny away when I was given different guns. He calls you out if you’ve sat idle too long, references Final Fantasy 7, etc. Little things like this make it hard not to smile while playing, and in the end I was happy to be a space-faring bounty hunter alongside Kenny.

I could explore the world of High on Life for hours with a smile on my face. The game even rewards you for this in unexpected ways. Hearing strange dialogue from random NPCs that make you smirk. Standing near the TV in the living room long enough to realize there’s a real-life movie playing in its entirety. Or even finding… Space Applebee’s.

This even baffling the creator of Gears of War, Cliff Bleszinski. https://twitter.com/therealcliffyb/status/1603149154565472256?s=20&t=90d9LCWypIc34-uZDSdkLA

High on life exudes style and creative wackiness

Closing

High on Life is one of those games that punches hard with style and character. Once you’ve started playing, you won’t be able to stop. Perhaps some people may find the humor a little much at times, but I had a blast.

This being an Xbox Game Pass day one launch is such a benefit to gamers. If you have Game Pass, I can’t recommend it enough. Congrats to Squanch Games, Justin Roiland, and anyone involved for making such a ridiculous and fun experience.

Review: Daija Arcade Stick for Xbox

Andrew Edney

-

Dec 20, 2022

0

Here is our review of the Daija Arcade Stick for Xbox.

Experience fighting games like never before with an arcade stick that has been designed with professional eSports players. Built from premium-quality materials and fully customizable, the Daija Arcade Stick offers unrivalled professional performance.

The Daija Arcade Stick was designed in collaboration with Kayane, a leading pro eSports player who became a world record holder for the number of podium placements in fighting game tournaments when she was only 20 years old.

Every detail has been considered in the design of this officially licensed Xbox stick, which offers eSports performance. With the intelligent placement of the buttons made by a leading brand among professional players, and intuitive software for quickly and easily customizing the buttons, the Daija Arcade Stick provides quality, stability and incredible precision.

A textured palm rest, two different sticks, and a button lock feature to prevent accidental presses ensure an incredibly comfortable user experience that elevates you to the next level.

What’s in the box?

The box contains the arcade stick, a 3m detachable USB-A to USB-C cable, two stick heads, and two tools to quickly and easily customise your arcade stick.

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The Daija Arcade Stick looks really good and handles really well – you can use it on a surface or on your lap, whatever works for you.

The stick comes with two different joystick heads and all the tools you need to swap them out. Basically, figure out which is the best one for you and use the tools to very simply change it – it really was that simple. All the tools and the other head, along with the cable for the stick are nicely hidden away on the inside of the stick – just press the two side buttons and lift – easy!

The box also contains a blank customisable sheet that you can place on the top of the stick if you want to create your own!

The stick works with either an Xbox or a PC – there is a small switch on the side that selects which you are using, then once you have done that, just plug it in using the cable and that’s pretty much it! If you are using it with a PC, the first time you connect it you may be asked to install a driver.

There is a mode selector switch that enables you to configure the use of the stick depending on what games you are playing.

Talking of configuration, all the buttons are completely configurable for whatever you need and whatever you are playing. Just download the NACON Daija Arcade Stick software onto your PC or Mac and start making changes.

There is even a 3.5mm jack on the stick for you to plug in your headset if you want to.

The stick is very responsive and easy to use – even for extended periods of time. I certainly found it easier playing certain games with this stick than I did using a normal Xbox controller.

If you are in the market for a high quality, configurable stick then you really do need to take a look at this one.

The Daija Arcade Stick for Xbox is available now priced around €279.90.

You can learn more from the Nacon website.

Review: Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration

Cody May

-

Dec 20, 2022

0

Review: Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration

Many moons ago, at the dawn of gaming, kids filled arcades on every corner of the globe. Some of them also went home to an Atari Jaguar, Atari 2600, etc. To get lost in these magical pixelated landscapes. If you were once one of these kids, and you’re looking for a dose of nostalgia, then Atari has you covered with the launch of Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration.

A Walk Down Memory Lane

Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration is a massive collection of classic Atari games available on all platforms. Whether you’re a die-hard fan who grew up with these games or a disgruntled gamer who is tired of micro-transactions looking to relive the good old days. This game has a little of everything for you, and there’s over 100 games to play.

This is something I appreciate developer Digital Eclipse for, as you can tell they cared about preserving the legacy of Atari, both good and bad. Atari’s story is one of great triumphs, but also one of great disasters. Their story is a lesson for corporations, publishers, and developers to learn from, and preserving it is a necessity.

For All 8-Bit Gamers

In Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration, developer Digital Eclipse went to great lengths to make a faithful collection of Atari’s past. Most notably, when you boot up the game, you’ll see menu options guiding you through each era of Atari’s history. From their rise in arcades, the birth of the console, and even the E.T Video game disaster.

Whichever era you explore, you’ll be presented with a timeline. This timeline is loaded with interviews from current game developers who were inspired by Atari, to Atari developers themselves.

There are detailed information pop-ups that help you learn about such things like the first arcade machine or the infamous pong. My personal favorite is old Atari commercials from the 70s and 80’s showcasing their products.

Closing

Digital Eclipse did a stellar job paying homage to Atari’s rise and fall. If you’re a classic gamer/Atari fan you’ll have a blast. Outside of that demographic, I worry the $50 price point is a little steep. Having not grown up in the 80’s arcades, I rarely had a good time with most of the games. I never went into this review with a mindset that I would, nor did it cloud my judgement.

Playing this game, I appreciated it for what it was. I love researching gaming, as a lover of the art form. Collections like this are important. For anyone wanting to learn about a pivotal era in gaming, check out Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration.

Review: The Shrimp Model 1

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 19, 2022

0

Many gaming peripherals pride themselves on being designed for elite gamers. Consequently, ordinary people may feel alienated and may be out of their depth. With many complex features, fantastic build quality, and obscene RGB lighting, these accessories blow your mind. As such, when The Shrimp Model 1 was announced, I took note. This simple stripped-back gaming kit is designed with casual gaming in mind. Furthermore, it comprises 25 buttons, some simple but effective controls, and that is all.

Accordingly, this minute device is a little unusual. What’s more, the oversized buttons and delightful wrist support make it stand out. Therefore, it wouldn’t look out of place if you have a quirky setup, or you like to stream. What’s also great, is the fantastic build quality. The hardened plastic is reassuringly tough, and the keys look robust. Moreover, the old-school aesthetics are pleasing, and the comic book imagery on the wrist support adds some nerdy vibes.

The keyboard attached to its magnetic wrist support.

The Shrimp Model 1 split apart from its wrist rest.

What’s in the box of The Shrimp Model 1?

The packaging is phenomenal. From the off, this device screams look at me! With a colourful outer sleeve and a sleek and stylish main box, it delivers a high-quality aesthetic. Alongside this, it is adorned with key selling points, and it’s fully recyclable.
The Shrimp Model 1 is absolutely nuts. This compact beast is approximately 75-80% smaller than a standard keyboard. Furthermore, it has controls for the RGB lights and audio settings. Disappointingly, there are no adjustable feet, so the keyboard lays flat permanently. However, I liked the retro aesthetic and the RGB effects are fantastic.
Comic book wrist support. This magnetic wrist support looks great. It enhances the old-school appeal and will get your nerdy juices flowing. Moreover, it makes the keyboard comfortable to use during extended gaming sessions.
A USB-C braided cable. This lengthy cable is well-built and looks great.
Keycap puller. Remove the keys with ease thanks to this basic tool.
Carry bag. Ensure that your keyboard stays safe in this branded velvet bag.
A simple user guide. Study the fundamentals to get the most out of this keyboard.

The outer packaging for The Shrimp Model 1.

The Shrimp Model 1 has a colourful wrist support.

A branded carry case for The Shrimp Model 1.

The Shrimp Model 1 is colourful and compact.

Technical aspects.

Ultracompact mechanical gaming keyboard
25-key GLOBAL layout with super stunning “oversized” lettering
Gateron™ G Pro mechanical switches
Cherry™ profile (heights & shaping) keycaps
RGB illumination with a bunch of cool effects
Padded and textured magnetic wrist rest
Cool gadgety knobs
Multimedia controls
Fn-layer (dual function keys)
USB-C connector
Compatibility: Desktop PC and gaming laptops, PS4/PS5 (standard HID compliant USB device)

I know what you are thinking. You are questioning whether this keyboard is worthwhile. After all, what’s the use of a keyboard if you can’t use it to type? Well, you would be right, and in any other circumstance, I’d totally agree. However, this incredible device works perfectly for the job it is designed for. That job is to be a simple and straightforward gaming peripheral.

As such, the oversized buttons were a great design choice. What’s more, the use of Gateron™ G Pro switches to dampen that traditional mechanical sound was a wise design. Moreover, the Cherry profile for the keycaps ensures that the lower position is more responsive and feels more comfortable. Keeping with the button elements, the inclusion of dual-aspect functionality was a stroke of genius. Subsequently, the manufacturers have been able to incorporate many essential keys without jeopardising their design aspirations.

For example, the FN and ESC buttons mirror the enter key. While FN and 1 through 5 represent F1 to F5. This was a sensible approach, as many gamers require a vast choice of keys for their in-depth gaming experiences. Accordingly, they can’t complain about usability or functionality. On top of this, The Shrimp Model 1 incorporates media shortcuts at the touch of a button. You can adjust the audio levels, mute sound, or skip and pause tracks at will. This was great as you are in total control without having to alter your settings or play around with your PC.

A closer look at the media and RGB controls.

Usability.

Technically, The Shrimp Model 1 is phenomenal. It is responsive, easy to use, looks great, and is built to last. But, what about its usability? How does this tiny keyboard compare to other market-leading devices? I’ve been able to look at the ROCCAT Vulcan II Max, the ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini, and the SteelSeries Apex 9 TKL. As such, I have a good understanding of the keyboard market. Accordingly, this device is a little restrictive compared to its peers. Without the full range of keys, it takes some getting used to. However, once you accept its limitations, you experience a phenomenal device.

When you team this up with a mappable gaming mouse, such as the ROCCAT Kone XP Air, you get a winning combination. No longer do you need to worry about keyboard inputs as your mouse takes the load. Instead, you can enjoy the simplicity and the minimal nature of this accessory. Moreover, you can sit back and enjoy the insane light show from the RGB setup.

Is The Shrimp Model 1 worth it?

This is one hell of a niche product. However, those who buy it will absolutely love everything about it. From its quirky and dated style to its incredibly easy and functional usability, this is a top-notch accessory. Yes, it takes some getting used to, and it won’t be suitable for every occasion, but this matters not. Why? Well, most gamers already have a great keyboard, and The Shrimp Model 1 will simply be an awesome addition to your setup.

On top of this, its build quality is phenomenal, and its RGB lighting is enhanced thanks to the larger buttons. Furthermore, the excellent and striking magnetic wrist support ensures that it’s comfortable to use for extended gaming sessions. I understand that hardcore gamers may overlook this, but Nordic Game Supply has something up its sleeves to counteract this. As such, keep an eye on their website for some exciting product news. On the whole, The Shrimp Model 1 more than exceeded my expectations. Subsequently, I am happy to recommend that you buy it here!

_{(More information on Nordic Game Supply can be found here!)}

Review: Panda Punch

Daniel Waite

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Dec 18, 2022

0

Old-school gaming is known to either be too difficult or too easy. It seemed that the developers could never find a happy medium, and this frustrated many gamers. As such, fans of hardcore experiences bemoaned the simple games, and those who wanted a casual experience often got caught out. Consequently, modern developers have to try to find the middle ground. Sadly, though, this is often not the case, and the same problems occur. Panda Punch is one such game that disappointingly falls into this trap.

Developed by Ninja Rabbit Studios and published by Ratalaika Games, this is a retro platform title. What’s more, it has some minor combat moments and a few simple puzzles to complete. Accordingly, my aforementioned comments about simplicity have sadly come to fruition. Therefore, after a couple of levels, Panda Punch, unfortunately, plateaus badly.

Panda Punch tells a pointless tale.

You control a red panda who unfortunately becomes injured. An alien invasion causes mayhem, and the hero loses his paw. However, luckily, his dad has some spare parts lying around and he somehow builds him a mechanical paw. This new tool is used to annihilate enemy robots, punch switches, and move boxes. Later in the game, the hero learns new abilities that help him overcome chasms and other obstacles. Yet, this isn’t as exciting as it sounds, as much of the gameplay loop is repetitive.

Though Panda Punch sticks to many of the much-loved tropes of old-school gaming, its lack of depth and bare stages leaves you wanting. Furthermore, the underwhelming enemies and lacklustre abilities are tedious. On top of this, the simple puzzles and generous checkpoints ensure there is little challenge and even less risk. Subsequently, you go through the motions as you complete each obnoxiously mundane stage.

The opening scene of Panda Punch. Two red pandas chatting outside of their family home. — Where it all begins.

Collectables and hidden areas.

The developers have tried their hardest to mix things up. Honestly, they succeeded in some cases but missed the mark in many more. Where this title excels is when you try to find the special coins. These powerful tokens are hidden in plain sight and require a mixture of abilities to find them. As such, you can’t locate them all until you’ve progressed through the game. What’s more, these collectables are used alongside the cards to upgrade your gear. Therefore, finding each one is essential as well as being a fun challenge to overcome.

Disappointingly, the game is pretty flat and lacklustre other than this mechanic. Even though there is a small smattering of bosses and a tiny roster of monsters to defeat, none of them poses a challenge. Therefore, you sigh when you encounter them as you drudge up the rinse-and-repeat combat action.

The hero jumping over a chasm. — Drop, roll, and jump.

Panda Punch is wonderfully pixelated.

The gameplay made me roll my eyes with frustration. However, visually I adored Panda Punch. The basic pixelated graphics and vivid colours create that wonderful retro finish. Moreover, there was a nice variation in stage design between each of the worlds. Annoyingly, though, it took forever to progress to the following world, and this made for a dull experience.

Ninja Rabbit Studios needed to introduce each new world much sooner. Had this happened, it would have alleviated many of the issues, while improving the finished product to no end.

The repetitive nature of this title is captured in its audio. The same song plays over and over and that isn’t acceptable. This is then made worse by the basic sound effects. Disappointingly, the music and sound lack energy, and this reduces its appeal further still.

A giant robot being attacked by the hero in Panda Punch. — Can you take down every boss?

Simple controls.

A basic game needs easy controls. Luckily, Panda Punch delivers on this score. Subsequently, you can pick this up in no time, and you’ll understand the fundamentals immediately. However, as new abilities are introduced, the control setup becomes more complex. Fortunately, though, it doesn’t test you at any point.

Though I found the gameplay to be tedious, there is some replay value and longevity. Thanks to each hidden area, and the special coins you must locate, you’ll need a good eye for detail. Other than this, it is a good game for completionists, as the achievement list is small and straightforward.

Panda Punch is underwhelming.

Panda Punch didn’t fill me with much confidence, and unfortunately, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. Thereupon, much of the action is underwhelming, repetitive, and disappointing. Yes, the collectables and the additional abilities spiced things up, but it was too little, too late. Consequently, I don’t recommend this game. However, more information can be found here! Can you repel the alien invasion and get revenge for your damaged hand? Jump, punch, and defeat every alien you encounter.

News: Call of the Wild: The Angler

Gaming
News

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 17, 2022

0

The adage “you get nothing in life for free” is normally correct. However, Expansive Worlds, the team behind Call of the Wild: The Angler, beg to differ. This fun-loving and carefree team has decided to treat its fanbase this Christmas. Thanks to the success of their game, they have launched a new DLC completely free of charge. However, there is a caveat, and that is that you own the main title, and you download it before the 5^th of January 2023. If you don’t fulfil this criterion, well, you’ll miss out and you’ll have to part with your hard-earned cash.

I reviewed the main title in October, scoring it 7.5 out of 10. I commented on its massive world, atmospheric audio, and its range of tasks on offer. As such, when the developers release another massive chunk of content to explore, I was surprised. Their latest update focuses on the Trollsporet Nature Reserve in an environment steeped in Norwegian Folklore.

What’s included in the Call of the Wild: The Angler DLC?

Available on PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, and Microsoft Store. The Norway Reserve includes a whole new map to discover across three varied biomes. Moreover, there are new activities and missions to complete and 13 new fish species to battle. Alongside this, the release, of a free update titled ‘Legends’ brings Legendary Fish, emotes, and many more improvements for players to enjoy.

Key Features:

Get it for free until January 5^th, 2023. If you own the base game or purchase it between December 15^th, 2022, and January 5^th, 2023, you can get the Norway Reserve for free. If you haven’t jumped in yet, now is a perfect time!
A land of myths, giants and natural beauty. It is based on the rugged wilderness of Norway’s unspoilt nature. The Norway Reserve offers Anglers a chance to explore the beaten path among majestic mountains, bask in the midnight sun and marvel at the Northern Lights.
New fish species. This idyllic Scandinavian backdrop might not promise you an encounter with the Midgard Serpent. However, it does offer 13 new fish species to try your skills against. You’ll encounter, the Brown Trout, Zander, and Atlantic Salmon. Therefore, you are in the right place for a great catch.
Fishing and beyond. Are you angling for more diverse activities? The Norway Reserve offers a wide selection of new activities and missions, featuring fishing challenges, geocaching missions, scavenger hunts, and a unique narrative mission as well as collectables scattered across the varied biomes of Nøkkensjøen, Huldraskogen, and Fossegrimfjorden.

What does the team have to say?

“In the months since launch, we’ve released two major game updates as well as several patches, which have brought hundreds of game improvements and new features. Once again, we couldn’t have done it without the feedback we’ve received from our players. We are privileged to have one of the most supportive player communities around, and we are committed to continuing to improve Call of the Wild: The Angler by adding new content as well as expanding and improving on everything added so far.

Additionally, the team has worked tirelessly on the latest game update we’re calling ‘Legends’, which was rolled out alongside the Norway Reserve. This update offers the all-new Legendary Fish, more communication options through emotes, and many more improvements”, said Paul Rustchynsky, Game Director at Expansive Worlds.

On the release of the Norway Reserve, he added, “This new reserve not only adds a vast new region to explore but also 13 new fish species and a range of new missions, offering Anglers the chance to learn new skills and add new gear and tools to their collection. And as a token of our thanks to players for their continued support, we’re making the Norway Reserve available to get for free until January 5, 2023!”

_{(If this takes your fancy, more information on the game can be found here!)}