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Review: Ghostbuster: Spirits Unleashed

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 9, 2022

As a youngster, Ghostbusters was a staple form of entertainment. Whether it was the cartoon or the video game, I couldn’t get enough. Consequently, when Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed was announced, I was understandably very excited. The thought of wearing the uniform and zapping some ghosts got my juices flowing.

Developed and published by IllFonic, Inc., this is a first-person strategy shooter. Furthermore, it can be enjoyed solo or with up to 4 friends. On top of this, you can play as a team of ghost-hunting enthusiasts, or wreak havoc as the spectral being. As such, it is a fun-filled title that is fast-paced, hectic, and more straightforward than its straight-laced peers.

Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed has a throwaway story.

Ghostbusters has never been renowned for its mind-blowing writing. However, even I expected it to deliver a rich and fulfilling story. Instead, you enjoy some classic characters, a familiar setting, and some punctuated and nonsensical moments. Subsequently, the story can be disregarded mostly as you focus on each quick round of action.

The core concept revolves around the same key principles. As the Ghostbusters, you must hunt rifts, destroy them, and capture the ghost. All the while, you’ll need to keep yourself safe, calm down the public, and be careful not to damage your surroundings. On the other hand, the ghost must petrify every civilian while avoiding detection. If they are caught, they’ll respawn at a rift and the action starts again. If you manage to scare every person, the building becomes haunted and you win.

This is the crux of Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed. Now, it may seem like a game that is lacking depth, and you wouldn’t be wrong. However, this doesn’t mean that it is boring. No, I thoroughly enjoyed the madness that ensues. Even when playing with AI, the gameplay is fun, interesting, and original.

Catching each ghost is a fun task. — Set the trap and capture the ghosts.

Levelling up and online play.

Everyone knows that FPS are better when played with friends. Thankfully, Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed is no different. I cherished every online experience I had, even when I lost. There is a real sense of danger and competition when playing against other humans. Moreover, there is also a tactical edge as you try to outsmart your opponents. This is easier said than done, and only by levelling up will you be able to compete.

As you play online or offline, your character will progress. Accordingly, the more you play, the better your gear becomes. Alongside this, you can complete side hustles, unlock secondary equipment, and customise your gear. This may seem like a minor thing, but it adds an awful lot to the action. You can improve your traps, PKE meters, or your proton pack. This is essential if you wish to gain a winning advantage and turn the tide of each match in your favour.

As the ghost, your options are more restricted. Instead of new gear, you simply unlock more powerful beings. Now, I loved this in theory, but it was too slow to get a new character, and I wanted more variety sooner. Consequently, this is an area that needs to be addressed ASAP. If it isn’t, there is every chance the game will stagnate and become tiresome.

Can an amateur bunch of ghostbusters save the world? — A fine team of ghostbusters.

Not enough levels.

Another complaint is the lack of levels and tasks at hand. Yes, I enjoyed the side hustles, but unlike other shooter games, this one has no battle pass to work towards. This was understandably disappointing, as progress can plateau. On top of this, once you’ve invested considerable time into your character, there is little reason to keep playing. Again, this was a shame, as it will detract plenty of wannabe Ghostbusters.

However, my biggest gripe is the lack of levels. With only a small smattering of stages on offer, things become stale very quickly. Furthermore, if you play against an experienced team, the action lacks balance, and this was frustrating. I’d have liked to see a larger choice of maps that rotate on a weekly basis. If this was to happen, the gameplay would stay fresh and the overall experience would be vastly improved.

Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed looks great.

For all my complaints, I loved how great it looked. The character models were detailed, and the animation was great. What’s more, the level design is interesting even if the choices are limited. Then, you must consider the detailed equipment, the amazing and grim ghostly slime, and the explosions. As such, it is a treat to look at, and I rarely tired of what I saw.

This is then complemented by the fun audio. Though the acting was occasionally wooden, it was still amusing and worked well. Alongside this, the loud and exciting sound effects add energy to every round you tackle. Moreover, I enjoyed the cinematic even if it added little to the end product.

Use your tools to find each ghost. — Can you find each ghost?

Excellent controls.

Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed has a fantastic tutorial that makes it easy to play. The developers have focused on veterans and newcomers and this balances the playing field. Thanks to the responsive inputs and well-laid-out setup, it is easy to master.

Though I loved my time with it, it lacks longevity. Subsequently, unlike COD or Battlefield, this won’t keep you playing night after night. What’s more, its lack of a battle pass impacts its desirability and replay value.

Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed is a great casual FPS.

If you dislike Ghostbusters, you may disregard this title altogether. However, that would be a shame as it’s a great casual experience. Furthermore, it is enjoyable with friends and easy to play. Disappointingly, though, its lack of longevity and depth undermines its potential, and that is unfortunate. Still, I enjoyed it, and I recommend you buy it here! Save the world or scare its inhabitants in this fun and casual FPS.

Review: Castle Renovator

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 8, 2022

0

Simulation titles are two a penny these days. As such, the quality can be a bit hit-and-miss. However, as I found with Ship Graveyard Simulator, there are often pleasant surprises to be had. Consequently, when I was given Castle Renovator to look at, I went into it with an open mind. Sadly, though, I was met with an unpleasant issue. In its current build, there is a visual fault that taints the screen with a red hue. Accordingly, there is a workaround where the HDR option must be switched off. Now, you may think it’s weird that I open with this information. Yet, I wanted to get it out of the way before I dissected the action.

Developed by Pyramid Games and published by Ultimate Games SA, this is a medieval building simulation title. What’s more, it has some entrepreneurial elements and some minor resource management layers. As such, it has some depth to its repetitive and basic gameplay. Therefore, if you enjoy a casual and rudimentary simulation experience, and you love the idea of owning a castle, this is probably the game for you.

Castle Renovator has some exquisite furniture to choose. — My, what a fine lion you have there.

Castle Renovator has a gentle learning curve and a simple story.

Like all great sim games, you have somehow inherited a massive patch of land from a dead relative. However, you have no idea what to do with it, and you don’t know how to use your tools. Accordingly, you must undertake an array of missions that’ll teach you the basics and reward you with cash and resources. As you work through each mission, you’ll unlock building blueprints and new furniture. Alongside this, you’ll become a landlord, earn buckets of cash, and become the Lord of the Manor.

What was great about Castle Renovator was its gentle learning curve. Thanks to the volume of missions on offer, none of the fundamentals were overwhelming. Instead, the slower approach breaks you in and lets your creative juices flow. While you undertake each quest, you must focus on a range of objectives. Normally, you are expected to clean rubbish, scrub stains, remove trees, rebuild structures, and repair furniture. On top of this, you can search for chests and find notes for extra rewards.

The missions vary in style and length, and occasionally, you’ll be asked to smash furniture and damage walls. Alternatively, you may have to build a rental property, fix a castle, or replace every item of furniture. However, if this isn’t enough, you will be asked to redecorate and replant the garden. Consequently, there is plenty to do, even if the approach is understated.

Some of the levels are filthy! — What a mess!

King of the Castle.

Completing the missions was all well and good. However, I wanted to build a castle to call my own. Fortunately, Castle Renovator allows you to build freely. The aforementioned inherited land is yours to do with as you please. What’s more, you can spend your hard-earned cash on expanding your grounds to make your property as grand as you wish. Alongside this, you may unlock new pieces of furniture by purchasing blueprints and completing a simple puzzle mini-game. This wasn’t entirely in keeping with the action, but it was a fun break from the norm, nonetheless.

Building your castle is the best part of this game. I adored the building mechanics and the simplicity of laying foundations, walls, windows, doors, and roofs. Furthermore, changing the appearance and placing furniture was equally good. Moreover, creating a decorative garden allowed you all the creative freedom you could ever desire. It was just a shame that the missions weren’t as expansive or creative as the free-play area.

Castle Renovator doesn’t look great, but it matters not.

The visual issues will put many gamers off. However, the workaround works perfectly, and the team is working on a fix. Yet, you can’t avoid the dated and rough finished product. Sadly, the screenshots make the game look much more polished than it is. Furthermore, the animation and climbing mechanics are pretty awful. On top of this, the day/night cycle was unnecessary. Because of the lighting issues, the night elements were too dark, and this made playing the game much harder. If you can put these problems to one side, you get a varied game with some nice medieval backdrops. What’s more, building a grand house was an amazing and rewarding experience.

Though the graphics weren’t great, I adored the folksy and dramatic soundtrack. The upbeat music distracted you from the repetitive tasks while transporting you to each medieval setting. Alongside this, the sound effects were great. I liked the noise of each tool and the crashing and banging of every constructed and deconstructed wall, foundation, and ceiling.

The simple designs are the easiest to work with. — Simple and easy to work with.

The controls were serviceable.

Whenever I tackle a sim game, I want to be able to adjust the control sensitivity. I despise it when cursor speeds are too fast, and Castle Renovator doesn’t have this option. Subsequently, it is tough to get used to as both the player and the cursor move at lightning speeds. Luckily, though, the inputs are responsive and the layout and UI are user-friendly.

The freedom to create the castle of your dreams will keep you playing. However, the missions are repetitive and this was disappointing. Had the developer’s incorporated creative freedom into the main body of the game, it would be vastly improved. Moreover, if a sandbox option had been included, it would have made for a much more enjoyable experience.

Castle Renovator was good, but it could be better.

I enjoy this genre of games, but even with rose-tinted spectacles, I couldn’t overlook the flaws. I appreciated the easy workaround to the visual issues, but the rest of the game was repetitive and understated compared to its peers. With such potential, this could have been an amazing game. Instead, Castle Renovator is good, but it won’t blow you away. Accordingly, I’m on the fence, but I still recommend that you buy it here! Can you make the castle of your dreams? Complete the missions, gather your resources, and be as creative as you like.

Review: Ship Graveyard Simulator

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 8, 2022

0

Occasionally, a game is announced and you immediately think, “why?”. However, when you get a chance to play it, your opinion instantly changes. Accordingly, this is exactly what happened when I was given a copy of Ship Graveyard Simulator. Who in their right mind wants to spend hours salvaging scrap from a ship? The answer, well, me!

Developed by Incubator Games and published by Ultimate Games SA, this is a simulation title. Yet, unlike its peers, it lacks that ultra-realistic touch and has an arcade edge to its approach. However, this doesn’t undermine its potential. Instead, it ensures the gameplay is straightforward, fun, and weirdly addictive. Subsequently, this is one title that’ll get under your skin, even though it shouldn’t.

Ship Graveyard Simulator has plenty of things to destroy. — Get out your hammer and get to work.

Ship Graveyard Simulator relies on its gameplay.

Unlike other games, Ship Graveyard Simulator has next to no storyline. As such, its success is measured by its enjoyable gameplay and simple mechanics. Fortunately, its rudimentary style and easy-to-understand elements ensure that you are hooked from the off. Furthermore, like other niche sim games, it has a basic look and a simple soundtrack. However, its addictive action more than makes up for this.

You control a worker who is determined to make their fortune. Living in a desolate beach town, you’ll make money any way you can. Luckily, your home has access to hundreds of scrapped ships that need stripping down. On top of this, you can take delivery of broken vessels in order to remove valuable assets and make a killing. This is the repetitive gameplay cycle that should be boring. Yet, oddly, it isn’t. Instead, you become obsessed with taking every resource and becoming rich. Consequently, the hours melt away.

Pick each lock and find the valuable goods. — Pick the lock and find the valuable goods.

Destruction, building, and recruitment.

So, we know the action revolves around salvage and trading. However, that’s not the full picture. You must also consider a range of tools, recruitment of workers, and building key structures. Each of these elements costs money and requires resources. Accordingly, every ship that you raid gives you the ability to get rich or improve your base and equipment. On top of this, there is a thorough levelling system that makes each tool and your character more efficient. Subsequently, this simple game has a lot more depth than first anticipated.

Your tools are used to destroy structures, cut pipes, melt joints, mop up spills, and much more. Alongside this, you will need to work safely by isolating gas supplies. Furthermore, you have limited room for resources, so choose wisely to maximise each excursion.

Improving your base is a must if you are to get the best out of this game. Accordingly, Ship Graveyard Simulator demands a balance between selling goods and upgrading your structures. To do this, you must use your furnace to combine different resources. Therefore, you’ll need to find different ingredients to create alloys, hardened steel, and so forth. This element of the game will be intriguing as it added a challenging layer to the action. Without it, the gameplay would have plateaued early on.

Ship Graveyard Simulator isn’t the prettiest of games.

Visually, Ship Graveyard Simulator is pretty rough. There are numerous bugs, the climbing animation is poor, and there are screen tears galore. What’s more, the lighting isn’t fantastic, and the ocean is effectively a blue blanket. However, none of these issues mattered. Why? Because the developers got the important elements right. I loved the look of the tools, the sheer size and scope of each vessel, and the sprawling beach. Moreover, fans of this genre care not for looks. Instead, it’s all about the gameplay, and for me, that is spot on.

Though the audio is basic, I enjoyed it nonetheless. A blend of folksy and upbeat songs plays on a continuous loop. This jovial style is effective in preventing boredom. On top of this, I adored the sound of the tools. The realistic clunk of metal on metal and the piercing sound of your buzz saw were amazing. Furthermore, the environmental sounds were nice, especially the crashing of waves and the gentle breeze.

Driving around is the best way to travel. — Drive around and find the resources.

Excellent controls.

I fully expected this to be horrible to play. Most simulation titles are ported from PC, and consequently, the controls normally suffer. However, thankfully, Ship Graveyard Simulator is different. Its excellent UI, responsive inputs, and superb tutorial make it fun and easy to play.

This genre is renowned for replay value and longevity. Yet, in theory, the repetitive gameplay loop should be dull and insipid. In reality, it is addictive, fun, and hard to put down. Thanks to its levelling system, building mechanics, and a fleet of ships, you’ll play this for hours.

Ship Graveyard Simulator caught me off guard.

Never judging a book by its cover is apt. Had I gone with my gut reaction, I’d have never played Ship Graveyard Simulator. On paper, it looks to be dull, boring, and a niche experience. However, except for its graphics, it is an excellent game. As such, I recommend that you buy it here! One man’s trash is another man’s gold. Salvage scrap, build your empire, and make your fortune.

Review: Until the Last Plane

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 7, 2022

0

World War II fascinates many people. Whether it is the brutality of each battle, the bravery of the soldiers on both sides, or the political turmoil, it is oddly intriguing. Therefore, when I was offered Until the Last Plane to review, I accepted without hesitation. Now, I’m not a massive history buff, nor am I an expert in aviation, but this game fascinated me nonetheless.

Developed by CarloC and Eastasiasoft Limited and published by the latter, this is a war simulation title. Furthermore, there are fighting elements and a sprinkling of business management. Consequently, it has many strings to its bow, and this helps to keep things interesting.

Until the Last Plane is a little confusing.

Until the Last Plane has a simple approach and multiple stories. The action is broken down across 3 campaigns; USA, Russia, and Germany. Each of these has 3 missions and different measures of success. In each campaign, you must manage your airfield, purchase supplies, and complete each mission. If successful, you’ll earn money, be promoted, and you’ll gain skill points.

Once each campaign runs its course, you are judged on your levels of success. If you are victorious, the next campaign opens, and the game continues. This is Until the Last Plane in a nutshell. Accordingly, its gameplay appears understated and straightforward. However, at first, it is confusing. Though the developers have incorporated a thorough tutorial, the finer points of squad management are poorly explained. Consequently, there is a fair bit of trial-and-error en route.

Can you shoot down every enemy in Until the Last Plane? — Shoot them down.

Missions.

Thanks to the blend of campaigns on offer, you’ll enjoy a variety of missions. These basic endeavours comprise mini-games that’ll test your reactions and dexterity. Effectively, you are asked to either shoot down an enemy plane, evade an enemy fighter, or bomb a key location or vehicle.

If you undertake the dogfighting tasks, you and your foe have set moves. Subsequently, you can only travel at a set distance as you try to outwit your opponent. Moreover, if either plane finishes in the line of sight of the other, they are shot down and must return to their airfield. The bombing, on the other hand, is easier to understand. You must choose the height to soar as you unload your bomb. Once chosen, you’ll have to stop the moving sights on your target. If you miss, the building/vehicle survives and you return to base. Alongside this, the lower you fly, the greater risk there is of being intercepted by enemy fighters.

Neither of the mission types will test you. However, the victory criteria can be challenging, and you must be mindful of this. What’s more, poor pilot management or a lack of resources will undermine your command.

3 campaigns and plenty of missions. — Which campaign will you tackle?

Pilots and resource management.

The pilots are a delicate bunch. They get stressed, lose morale, and become fatigued. Accordingly, you must rotate your team if you wish to succeed. Moreover, you assign fewer planes to each mission to manage the workload. However, if you do this, you may not have enough planes to complete each task. Subsequently, you must balance your team’s needs with that of each task.

On top of this, resource management is a key mechanic. Every vehicle must be fuelled, reloaded, and repaired. As such, you’ll need to buy each item and wait for them to be delivered. Alongside this, you must have mechanics to complete each job. Therefore, it can be tough to get things right. What’s more, if you fail to repair a plane in time, the vehicle and its pilot will be blown to pieces. Consequently, you’ll want to prioritise repairs over anything else.

Thankfully, things get better because of a generous skill tree. As each mission is completed, skill points are awarded. These are then spent on making your planes faster, more agile, and stronger. This was an excellent approach from the developers as it mixed up the action while balancing the field.

Until the Last Plane is dated.

Thanks to its fixed-screen perspective and pixelated aesthetics, Until the Last Plane is dated. Now, this isn’t a bad thing as it works perfectly with the genre and theme. Furthermore, the sepia colour palette and blocky text age the cinematic further still. Moreover, the basic sprites and simple menus won’t wow you, but they are serviceable and pleasant to look at. On top of this, the varied backgrounds and interesting vehicle designs are pleasant.

The audio is equally suitable. With hard-hitting sound effects and a lairy soundtrack, it is dynamic and aggressive. What’s more, its 8-Bit sounds match the retro style. However, I was disappointed by the lack of acting. With so many cutscenes, it would have been better to have them acted. Instead, you endure a fair bit of text during each mission.

You'll need to build parts to repair your planes. — Make sure you have enough parts to repair your planes.

Simple controls.

A basic concept needs simple controls. Thankfully, Until the Last Plane is as straightforward as it comes. Thanks to the excellent UI and responsive inputs, you’ll be flying like an Ace pilot in no time. Moreover, the management of resources and the rotation of pilots was a cinch.

With 9 missions of varying degrees of difficulty, this has plenty to keep you going. However, it lacks a free-play mode, and that was disappointing. On top of this, I’d have liked to see a greater variety of missions to keep things fresh.

Until the Last Plane is a fun and challenging experience.

I bemoaned the confusing opening, but once this is passed, the action is fun and challenging. With a relatively deep management system and a thorough skill tree, there are many plates to spin. Accordingly, it’ll keep you busy as you fight for each nation. I enjoyed the fighting, the aesthetics, and the simple approach. Therefore, I recommend you buy it here! Can you be victorious and keep everyone happy? Shoot your foes, bomb your targets, and party like no one is watching.

News: Revolution X Pro

Daniel Waite

-

Dec 7, 2022

0

At times, an accessory is released that wows its audience. When this happens, it is hard to see where it can be improved. Consequently, the adage if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it comes into play. Back in May, I reviewed the incredible Revolution X Pro controller, and I adored it. Now, Nacon has improved its range by including two spectacular liveries to its range.

Originally, the Nacon Revolution X Pro was available in white and black. However, UK stockists and the Nacon website are proud to offer Urban and Forest themes. Subsequently, not only do you get an amazing controller that is jam-packed with features, your setup will look awesome at the same time.

So, why is this controller so amazing? Well, you can adjust the weight to get the right balance. It has Dolby Atmos for headphones included, there are mappable buttons, it feels wonderfully comfortable, and it is also robust. On top of this, it can be used for both Xbox and PC, the analogue sticks are interchangeable, and it is delivered in a handy and professional carry case.

Technical aspects of the Revolution X Pro.

Compatible	Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Connection	Detachable USB-C
Wireless	No
Cable included	Yes
Cable length	300 cm
Software	Yes
Headset jack	Yes, 3.5mm
Surround sound	Dolby Atmos for headphones
Joystick position	Asymmetric
Profiles	Yes
Programmable buttons	Yes
Backlighting	RGB

Extreme customisation: Gamers can choose the stick style and controller’s weight, and also tune it with the Revolution X app (trigger responsiveness, stick curves, button mapping).
Total immersion: Dolby Atmos for Headphones for precision audio.
Designed for competition: Playing competitively or just for fun, the Revolution X guarantees latency-free gaming.

A great gift this Christmas.

If you are stuck for Christmas ideas, then the Revolution X Pro controller is a fine choice. No matter what colour you pick, the recipient will be pleased as punch. Accordingly, I can’t help but love the new colour scheme. Therefore, why not spoil someone this year, and make their gaming dreams come true?

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

Review: Bot Gaiden

Daniel Waite

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Dec 7, 2022

0

Stupidly tough games aren’t for the faint of heart. Consequently, those who take on these mammoth games deserve a medal. Normally, whenever I hear about a cruel endeavour, I give it a wide birth. However, as a reviewer, I sometimes get caught out. As such, when that happens, I have to put on my big boy pants and get on with it. Unsurprisingly, when I was given Bot Gaiden to review, I winced. This fun, colourful, but tough title had me screaming from the first level.

Developed by Swordswipe Studios and Eastasiasoft Limited and published by the latter, this is a hardcore platform experience. What’s more, it is designed with cooperative action in mind. Subsequently, the action is easier and more enjoyable when played with another. However, sadly, rarely did this happen, and so I had to grit my teeth and bear it.

Bot Gaiden is all about fast movement and destructive power. — Leave destruction in your wake.

Bot Gaiden demands razor-sharp reactions.

Robyu and Bytron are ninja robots with a problem. Their power skulls have been stolen, and they must battle Giorqio’s 6 Hench-bots to recover them. Yet, this is easier said than done, as traps, enemies, and obstacles stand in your way. Furthermore, you have limited lives, an array of power-ups, and many other issues to contend with. Accordingly, completing Bot Gaiden is tough and will punish veteran gamers.

You’ll explore a range of worlds that are colourful and tough to traverse. Moreover, every enemy you face wants to kill you in any way they can. Therefore, you must use your razor-sharp reactions and nimble dexterity to complete each stage. But this isn’t all. No, each hero has a range of weapons to use that’ll tip the odds in their favour. With missiles, boomerangs, shurikens, and more, you’ll be a force to be reckoned with. Alongside this, you can use your ninja moves to leap gaps and annihilate your foes.

It's not every day that you get to see a horse with guns. — Just a horse with guns.

Limited lives, new abilities, and tough bosses.

What makes Bot Gaiden particularly hard is its limited lives approach. Consequently, you are one step closer to failure every time you die. If you do perish, and you will, you restart at the last checkpoint. Yet, if you lose all your lives, the run is over, and you lose your progress. Now, this may seem pretty standard. However, when the gameplay is so harsh, it is a kick in the balls.

If somehow you manage to complete a level, you are judged on your performance. If you excel, you’ll be awarded a powerful new ability. Alternatively, if you do OK, or you just scrape through, you’ll get a more appropriate prize. Thankfully, though, each ability helps you no matter how good they are. As such, each playthrough gets easier the better your hero becomes.

Completing each stage isn’t an easy task. Once you’ve navigated the mountain of obstacles and enemies, you must face a gargantuan Hench-bot. These all-powerful machines are unfairly harsh and take something special to defeat them. Moreover, you’ll need to be on top of your game and master every skill if you want to stand a chance.

Bot Gaiden looks incredible.

Though I found Bot Gaiden to be cruel and unfair, I loved its presentation. Both the visuals and audio were incredible. With vivid and clean imagery, striking backdrops, and interesting sprites, it was spectacular. Furthermore, the combat animation and enormous bosses looked phenomenal. Consequently, the developers have delivered a wonderfully stunning game.

The audio adds depth to the excellent graphics. With aggressive music, loud sound effects, and futuristic noises, I fell for its charms. Moreover, its upbeat nature makes you forget about the cruel and repetitive drama that you must overcome.

Bot Gaiden is full of dark and ominous bosses. — This looks ominous.

Responsive controls.

Had the controls been woeful, I’d have hated Bot Gaiden. However, the responsive and well-considered approach makes this tough game bearable. Furthermore, an easy-to-follow tutorial highlights the fundamentals during the first chapter. Subsequently, you’ll understand what must be done immediately.

Because of its sheer brutality, Bot Gaiden is overflowing with replay value. Moreover, the scoring system and the range of abilities will keep you going. On top of this, the harsh achievement list will taunt completionists from the off.

Bot Gaiden is an excellent indie title.

I adored this game. What’s more, the cooperative mechanics and excellent stage design make it moreish and fun. Alongside this, the striking graphics and loud audio are captivating. Yet, it is extremely tough to play solo, and this will put some gamers off. Accordingly, you’ll need a thick skin if you try to tackle this alone. However, I cherished the savagery and recommend that you buy it here! Can you find your power skulls? Jump, dive and fight your way to victory.

Riot Games MMO Predictions

Gaming

Lee Fairweather

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Dec 6, 2022

0

Over the past few years, the MMO genre has gone through a semi-resurgence. World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy 14, the two titans of the industry, retain an estimated daily player count of 2 million users. Lost Ark, after years of hype and anticipation, finally launched for the western market in early 2022. While not as popular as WoW or FF14, it still manages to retain over 300,000 active players per day. Heck, even New World, for all of its faults, managed to persuade over 1 million gamers to purchase a copy on the day of its release. If nothing else, this showcases that gamers are willing, and eager, for the next big hit.

It should come as no surprise then that Riot Games, who have actively been expanding into every known genre, expressed interest in developing a game within the MMO space. Conformation of this rumour was lackadaisically announced on Twitter, via Greg “Ghostcrawler” Street, thus fulfilling a long-time request of the LoL fanbase.

Unfortunately, Riot hasn’t revealed much about what this game will entail. However, this does allow us to have some fun. In this article, I’m going to be discussing, and predicting, 4 different topics. Why 4? Because, as all Jhin mains know, 4 is the perfect number. So, without any further ado, let’s get into it.

Gameplay Systems

There are a number of different gameplay systems that Riot could take advantage of. Each one comes with its own benefits and drawbacks, and there isn’t really a right or wrong decision. Let’s analyse a few of the options.

Tab Targeting

Popularised in 1999 by Everquest, Tab Targeting continues to be one of the most prolific systems used in the MMO landscape. The name, unsurprisingly, originates from pressing tab to lock your camera onto an enemy in the game. While this helps to keep things fairly straight forward, some people in the community disregard this mechanic as being old and outdated.

Unfortunately for the players in this camp, Ghostcrawler, who is one of the leads on this project, and who previously worked on World of Warcraft, has recently given his approval of the Tab Targeting system. Regardless, I personally wouldn’t slate this as the primary choice.

Real Time System

Players who dislike Tab Targeting usually prefer a more transformative gameplay approach. While games such as Black Desert Online focus on PvP for their late game content, there is no reason as to why a real time system couldn’t be incorporated into a PvE setting.

Having said that, I think this design choice has the least likelihood of appearing in Riots MMO. It hasn’t been proven on a particularly large scale, and that may scare Riot from going down this route.

Isometric ARPG

Although some players may want a traditional style MMO, it would make a lot of sense for Riot to settle on the currently popular MMOARPG genre.

Inherently, MOBAs and Action RPGs share a lot of similarities. This means that translating the gameplay of LoL would, in practice, be thematically straight forward. It would also allow longstanding players of League to comfortably transition over to their MMO as well. If I was betting on it, this would be the style I’d expect them to go with.

Playable Races

The world of Runeterra, and beyond, is inhabited by a plethora of unique creatures. Narrowing it down to what will be playable is no easy feat. Though, at the very least, we can take an educated stab at it.

Races

Humans

Humans are the most prevalent race in all of Runeterra, inhabiting practically every region. Almost every MMO has them, and this one will be no different. Examples of humans include Yasuo, Akali, and Jinx.

Yordles

These tiny adorable creatures were, until recently, considered to be a species with a limited population. LoR showcased a variety of brand new Yordles, which seemingly indicates they will indeed be playable in the MMO. Some examples of Yordles include Tristana, Teemo, and Heimerdinger.

Vastaya

These are the species that share both human and animalistic traits. They are incredible prevalent throughout history of Runeterra, and many of them play a vital role within the lore. Some examples of Vastaya include Ahri, Xayah, Rakan, and Neeko.

Golem

These are sentient beings which have been created artificially. Though deemed immoral by some, the motives of these creatures are usually indicative of their creator. Examples include Blitzcrank, Orianna, and Galio.

Subraces

Undead

These are creatures that have been kept within the physical realm after dying, usually through a physical object or magical entity. Some examples of undead include Kalista, Pyke, and Sion.

Cyborg

Although similar from the outset, Cyborgs are different than golems. They are classified as a race which was naturally birthed, then partially augmented/upgraded. Some examples include Camillie, Viktor, and Urgot.

Future World Events

World events are a big part of every MMOs content lifecycle. Thankfully for us, Riot has numerous possibilities at their disposal in this department.

The Void Invasion

Created during the birth of the universe, The Void is an endless space of nothingness. No sight, sound, taste, touch, or smell existed inside this plane, until, one fateful day, when a gateway to the Physical Realm appeared. The inhabitants of the Void, known as the Watchers, attempted to pass through this rift, but ultimately failed due to Lissandra’s intervention.

The Watchers then created the Voidborn to act on their behalf inside the Physical Realm. Their ultimate goal is to return The Void back to the way it was before the rift opened. They are incredibly powerful creatures, and it will take the combined efforts of each region to stand a chance of defeating them.

Aurelion Sol Unleashed

In the early years of Runeterra, the Aspects of Targon imprisoned the celestial being known as Aurelion Sol. Through the use of a magical Golden Crown, they were able to command him to do their bidding. However, it appears as though the magic that is restricting his powers are starting to diminish. If he regains his free will, then he will undoubtably enact his revenge upon all of Runeterra.

An Empire Reborn

The civilization of Shurima was catastrophically wiped out during the botched Ascension of its last Emperor. Rumours have begun circulating around the deserts that Emperor Azir has arisen from his slumber, and along with him, the resurrection of the Shurima capital city.

The world of Runeterra has changed dramatically since he was last in power though. Noxus, for example, is currently invading the shorelines of Shurima. Azir may intend to lead a counter attack to drive them back, effectively starting a war. He may also plan to Ascend some of his loyal subjects into unstoppable killing machines. Whatever he ends up doing, only time will tell if it has any repercussions.

Villains and Antagonists

Lastly, no MMO is truly complete without a villainous fiend for the players to overcome. World of Warcraft had The Lich King, RuneScape had Sliske, and Runeterra has… well, a lot. Let’s take a look at some of the evil doers.

Mordekaiser

Twice slain, and thrice born. Existing for over 1000 years, Mordekaiser has one goal, to control both the living and death realms. He is basically indestructible, so, naturally, we will probably defeat him in a final expansion raid at some point.

Viego

The Ruined King might have been thwarted by the Sentinels, but it’s safe to assume that Riot have imprisoned him temporarily to be released at a later date. A story full of tragedy and edgy goodness, Viego is already solidified himself as a fan favourite. As such, I believe he will be the initial villain we face in the game.

Thresh

Thresh is a character that is always multiple steps ahead. A relentless and sadistic force, his true motives are rather ambiguous. Regardless of what he has planned, the Chain Warden will continue to obtain and torture souls until he is stopped. I anticipate that he will be used during Viego’s plotline since they are both interconnected.

Aatrox

Bound to his weapon and forever seeking death, Aatrox brings destruction to wherever he roams. Branded as a Darkin, he is desperately trying to enact revenge on the Aspects who imprisoned him in the first place. Although I hope I’m wrong about this, I don’t think Aatrox will be a key enemy in the game. However, I could see him being sorted into a Shurima related dungeon.

Veigar

The tiny master of evil was once a happy go lucky Yordle. However, after being imprisoned and tortured by Mordekaiser, he now seeks to use the power of the stars to inflict his sinister will… though, these plans usually end up backfiring for Veigar. I expect to see our very good, very evil villain in a Yordle-based questline.

Release Date?

MMOs take an incredible amount of time create, and while no specific date has been provided by Riot, we can safely assume that it is still 2-5 years away from completion. You can rest assured though that when new information is revealed by Riot, we will be the first to provide coverage on it.

Need more League of Legends related content? Check out my Ruined King review here.

Review: Gamesir G7

Daniel Waite

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Dec 6, 2022

0

For some gamers, the traditional and official controllers are enough to appease them. However, for many players, these excellent but standard accessories simply won’t do. Sadly, they lack a competitive edge, and there are no programmable buttons. Accordingly, this is where the elite peripheral market shines. With some whacky designs, mountains of custom options, and excellent build quality, you’ll struggle to pick from the vast number of controllers on offer. Yet, this review of the Gamesir G7 should help clear things up.

This amazing wired controller gives you the build quality and competitive edge of its peers but at a fraction of the cost. What’s more, the wired approach ensures that latency is reduced and that battery power is no longer a concern. On top of this, it has interchangeable faceplates, an app to adjust the settings, and there are mappable buttons to the rear for that elite edge. Moreover, the build quality is fantastic and the tactile grips and ergonomic design ensure it is comfortable for extended gaming sessions.

The Gamesir G7 is a rapid and responsive gaming controller. — A rapid controller that is ideal for FPS.

What’s in the box of the Gamesir G7?

The simple but striking box highlights every key selling point. Furthermore, the contents are well-packaged and nicely presented. On top of this, every element can be recycled, and this was fantastic.
The Gamesir G7 controller looks similar to many controllers. To the rear, you’ll find two customisable buttons, and on the front, there is the addition of an M button for additional functionality. The pad has a comfortable weight and rubberised grips for comfort. Moreover, the triggers and bumpers have a textured finish, like the Microsoft official controller.
Spare faceplate. With the option of a magnetised black or white faceplate, you can customise the controller to your liking.
USB-C cable. A 10-foot braided cable enables you to play comfortably on both your Xbox and PC.
User guide. With customisable buttons and an app to download, you’ll need to read the guide to get the best from this controller.
1-month Game Pass. A free 1-month subscription for new users.

Technical aspects.

Whenever I look at a new controller, it must be an improvement on the one I’m already using. Thankfully, the Gamesir G7 does that across every single aspect. Not only is it comfortable to use, but the mechanical triggers have a low and responsive actuation. Subsequently, a 0.6mm actuation distance gives you a competitive edge. On top of this, you can activate a hair trigger mode whenever you are playing FPS titles. This minor adjustment ensures that you are split seconds ahead of your opponents, and this gives you a winning edge.

On top of this, the Gamesir G7 comes with a polling rate of 265Hz and a low latency response time of <0.044s. Now, this may sound complicated, but it isn’t. Effectively, this controller will help you to dominate every game while delivering a buttery smooth experience. This is helped further by the market-leading precision-tuned tech. The Hall Effect reacts to the slightest movement compared to standard controllers. Consequently, you’ll get precise liner control during every gaming session.

The Gamesir Nexus App.

We know that the Gamesir G7 is responsive and feels great. However, what about its usability? Well, thanks to the free-to-download Gamesir Nexus App, you are in complete control. This excellent piece of software allows you to adjust every element of the controller on the fly. You can alter the mapping, the deadzone for the analogue sticks, the vibration and the trigger actuation points.

Now, you may worry that this is complicated, but it really isn’t. The simple-to-use app talks you through every step and your saved profile is transferred seamlessly to your controller. Furthermore, adjustments can be made when gaming with or without the use of the software. As such, you are in complete control of your settings.

The Gamesir Nexus app is easy to use. — An easy to use app.

Is the Gamesir G7 worth it?

With a vast selection of controllers on the market, you may wonder if this is worth your time and money. Well, for the price, you can’t get any better. Its nearest rival has to be PowerA, and though their controllers have a unique appearance, the Gamesir G7 has a better build quality and more features. Furthermore, I couldn’t fault the excellent app and the responsive buttons. Moreover, the comfortable textured grips and triggers give it a professional edge.

If I was to find fault, it would be that there isn’t a wireless option. However, third-party pads are rarely wireless, so I wasn’t too bothered. What’s more, the wired approach makes it versatile for both PC and console gaming. When I look at the pros and cons, the Gamesir G7 has many more positives than negatives. As such, if you are in the market for an inexpensive but feature-packed controller, I recommend that you buy it here!

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

The Gamesir G7 has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold award.

Review: Firefighter Simulator – The Squad

Daniel Waite

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Dec 6, 2022

0

Review: Firefighter Simulator – The Squad

Many of my family and friends serve in the emergency services. As such, I hear the banter and how harsh they are to each other. Firefighters are normally the butt of all jokes and apparently, they spend most of their time sleeping. However, I’m not so sure about that and I certainly wouldn’t want to run into a burning building. Now, saving a cat from a tree is definitely more of my thing. Yet, I’m not sure they’ll hire me just for that role. Consequently, when Firefighter Simulator – The Squad came to my attention, I thought, now is my time to shine.

Developed by Chronos Unterhaltungssoftware UG and published by Astragon Entertainment, this is a hard-hitting simulation title. What’s more, it can be enjoyed solo or with up to three friends. Therefore, you can tackle fires, rescue people, and save buildings from the safety of your own chair.

Each fire will test your resolve. — Can you quench that fire?

Firefighter Simulator – The Squad is dramatic and challenging.

Unlike some simulation titles, Firefighter Simulator – The Squad has no story. Instead, each mission has multiple objectives, and the only form of progression is a basic levelling system. Now, this may seem dull and stripped back. However, the action is anything but. Instead, what I experienced was a dramatic and challenging game that keeps you entertained throughout.

The action begins with an in-depth and fun tutorial. Here, you’ll learn the fundamentals and the best way to tackle each blaze. You’ll be instructed on ways to smash windows and doors, how to set up the truck, and the best way to use the extendable ladder. Furthermore, you’ll understand how to rescue people, the risk of smoke and blowback, and other dangers. But this isn’t entirely necessary, as the developers have dumbed down the action. Subsequently, every task is relatively easy to complete and your only stress is the time it takes to finish each job. Normally, you’ll be asked to switch off the electricity, save injured or trapped individuals, and quench each fire. This is the crux of the gameplay loop and it’s oddly addictive, even if it is straightforward.

Firefighter Simulator - The Squad has 6 trucks to unlock. — Which truck will you use?

Choose your firetruck and mission, and get to work.

The levelling system allows you to unlock bigger and better vehicles. With 6 on offer, you’ll upgrade from a rudimentary truck to a massive vehicle with loads of tools and an extendable ladder. However, no matter which one you choose, they are all suitable for each job. As the mission begins, you can choose to play solo or online. After that, you pick whether to drive to the scene or start at the source of the blaze. If you choose to drive, you’ll be scored on how long it takes to arrive. Sadly, the driving wasn’t as fun as it should have been, as the AI simply moves out of your way. Furthermore, there are no penalties for crashing, so you keep going no matter the danger.

Once you arrive on the scene, you must assess the situation and plan a quick course of action. If you are a solo gamer, you’ll command your squad mates. On the other hand, if you are playing online, you must connect supply hoses and work together to complete each mission. The online mode is where this excels as the AI is bloody awful. What’s more, they rarely listen to commands and they’ll stand in the fire for no reason at all.

This is a problem that needs to be addressed by the developers. When the solo gameplay worked, it was fascinating, enjoyable, and dramatic. Moreover, issuing commands and getting your tactics right was rewarding. However, when your teammates simply stand around while engulfed in fire, it isn’t realistic, and it’s bloody annoying.

Firefighter Simulator – The Squad looks great.

The simulation genre isn’t the prettiest one around. Normally, the developers focus on gameplay rather than graphics. As such, the finished product is normally rough and full of bugs. Luckily, Firefighter Simulator – The Squad looks great, mostly. There is the occasional issue with clipping the scenery or vehicles disappearing, but it matters not. Instead, I was impressed by the character animation, the movement of the water, and the oppressive nature of each fire. Moreover, the smoke mechanic was amazing as each room darkened and your visibility was reduced. On top of this, the excellent targeting system was easy to look at and simple to understand.

Another amazing element of this game is the audio. The high-energy music sets the scene, whereas the crackling of the fire, the rush of water, and the crashing of buildings are enthralling and captivating. However, the soundbites were annoying, especially when the AI couldn’t complete a task. Like a toddler, your squad repeats the same phrase until you instruct them otherwise. Alongside this, the bizarre screaming whenever you walk into a fire was unrealistic and repetitive.

Firefighter Simulator - The Squad demands that you use the right tool for the job. — Grab the right tool and break in.

The radial controls weren’t great.

The usual PC-to-console porting issues are experienced within this title. Disappointingly, the radial menus are clumsy and this impacts the ability to control your AI squad. Instead of simply completing tasks as requested, your teammates run towards you, then complain about a lack of equipment, and finally decided to help out. Maybe I missed the point, or the tutorial wasn’t clear, but I failed to get to grips with issuing orders, and that was frustrating.

With mountains of missions to complete, an array of obstacles to overcome, firetrucks to unlock, and a grading system for each job, there is plenty to do. On top of this, there is the fun multiplayer action that keeps you playing for hours. Accordingly, it has both longevity and replay value.

Firefighter Simulator – The Squad is good, but issues hold it back.

I knew I’d like Firefighter Simulator – The Squad as I adore the genre. Yet, its minor issues annoyed me. I couldn’t get past the poor AI and the frustrating command system. If these problems were solved, the solo gameplay would be vastly improved. However, as a multiplayer game, it is phenomenal. If you have a great bunch of friends, you’ll love arguing and quenching every blaze you see. Consequently, I can happily recommend that you buy it here! Being a real-life firefighter is tough, dangerous, and not for me. Instead, sit back, turn on your console, and become a virtual firefighting hero.

7 Mobile Games That Will Put You In A Festive Mood

News

Christopher John

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Dec 6, 2022

0

7 Mobile Games That Will Put You In A Festive Mood

It’s almost the festive season, and it’s time to get in the mood for some holiday fun. The holiday season is a great time to play games, and we’ve found seven that are ideal for getting you into the holiday spirit. Whether you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the season, need a bit of light entertainment, or want to win cash with online slots UK, players are spoiled for choice!

Here are seven festive mobile games sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

1. Christmas Sweeper 3

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-playing-candy-crush-on-nokia-smartphone-228963/

Matching three games with a Christmas theme is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and have some fun. These games involve matching three or more of the same type of object in a row or column to clear them from the board.

In this game, shapes include bells, snowflakes, Christmas trees, gingerbread men, and more. The object of the game is to clear the board before time runs out or all the pieces are used up. Different levels and difficulties are available to make the game more challenging.

2. Christmas Carol Megaways

Christmas Carol Megaways is an online slot game that brings holiday cheer to players all year round. The game features six reels and over 200,000 ways to win. It has a festive holiday theme and is packed with exciting features that make it an exciting and rewarding game. The game has cascading reels, mystery symbols, free spins, and multipliers. Players can also look forward to the chance to win one of the enormous jackpots.

The game’s visuals and sound are designed to evoke the atmosphere of the holiday season and provide the perfect backdrop for a fun and rewarding online slot game. It has high-quality graphics based on snowy 19th-century London, just like the classic Christmas movie.

3. Christmas Mahjong: Holiday Fun

This classic game is a great way to pass the time during the holidays. With its festive music, snow-covered boards, and holiday-themed tiles, it’s sure to put you in a festive mood. Mahjong is a fun, strategic game perfect for anyone looking to unwind. The goal is simple: clear all the tiles from the board by matching them up. You can play online or offline and unlock new levels as you go.

4. Christmas Jigsaw Puzzles

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/men-sitting-on-the-couch-using-their-phones-8763231/

Test your wits and get into the festive spirit with this holiday-themed puzzle game. You can choose from 9-1600 pieces in your virtual puzzle, so it’s suitable for players of all ages and ability levels.

The puzzles are designed with bright, colorful images of festive scenes such as snowmen, Santa Claus, and Christmas trees. With the jigsaw app, users can choose from different sizes and difficulty levels, allowing for a challenge even the most experienced puzzler can enjoy. The app also includes background music for a more immersive experience, helping users truly get into the spirit of the holidays. With the Christmas-themed jigsaw app, the holidays can be enjoyed from the comfort of anywhere.

5. Christmas Spirits

Christmas Spirit is an online slot game that will bring out your Christmas spirit! The game features five reels and up to 50 paylines, and the symbols in the game include presents, stars, and a turkey for the wild symbol.

If you reveal three or more present symbols, you’ll enter a bonus round to (hopefully!) increase your winnings. The wilds add a fun element to the game and help you to create winning combinations. The scatters can trigger the bonus game, where you pick from a selection of presents to reveal your prizes.

6. Christmas Wonderland 4

You can play this game for free, but it does have an in-app purchase system, like most of the best free games. Plenty of minigames, puzzles, and hidden surprises are waiting for you to discover.

Christmas Wonderland 4 has beautiful graphics and seasonal music, making it feel like you’re really playing inside a Christmas scene.

7. Santa’s Delivery

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-in-black-crew-neck-t-shirt-playing-mobile-game-7915288/

Put your coordination skills to the test as you help Santa deliver presents! In this game, you’ll have to collect gifts and carry a huge stack of them from one location to another, enjoying the lovely snowy landscapes as you do so.

With its festive graphics and holiday music, this game is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

Conclusion

These games are fun, easy to play, and perfect for a break from work. They’re also free for the most part. So there’s no excuse not to download one of them on your phone next time you want to put yourself in a festive mood!

Whether you’re a fan of classic games or prefer something more festive, there’s a mobile game out there that’s sure to get you in the holiday spirit. So, grab your phone and get into the festive mood with one of these seven mobile games!

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