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The Anatomy Of A Great Open World Game

Gaming

Andrew Edney

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May 6, 2022

Open-world video games are some of the best games ever. If you had to ask someone to list off their favourite video games of all time, there’s bound to be at least one open-world game in there. Some recent options that spring to mind include Skyrim, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, GTA 5 and Elden Ring.

At the same time, we’ve had plenty of open-world games that have sort of flopped. I think one of the biggest that springs to mind is Pokemon Sword/Shield. It sold well, but the general consensus was that it was the worst Pokemon game that’s ever been released.

This begs the question, what separates the great open-world games from the bad ones out there? Where do some developers thrive while others falter? Well, let’s take a look at the anatomy of a fantastic open-world video game:

A good main storyline

All of the best games in this genre have thrived because of the storyline. After all, this is the main purpose of these games. You play them to work your way through the story and follow the characters on a journey. I would say that this is the easiest way to separate some of the best games from the worst.

The story needs to be captivating; it needs to encourage you to keep playing and playing. The recent Spider-Man games on Playstation are a phenomenal example of this. Sure, it’s really enjoyable swinging from your webs all across New York City. It’s very fun beating up all the bad guys and collecting all the collectables. But, the thing that made these games so awesome was the storyline. Each one felt like a movie; you were constantly gripped and left in suspense throughout. You felt like you were part of a proper Marvel film, which encouraged you to keep on playing.

So many other open-world games are like this, while others are not. Everything else on this list is irrelevant if the story isn’t good enough. It doesn’t matter what else the game can offer; if the story doesn’t encourage you to play, it will be a flop.

Plenty of side quests

With all open-world games, your missions are directly linked to the main storyline. Each mission you complete will move you closer to the ending. For me, a good open-world game should take you a very long time to complete. I think the main story should be around 40 hours – but that’s just me. There’s nothing worse than finishing a game in a couple of weekends, leaving you with nothing else to do.

This is kind of where side quests come into play. Side quests should give you things to do outside of the main storyline. They can often link back to the story, but they can also be separate entities. The idea is that you can do these little quests to take a break from the story. They also help you level up your character (more on this in a bit) and prepare for the big fights or events.

Personally, I think the best games have loads of side quests that you can get lost in. Honestly, you want to go down a rabbit hole of quests that take you so far away from the main story. It prolongs the game and gives you more opportunities to explore the world.

A good levelling system

This is perhaps something that gets underrated in many open-world games. However, you need to have a good levelling system in place. There has to be something to play towards as you progress through the game. It’s pretty stupid if the game starts and ends with your character in the exact same place. You need to upgrade your stats or abilities; something has to exist!

A good levelling system keeps you engrossed in the game as you have to make decisions when you progress. Do you choose to upgrade this stat or another one? Some games, like Elden Ring, make you choose certain classes where certain attributes matter more than others. It also makes side quests more important in the game. Sure, they might not help you advance through the main story, but they give you experience points to level up your character.

It doesn’t even have to be your character that gets levelled up. Some excellent open-world games might make you level up multiple characters or people in your party – like Pokemon. There are open-world car games where levelling up your car gives you better upgrades to go faster or have a better grip. The point is that you need a system in place that helps you progress and improve. It’s what keeps you hooked and encourages the grind.

A vast open world with plenty to explore

To be honest, I take back what I said about a good storyline being the most important thing. You can say that for every single-player video game out there. For an open-world game, the most important aspect has to be the world you’re playing in.

There are two things every single world needs: a massive setting to explore and some world diversity. Some of the biggest open-world video games have been absolutely massive. It would take you days to explore every single area of the map and you still might not find everything. World diversity refers to the map looking different in different places. I remember Horizon being really good at this; some areas were in snow, others were a desert, and some were grassy.

I think GTA 5 is arguably the best representation of an excellent open world. There’s the whole of Los Santos to explore, including busy city areas, docks, airports, fields, mountains; the list goes on. You get different experiences in different parts of the map, and that’s so amazing.

A good open-world video game will encourage you to explore all areas of this map. You don’t even need to do any quests; you feel compelled to hop on a mode of transport and roam around as much as possible.

A wealth of customisation options

Customisation in open-world games is absolutely crucial. Again, this adds a new fun element to the game, while also giving you something else to work towards. As well as collecting experience to rank up, you can collect in-game tokens or things that you use to unlock different features or outfits.

In games like Assassin’s Creed, you can customise so much about your appearance and gameplay. You’re able to choose loads of different outfits, as well as loads of weapons. This means you start off with weapons or armour that aren’t great, but you gradually unlock better ones to aid you in your fights.

If a big video game doesn’t have many customisation options, it makes it harder for you to keep playing it. Yes, there’s the level progression and the storyline, but you need something extra as well. This is a key element of replayability; if new outfits or things are constantly released and brought into the game, it gives you more reasons to continue playing even after you completed the main storyline.

Good characters

The second to last thing to touch upon is the characters in the game. These characters need to be likeable. Well, the ones you have to play as should be likeable in some way. You should actively become engrossed in their storylines and enjoy the way they’ve been written.

When games have bad characters, it just makes the whole thing feel off. In an open-world game that literally revolves around you and your character, the writers need to get it right. Yes, this is tied into the storyline, but I think you can have a good story that’s often ruined by terrible characters. The plot is awesome, but the characters just make you want to finish the game as quickly as possible.

Downloadable content

Finally, every good open-world game will have downloadable content. This can come in the form of downloadable outfits and other ways to customise your character. However, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt showcases how DLC should be released.

As well as having one of the longest stories in a video game, The Witcher 3 has two DLC packs that basically amount to an entire game. It gives the whole thing way more replayability. After you finish the main story, you have DLC missions and quests to do. It even unveiled new areas on the map for you to explore!

The ability to keep adding things to a game will make it enjoyable for the players. It keeps you playing for years and years and years. If a game has a short story, it can almost make up for it with lots of great DLC that prolongs the experience. There’s nothing worse than finishing an open-world game and feeling like there’s nothing to do.

In my opinion, these are the hallmarks of an excellent open-world video game. If a game has nailed all of these things, it is going to be a big success. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done as a lot of game developers miss the mark here and there!

Review: Cardful Planning

Natosha M

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May 6, 2022

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Card lovers are you ready to play something, unlike any other card game you’ve played before? Cardful Planning is a game that isn’t really about putting together a full house, straight flush, or even a 4 of a kind. Instead, this game is all about moving one single card from start to finish.

Just by rotating the card every which way, from going right, up, down, or even left you’ll be able to collect special cards and objects, that could aid in the moves you take or unlock and access new locations. It’s like an adventure game in the form of cards. The first portion of the game is basically the tutorial stages that teach the game completely. Afterward, you’re on your own and ready to be challenged by plenty of original and well-designed stages.

So if you are looking for a not-so-usual card game that provides many dangerous obstacles, the ability to use special abilities, and play a board-style adventure game, then you may want to give this one a chance. There are plenty of modes to challenge every type of player and each makes the game a bit more enticing!

Graphics and Sound 🃏

The game’s 8-bit design is sublime in accordance with the card game theme. It’s got this dark background with a white outline of each card and the board is designed exactly the same. It doesn’t cause one’s mind to feel perplexed with the gameplay. You can still make out the single card you’re moving on the game board and the rest of the objects as they appear in each stage.

Everything moves well on the screen, with no graphical errors. I love the only few colors used as the weapons, the symbols on the cards, and a few other things. Either way, with just a few colors and plenty of simple black and white, it’s still a great 8-bit designed game.

The music and little bit of sound effects are a perfect match with the puzzling and adventure genre of this game. Even when it plays through each of the different modes. The sounds and music doesn’t get annoying or irritating, even after playing so many stages at one time. It’s just perfect and not too pressuring to make you fail when trying to concentrate on the puzzle in front of you.

Final Thoughts 🃏

This game, Cardful Planning is exactly as it sounds a game that uses cards and requires plenty of planning. It’s got so many different modes that add a bit more challenge to the gameplay and it’s just fun! In a way, it just works for anyone who likes a more relaxed game or a bit more of a challenging and difficult puzzling game.

There are over 100 stages, to occupy oneself, which are difficult and require strategic planning so it won’t be done that easily. Plus, the three modes, will keep a player busy for a while as they add a bit of a twist to the ordinary game. Additionally, The entire game is like playing like a card entering into different doors that have new and original puzzles that are full of obstacles to conquer. Many of those include sharp points coming from the ground, the need to collect cards to access the next stage, or even unlocking areas with boxes positioned all over the board. Plus, it’s got lots many dangerous obstacles to avoid, like bows shooting arrows at you, sharp moving objects, flames trying to burn you, and so many other horrible things to stop you from succeeding so easily. Thankfully for restart, it helps to get everything back where it was after being killed since it all stays the same where you left it on the board.

Regardless, this just makes the game so much more enjoyable to play, and within either mode, Cardful Planning was and still iss a great game! I am very happy with how well it was designed and the graphics are exquisite. It honestly a mind-boggling, fun game and so hard to put it down.

Review: The Gunk

Daniel Waite

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May 6, 2022

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No matter who you are, you’ll want to lead a happy and healthy life. Everyone’s views of what this comprises are different. However, most of us aspire to wealth and excitement. Consequently, we’ve all dreamed of undertaking an amazing adventure while becoming wealthy beyond our wildest dreams. Science Fiction tackles these ideals in weird and wonderful ways, and this is where The Gunk leads the way.

Developed by Image and Form Games and published by Thunderful, this is a sci-fi puzzle platform adventure title. It’s set in a stunning alien world that will blind you with beauty and choke you with claustrophobia. Furthermore, it has a touching story of friendship, discovery, and morality. Sadly, its core concept fails to evolve, but the ideas are enjoyable in this short indie game.

What have the aliens done to this once beautiful world? — Probably best to keep away from the lightning.

The Gunk is weird but familiar.

Science Fiction is guilty of rehashing plots and clichéd characters. Yet, fans of the genre care not! No matter how many times they experience the same drivel, they still lap it up. Luckily, however, The Gunk attempts to mix things up with its wholesome and mainly family safe approach. Yes, there is the usual alien imagery, weird language, and obvious dangers, but it focuses mainly on the puzzles and the protagonist’s relationship. This slight twist on the norm made for a refreshing and touching change of direction.

You control Rani, a fearless adventurer with a massive heart. She is partnered with her sensible and reserved friend, Becks. This adventurous duo explores space while trying to find their fortune. Sadly, they are heavily indebted to a massive corporation and are therefore desperate for success. Luckily, though, their prayers appear to be answered as they identify an energy source on an alien planet. Without hesitation, the ship lands and Rani immediately discovers that the planet is in trouble.

An alien life form coined “The Gunk” has killed the wildlife! What’s more, you must stay alert as evil creatures roam the land. Rani must remove “The Gunk” to kill the creatures and restore the planet to its former glory. Annoyingly, this sounds like a much bigger task than it is. With the use of a power glove called ‘The Pumpkin’, you’ll suck up the gloop, kill the aliens, and save the day.

So much beauty once the Gunk is removed. — The world is beautiful once the Gunk is removed.

It’s far too basic.

The Gunk opens by hiding no secrets. Consequently, you understand exactly what is to be expected from the off. Now, this may not seem like a bad idea, but in this case, it was. Unfortunately, the game fails to evolve even though the mechanics and ideas are fun and interesting. Therefore, once you’ve hoovered up one batch of alien slime, you hoovered up every batch of alien slime. Again, this doesn’t mean it’s boring, because it isn’t. It merely plateaus very early on.

The action focuses on basic platform elements, resource gathering, research, and minor tech upgrades. As you explore, you can scan the surrounding environment. If you find enough unique items, you’ll unlock a new piece of technology. You may think that this is excellent! However, it rarely adds depth to the gameplay, and this was disappointing. This is with the exception of the gun that is used to complete the uninspiring puzzles. It would have been much better if the technology was linked to progressing the story. Yet, it wasn’t, and this made the upgrades and resource gathering feel worthless.

You’ll unlock shields, health boosts, a gun, increased strength, and so forth. However, none of these things matter. As long as you suck up anything in sight, you’ll progress. Luckily, though, where The Gunk excels is its characters and the story. You can’t help falling for the juxtaposed personalities and the many plot twists.

The Gunk looks phenomenal.

Not only did the story impress me, but the graphics and alien world are incredible. I loved how the landscape blossomed and shone as the slime was removed. Plants grow before your eyes and the bland colour palette explodes into life. Furthermore, there was an excellent blend of open and tight spaces and a nice variety of backdrops. In short, The Gunk never gets old and its performance never falters.

Alongside this, you experience some emotive, touching, and high-energy audio. With excellent acting, crazy sound effects, and calming music, it sets the scene. What’s more, most of the action is family-friendly except for a few choice words. The mainly non-offensive gameplay makes this a perfect game to enjoy with younger players.

The Gunk has some creepy and dark environments — The alien architecture is dark and creepy.

Point and shoot.

With so many basic elements, The Gunk is easy to play. The platforming mechanics are simple, and clambering and leaping are helped by the wonderful sense of depth perception. On top of this, every task is straightforward, as most of the time you simply point and shoot your weapon. For veteran gamers, this may be disappointing. However, younger players can progress with little help or guidance. Moreover, the responsive and well-mapped controls make it easy to understand.

Because of the barebones approach, this is devoid of both longevity and replay value. Sadly, the linear approach and short gameplay won’t encourage you to return. Yes, there are secrets to discover and a large array of upgrades to unlock, but this screams unnecessary filler. It was a shame as the world is so unique, and the story is incredible.

The Gunk needs more depth.

What I experienced was a fun but short and undercooked title. It needed much more depth and a greater range of difficulty. None of the aliens will test you and this undermines the difficulty. I wish the developers had worked on the resource management and upgrade system some more. If this had been explored, the gameplay would be exponentially better. All things considered, I enjoyed it, but I wanted much more. Subsequently, despite its shortcomings, I recommend you buy it here! Can you explore the alien planet, get rich, and survive to tell the tale?

Review: Glam’s Incredible Run

Daniel Waite

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May 5, 2022

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https://youtu.be/ZKJf9eiqsg8

You know when you start a game and you instantly regret it? I’ve had this experience many times, and it’s usually because of the platform genre. These precise and deceptively difficult games have been sent to test us all. Therefore, when Glam’s Incredible Run landed on my desk, I knew there would be trouble.

Developed by Three Legged Egg and published by RED ART GAMES, this is a hardcore platforming experience. Ironically, it focuses on minimalist mechanics and should be easy to play. However, it is fiddly, annoying, and requires pinpoint accuracy. Like the great platformers of the past, it lulls you into a false sense of security. Consequently, you’ll believe you’ve mastered the fundamentals, only to fail miserably over and over again.

Glam’s Incredible Run is a tale of family and power.

Everyone loves a bit of drama! Kidnapping, power rifts, and evil witches, so what’s not to like? Glam’s Incredible Run tells the story of one girl who must rescue her mum from an evil witch. In the realm of Caterina, Glam’s mum is being held captive. Why would someone kidnap her (or mumnap her in this case), I hear you ask? The witch cannot allow them to combine their powers and will do anything to prevent them from meeting.

Duh duh duuuuhhhhh. Dramatic, I know! However, the story soon fades into insignificance as you die and scream repeatedly. You’ll study each stage, work out each plan, and fail anyway. Consequently, it’s agonisingly difficult even when it appears unbelievably simple.

Use your hair to swing from ledge to ledge. — Wow, she must use some special conditioner.

Solo or cooperative action.

Glam’s Incredible Run stands out from its peers because of its two game modes. As a solo player, you are responsible for collecting tapes, avoiding obstacles, and getting to the portal. The action spans 11 worlds and each of these is more difficult than the last.

The cooperative mode, on the other hand, spans 60 levels of friendship testing brutality. You must work together to replicate the solo gameplay. However, the twist is that both of you must be perfect or you risk dying repeatedly.

Whichever option you tackle, you must avoid bullets, spikes, goblins, and more. On top of this, you’ll test your acrobatic abilities by swinging by your hair and climbing on walls. These agile moves are death-defying (hopefully) and test your dexterity and patience. Timing your leap of faith is tough, yet it makes the action so much more rewarding when you succeed.

Will you collect every tape? — Collect every tape you find.

Sounds straightforward, right?

I’m sure you are wondering why it is so difficult. After all, the mechanics all appear straightforward and easy to understand. Well, precision, timing, and moving platforms all enhance the difficulty. What’s more, there is a degree of speed and physics-based action to contend with as well. In short, it asks you to balance many elements.

Alongside this, each stage has an air of the unknown and the draw of collectables. Consequently, you’ll push yourself to obtain every item, kill each enemy, and get through every stage alive.

Glam’s Incredible Run is pretty basic.

Thanks to its pixelated style and fixed-screen perspective, Glam’s Incredible Run is pretty basic. This may sound like a negative, however, it isn’t. Its understated appearance allows you to focus on the job at hand. This is helped further because of the contrasting tones and distinct sprites. Accordingly, obstacles and dangers are easy to identify.

The old-school aesthetic is enhanced because of the shrill synth music. Moreover, the aggressive and silly sound effects add to the magic. Sadly, it’s not the most original audio, but it’s serviceable and enjoyable, nonetheless.

Glam's Incredible Run utilises solo and cooperative action at its core. — Cooperative action is tougher than you think.

Excellent controls that are sadly too fiddly.

The developers focused on a three-button approach. Therefore, this should be easy to play, ha! It is nothing but a maddening and rage-inducing affair that serves to demoralise you. The speed at which you must react and think is astronomically fast. Subsequently, you’ll fall into oblivion or into spikes more than you’ll like.

If you can stomach the brutality and humiliation of failure, this oozes replay value and longevity. It’ll keep you playing for hours while demanding you return for more. What’s more, the cooperative mode will test you further still. This isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s wonderfully rewarding when you succeed.

Glam’s Incredible Run was too difficult.

I like to be tested, but I found Glam’s Incredible Run far too difficult. It was fiddly, unfairly precise, and uncomfortably challenging. However, it will be perfect for hardcore gamers and veterans of the genre. Though it wasn’t for me, I still recommend you buy it here! Can you overcome the obstacles and save your mum? Swing, climb and jump your way to victory.

Review: Andro Dunos 2

Christopher McNally

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May 5, 2022

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There’s been a few classic shoot-em-ups being released recently, a throwback to a bygone era where all you had to do was move your little sprite up/down/left/right and destroy whatever is in your way until you reached the end of a stage, then repeat the whole process again. Andro Dunos 2 is definitely something reminiscent of an old early 90’s classic arcade shmup.

Andro Dunos 2 is effectively the sequel to an early nineties title called Andro Dunos. Scrolling shoot’em ups were popular in the early nineties and Andro Dunos was actually a Neo Geo (remember that) game. Andro Dunos 2 takes on the Andro Dunos mantle and throws you into classic side scrolling shooting mayhem. You would have played similar titles before, basically you and your ship take on multiple enemies that fly onto screen from several directions until you reach a boss. Your ship can navigate across screen whilst you have a choice of different weapons to use, each useful in their own right.

Your ship can utilise 3 different kind of weapons which you switch between at any time. You’ll be glad to know there are loads of power-ups that will help you along your way. There are seven reasonably long stages to get through, with the expected boss appearing at the end. As you progress in Andro Dunos 2, you are able to collect blue orbs which can be used to improve your ship and/or weaponry. The more orbs you collect (there are 30) then the better you can level up your ship. The bosses in Andro Dunos 2 follow the same kind of attack patterns so they’re quite easy to overcome once you start recognising these patterns. Andro Dunos 2 is not an easy game though, there is a lot happening on screen so it’s important to keep calm as explosions and projectiles fly everywhere.

Visually, Andro Dunos 2 is a step up on the original. It resembles a modern remake while staying very close to the originals spritely ships. The stages are varied enough to be noticeable, some of the stages require you to move down diagonally and other times usually around boss fights you can’t just stay on one side of the screen. The explosions are plentiful whilst there is a whole range of colourful things happening on screen. Audibly Andro Dunos 2 sounds great, engaging exciting soundtrack backed up by some loud explosions and high pitched laser noises. Once you’ve completed Andro Dunos 2 there isn’t really any need to go back to replay it, Andro Dunos 2 can be completed in a couple of hours depending on your level of skill.

Andro Dunos 2 is a homage to side scrolling shoot’em ups and does most things well, the weaponry options are particularly impressive. So if you’re looking for some high octane action over a short period you won’t go far wrong with Andro Dunos 2. Unfortunately there isn’t much depth to Andro Dunos 2 in terms of modes so once you’ve completed it you won’t replay it.

Review: 1/6 Ultimate DX Sand Speeder Diorama Set

James Refelian

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May 4, 2022

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Review: 1/6 Ultimate DX Sand Speeder Diorama Set

Here is our review of the 1/6 Ultimate DX Sand Speeder Diorama Set by JazzInc Dioramas.

Product purchased at retail.

JazzInc Dioramas are a family-owned business that specialises in limited run, high-end custom 1/6 scale dioramas and vehicles. If you’re in the 1/6 scale community you’re probably aware of the amazing work, they do. If you’re not, you might find yourself picking up a few figures to go with their amazing pieces. With items from Star Wars and DC, ranging from environments like the Hoth cave to items like the Bat Computer and vehicles. Oh! The vehicles! Joost and his team have recreated in meticulous details the likes of the Millennium Falcon cockpit and the Justice League Batmobile. Current projects include the Snowspeeder from Empire Strikes Back and the Batmobile from The Batman.

With Rey’s Speeder from Episode VII, they continue the tradition of expertly crafted showstopping pieces. Made by fans, for fans.

What’s in the box

The box arrived from the Netherlands to the UK in very little time at all and I specifically chose to wait until now, May 4to open it. What better way to celebrate Star Wars Day!

The team provides a handy video to help you with the unpacking process. While the item is weighty and very well built it’s still a delicate display model. This is not a toy!

Once opened, the main body of the speeder is best left upright, with that to one side you can start to explore the rest of the contents. In addition to the speeder body in my box I had:

1x foot pedal to insert (the other was already installed
2x clear pillars that form part of the display stand
1x sand colour display stand for the Speeder
1x sand-detailed display stand for BB8 to sit next to the speeder
1x netting to attach to the side with fantastic metal buckle details
10x scrap pieces to place inside the netting, 3 of which are genuine metal pieces

Everything was well wrapped in tissue paper and in separate boxes and the speeder itself had a protective wrap inside the polystyrene box. It was very well packaged, and my item thankfully didn’t suffer any damages or issues at the hands of the couriers.

Assembly

Again, I cannot stress enough the importance of following the video! You do not want to break this expensive display piece. Assembly is simple. Handling the speeder as instructed (it has a nice weight to it!) you stand it on its nose off to one side. Then you place the pillars into the base. These may be a little loose and this is due to allowing some expansion in different climates without damage. If yours is too loose, then you can add some tape underneath, but I didn’t find this necessary. Then you can carefully place the speeder onto the stand, angling as you like (don’t do anything extreme here as it still needs to stand without toppling!).

Insert the pedal, line up the slot, and then it’s a case of attaching the net. Using the metal hooks, it isn’t too difficult to do. Watch the video if you’re unsure of anything.

Finally, add the scrap to the net and/or around the marvellous 1/6 Ultimate DX Sand Speeder Diorama Set for Hot Toys Rey Episode VII to complete the look!

Unfortunately, my Episode VII Rey and BB8 figure set from Hot Toys is currently in storage, but you can use the desert gear on that figure and pose it while riding the speeder for an awesome look.

Paint and weathering

I own a couple of the diorama inserts that JazzInc has made previously, Star Wars corridors and the like, but nothing as exceptional as this. It’s my first vehicle from them and won’t be my last.

The paintwork is astonishing. The metal elements on the exhausts look like metal, the weathering on the engines looks like it’s traversed Jakku ferrying Rey and her scavenged materials. The rust marks, the wear on the orangey frame are all expertly finished. Since it was first shown I have always loved Rey’s speeder. I have a little diecast model of it on my desk. I have poured over technical manuals, photos, and concept art. What JazzInc has done is take all that reference material and perfectly recreate that in 1/6 scale to pair with the figures produced by Hot Toys.

This is a quality that even some of the biggest brands in the 1/6 scale industry cannot achieve. There’s a reason JazzInc are considered masters at the sixth scale dioramas and vehicles and a reason why they have such a loyal fanbase.

The overall impact, the weathering, the tiny details, and the rivets realty do make the item feel real, albeit smaller! It looks like metal, it looks used. I can’t stop staring at it.

Shelf presence

For those in the hobby wondering, or for anyone thinking of purchasing one for themselves, I can confirm that it not only comfortably fits on an 80cm shelf (IKEA’s Billy bookcase) but it commands that shelf. Give this item space, don’t hide it behind a million other things. Let those details shine – you won’t be disappointed. With some good LEDs, you’ll have an eye-catching display to show off your love of Star Wars, Rey, vehicles, or whatever reason it is you want this in your collection (or to start your collection!).

Thoughts and feelings

I’ve been collecting sixth-scale stuff for nearly a decade now. I even have a few vehicles made by other brands. None of them are as impressive, as beautiful to look at, or as detailed as this. Since taking the photos for this review I have relocated Rey and the speeder to a shelf above my desk. I keep craning my neck to look up and marvel at it. It puts a smile on my face every time I do. Sure, it’s a very expensive ornament. But it’s also so much more than that.

It captures my excitement for the sequel trilogy when they were first announced. My feelings when I queued up at midnight to watch Episode VII. Those hours pouring over concept art. This is the pinnacle of my Star Wars collection, for one of my favourite characters in the franchise.

Each time I look at this piece I discover something different. A new detail I hadn’t seen before. It’s astonishing. Breathtaking.

Summary

The 1/6 Ultimate DX Sand Speeder Diorama Set is a very well-built, beautifully detailed display piece that will enhance any Star Wars sixth scale collection. The detail and paint application are fantastic. It’s incredibly well-made and so simple to put together, so long as you pay attention to the unboxing and assembly video. I have no worries about it falling over, breaking, or suffering in any way as it sits with pride on my shelf.

The DX version offers additional elements to really complete the on-screen look. I love that the netting is real, the metal clips are metal, and the scrap is a mix of plastic and genuine metal pieces. It all brings it alive. I love that the team listened to the fans and included an extra base for BB8 to sit on.

JazzInc Dioramas are experts in this stuff, I don’t think I would trust anyone else to make something like this and make it look this good.

May The Force Be With You!

The 1/6 Ultimate DX Sand Speeder Diorama Set for Hot Toys Rey Episode VII is available now for $425.00.

(For more information you can visit https://jazzincdioramas.com)

Review: Road 96

Daniel Waite

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May 4, 2022

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When life is tough, sometimes it can be hard to stick with the status quo. This arduous existence leads to unusual thoughts and rebellious ideas. Consequently, no longer are you viewed as a no one. Instead, you are a thorn in the side of the establishment. This is the core idealism of Road 96. It’s a bizarre and often melancholy title that takes you on a life-changing journey.

Developed by DigixArt and published by Ravenscourt and Koch media, this is an indie adventure game. It takes you on a wonderful journey of discovery across a tough and unforgiving landscape. You see the world through the eyes of children who are disheartened by the tyrannical government. Therefore, there is a sense of danger, magic, and enlightenment on this incredible trip across the country.

Road 96 teaches us that choices matter!

I love a game that enables you to make game-changing decisions. Fortunately, Road 96 uses this mechanism at its core. You are free to interact with whomever you meet. Furthermore, you pick your mode of transport, decide whether, to be honest, or not, and shape your end goals. In short, your choices matter, as they dictate the experience you’ll have.

The action is in a fictional nation called Petria, where the people are controlled by a tyrannical and overbearing official. His political term is up for re-election and this forms a key component of the plot. As you hitchhike, walk, or steal vehicles to get closer to the border, your priorities change. Do you focus on escaping the country and saving your life? Alternatively, do you stay and help fight the dictator that has ruined your life?

Road 96 takes you on a melancholy journey. — Listen to the stories and plan your journey.

Many regrettable decisions.

The nation of Petria is full of wacky and interesting characters. Some of these people form key relationships for every protagonist you control. These strange individuals manipulate and control you with fear, violence, wit, and love. You must decide which characters to befriend and which to run from.

It was a roller-coaster of a ride that is filled with instantly regrettable decisions. You know that your choices matter, but this hits home when a gun is pointed in your face. Subsequently, maybe stealing wads of cash and that car wasn’t a great life choice?

Now, you may worry that I’m dropping spoilers. However, fear not, as each road trip is procedurally generated. Therefore, my many experiences will certainly be unique and different from yours. What’s more, interactions can impart new skills. These abilities further influence your choices and alter the course of the game. I adored the randomness of the plot and the never knowing what would happen.

I thought these two were your friends. — Put the guns down!

Road 96 has undertones of Americana.

The delightful blend of exuberant locations, sprawling countries, and backwater restaurants were distinctly Americana in design. This was a clever approach as it taps into the desire to travel across the vast American states. Alongside this, the characters emit vibes of desperation and sorrow, and this adds to the melancholy atmosphere. Though each location was small, the world never felt tiny or understated. I cherished the small insight into each unique area and this kept the action interesting throughout.

The audio was also key in setting the scene. With an array of songs to listen to and some excellent acting, the game is a joy to experience. Furthermore, the environmental sounds were fantastic. I loved the different weather fronts and the drama that they added.

John is a gentle giant. — Help John on his long trip across the country.

An odd use of point and click mechanics.

I found it very strange that Road 96 heavily leans on point and click mechanics. Yes, you are free to wander as you wish. But, every interaction requires you to move a cursor with the right analogue stick. Now, it worked, but it was a little clumsy and broke up the immersive plot. Other than this, the controls are simple to master.

Thanks to the procedurally generated road trips, the strange NPCs, and unique settings, there is longevity and replay value. With many opportunities to influence every protagonist, the action never becomes stale.

Road 96: a beautifully weird title.

I wasn’t expecting to enjoy Road 96 as much as I did. I thought it would be slower and more disconnected. Instead, I experienced a rewarding and deep title where my choices mattered. Furthermore, it brilliantly juxtaposes its melancholy nature with danger and humour. Subsequently, I loved it and I recommend you buy it here! Will you run for the border and save yourself, or will you try to influence a better future?

Review: Ghosts and Apples

Natosha M

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May 3, 2022

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Puzzles are always a fun and fantastic way to verify how great our brains really are. Especially, putting our minds to the test and trying to solve as many as we can, in a short amount of time. Even better when you can invite a friend to play against and see who will come out as the top winner!

That is exactly what you get when playing the game Ghosts and Apples. It’s a really fast-paced game that takes puzzling to a whole new quirky and interesting level. There is no slowing down especially while playing, as the time will end and if the level isn’t cleared, it won’t end up good! However, if you push forward and learn the four main buttons to use to place the bright and neon-glowing ghosts on each side, you’ll be able to get to the next level. Oh and with over 150 levels to play, it will keep your brain busy for a while!

I feel that the cute character design and grim appearance may fool the player into believing the game is not super tricky or difficult to play. However, the truth is, that the game doesn’t stay simple or easy to accomplish as you move forward. That’s okay, cause that is what makes the game even more engaging and keeps one playing for hours. So do you have what it takes to solve all 150 or more puzzles, even beating a friend in the game Ghosts and Apples? If so, then you must try this game!

Graphics and Sound 🍎👻

The dark visual appearance in this game is perfect for the theme, but not too gory or spooky to cause anyone to avoid playing if they can’t tolerate something scary. Its artwork of the characters and background is cuter and has a cartoony style in design. Even with a dark background, each important feature is lit up with a neon and bright color. Making it simple to detect what is useable and what is not.

Therefore, the game is very easy on the eyes and simple enough to know what will be rising from the ground next, to play the puzzles correctly. The speed to move the ghost quickly is required to clear the level, so I’m grateful that the graphics were done in a way that it’s easy to notice. Even the color bind option, also helps those playing to enjoy the game just as well.

There is a big issue that occurs not often but does occur. When a game is completed or so much is going on at a time. The game may end uploading to a black screen, which won’t turn back on. I feel this may be due to the game overworking or processing too much at the same time. This can be heartbreaking, especially if you’ve accomplished a level fully and it took forever, just to see the screen go black. Luckily the game saves automatically and saves after each game, so you won’t lose too much progress made during the rest of the game.

The music in the background is perfect for this puzzling-style game and the entire dark atmosphere of the game. I don’t think it’s anything but adorable, less spooky, and more of an ideal fit. That also goes for the sound effects! Everything in this game just works together perfectly, with smooth graphics and excellent sound.

Final Thoughts 🍏👻

Ghosts and Apples is a game that reminds me of Simons Says, not cause it plays like the game, but it uses just 4 buttons you need to press on the controller to direct each colorful ghost to the right location. The faster it goes, just makes it harder to recall which button to press next. This will cause the game to get confusing and it’s easy to make a mistake and lose the chance to earn that golden apple. Not to say you can’t win the level with just a few red apples, and earn a red apple, but the gold is the most difficult to earn and so worth achieving.

Primarily, the game is easy to play, just match 3 or more ghosts together. Yet, it’s not always the same at each level, some are already with ghosts placed and others are empty. No matter how the game is designed, each is a bit challenging and includes plenty of collectible items to achieve. These additional challenges in the many different levels of the game really keep it interesting and fun to continue to play. Even with the many different trophies and collectible items during each level or stage of the game, it’s something to marvel at and feel great to achieve as well!

One minor issue that I came upon while playing the game is that either too much loads at the same time or the processing is too much, leading to a black screen. I don’t think the beautiful artwork and graphics really have much to do with it, but it could be just too much for the game to load correctly. At least, after restarting the game, it plays fine again. It just might be a disappointment if anyone is finally able to accomplish a level and the game doesn’t respond. Yet, if it saves time, at least it won’t ruin the person’s progress or require the entire room to be done over again.

Finally, this game is very fun with plenty of different levels and is fast-paced gameplay. It is something I can see playing any time of the day, for a short amount of time or for a large amount. Each game provides its own difficulties, challenging the mind and working on building better concentration, focusing, and quick thinking skills while playing. Ghosts and Apples is a game so worth trying!

Two Minute Review: Braided USB-C to Lightning Charge and Sync Cable from Scosche

Reviews
Tech

Andrew Edney

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May 3, 2022

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Two Minute Review: Braided USB-C to Lightning Charge and Sync Cable from Scosche

Here is our Two Minute Review of the Braided USB-C to Lightning Charge and Sync Cable from Scosche.

With a premium aluminum housing and a braided design this charge & sync cable is built to last! The braided cable is tangle-free which means no more messing with your cable when pulling it out of your travel pack.

Specification

• Premium Aluminum Housing
• Braided Design for Tangle-Free Use
• Handles up to 15W for Rapid Charge

What’s in the box?

The box contains the cable.

Final Thoughts

I don’t know about you but I am always needing a charging cable, whether it’s for my phone, my iPad, my laptop, or something else!

It’s very lightweight, but is very strong and tough and is 4ft (1.2m) long!

It handles up to 15W to deliver a faster charge to you device meaning that it will be less time charging. And you could even combine it with the USB-C Power Delivery Mini Car Charger if you need to charge your devices in your car.

If you need to a new USB-C to Lightning charging cable then look no further!

The Braided USB-C to Lightning Charge and Sync Cable from Scosche is available now priced around $19.99.

You can learn more about it from the Scosche website.

Two Minute Review: USB-C Power Delivery Mini Car Charger from Scosche

Reviews
Tech

Andrew Edney

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May 3, 2022

0

Two Minute Review: USB-C Power Delivery Mini Car Charger from Scosche

Here is our Two Minute Review of the USB-C Power Delivery Mini Car Charger from Scosche.

Powerful compact convenient and will power your smartphone tablet and more up to 80% capacity in 50 minutes through the single 30W output. Its optimized charging circuitry will not cause harm to less powerful devices.

PowerVolt 30 Certified USB Fast Car Charger Power Delivery 3.0 is the ultimate solution for charging today’s USB Type-C devices which means less time tethered to your charger and more mobility for you.

Specifications

LED Power Indicator light
30W USB-C PD charges phones 4X as fast as a standard 5W charger.
Blue LED indicator lets you know the charger is receiving power to charge device from your vehicles 12V power outlet.
Smart circuitry communicates with your devices to achieve the safest and fastest charge rate.

What’s in the box?

The box contains the mini charger.

Final Thoughts

The USB-C Power Delivery Mini Car Charger is tiny – just take a look at the picture at the start of this review sitting in the palm of my hand!

When plugged into the 12V socket in your car it virtually disappears by sitting almost flush – thankfully there is a little pull tag that you can use if you do need to remove it!

There is an LED power light to show when its in use – just plug a USB-C cable into the charger and the other end into your device and that’s it.

Because the charger proves 30W of power delivery, your device (in my case an iPhone 13) charges a lot faster than using a standard charger. This means that you get your device charged quicker than before and that is never a bad thing.

If you want a small and fast USB-C charger for your car then look no further than this great little device.

The USB-C Power Delivery Mini Car Charger from Scosche is available now priced around $24.99.

You can learn more about it from the Scosche website.