Review: Thomas and Friends: Wonders of Sodor

Daniel Waite
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Review: Thomas and Friends: Wonders of Sodor

Thomas and Friends: Wonders of Sodor is a Thomas the Tank Engine fan’s ultimate dream! This fun, lively, colourful, and oddly intense affair takes the love of Train Sim World to a whole new place. However, it doesn’t remove itself from the realism and seriousness of the dangers of the railway. Instead, it combines them beautifully to deliver a user-friendly and enjoyable train driving experience.

Dovetail Games has published and developed this single-player simulation experience. Although it has taken a cartoon and colourful approach, it has all the bells and whistles of its serious big brother. Furthermore, it is filled with every popular character from the much-loved TV series. Consequently, there are plenty of plus points to take away if you invest in this standalone game.

Thomas and Friends: Wonders of Sodor has plenty of interesting micro tales.

Unlike other games that focus on a TV or film franchise, Thomas and Friends: Wonders of Sodor delivers plenty of unique stories in its episodic delivery. As you enter the overworld hub, you notice countless story nodes. Each one has plenty of sub-sections that incorporate many of the different engines. Furthermore, there is an array of challenges that await. Each one will test your driving knowledge and skills.

The stories capture the essence of 12 key moments from the brilliant TV series. Although these famous moments don’t dominate proceedings, they allow lovers of the brand to experience “Thomas and Gordon” and “Thomas and Bertie’s Great Race“.

This bite-sized design may not be to everyone’s taste, but I liked the almost never-ending change of pace. Whether you are rescuing an engine, moving passengers across the large and colourful rail network, or undertaking shunting duties in a yard, the opportunities are wonderful. Moreover, the excellent tutorial ensures that newcomers and veterans will hit the ground running.

A balanced approach.

If you’ve played Train Sim World, you’ll know how intense it can be. AWS, TPWS, signalling, point work, speeds, and other typical train driving elements must be considered. Thankfully, Thomas and Friends: Wonders of Sodor smooths this intense feeling considerably. Although it still works on a realistic and technical approach, it doesn’t feel like you are undertaking a train driving exam to enjoy the game.

This is apparent in the driving cab. Unlike TSW, Thomas and Friends: Wonders of Sodor keeps it much easier to understand. The master controller can be shifted from reverse to forward with ease. Additionally, the dials and other important elements are easy to follow because of the exceptional UI. Now, this could be due to the nature of the rolling stock, but I believe that Dovetail Games has made this more accessible to a younger audience.

Keep the railway running.

The story mode is the key feature that’ll appeal to many gamers. However, this isn’t the only action you must tackle. Timetable mode allows gamers a bit more freedom as they must keep the Sodor railway moving. This is your everyday life design that offers freedom and the opportunity to move from A to B without limitations. Furthermore, the exploration allows you to find hidden items and collectables across the rail network.

Finally, the shunting challenges bring in those troublesome trucks. This mini-game puzzle offering is the chance to test your brain and beat your best score. As you arrange each truck, you must do so in as few moves as possible. If you are successful, you’ll beat your score and move on to the next problem. I adore this mode, but the planning element could have been much better. I’d have liked the chance to look at a 2D plan of the yard and the layout of the trucks. This would help a methodical mindset and improve this aspect of the game.

Thomas and Friends: Wonders of Sodor brings the TV series to life.

Capturing the essence of a famous and exciting TV series in a computer game isn’t as easy as you’d think. Thankfully, the developer has got this spot on in Thomas and Friends: Wonders of Sodor. This colourful and upbeat game delivers the magic and wonderment of the world of Sodor. The sidings, depots, train stations, and other elements are great to look at. Yes, there are the odd bugs and glitches, but these will be patched out. Additionally, the passengers are a little rinse and repeat, but who cares! Not only did I enjoy the vibrant world, but it also felt alive. There are moments when major hubs come to life. This was amazing as you feel like you belong to a huge railway network.

The audio is a Thomas and Friends dream. The characters sound great, and the dialogue sucks you in. Alongside this, the engines sound marvellous. The chug of your wheels on the rails was excellent, and I love the different tones for each engine. Alongside this, the ambient sounds and the use of dynamic weather to increase realism were fantastic.

Mouse and keyboard or gamepad?

I’m a console gamer at heart, and I feel more comfortable with a gamepad in my hand. However, I loved playing this with either a mouse and keyboard or my Turtle Beach Stealth Gamepad. Both options were easy to handle, and the tutorial automatically adjusts to your desired input method. The control layout is simple to master, and younger gamers or newcomers will be driving their favourite engine in no time.

Every TSW game is exceptionally addictive. Despite the occasional bugs, you can play these games for hours. Thomas and Friends: Wonders of Sodor is no different, as there are plenty of collectables, challenges, and the stories have loads of replay value. Moreover, there is a camera mode if you like that sort of thing, and you can customise your timetable to create a personalised driving experience. 

Thomas and Friends: Wonders of Sodor is a brilliant addition to the franchise.

I’m glad that this is a standalone title. This approach allows gamers to get into the franchise without having to invest heavily in the huge core game. This makes it much more accessible and user-friendly for newcomers to the genre. Additionally, if you don’t fancy taking on the ultra-realistic world of global train driving, you don’t have to.

Thomas and Friends: Wonders of Sodor is a family-friendly, fun, and colourful affair that brings a smile to your face. The stories are interesting, well-paced, and a joy to work through. The shunting mode tests your brain power, and the ability to freely drive the network keeps you coming back for more. Accordingly, you should “choo, choo, choose” this amazing train driving experience, and I recommend buying it here! Can you help Thomas complete his tasks? Choose your engine, tackle the story, and enjoy the vibrant world of Sodor.

Review: Hero Seekers

Daniel Waite
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Review: Hero Seekers

Hero Seekers breaks the mould with its unusual approach to the genre. Many RPGS lead you from the underdog story to a meteoric rise. This experience is vastly different. A reverse amnesia, if you will. You witness the end battle and destroy the antagonist, but in reality, this never happens. Instead, the world of heroes is wiped from everyone’s memory. Accordingly, the antagonist gets to live another day and change the rules of the game.

This unusual RPG was developed by VANGUARD and published by KEMCO. It is a single-player experience where turn-based combat, dungeon crawling, and village exploration are linked to the central plot. Therefore, there is little reward for exploring and few opportunities to do so. This was unusual as the developer normally encourages that behaviour. Consequently, fans of this gaming partnership may be thrown off by the change of pace.

Hero Seekers tells a strange story.

Undoing what you’ve witnessed can be tough. However, Hero Seekers makes this a key element. The Demon King is a powerful and cruel nemesis. His taunting ways and deep, dark powers run deeper than anyone could predict. Furthermore, his desire to reign supreme overrides every other emotion. Subsequently, the idea of a hero and the success you have tasted is wiped from everyone’s memory.

You play the role of Lunette, who can remember the truth. This hero must search the overworld and try to write the wrongs they see. This is easier said than done, as the Demon King’s minions stop at nothing to appease their boss. However, with the power of the memory stones and 20 unique heroes to collect, you can rewrite history and make the world a safer and brighter place.

Kept on a tight leash.

I was surprised by the lack of freedom offered when playing Hero Seekers. Furthermore, exploring the overworld or dungeons was a little confusing because of a lack of a world map. This is RPG 101 basics that the developer has forgotten. The result was a confusing exploration despite the lack of freedom and the linear approach.

When you tackle enemies, the game focuses on normal combat, magic, and party synergy to get you through. Additionally, there is a clear turn order list to help you to manage your tactics. This was particularly important when using synergies, as you could destroy more powerful opponents or focus on the group’s strengths and weaknesses. 

Where Hero Seekers excels is in its quality of life mechanics. Auto battling, 3x fight speeds, and the ability to leave a dungeon with magic were welcome elements. Yet, this wasn’t clearly explained in the tutorial, and it took some trial and error to get things right.

Hero Seekers is dated but great.

I adore pixelated RPGs, and Hero Seekers didn’t disappoint. The vibrant colours, basic backdrops, and rudimentary villages and dungeons were a joy to look at. Even the text was pleasant to read and easy on the eye. It is this early console approach that works perfectly with this genre, and many developers could learn a thing or two from VANGUARD.

The audio is just as good with its shrill sound effects and dramatic soundtrack. I adore the blend of euphoric moments and the often OTT fanfare. Furthermore, the ability to create tension with the use of sombre and aggressive songs was wonderful.

Basic controls.

There is plenty to understand, and the mechanics could have been better explained. However, Hero Seekers has basic controls. Once you know the fundamentals, you’ll skip through battles, explore dungeons, and become a hero in no time.

Replay value is limited. Although there are 20 heroes to collect and use, the story is somewhat limited. This impacts the desire to return and the sense of originality once you complete a playthrough. Luckily, the first attempt is great, and this makes it worth every penny.

Hero Seekers is a good, old-school RPG.

I was impressed with Hero Seekers’ change of pace. The anti-amnesia design was interesting, and it worked extremely well. Moreover, the unorthodox party recruitment mechanic was a joy to experience. However, the lack of full guidance and the missing world map were unforgivable. Accordingly, despite these complaints, I recommend buying it here! Can you remind the world about heroes? Grab the memory stones, build your party, and thwart the Demon King. 

Review: Over The Top: WWI

Josh Blackburn
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Review: Over The Top: WWI

I was a little worried when I started Over The Top: WWI, and it started asking me to choose a moustache and silly accent. It felt like it wasn’t taking things seriously. World War I was essentially a bunch of plucky young chaps of various races being fed into an industrial meat grinder. It was when the horrors of modern war were beginning to crystalize. It needed to be handled as such. Thirty minutes after selecting my magnificent moustache and monocle, however, a very different story was playing out.

I was standing in a bombed out trench, the sound of artillery fire thudding all around me. An engineer was desperately trying to build sandbags next to me, but a second later a bullet pings through his helmet. His body falls into the trench in front of me, as machine gun fire rips into the dirt all around. I’ve no idea where it’s coming from. I move forward, to try and take a shot, and a wall of flame immolates me. It’s pure chaos. Exhilarating, and slightly terrifying. Over The Top may be very janky at times, but I’ll be damned if it doesn’t get the heart pumping.

Over The Top: WWI

Your Country Needs You

The bulk of my time with Over The Top: WWI was spent in the Conquest mode. This is a territory control mode, where one side begins with all the points and the other side have to attack and capture them. Sounds like the defender has the advantage, but in true World War One fashion, the sheer weight of numbers on the attacker side usually breaks through. That, combined with some flanking tactics, usually means a constant struggle to maintain capture. If you dig in too much, then mortars will blow you right out again.

Digging in, by the way, is Over The Top‘s most interesting mechanic. The world map is entirely destructible and, depending on class, you’ll spawn with a shovel. Given the war in question, that means trenches. Most of the playtime is spent running from trench to trench. It’s honestly great. Moving towards points usually means keeping the pressure on the enemy while the sappers extend the trenches. By the end, all the trenches connect and everyone’s fighting with flamethrowers and shotguns.

There’s also a decent range of tools and classes. You’ve got riflemen for your basic shooting, snipers for less basic shooting, specialists for pyromaniacs, stormtroopers for the impatient, engineers for those that love Minecraft, and officers for those that want to roleplay as cushy aristocrats. Officers do act as mobile spawn points though, and they can order a charge, giving everyone a bonus. Even if most officers treat that as the one single tool in their arsenal. Even when defending. There are also a range of tanks and planes, though they get snapped up quick so I couldn’t try them. I’m guessing flying is a bit tricky though, given how often I saw someone sail right into a tree.

Over The Top: WWI

The Long Night

Over The Top is quite rough around the edges though. Having everything being destructible means I was constantly getting caught on the scenery. Sometimes when it was floating in front of me. Getting out of trenches can be a hardship sometimes too. I would keep getting pulled back in, like I was wearing a bungee cord. Speaking of jank, the community is a bit polarising at the moment. There are some good players, but also a lot of people just spouting the most barrel scraping jokes you can imagine. Not one to play if you’re offended easily, I suspect. I just wish they’d think up better jokes.

Still, back to the game, there’s a lot to like in Over The Top. The shooting feels great, for one, and digging feels intuitive. It is missing some quality of life elements though. I think a medic class would be good, for one. If not that, at least a clearer way to see downed players. In my last game, I had three people behind me shouting for a medic and I was merrily sniping away. Speaking of orientation, spawning in can be very disorientating. Some indication of where we last died would be good, as it’s hard to remember a map when it’s busy being bombed to kingdom come.

But there’s a more insidious issue at the moment, I feel. Towards the end of my time with the game, I found myself tiring of it and I wasn’t sure why. The shooting still felt fun. Perhaps it was the short ‘Spawn to Death’ time, but that was kind of the point of the game. No, I feel like it’s the territory control aspect that’s doing it. It makes every game feel very similar. By the end you’re just jogging down a maze of trenches, rebuffing and being rebuffed in turn. Some more game modes, and different types of objectives, are called for I think. Something to stop each game from blending into the last so much.

Over The Top: WWI

Over The Top: WWI – Rough But Exhilarating

Still, I feel like Over The Top is a game of moments, rather than a big picture kind of scenario. Like other shooters of the type, it’s great at generating little stories. Like the time we held off an assault from the ruins of a destroyed building. Or the time a bloke came up to me screaming about artillery, shortly before I was coated in his new liquid form. While each game does tend to blend into the next, each one reliably had some moment that stuck out to me. It’s that which kept me coming back, and kept me pushing through the many deaths.

Flying Squirrel Entertainment have a core team of four people, so the jankiness is perfectly excusable. It’s still a fun game, and putting together the framework to have 100 vs 100 matches is very impressive. They also have a clearly laid out roadmap of content upgrades, so my hope is that Over The Top gets nicely tightened up as the months go by. It just needs a bit of extra spice to keep me coming back. Even without that, though, it’s still an excellent game that is great at getting the blood pumping. Shortly before you’re hit by a mortar, that is.

(Over The Top: WWI‘s Steam Page)

Why Frictionless Giving Is Changing Humanitarian Support

Christopher John
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Why Frictionless Giving Is Changing Humanitarian Support

The way people give to charity is undergoing a quiet but powerful transformation. What once involved forms, cash collections, or lengthy processes has evolved into something far simpler: a few taps on a phone, a saved payment method, or even a small automatic donation at checkout. This shift toward “frictionless giving” isn’t just about convenience; it’s reshaping how humanitarian support is delivered, scaled, and sustained.

What Is Frictionless Giving?

Frictionless giving refers to donation experiences that remove barriers between intention and action. Instead of multiple steps, delays, or complexity, the process is designed to be fast, intuitive, and accessible.

Modern donors increasingly expect this kind of experience. In fact, charities are being pushed to mirror the ease of online shopping, with mobile-friendly platforms, one-click payments, and multiple payment options becoming standard.

The result is simple: when giving feels effortless, more people are willing to do it.

The Rise of Digital and Mobile Donations

Digital transformation has been the driving force behind frictionless giving. Online donations are now the norm, with a large proportion of charitable contributions processed digitally in recent years.

Mobile devices, in particular, have changed behavior. Donors can respond instantly to appeals, whether they’re on social media, watching the news, or reading an article. There’s no need to wait, plan, or return later. The moment of intent becomes the moment of action. This immediacy is critical in humanitarian contexts, where timing can directly affect outcomes.

Micro-Donations and Everyday Giving

One of the most significant developments in frictionless giving is the rise of micro-donations. These are small, often optional contributions added to everyday transactions.

Consumers are increasingly comfortable with this model. Many prefer giving small amounts frequently rather than making occasional large donations, with growing adoption across retail and digital platforms.

This approach expands the donor base. People who might not commit to larger contributions can still participate, turning everyday actions into ongoing support for humanitarian causes.

Speed Matters in Crisis Response

In disaster situations, speed is everything. Frictionless giving enables funds to be raised and deployed faster than ever before. Because digital platforms remove delays, organizations can mobilize resources almost immediately. This rapid flow of funding supports:

  • Emergency shelter and food distribution
  • Medical assistance and logistics
  • Early recovery efforts

The faster funds arrive, the faster response systems can scale. This has fundamentally changed how humanitarian organizations operate in the critical early hours of a crisis.

Expanding Reach Beyond Borders

Frictionless giving has also removed geographic limitations. Donors no longer need to be physically present or connected to local fundraising efforts. Digital platforms allow people from anywhere in the world to contribute instantly.

This global reach is particularly important in large-scale disasters, where international support plays a vital role. Donation platforms enable organizations to connect with a broader audience and rally support quickly, regardless of location.

Humanitarian response is no longer constrained by geography; it’s powered by global participation.

Better Experiences Lead to Long-Term Support

Convenience does more than increase one-time donations; it also improves long-term engagement. When the giving process is smooth, transparent, and reliable, donors are more likely to return.

Frictionless systems often include:

  • Recurring donation options
  • Personalized updates and communication
  • Clear reporting on impact

These features build trust and strengthen relationships between donors and organizations. Over time, this creates more stable and predictable funding streams for humanitarian work.

Efficiency Behind the Scenes

Frictionless giving isn’t just beneficial for donors; it also improves efficiency for organizations. Digital platforms reduce administrative workload by automating processes such as payment handling, receipts, and data tracking. This allows charities to focus more resources on delivering aid rather than managing logistics.

In addition, data collected through digital systems helps organizations make better decisions about where and how to allocate resources.

Transparency and Trust in the Digital Age

As giving becomes easier, expectations around transparency are also increasing. Donors want to understand how their contributions are used and what impact they create.

Modern donation platforms often provide real-time updates, progress tracking, and detailed reporting. This level of visibility helps build confidence and encourages continued support. In a crowded digital environment, trust is essential. Frictionless giving works best when it’s paired with clear communication and accountability.

Turning Simplicity into Impact

At its core, frictionless giving is about removing obstacles. It recognizes that the desire to help is often immediate, but traditional systems have historically slowed that process down.

By making giving as simple as possible, humanitarian organizations are unlocking new levels of participation and support. For those looking to contribute quickly and effectively, platforms such as https://www.redcross.org/donate/disaster-relief.html provide a direct way to engage with disaster relief efforts.

The impact of this shift is already clear. Faster donations, broader participation, and more efficient systems are helping humanitarian organizations respond in ways that weren’t possible before.

As digital behavior continues to evolve, frictionless giving is set to become not just a feature of charitable support, but a defining characteristic of how aid is delivered in the modern world.

News: Go 10.3 (Gen II)

Daniel Waite
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News: Go 10.3 (Gen II)

Onyx Boox has never been content with simply making e-readers. By merging the eye-friendly nature of E Ink with the open-ended power of Android, they have carved out a unique dominance in the “ePaper” market. They don’t just compete with Kindles; they challenge iPads by offering a distraction-free workspace.

With the release of the Go 10.3 (Gen II) series, Boox has doubled down on its “minimalist-but-mighty” philosophy. This is a device that feels like a sheet of paper but performs like a modern workstation. By splitting the lineup into a standard ultra-thin model and a “Lumi” version with integrated lighting, Boox has effectively cornered the market for both purists and power users alike.

Go 10.3 Technical Aspects.

The Gen II series represents a massive leap in processing efficiency. Accordingly, both the standard and Lumi models are powered by a new Octa-core processor designed specifically to handle the demands of Android 15. Therefore, this is a significant jump from the previous Android 12 architecture, providing users with a smoother UI, snappier app switching, and better memory management. Despite the powerhouse internals, the devices remain impressively thin and lightweight.

The visual experience is where this product excels. Both devices feature a 10.3-inch HD E Ink Carta 1200 glass screen. Consequently, it delivers a crisp 300 PPI that makes text look printed rather than rendered. The inclusion of the new InkSense Plus stylus further elevates the technical prowess of the device. This amazing stylus offers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition. Whether you are sketching a complex architectural diagram or annotating a dense PDF, the latency is virtually non-existent. Therefore, it mimics the tactile drag of graphite on paper.

Why It’s Time to Invest?

Investing in the Go 10.3 (Gen II) series allows you to remove noise and distraction from your daily life. In an era of notification fatigue and blue-light eye strain, these tablets offer peace and a chance to break away from your laptop and phone. The standard model appeals to the lover of pen and paper, while the Lumi model caters to the night-owl professional who needs to work in any environment. Both versions benefit from a huge 3,700 mAh battery that won’t let you down when it matters most.

Ultimately, Boox has succeeded in creating a device that disappears into your workflow. It provides the freedom of the Google Play Store without the distractions of a traditional backlit screen. For students, writers, and executives who require a dedicated space for deep thinking and organised note-taking, the Go 10.3 (Gen II) is the most refined expression of ePaper technology available today. It is a premium investment for those who value their time, their eyesight, and the tactile joy of the written word.

Review: LUMA100 keyboard

Daniel Waite
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Review: LUMA100 keyboard

The LUMA100 keyboard from Epomaker proves that this powerhouse company are evolving. I’m always impressed with what they offer, but this new device pushes quality and eye-catching design to the next level. This low-profile keyboard has 96% form factor and tri-mode connectivity. This large, versatile design is perfect if you dislike macros and have a large workstation.

On top of this, it has an aluminium frame, double-shot PBT keycaps, and hot-swappable switches to increase durability and customisation. If this isn’t enough, there are plenty of RGB profiles to choose from to create the keyboard of your dreams. Consequently, Epomaker has done an incredible job with its latest offering.

What’s in the box of the LUMA100 keyboard?

  • The packaging is large, strong, and eye-catching. Furthermore, it is recyclable.
  • The LUMA100 keyboard is a stunning-looking device. The brushed metal finish pops next to the RGB. Moreover, it has one port and one switch to keep things streamlined.
  • A leatherette case is provided to protect the keyboard.
  • Spare keycaps, switches, and a keycap pulling tool are provided.
  • Charge the device with the large USB-C cable.
  • Learn the basics with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

I prefer wired gaming, but I know this isn’t a popular option. Therefore, impressive polling rates, low latency, and an amazing battery life are a must for a wireless keyboard. Fortunately, the LUMA100 keyboard offers each of these things as standard. If you play wired or via the 2.4Ghz dongle, you’ll enjoy 1000 Hz polling. Alternatively, you can slow things down and use the Bluetooth connection. BT mode offers 125 Hz polling and the convenience of 3 profiles.

I love playing games, and a decent gaming keyboard is a must. This low-profile beast offers low-latency gaming and a stable connection via Bluetooth or the USB dongle. Both modes were impressive, and I noticed no problems. Elite gamers will want to focus on the 2.4Ghz connection for the best performance. This keyboard doesn’t have the largest battery, but 3000 mAh is sufficient for around a full day of gaming. If you turn off RGB, this can be stretched considerably longer.

If you love customising your devices, the LUMA100 keyboard is VIA-programmable. This handy piece of software lets you remap your inputs, play with macros, and tweak practically every setting. If this isn’t your thing, Epomaker has preinstalled plenty of RGB profiles to choose from.

Build quality.

The inclusion of a leatherette case was a nice surprise. Although this is a larger keyboard, it is still extremely portable. Therefore, if you commute on a train, you can use the case to keep your keyboard safe from damage. Talking of damage, the durable aluminium case will keep this device protected for years to come. The double-shot PBT keycaps are equally robust and will resist font fading and unsightly, greasy marks.

If you love to game for hours, you may be worried about your switches wearing out. Luckily, this device offers hot-swappable functionality with no prior experience. As long as you select another low-profile switch, you can remove the keycap, pull the switch, and reinsert your favourite switch. It takes no time, and your keyboard can be ready to use immediately.

Epomaker loves a soft pastel colour palette. The use of white and lilac is a really nice touch. However, if you don’t love the colourway, you can replace the keycaps with a new set or with the spare ones provided.

Usability.

A low-profile device isn’t for everyone. With no adjustable feet and a professional typing position, this may not be the go-to option for gamers. However, I love the one-size-fits-all approach. The lay-flat design feels great during short or long work and gaming sessions. Additionally, I experienced no finger or wrist fatigue while using this peripheral.

Using the macros or adjusting the settings with the app was a walk in the park. Thankfully, the handy user manual highlights the FN inputs to avoid confusion. Finally, if you are using Bluetooth, you can easily navigate your profiles for seamless connectivity with many devices.

Is the LUMA100 keyboard worth it?

Thanks to its stunning RGB, easy-to-manage macros, full customisation, and a durable, timeless aluminium finish, the LUMA100 keyboard will appeal to many people. It is the ideal option if you want a workhorse. It is comfortable, simple to use, and light enough to throw in your work bag. Alternatively, if you love to game, this thing will not let you down. The vibrant RGB adds an eye-catching edge, and I adore the polling rates and low-latency inputs. Accordingly, it is fantastic, and I recommend buying it here!

(More information on Epomaker can be found here!)

The LUMA100 keyboard has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)

Review: The Disney Afternoon Collection

Isaac King
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Review: The Disney Afternoon Collection

As someone who never played the original Disney Afternoon games on the NES, jumping into the Disney Afternoon Collection on Switch 2 felt a bit like opening a gaming time capsule. These are titles many players grew up with, but for me this was my first experience with them. The real question wasn’t whether they were nostalgic classics — it was whether they still hold up as games today.

Published by Atari and Digital Eclipse, the Disney Afternoon Collection features eight NES and SNES titles: Ducktales, Ducktales 2, Chip ‘n Dale Rescue Rangers, Chip ‘n Dale Rescue Rangers 2, Talespin, and Darkwing Duck. Upon booting up the curation of classics, I felt as if I had stepped foot in an arcade. 

The selection menu treats you to some groovy 8-bit tunes while you decide which classic to get into. The games are chronologically ordered, ranging from ‘DuckTales’, 1989, to ‘Bonkers’ from 1994. And as someone who has never experienced any of this revered collection, I was unsure which game to boot up first, but naturally I started first and went back to 1989 for a little while, with Scrooge McDuck in “DuckTales”.

Ducktales is a classic 2D platformer, avoiding and jumping over passing enemies. Despite being a simple concept, the platformer bested me a couple of times. The goal being to explore the level, collect treasure and reach the end while avoiding a slew of 8-bit foes.

Chip ‘N Dale sees the player taking control of either Chip, or Dale, with two players also available for couch co-op. Chip ‘N Dale is a side scrolling platformer with focuses on puzzles and teamwork. What sets this classic aside from the usual jump on enemies formula, is the focus on throwing items. Throwing a barrel at an oncoming foe will never not be fun.

To a modern audience discovering these games for the first time, these titles make a change from the modern gaming landscape. These games offer short and straightforward levels, with clear and unique mechanisms are a good time for any player. 

The Disney Afternoon Collection offers many customisation modes in game to tailor the experience to the player, whether you are reminiscing and walking down memory lane, to newcomers who have never experienced these classics before. 

While playing any of the titles, pressing R on the joy-con will pause the game, a much-appreciated feature for those harder levels, but also allows the player to customise their experience. Whereas, pressing and holding L will allow the player to instantly rewind time, handy If you get stuck on a level.

Three filter options are available: Off, TV and Monitor. TV and Monitor filters apply a retro feel to your display. When I changed to the monitor filter, it felt like I was in an arcade. These options allow for users to recreate that childhood nostalgia and play these games as if for the first time again.

These customisation features, and the ability to rewind, allow for these NES classics to feel modern and be enjoyed by newcomers, and returning players alike.

These features are some of the reasons why the Disney Afternoon Collection on the Switch 2 make for some old-school, quick-paced arcade feeling gaming. 

Overall, The Disney Afternoon Collection is a short walk through some of Nintendo’s classics, and while some games show their age, these titles managed to feel engaging even in the modern gaming landscape. For those who grew up with these games, this collection will be a surefire way of reliving those memories with a modern spin. With modern features that make older designs easier to handle, this collection is a solid way for both longtime fans and curious newcomers to revisit these classic Disney adventures.

Review: KASSO GAIDEN: Escape from the Skaterverse

Natosha M
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Review: KASSO GAIDEN: Escape from the Skaterverse

In a gaming landscape often crowded with photorealistic shooters and massive open-world RPGs, KASSO GAIDEN: Escape from the Skaterverse arrives like a neon-colored jolt of electricity. It is a title that doesn’t just ask you to play; it asks you to find your rhythm. Combining high-speed skating with kinetic combat, it is one of the most refreshing, if occasionally frustrating, experiences of the year.

The Mechanics: Momentum is Everything

The heart of KASSO GAIDEN lies in its movement. This isn’t your typical “skate and do tricks” simulator; instead, the game treats momentum as your primary tool for survival. You gain speed by chaining tricks, grinding on gravity-defying rails, and wall-riding through kaleidoscopic cityscapes to bypass dangerous traps.

The “flow” is seamlessly woven into these maneuvers. You don’t stop to interact with the world; you navigate through it. Landing a massive air over a gap grants a crucial speed boost, allowing you to clear sections that would otherwise be impossible. When you find that “flow state,” the game feels incredible. However, the learning curve is steep. If you lose your speed, you become vulnerable to the hazards around you, and regaining that lost momentum in a cramped area can feel a bit clunky.

The Obstacles: Precision Over Power

The “Skaterverse” is designed to stop your groove. Without enemies to fight, the environment becomes the primary challenge:

Mastery Trials: Rather than boss fights, each zone ends with an intense “Gauntlet.” These are long, uninterrupted sections where a few mistakes can send you back to the start. They require total focus and a perfect memory of the level layout.

Zone Hazards: Glowing energy barriers and floor traps force you to jump or swap lanes instantly to keep your speed.

Rail Gaps: Shifting mechanical parts on the rails require perfectly timed hops to avoid falling into the void.

Graphics and Music: A Sensory Feast

Visually, the game is a triumph of style over raw power. It uses a vibrant, cel-shaded aesthetic that feels like a comic book come to life. The colors pop, and the “trail effects” left behind by your board make every movement feel impactful.

The soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring so many that have a blend of high-energy breakbeats and lo-fi synthwave that play along with your performance in every level. If you’re pulling off a long combo, the bass kicks in harder; if you crash, the music muffles and slows down. It creates a powerful psychological link between your ears and your thumbs.

Strengths and Weaknesses

What Makes the Game Shine:

  • The flow-state combat system makes every successful trick feel like a masterpiece of coordination and timing.
  • Its vibrant cel-shaded art style creates a world that feels like a playable comic book, standing out from the usual grey and brown color palettes of modern games.
  • The soundtrack adds a deep level of immersion by changing its intensity.

Where the Game Falls Short:

  • The difficulty Of the game may alienate casual players who are looking for a more relaxed skating experience.
  • When you lose your momentum, the physics can feel heavy and unresponsive, making it difficult to get back into the action quickly.
  • Certain sections rely heavily on trial and error, requiring you to memorize the layout rather than relying on pure reaction speed.

Final Verdict

KASSO GAIDEN: Escape from the Skaterverse is a bold experiment that mostly succeeds. Its flaws, which are just technical hiccups and a punishing difficulty, but that’s just a small prices to pay for the sheer joy of its movement system. It’s a game for people who miss the arcade era but want something that feels modern and stylish.

Review: Zootopia: Flash the Sloth holder

Daniel Waite
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Review: Zootopia: Flash the Sloth holder

If you love Zootopia, this mobile phone and controller holder is going to be right up your street. Cable Guys offer an incredible array of eye-catching accessories for your workstation, desk, and bedside cabinet. However, I have to say, this one is a little special. My youngest loves sloths, and the Zootopia: Flash the Sloth holder will drive her bonkers. It is a sizeable collectable that is carefully reimagined. Therefore, it will make fans of the film and Disney smile every time.

This awesome product is a conversation starter. The vibrant colours, fun stance, and cute nature of Flash will break the ice. Furthermore, it is remarkably stable no matter the phone, controller, or tablet you use. Consequently, it is the perfect option if you wish to display a special gamepad or you like to keep your phone safe while you work or game for hours.

What’s in the box of the Zootopia: Flash the Sloth holder?

  • The packaging is colourful and interesting to look at. Moreover, it is robust, and the holder will be secure during transit.
  • The Zootopia: Flash the Sloth holder is a wonderful choice if you love the film or Disney. Its sizeable design makes it a statement piece for your desk or bedside table.

Usability.

I have to state that the Zootopia: Flash the Sloth holder is not a toy! It sits somewhere between a usable item and a collectable. However, that didn’t stop my youngest from letting her imagination go wild. The large base ensures that Flash rarely falls over. Moreover, the strong and stable arms allow more than a phone or controller to be balanced. Yet, this is a phone and controller holder, and it does its job exceptionally well.

Your phone must be placed horizontally; this ensures that it is perfectly balanced. The same applies to a gamepad, but the arms hug the natural curvature of a PS or Xbox controller. I have used a Kindle and a smaller tablet, and it handled them extremely well. However, larger devices would be precariously balanced, and I wouldn’t take the risk.

Build quality.

Cable Guys don’t do things by halves, and the Zootopia: Flash the Sloth holder isn’t an exception to this rule. This 22 cm tall product is extremely durable, and it has no moving parts. The base is large, and this helps the statue balance regardless of its load. 

I know that this will be mishandled by my daughter. However, I’m not concerned because the paintwork is robust and it will resist scratching and horrible, greasy marks. Additionally, the lack of moving parts reduces the risk of damage to poorly placed phones or controllers.

Is the Zootopia: Flash the Sloth holder worth it?

I adore the Zootopia: Flash the Sloth holder. It makes me smile every time I glance towards it. I adore the reimagining of a much-loved character. Additionally, the colours, stance, and simplicity are perfect. Accordingly, I think it is amazing, and I recommend buying it here!

(More information on Cable Guys can be found here!)

The Zootopia: Flash the Sloth holder has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!) 

Review: Greedfall: The Dying World

Daniel Waite
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Review: Greedfall: The Dying World

Greedfall: The Dying World has finally been released into the world. It has spent some time in Early Access, and gamers now get to enjoy or hate the fruits of the developer’s labours. After the success of the original, I was thoroughly looking forward to this prequel. Sadly, not everything hit the mark, as there are some performance issues, and the world isn’t as immersive as I hoped. Yet, there is a large world to explore, factions to befriend or betray, and plenty of side missions to undertake. In short, it retains many classic RPG elements.

This open-world RPG was developed by Spiders and published by Nacon. It is a single-player game where 3 unique approaches dominate the way you play. I decided to throw myself in at the deep end while attempting to be in charge of everything. However, if this doesn’t sound like your thing, you can adjust your involvement and the difficulty of the world around you.

Greedfall: The Dying World transports you to another world.

Living in peace and harmony is a dream of many people. Yet, making this dream a reality will rarely happen. Unfortunately, too many outside influences control your life. Additionally, when death and destruction are added to the mix, things go south extremely quickly.

This is what happens to the heroes of Greedfall: The Dying World. These tribal people have completed their initiation and are tasked with discovering why their world is failing. Sick people, dying animals, and an influx of foreigners are ruining their way of life. Unbeknownst to them, this journey will lead them far away from their home and across many perilous paths. 

The opening layers of the story were truly fascinating. The use of tribal languages and the incredible setting were captivating. However, once the game expands and things become more open, it loses its edge. You become focused on quests, resource gathering, and seamlessly never-ending fights. In short, it feels a little diluted at times.

Reputation is everything.

Greedfall: The Dying World utilises a relationship and reputation system that guides and pushes the heroes down different routes. Moreover, the bond between the team impacts choices and the way things flow. This was nice, and I guess it’ll add to replay value and longevity. Yet, some of the choices felt forced, and this removes that sense of freedom and open decision-making.

The reputation system impacts your ability to walk among each faction. If you are friendly with a certain tribe, they will welcome you with open arms. Alternatively, if you’ve somehow managed to piss off a group of indigenous tribespeople, you kind of deserve what’s coming to you. This pigeon-holed mechanic drives you into uncomfortable corners that may annoy some gamers. After all, making bad decisions that impact your overall experience isn’t always a pleasant idea.

Fighting, fighting, and more fighting.

Deciding to control my whole team was an interesting layer of Greedfall: The Dying World. I enjoyed the tactical nuance and the opportunities this created. This won’t be the thought process of most gamers as things slow down to an almost impossible crawl as you stop the action and plan your approach.

Furthermore, unlocking or empowering each character’s main skills requires action points. AP can only be obtained through basic combat moves. Therefore, if you want to be an all-powerful hero, you have to hack and slash your way through every opponent. Moreover, many of your foes are bullet sponges, and you can hack and slash for hours before they fall or you die.

This element of the game definitely needs some work. I’m not sure if it would be more balanced with the NPC heroes controlling their attacks, but I wasn’t entirely satisfied. This level of dissatisfaction continued with the almost rinse-and-repeat roster of enemies. Except for bosses, the low-level animals and people were extremely repetitive. Consequently, when you are spending ages attacking the same beings, it gets a little tiresome.

Greedfall: The Dying World has performance issues.

I’m hoping that many of the performance issues have been highlighted through Early Access, and my review build was somewhere short of the release version. If this is the case, there should be plenty of patches to iron out the frame rate drops, glitches, bugs, screen tears, and crashes to the dashboard. Moreover, there are moments when NPCs are missing, and the cinematic doesn’t match up to the dialogue. This was a little jarring and something that needs resolving. On top of this, the camera angle can make things somewhat tricky when your character appears and disappears without reason.  

The audio has the potential to be absolutely incredible. The ambient sounds are some of the best I’ve heard, and the impressive tribal theme forms the backbone of this game. Greedfall: The Dying World has some brilliant acting, and the energy and tone help you to understand every encounter without reading the subtitles. Subsequently, it is a joy to listen to.

Heavy opening lessons.

I found the opening few hours to be quite intimidating. There is so much to learn, and it all happens within the first handful of quests. Understanding tactics, fighting, team management, quest management, exploration, and so forth is often overwhelming. However, once you throw yourself into it and get to grips with what’s on offer, you rarely get it wrong. 

I can see this improving as the developer irons out the problems. When that happens, this will be a game that you can play for hours. Sadly, its current state makes it quite an uncomfortable, rough, and testing experience. Therefore, it will put people off wanting to play it repeatedly.

Greedfall: The Dying World doesn’t quite hit the mark.

I desperately wanted Greedfall: The Dying World to be the game I could rave about. It never claims to be AAA, but it has the potential to be a very high-end AA game. Despite the interesting story, excellent setting, and oodles of potential, the problems were frustrating. Yet, this shouldn’t put you off, as the shortcomings will be ironed out. Accordingly, it will be great, and I recommend buying it here! Can you understand the new world you live in? Explore your surroundings, work together, and bring peace to your home.

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