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Review: Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles 2

Matt Cooper

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Aug 24, 2025

Review: Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles 2

It’s been four years since the first Hinokami Chronicles released and now Demon Slayer is back with the release of Hinokami Chronicles 2. Is this fighting adventure game worth your time? Or should it have stayed on the small screen?

A Goofy Good Time

I’ll be honest, right off the bat, I knew the title Demon Slayer but that was about it. I knew it was a hugely popular franchise in Japan but I never found the right time or entry point to dive into the series, until now. If you are new to the franchise like myself, the Demon Slayer games closely follow the manga and the anime. The main narrative focus of the franchise follows Tanjiro and Nezuko, whose family are murdered by demons and this results in Nezuko actually becoming a demon as well. Hell bent (great demon pun!) on revenge and avenging, the two have two goals: kill as many demons as possible and make Nezuko human again.

That’s the basis of all Demon Slayer content, simple yet satisfying. Where we pick up in Hinokami Chronicles 2 is directly after the events of the first game. If you were new to the series like myself, developers CyberConnect2 and publishers SEGA have implemented a wonderful quick fire recap of the events of the first game through the ‘Path Of The Demon Slayer’. This recap is a series of six fights which help to inform new players and refresh returning players of the events of the first game. This is a brilliant innovative way of recapping events instead of the bog standard cutscene.

As this game serves as an adaptation of the popular series, fans of the anime and manga will know the main story beats and nuances. The story begins in the Red Light Entertainment section and goes all the way through to the Hashira Training. Tanjiro along with sidekicks Inosuke and Zenistu are in these locations to do what they do best – uncover the demons and eradicate them. As mentioned, this game is a pure adaptation and that shows in the story, as the plot moves at a rapid pace, trying to shoehorn in major plot points fans have read and watched previously.

The pacing is brisk and coupled with the fighting gameplay, is perfectly pitched but it does mean players miss out on the more intricate character building. I would have liked to see more dialogue in between fights with the characters to further understand their emotions and motives. Still, the story of Hinokami Chronicles 2 is a rip roaring adventure of characters willing to stop at nothing to achieve their goal. Coupled with superbly animated cutscenes and a brilliant English or Japanese dubbed audio, fans of the series will feel right at home with this tale.

Player In the Arena

Hinokami Chronicles 1 at its core was a fun, engaging arena fighter designed for fast paced combat and the sequel follows that style beat for beat. It’s clear developers CyberConnect2 knew they had a good formula and didn’t want to alter it too much. If you’re unfamiliar with these games, they are simple on the surface level but grow in complexity the more you dive in. You have two fighters on each side across a multitude of levels and set pieces. You have a basic attack you can morph into skill attacks, a standard dodge and a block. There are some solo battles but for the most part, this game is a tag game of two on two. This feels smooth and responsive, making combat extremely fast paced and fluid. It’s a blast! The complexity in gameplay emerges in the combos you can execute, along with the surge and skill meters which require the meter to be fully filled in order to complete powerful finishers or moves. Boss battles act as the culmination of this complexity and require you to access the full skill set of your arsenal in order to prevail.

In between all the fighting and the cutscenes, you can walk around and explore the world, converse with other characters and find clues or even demons themselves using Demon Slayers‘ version of a detective mode. Whether it’s Tanjiro’s smell or Zenitsu’s hearing, the same gameplay mechanic follows; you activate the ability, follow the path and claim your discovery. Simple, yet satisfying. You can also find collectibles and stat points to unlock rewards for characters. At launch, the game sports a roster of over 40 different characters; a massive upgrade from the 18 of the previous title. And yes, you can finally run in the exploration areas now as opposed to the painstaking walking sections fans had complained about in the first game. There are also some side quests and mini games which help slow down the frenetic pace of the story and allow some introspection into characters, albeit not enough. Overall, this is a superbly robust and in-depth story mode that can keep you invested for hours.

When the credits have rolled in the single player campaign, there is still much to discover. Hashira Training is a roguelite for players where you choose a team and guide them down a board, choosing battles with modifiers and conditions. Unfortunately, your health doesn’t regenerate so this is truly for the hardcore fans of the series. Like the previous game, local and online versus mode return, but be warned, this isn’t for the faint-hearted, I consistently got my ass handed to me by much better players. Ouch! My only real complaints about gameplay revolve around the gear system and a lack of tutorial. The gear system is a system allowing you to add up to three slots of gear to boost attacks or recover health but it’s so weak it really didn’t feel like it helped much at all. It just felt like a last minute addition to the game.

Straight Off The Page And Screen

To describe Demon Slayer The Hinokami Chronicles 2 visually isn’t a tough job because man, it’s incredible. If someone were to tell me this was ripped straight from the anime itself, I wouldn’t argue. This animation is some of the best I’ve ever seen in regards to bringing anime to life. Each character looks stunning as they all drip in detail and expression. Each location and fighting stage looks breath-taking and the transitions between gameplay and cutscenes is something to truly marvel at. Character fighting animations are top notch and boldly capture the feel of the show and bring it to life in the video game medium which is outstanding. The explosion of colour during fights is something to behold. CyberConnect2 clearly revere the franchise and have made sure this game is of the highest quality in visual and animation fidelity. Bravo!

Similarly, the sound design and musical score aim high and they do deliver – mostly. As previously mentioned, the voiceover work in both Japanese and English adds emotional weight to each character’s journey and helped me connect to their struggles more. It’s just a shame there are far too many reused voice lines in the exploration moments outside of combat. The sound design is solid across the board through every attack, counter dodge and block. You can really hear the characters’ exhaustion and exertion during fights. Finally, the musical score is just a real treat. The score captures the frenetic pace of the gameplay through powerful orchestral tracks that splice in booming percussion, all blended with an anime melody that sounds so good!

Verdict

Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is a tour de force in how to bring anime into the gaming space. A compelling faithful retelling of a story fans love, superb combat and stunning visual and audio design make this game a really special experience. Whilst the lack of additions may upset some returning players, along with the weak gear system, there’s still so much fun to be had in this game. You can really feel the love and care the developers have poured into this sequel! See you in the arena!

CSGO Gambling in 2025: The Evolution of Skin Betting

News

Christopher John

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Aug 24, 2025

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CSGO Gambling in 2025: The Evolution of Skin Betting

Introduction

The Counter-Strike franchise has always been more than just a competitive shooter—it’s a cultural phenomenon. One of the most intriguing aspects of this culture is csgo gambling, which has grown from simple skin trades to a multi-million-dollar industry.

In 2025, the gambling ecosystem around CS:GO continues to thrive, adapting to new technologies and regulations while maintaining its core appeal: risk, thrill, and the potential for big wins. From skin-based casinos to case battles and jackpot systems, players are drawn to the excitement. This article explores how CSGO gambling has evolved and what players should expect going forward.

1. The Origins of CSGO Gambling

The roots of csgo gambling date back to 2013, when skins were introduced as cosmetic items. Players quickly realized these items had monetary value, sparking trading sites and informal betting. Soon after, specialized platforms began offering roulette, coinflip, and jackpot systems using skins as currency.

By 2016, the gambling scene was massive, attracting millions of players worldwide. Although Valve cracked down on unregulated sites, demand never faded. Instead, platforms grew more sophisticated, offering transparency and security. This early foundation is crucial to understanding why skin betting remains popular today—it’s not just about winning money, but also about the unique connection between gameplay, item ownership, and chance.

2. Popular CSGO Gambling Formats in 2025

Modern csgo gambling platforms have diversified beyond simple betting. Today, players can enjoy a wide variety of formats:

· Roulette & Crash: Fast-paced betting games where players can multiply their stakes instantly.
· Case Battles: Competing against others in opening CS2 or CS:GO cases for higher-value drops.
· Jackpot Systems: Contributing skins to a pool where one lucky winner takes all.
· Esports Betting: Placing wagers on professional CS:GO and CS2 tournaments, now integrated with live match data.

These formats combine entertainment with high risk, so casual players can play and seasoned gamblers can get a thrill. Many platforms now have crypto payments, faster withdrawals and provably fair systems to build trust with players. As the ecosystem grows, variety and fairness are key to attracting and retaining users.

3. Why Players Engage in CSGO Gambling

The attraction of csgo gambling lies in psychology as much as entertainment. Players are captivated by the thrill of chance—the possibility of turning a modest skin into something rare and valuable. Skins carry both financial and emotional weight, as they reflect personal style and in-game identity. For many, gambling adds another layer of excitement to Counter-Strike, extending the fun beyond gameplay itself.

Streamer culture plays a big role too. Popular influencers stream high stakes case battles and jackpot wins, creating viral moments that make people want to try their luck. The social aspect – competing against others, watching live wins and celebrating rare drops – makes gambling feel like community entertainment. It’s not just about the profit but the risk, fun and being able to show off rare items.

4. Risks and Challenges in CSGO Gambling

While exciting, csgo gambling carries significant risks. The odds of landing high-value skins are extremely low, leading many players to overspend in hopes of winning big. Gambling addiction is a real danger, especially among younger audiences drawn in by flashy marketing and streamer influence.

Another concern is security. Not all platforms are legit and history has seen scams, rigged systems and delayed withdrawals. Players also need to be careful about underage gambling as regulators are cracking down on this.

The financial risks can get out of hand fast – skins worth thousands can disappear in a single lost bet. That’s why responsible gambling, transparency and verified platforms are more important than ever in 2025. Players need to balance entertainment with awareness of these risks.

5. The Future of CSGO Gambling

The future of csgo gambling is closely tied to technology and regulation. Blockchain integration is already making games more transparent, allowing players to verify fairness in real time. AI-driven tools are also being used to predict betting patterns and promote responsible play.

The rise of Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) has opened up new opportunities for case battles and esports betting, merging both old and new economies. Stricter regulations are ensuring compliance with age restrictions and increasing security on licensed sites. Platforms that can adapt while maintaining thrill will dominate the market.

Conclusion

csgo gambling has grown from niche skin trades to a global industry that blends gaming, entertainment, and high-stakes excitement. Its popularity stems from the unique value of skins, the thrill of competition, and the social buzz created by streamers and communities.

Yet, players must remain cautious—financial risks and unregulated sites can undermine the fun. As the industry matures, transparency, regulation, and responsible gambling will define its future. For those who play wisely, CSGO gambling remains an exhilarating extension of the Counter-Strike universe, combining chance, strategy, and digital ownership in a way few other games can match.

Review: Equate 8: A Math Puzzle Game

Natosha M

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Aug 24, 2025

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Equate 8: A Math Puzzle Game is a new title from the creator of The Devil’s Calculator that challenges you to build a masterpiece out of numbers. You’re presented with a 3×3 grid, a set of numbered tiles, and the challenge to make eight equations—three across, three down, and two diagonal—all work at the same time. While the themed graphic style is clean and lovely to look at, the actual gameplay is difficult and requires a lot of patience to figure out. It’s not one of those games that you can easily jump into, but if you love a good challenge, it can be a very rewarding experience.

The Simple, Smart Gameplay (and Why It’s Tricky at First)

The main goal is to rearrange numbers and a variety of math symbols to solve the eight equations in the 3×3 grid. This is not an easy game to master so quickly. It’s a real brain teaser that gets you to think about numbers in a new way. You have to be strategic with every move, because the game keeps a tally, encouraging you to go for a gold medal by solving it in the fewest moves possible.

For a new player, the game can feel slightly confusing and difficult to understand right away. The simple goal of “rearranging numbers” doesn’t quite capture the complex process involved. You can spend a lot of time just figuring out the best way to start, and one wrong move can throw off your entire grid. While you do get a bronze medal just for finishing, the pressure to get a better score adds to the difficulty. I found myself feeling stuck and slightly frustrated, but once I finally solved a puzzle, the feeling of accomplishment was huge. The game does try to help with this. You can try Easy Mode, which automatically locks a number when it’s in the correct place, but this mode is only available for a limited number of sequences.

A Haven of Relaxation

Even though the game can be tough, it’s not a stressful race against a timer. There is no countdown clock, which is a huge relief. This means you can take as long as you need to think through a puzzle, which is a big plus since the puzzles are so challenging. The game doesn’t rush you or make you feel bad for taking your time. I appreciated being able to sit and just focus on the puzzle without any external pressure. However, the difficulty itself can be a source of stress. Sometimes, I would get so stumped that I’d have to put the game down and come back to it later. It’s a good kind of stress, though—the kind that makes you feel smart when you finally figure it out.

Adorable Looks and Gentle Sounds

The game’s visual style is a pure delight. The graphics are clean and simple, with a nice themed style that is easy on the eyes. The numbered tiles and symbols have a friendly, almost bouncy feel to them, making the whole game have an endearing charm. It’s not just a puzzle game; it’s a world of cute numbers and shapes that are just waiting for you to play with them. The animations are also super smooth. When a puzzle is solved, the pieces lock into place with a satisfying little flourish that makes you feel good about your accomplishment.

On the other hand, the music is very minimal. There’s not a lot to it, which can be a little disappointing if you were hoping for a rich soundtrack to accompany the game. The sound effects are very pleasant, though, with a soft click when you place a tile and a cheerful chime when you solve a puzzle. These small audio details reinforce the game’s relaxing vibe and make the whole experience feel like a fun and rewarding adventure, even if the background music isn’t that memorable.

The Joy of Learning Math

This is where the game truly shines. It isn’t just a puzzle game; it’s a fantastic teaching tool disguised as pure fun. By playing, a person can build and strengthen their understanding of basic math skills. Instead of simply being given a math problem to solve, the player gets to see how numbers and symbols work together in different ways. They might learn that 2 + 6 = 8, but also that 4 × 2 = 8, or even that 16 ÷ 2 = 8. It’s a great way to see that math is full of possibilities, not just one single correct path. Equate 8 is a fun casual game for all ages, whether practicing math skills or engaging brainpower.

I personally found that the game helped me with my mental math. I was constantly thinking about different ways to get to a number, and after a while, my brain just started to see the connections faster. It’s a natural, easy way to get better at math, and I think that’s why it’s so perfect for young people. It makes a subject that can sometimes be difficult feel fun and easy to approach, after you get a hang of how to play.

Growing with the Game

The game does a great job of growing with the player. You can acquire “streaks” tokens by playing the daily puzzle. These tokens can then be exchanged for Challenges, which are packs of themed puzzles. The daily puzzle gives players a free way to play and unlock content. The difficulty gradually increases, which keeps the game interesting without ever being frustrating. It makes you feel smart and capable, and it makes you want to keep playing to see what other clever puzzles the game has in store. The game is short, but its replayability is high because you can always go back and try to find a different way to solve a puzzle.

A Final Thought on a Puzzling Gem

In the end, Equate 8: A Math Puzzle Game is more than just a game; it’s a cozy and clever math adventure. Its personal touch, from the charming graphics to the relaxing feel and the wonderful lack of timers, makes it a true gem in the world of mobile games. It’s a refreshing change from titles that are constantly trying to get you to spend money or rush through the gameplay. This game is all about the pure fun of solving a puzzle and the simple joy of learning. For anyone who loves a good brain teaser or wants a stress-free way to get better at math, this game is a perfect choice. It’s a lovely, simple, and truly wonderful experience. The creator has also included that every donation supports the mission of Cinq-Mars Media, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to develop educational games, which are always provided free to teachers and students.

Review: Ra Ra Boom

Saim Khurshid

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Aug 24, 2025

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It was a great run for Ra Ra Boom, but you can only go so far copying grandpa’s homework. I love Streets of Rage and many other games of the genre, but without a significant difference or a story worth investing in, I fear this one is just my cup of tea.

Developed and published by Gylee Games, Ra Ra Boom is a colourful, 4-player local co-op Brawler/beat ‘em up with hand-drawn art and voice acting.

There are many games in the genre of beat ‘em ups, but very few are available for purchase. That is what you call a paradox. Let me clear it up… Ra Ra Boom, in my time going through it, felt like nothing more than a beat ’em up. I fear that in a world filled with so many options, it is just another name, I won’t be going back to.

Police Mom Boom

The story of Ra Ra Boom follows a group of badly dressed young Female Robo Cops, who are training to take the streets and abuse their power… or try to be good cops.

This happens in the form of some side-scrolling roughhousing, frequently interrupted by hand-drawn and beautifully voiced cutscenes that add charm, personality, and a fleeting sense of depth.

The game quite literally opens with the protagonists being drilled on how to combat both robots and lowlife criminals. A stern senior officer storms into class, yanks them from their desks, and throws them straight into the chaos of live training.

After a brisk tutorial that doubles as a crash course in survival, you’re pushed headfirst into the streets and scrapyards of Ra Ra Boom, ready to dish out stylish, side-scrolling beat ’em up action.

The way of the Boom

The team punches with impact, chaining together quick jabs, heavy finishers, and the kind of screen-clearing specials that feel like setting off fireworks in a junkyard. There’s speed in the movement, a sense of weight in the blows, and plenty of colour bursting off every punch.

Each stage plays like a parade of punching bags dressed as robots and criminals, feeding into that familiar loop of clear-the-room, move forward, repeat.

Ra Ra Boom swings hard with that old-school, side-scrolling rhythm, straight-line mayhem, fists flying, enemies tumbling across the screen…

The game looks like it wants to reinvent the fight. With modern effects, smooth animation, and a Saturday morning cartoon energy. Sadly, beneath the flash, it’s the same dance step we’ve all rehearsed since Streets of Rage.

Final Thoughts

Ra Ra Boom is a polished package, no question about it. The visuals are slick, the hand-drawn cutscenes show care, and the voice work adds a spark of personality you don’t always see in this corner of the genre.

On presentation alone, the game wears its best uniform and marches confidently onto the field. But the trouble is that, once the talking stops and the fists start flying, it doesn’t manage to break formation.

There’s comfort in the old rhythm. Walk forward, clear the screen, repeat, but comfort alone doesn’t carry a game in 2025.

We’ve had decades of beat ’em ups, revivals, and reinventions, and the bar is higher than ever. Ra Ra Boom doesn’t stumble so much as it stands still, happy to echo classics without carving its own identity.

That said, if this is your only option, it is a decent game with functioning systems. You can play with up to four friends, and it supports Steam Remote Play. As for me… Well, the Steam page says casual pick and play. Frankly, I’d rather pick and play something else.

A Closer Look at Brick Like This!

Andrew Edney

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Aug 23, 2025

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Here we take a closer look at Brick Like This! from Asmodee.

Brick Like This! is the fun and fast-talking LEGO party game for family and friends where teams race to build LEGO models. But there’s a twist, only one person in the team knows what the model should look like! Level up with the Challenge Cards and build with your eyes closed or with only one hand. Each round, get the model right and finish first to score the most points!

In Brick Like This, players form teams of two to eight. Each round, one player (the Instructor) receives a secret Shape card depicting a small structure made with LEGO bricks. That player must describe the shape (without showing the card) while the Builder attempts to recreate it using the kit’s 48 LEGO bricks and verbal instructions only.

The first team to complete the correct build shouts “Brick” to win the round. Other teams can continue building for points before the timer runs out. The game plays over six timed rounds. To keep things exciting, Challenge cards may be added to restrict speech, require one-handed building, or introduce other twists that raise the difficulty level. At the end of all six rounds, the team with the most points is declared the winner.

Brick Like This! from Asmodee is available now priced around £19.99 and is aimed at ages 7 and up. You can have between 2 and 8 players and each game lasts around 15 minutes and is a lot of fun!

Review: Artis Impact

Jordy Matias

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Aug 23, 2025

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Set in a world where humans and artificial intelligences are part of the same world. However, many AIs are very hostile towards humans. In Atris Impact, you play as Akane with her AI companion, Bot, to deal with issues pertaining to lethal AIs. This turn-based RPG has you working with and fighting against other AIs to protect humankind. Explore a vibrant town with many events, shops, and NPCs to interact with. As well as experiencing a story that goes over the conflicts between man and machine.

Cutting Through the Gameplay

Artis Impact is a simple turn-based RPG, but despite that, the animations and flow of battles keeps it interesting. There’s your standard HP and MP, with the added TP gauge. The TP is pretty simple in that it fills every time you attack or get attacked by an enemy. Afterwards you can spend the TP gauge to unleash devastating attacks. A unique aspect of the battle system though is that the more MP or TP you spend, the stronger your attacks are. For MP-based arts, they usually cost around half of your current MP. That usually means you can open up with a high-damaging art and replenish your MP as you progress through the battle.

The customization is also quite plentiful with what you can do. Equipment is pretty standard with what you can wear and the effects that they have, but when moving onto the things such as weapons and your companion, Bot, that’s when the game starts to open more to the player. Individual weapons that you acquire throughout the game’s story can be transfused with specific elemental affinities. These can range from status effects to more damage on your attacks. Bot by default has a standard healing skill that it’ll use every turn. After picking up certain augments for Bot, you can customize Bot’s skills for offensive and defensive purposes. You can build yourself and Bot in various ways to synergize with each other’s equipment and skills.

The World of Humans and AI

As previously mentioned, the world of Artis Impact features an imbalance between humans and AIs. Though this sentiment only applies towards the hostile ones you fight. In the main town, some humans and AIs live together peacefully. Interacting with either human or AI provides useful services to the player. The town is filled with various shops for healing items and equipment. Along with that, you can engage in other activities such as using the gym to build stats, go to a contractor to improve your home, etc.. There’s even side quests and unique events that occur depending on when and where you are in the game’s story. One instance of this happening to me during my play was that I was walking through the back alley area with a lot of money till I was stopped by some street thugs. They tried to steal my money, but in a comedic fashion, Akane gives them the money to the thugs’ confusion. It’s events such as these that give this game a unique world and personality.

Stellar Presentation

For those who love sprite and animations, this game’s visuals will catch the attention of those people. One of my favorite aspects of the game are the cutscenes. Not every cutscene uses the traditional textbox when characters are speaking. Often the game will cut to drawings of said characters talking. This can be presented as a fullscreen drawing or off to the side. It feels like the cutscenes are being presented to me in a manga format.

As for the animations, there’s plenty of them. No matter what action you take, there will always be a small window box showing animation of what you interacted with. It can be as simple as turning on a faucet or seeing Akane jam her sword into the weapon upgrade table. This is one of the game’s more charming aspects.

Final Thoughts

Artis Impact is an engaging RPG with a rich story and gorgeous visuals. My time with the game so far has been great and I am eager to reach the end to see how the story concludes. If you enjoy RPGs, I would highly recommend this game. From where I’m at, I believe I’m almost nearing the end of the game so it’s not super long if you prefer shorter RPGs.

Review: Knightica

Saim Khurshid

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Aug 22, 2025

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Attaching strategic combat to a game about buying and selling makes Knightica for me. From the outset, it is not about how you will fight, but rather what is the most financially viable way to enter this fight and still be capable of fighting the next one.

Developed by Mad Mango Games and published by Goblinz Publishing and WR Games, Knightica is a real-time tactical Rogue-like strategy autobattler.

I really enjoy it when a game brings something unique to the table. Especially in a genre as overcrowded as roguelike or roguelite. The combination of a shop system that directly impacts gameplay with a grid-based combat style adds a refreshing twist. It might even succeed in distracting from the fact that there isn’t much of a story-driven reason to keep playing.

Grid Knights

As I have said a few times now, the gameplay of Knightica involves shopping.

You start Knightica with some coins and are shown a shop filled with characters to buy. In front of you, there is a grid that you must place your characters on for the battle. You can also buy upgrades or increase the number of grids.

After you place your characters, choosing their location and rotations, the game starts.

You do not control characters in battles in Knightica. Like Command and Conquer or Age of Empires, they fight by themselves. The victor is determined when one side remains alive.

If you win, you are rewarded and continue to the next fight(health regenerated), and if you lose, then some of your heart points are deducted. If you run out of health points, Game Over.

Before a round starts, you get another go at the shop from where you can buy new characters or upgrade old ones. The quality of characters gets better as you proceed, so do not get too attached to a character, as you might end up needing to sell them later.

Quarries of the day

While gameplay is good, a lack of internal story or reason makes play sessions feel overbearing after a while. Without story hooks or progression beyond the mechanics themselves, the appeal risks flattening.

I remember loving Shogun Showdown (another game published by Goblinz Publishing), and it was mostly because after every successful round, you were rewarded not just with tougher enemies or better abilities, but with more pieces of the plot. Each victory felt meaningful, carrying a sense of narrative progression that pushed me forward, eager to uncover what came next.

So with nothing except more gameplay to fight for, I fear that over time the desire to play would diminish.

Saying that, I still am enjoying Knightica, and might do so for a long time in the future.

Fit for a Knight

Knightica feels like a clever experiment that manages to stand out in a genre crowded with copy-paste mechanics.

Its fusion of resource management and tactical grid combat is engaging enough to keep you tinkering with builds, rethinking strategies, and wondering how far your coins can stretch before the next big fight.

It’s the kind of game that rewards players who enjoy optimisation and clever planning, rather than button-mashing or twitch reflexes.

That said, its biggest weakness remains the lack of a driving narrative. A roguelike can certainly survive on pure gameplay alone, but when you’re competing against titles that weave narrative into every run, the absence is noticeable.

Still, I find myself coming back. There’s a meditative quality in browsing the shop, weighing risks, and setting up the perfect formation that scratches an itch few games do.

Maybe Knightica could carve out a larger niche for itself. For now, it’s a refreshing, strategic spin on the roguelite formula that’s worth keeping an eye on.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown Review

Isaac King

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Aug 22, 2025

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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown Review

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT): Tactical Takedown is a turn-based strategy spin on the fan-favourite turtles, for the first time in video game history, from developers Strange Scaffold.

Set against the backdrop of a neon-drenched New York under siege by the Foot clan, Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael and Michelangelo must fight through waves of enemies to reclaim their city. The turtle band of brothers feel like ninjas, covertly slipping through enemy patrols, using cover, and coordinating attacks with precision.

Gameplay

TMNT: Tactical Takedown features a grid-based combat system, combined with elements of board games, as character models will fall off the ‘board’ or the grid, like a board game figurine falling off the table.

Tactical Takedown features familiar systems and odes to modern tactics games, like XCOM.

Similar game mechanics, turn based combat, destructible cover, often one of the favourite turtles will be surrounded by Foot clan goons and the player must plan their next move carefully, either attack, or retreat.

Each turtle boasts distinct abilities—Leo’s leadership buffs allies, Donnie hacks tech for battlefield control, Raph thrives in solo skirmishes, and Mikey weaponises chaos with unpredictable flair.

Missions range from stealthy infiltrations to rooftop rumbles, enemy AI sometimes slip into predictable patterns, but boss fights require strategic finesse.

Progression and Customisation

Between missions, the player can manage each turtle’s skill tree, allowing for players to tailor their play-style to their taste.

Raph can either double down on raw offence against the Foot Clan; and Donnie can specialise in crowd control or tech support.

The differences between playable turtles allows for more diverse gameplay, players will soon find who their favourite is.

Side missions are available, which flesh out lore and offer extra XP.

However, this side content can lean into becoming repetitive, with objectives like: “clear this alley.” The main campaign maintains a healthier variety and stronger pacing.

Visuals and Audio

Tactical Takedown taps straight into nostalgia without feeling dated. Visually, this game opts for a crisp, comic-inspired aesthetic.

The environments range from rain-slick rooftops to neon-lit back alleys, or graffiti-tagged subways, which increases immersion into the world of the TMNT.

These immersive visuals are paired with an 80s style synth and hip-hop beats soundtrack underlaying gameplay.Tactical Takedown taps straight into nostalgia without feeling dated. Visually, this game opts for a crisp, comic-inspired aesthetic.

The environments range from rain-slick rooftops to neon-lit back alleys, or graffiti-tagged subways, increasing player immersion into the world of the TMNT.

These immersive visuals are paired with an 80s style synth and hip-hop beats soundtrack underlaying the gameplay.

‘Cowabunga!’

Tactical Takedown won’t dethrone the gaming heavyweight triple A games, but it doesn’t need to. This instalment into the turtles is a fan-friendly and original turn-based spin on the beloved Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. For strategy newcomers, Tactical Takedown is accessible; and for genre veterans, it is a palate-cleanser with nostalgia and fun.

Review: CarGo!

Aidan Cannon

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Aug 21, 2025

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For a while, it felt like couch co-op experiences were going the way of the dodo. Big publishers seemed less interested with the emergence of online play, and almost abandoned them completely during the eighth console generation. The indie scene has endeavored to pick up the slack, offering smaller, budget titles that have the flexibility to experiment with unconventional concepts.

This is the situation CarGo! finds itself in, with players working together to deliver packages across a variety of stages. The Memory Leak Games team was clearly inspired by the excellent Overcooked, but their efforts lack the charm, content, and polish of similar titles, sometimes resulting in frustration.

Gameplay is rather simple: you and up to three friends control delivery vehicles, attempting to bring various goods from one building to another. In a few stages, you may need to craft materials at certain spots in order to create new products, then rush to deliver them so you can earn a time-based bonus.

Unfortunately, CarGo!’s controls prove to be a sticking point. The developers made the choice to only allow steering left and right with the stick, while forward momentum is controlled by the right trigger. This means you can’t intuitively point the stick in the direction you’d like to move; instead, you must pay close attention to the direction your car is oriented so that you know which way an input will actually send the vehicle.

There’s something to be said about how this unorthodox control scheme can result in accidental mishaps when playing with others, thus increasing the fun factor. However, I just don’t feel that stance holds up to scrutiny. Genre contemporaries like Overcooked also delight in causing chaos amongst friend groups, but that chaos is based on how strenuous it can be to complete objectives together, not because the game makes awkward control decisions. It feels like CarGo! doesn’t believe enough in itself, like it can’t be fun without making things more difficult for the player. This is unfortunate, since it does a great job of introducing new gameplay quirks throughout the short campaign.

And it is short. You’ll make your way through the 16 levels in a few sittings. I spent much of my playtime as a solo deliverer (sad, I know) and my PS5 playtime reads 2 hours. While the core CarGo! experience can be fun, you won’t be coming back to it for very long, owing to the lack of content. This game is begging for procedurally generated levels ensuring endless replayability, but alas, there are none to be found.

There are a few additional annoyances worth mentioning. My car would sometimes get caught on geometry once in a while, forcing me to start a level from scratch. When I went to restart, I would be met with a black screen, the HUD superimposed on top. Thankfully, pausing and restarting again fixes this with little issue, but it can be annoying when one bug forces you to contend with more, creating an irritation feedback loop.

CarGo! is not a horrible game, but it ironically seems to be lacking the goods offered by similar projects. It makes for a fun (if frantic) night with friends, but the dearth of content likely prevents it from being a staple at any game nights.

Review: Is This Seat Taken?

Natosha M

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Aug 21, 2025

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In a world where mobile games are often designed to demand a player’s attention with flashing lights, urgent timers, and constant notifications, there’s a certain magic to discovering a title that does the exact opposite. Is This Seat Taken? is one such game, a whimsical and charming puzzle experience that invites players into its world with a gentle hand and a warm smile. It’s a game that doesn’t just ask for your time; it offers a moment of tranquility and quiet fun. One can’t help but be captivated by its adorable nature and the wonderfully comforting feeling it provides, making it an absolute joy to share.

Charming Characters & Puzzling Fun

The game is as simple as it is cute. Players are tasked with fitting a variety of differently shaped characters into specific, cozy spaces on the screen. It might sound like a basic puzzle game, but the execution is what makes it so special. Each character has its own unique, cute, and charming little forms. The puzzles begin with just a few characters and a single seat, but as one progresses, the spaces become more intricate and the cast of characters grows. There might be a few who love to play loud music, one that wants to sleep without being disturbed, and even a pair of pals or a family who need to be perfectly seated near one another. The challenge never feels overwhelming; instead, it’s a loving invitation to sit and think.

A Commitment to Relaxation

What truly sets Is This Seat Taken? apart is its commitment to a relaxing experience. The most beloved feature of this game, and one that I extremely enjoy is the complete absence of a timer. This detail, which might seem small, completely changes the entire dynamic. There’s no rush to solve the puzzle, no pressure to beat a clock, and no anxiety about failing. The player can take their time, turning a piece this way and that, experimenting with different placements, and simply enjoying the process. This transforms the game from a test of speed into a mindful activity, similar to sipping a warm drink on a quiet afternoon. One can truly settle in, relax, and let their mind wander through the soft colors and charming shapes, making for a truly peaceful and engaging experience.

Adorable Aesthetics & Soothing Sounds

Visually, the game is a work of adorable art. The graphics are simple yet stunning, with a pastel color palette and clean, endearing character designs that feel hand-drawn. The little characters themselves are a pure delight, each with its own personality conveyed through its unique shape. The way they wiggle slightly as they are moved or slide perfectly into their designated spot is incredibly satisfying and adds to the overall charm. The environment for each puzzle is a soft, inviting space, whether it’s a large vehicle, movie theatre, or another spacious location. It’s clear that every visual element was crafted with the intent of creating a soothing atmosphere. This is a game that looks as good as it feels to play.

And then there’s the music. The soundtrack is a soft melody which loops and complements the visuals perfectly. The tunes are light and airy, never distracting, and they reinforce the game’s central theme of relaxation. One can imagine the kind piano notes or the soft, ambient soundscapes playing in the background as they work through a particularly tricky puzzle. It’s the kind of music that you could listen to for hours without ever growing tired of it, and it does a beautiful job of pulling the player into the cozy world of the game, making them feel right at home. The music and graphics work in perfect harmony, creating a beautiful and peaceful aesthetic that is both cute and calming.

A Refreshing Design Philosophy

One of the most admirable things about this game is its design philosophy, which respects the player from start to finish. A lover’s true appreciation for a game is often tied to this kind of approach. There are no ads, no pop-ups, and no extra purchases to deal with. This means the experience is completely pure and uninterrupted. The player is never asked to watch a thirty-second commercial to get a hint or spend money on an extra life. They simply purchase the game once, and everything is there, ready to be enjoyed. In a mobile gaming landscape filled with frustrating microtransactions and a constant stream of monetization attempts, this game is a refreshing and honest breath of fresh air. It’s a testament to the idea that a game can be successful and beloved purely on the merit of its quality and the joy it brings to the player.

Short and Sweet

The fact that the game is short doesn’t detract from its quality; on the contrary, it adds to its charm. It feels like a complete and well-thought-out experience that doesn’t overstay its welcome. It’s perfect for a quick break, a quiet moment before bed, or a short commute. The puzzles, while short-lived, leave a lasting impression of coziness and accomplishment. It’s the kind of game you can pick up whenever you need a moment of peace, and it delivers every time. It’s an adorable little game that feels perfectly crafted and lovingly made, and its shortness feels intentional, leaving one with a feeling of contentment rather than a desire for more.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Is This Seat Taken? is a delightful little puzzle game that stands out in the crowded mobile market for all the right reasons. Its commitment to a cozy and relaxing atmosphere, its gentle difficulty curve, and its charming aesthetic make it an absolute must-play for anyone who appreciates a calm and comforting experience. The lack of a timer and the absence of any ads or additional purchases are not just features; they are a statement about what a game can be. It proves that you can create a beautiful and engaging experience that respects the player’s time and peace of mind. For those who love cute, casual, and genuinely relaxing games, this title is a perfect choice—it’s a small, polished jewel that is a joy to have on your mobile device.