Review: Dark Deity 2

Daniel Waite
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Review: Dark Deity 2

Dark Deity 2 is a direct sequel to the popular Dark Deity. However, this instalment is set 25 years into the future and has a heavy focus on mana-based combat, AOE spells, and a serious lack of permadeath. These changes may upset fans of the original, but I think the game thrives, and longevity, replay value, and quality of life are vastly improved.

This turn-based experience was developed by Sword & Axe LLC and published by idie.io. It is a single-player game that has heavy Fire Emblem vibes. The turn-based madness pushes you into a strategic corner as you must work with several heroes and overcome many main and sub goals during every outing. 

Dark Deity 2 is a story of greed and new lands.

A quarter of a century has passed, and the Eternal Order have rebuilt Verroa. Sadly, their new defences are about to be put to the test! The neighbouring Holy Asverellian Empire need and wants new land. Accordingly, they have Verroa in their sights. Thankfully, the Eternal Order and 20 heroes stand in their way.

The story is brilliantly told, and the full-voice acting, interesting branching stories, factional strife, and political nuances were fascinating to witness. I adored the relationships between each character and how your choices have a significant impact on how everything unfolds.

Turn-based action.

If you do not like turn-based games, you might want to turn back now. Dark Deity 2 utilises this core mechanic throughout, and I adored it as a consequence. Each battle, problem, or traversal element was a joy to experience. Moving a band of your 20 heroes across strange environments as they tackle an array of tasks was fascinating. Moreover, you must decide whether to bum-rush a level or try to complete every goal. Word of warning, biting off more than you can chew can be deadly.

Character customisation is a heavy element of Dark Deity 2. Each of the 20 heroes can adjust their classes to suit your tactical approach. The 20 heroes have around 45 branching classes to select from. Moreover, you can adjust the settings from the start to increase the difficulty and the random nature of the game. This was great as you ensured that no playthrough is ever the same.

Too much, too soon!

I admit that I often found things overwhelming. This caused me to have to slow down and tackle each chapter in bite-sized chunks. Thankfully, this didn’t impact the game, and if you prefer something more casual, Dark Deity 2 adapts to your style. However, if you are a genre expert, you can push yourself all the way and push through without negative consequences.

I adore the focus on mana, teamwork, and the lack of permadeath. The latter was particularly important. However, there are still penalties if you die in combat. Ailments follow you throughout the chapter, and this causes major headaches. Subsequently, you must adjust your approach to ensure your team stays alive.

Dark Deity 2 has an old-school edge.

Dark Deity 2 is nicely polished, and no one can accuse it of visual issues. Yet, it does have a nice old-school design that will appeal to lovers of retro games and pixelated art. Each chapter pushes a new design to keep you interested. Furthermore, the character models, assets, and other key elements are interesting while focusing on a clean but dated approach.

The audio has that triumphant and upbeat edge that retro RPGs were famous for. The blend of haunting tracks and high-energy songs was great. Additionally, the acting was impressive as it added depth to the already captivating story.

Excellent controls.

Dark Deity 2 has plenty of depth and loads of custom options. Therefore, it could have been horrible to play. Thankfully, the impressive UI and simple control layout help you to navigate any potential pitfalls. Additionally, the opening moments were easy to follow, and I like the step-by-step tutorial.

The customisation and branching classes ensure that no playthrough is ever the same. Moreover, the use of a randomiser helps to keep things fresh. This helps to increase longevity and replay value.

Dark Deity 2 is a fantastic sequel.

I enjoyed the first instalment, and Dark Deity 2 is probably better. The lack of permadeath and the focus on magic were real winners. Additionally, the story was fantastic, and the setting worked on many levels. Accordingly, I think it’s great, and I recommend buying it here! Can you prevent the destruction of Verroa? Arm your heroes, plan your attack, and take down your greedy neighbours.

Review: TicNote AI Voice Recorder

Andrew Edney
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Review: TicNote AI Voice Recorder

Here we review the TicNote AI Voice Recorder.

Unlike conventional transcription tools, TicNote offers a comprehensive, end-to-end creative workflow, rather than just simple documentation. Its integrated AI assistant, Shadow Agent, supports the entire creative pipeline, from project ideation and recording to transcription, mind maps, and ready-to-publish content (such as the auto-created podcast). This enables users to move smoothly from ideas to well-structured narratives, podcasts, and reports, thus improving both productivity and creative output. 

Through its scenario-based design, TicNote fits organically into various professional and educational environments.  

  • Professors and students can record lectures and produce summaries or research reports to share and disseminate structured insights.
  • Teams and professionals can turn discussions into shareable meeting summaries, internal updates, or communication briefs.
  • Bloggers and creators can record interviews or brainstorming sessions and instantly produce outlines, editorial drafts, and even complete podcasts. 

TicNote combines dependable recording hardware with advanced AI-driven workflows to provide a balanced mix of accuracy and intelligence. The device pairs a three-mic air-conduction array for room capture with a Vibration Conduction Sensor (VCS) for two-sided phone-call recording—no speakerphone required on supported devices/apps. Users can embed visual notes, such as whiteboards or slides, directly into transcripts, adding richer context for review and analysis. 

Shadow Agent, the AI designed to assist in content organisation and creative development, identifies “Aha Moments” (angles, titles, quotable lines) from audio to spark creative ideas and extract key insights. It structures information into mind maps, generates research summaries, and produces podcast-ready audio directly from transcriptions. Users can further explore and refine their ideas through project-based Q&A, file uploads, and knowledge organisation, making every conversation part of an ongoing creative process. It also supports Voiceprint Search, enabling users to locate conversations by speaker or keyword. 

TicNote aims to support the rise of voice-led creation and the increasing need for tools that promote human-centric storytelling. By integrating high-quality recording with AI-powered organisation and content generation, TicNote enables creators, educators, and professionals to share their voices through various formats, including podcasts, digital publications, and internal communications. This represents a move toward scenario-based content production, offering users a quicker and more intuitive way to ship content, broaden audience reach, streamline production, and increase the value of spoken communication. 

Final Thoughts

TicNote AI Voice Recorder feels like one of those tools you don’t realise you needed until it quietly fixes a bunch of small, daily annoyances.

At its core, TicNote is a voice recorder—but calling it just that undersells what it does. The standout feature is how seamlessly it turns spoken audio into clean, usable notes. Record a meeting, lecture, or random idea dump, and TicNote doesn’t just transcribe—it organises. Key points are pulled out, filler is minimised, and the result actually reads like something you’d want to revisit later.

The AI transcription is impressively accurate, even with fast speech or multiple speakers. It handles accents and conversational tone better than most voice-to-text tools, and it doesn’t get tripped up by technical terms as easily as expected. There’s also a noticeable effort to preserve context, which makes summaries feel thoughtful instead of robotic.

Where TicNote really shines is convenience. The interface is simple, clean, and clearly designed for real-world use: one tap to record, minimal setup, and fast processing. It’s equally useful for students capturing lectures, professionals recording meetings, or creatives talking through ideas on the go. The ability to search through past recordings and notes makes it feel more like a personal knowledge archive than a pile of audio files.

That said, it’s not perfect. Advanced customisation options for summaries and formatting are somewhat limited, and power users may want more control over how notes are structured. Still, for most people, the default output will be more than good enough.

Overall, TicNote AI Voice Recorder delivers on its promise: it makes spoken thoughts easier to capture, understand, and reuse. It’s practical, well-designed, and genuinely helpful—exactly what an AI-powered productivity tool should be.

The TicNote AI Voice Recorder is available now priced around £149 for the Basic version and £199 for the 1-year Pro Plan.

https://ticnote.ai/en-gb/products/ticnote-ai-voice-recorder?variant=47070932467850You can learn more from the TicNote website.

A Closer Look at GameBaby for iPhone 17

Andrew Edney
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A Closer Look at GameBaby for iPhone 17

Here we take a closer look at GameBaby for iPhone 17.

Last year, iOS officially opened up the category of game simulators for listing on the App Store. iPhone users can now play retro games anytime, anywhere through apps like Delta. However, the tactile feedback from touching the screen is never as direct as that from pressing physical buttons. That’s where GameBaby comes in.

Based on the Delta simulator, GameBaby functions as a normal phone case. When it’s time to play, you simply flip it over and transform your iPhone into a handheld game console.

GameBaby plays GBA, GBC and NES games. It’s not only about the look. Feel the crisp, tactile feedback that makes gaming real.

GameBaby gives you access to over 7,000 games. Dive into your favourite childhood memories.

GameBaby is available now for iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max for around $39.99.

You can learn more from the GameBaby website here.

Review: Everblog 21.5″ Digital Calendar

Andrew Edney
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Review: Everblog 21.5″ Digital Calendar

Here is our review of the Everblog 21.5″ Digital Calendar.

Features

Smart Fridge Manager – Track your food easily, get gentle reminders before items expire, reduce waste, save money, and keep meals safe and fresh.

Calendar Auto-Sync – Seamlessly sync your family calendar with Google or Outlook for effortless day, week, and month planning.

Member Colour Coding – Assign each family member a unique color to track tasks and progress at a glance.

Chore Chart – Kids complete chores via an interactive checklist, making responsibility fun and easy to track.

Rewards System – Set goals, reward progress with gifts and animated emojis, turning tasks into proud moments.

Meal Planner – Plan your week, discover fresh recipes, and create balanced meals with no last-minute stress.

Entertainment Hub – Access millions of apps for learning, games, and family entertainment.

Family Calendar App – Update events or tasks on the go; changes sync instantly across the family calendar.

Calendar Views – Switch between day, week, or month views for a clear overview of family activities and tasks.

Custom Lists – Create task and grocery lists to stay organized and simplify shopping and chores.

Weather & Countdown – Check real-time weather and track events with countdowns so nothing is missed.

Screensaver Mode – Display favorite photos when idle, adding warmth and a personal touch to your home.

Sleep Mode – Automatically enters sleep mode when unused, saving energy and extending device life.

Specifications

  • Screen:21.5″ Touchscreen (16:9)
  • Resolution:1920×1080
  • FHDSize:21.4×12.7×1.3 inches
  • Weight:13.7 lbs
  • Storage:64GB
  • Sound:20W quad speakers
  • Indicator Light:Multi-color LED 
  • Power Input:AC port
  • Power Supply:Built-in 12V / 4A power
  • WiFi:2.4GHz/5GHz
  • Certificates:CE,FCC,RoHS,MSDS,UN38.3

Final Thoughts

The Everblog has a very large and easy to read touchscreen – you can set it up either in portrait or landscape mode, whichever works best for you.

Everything you need to get going is included in the box – you even get a mount and guides for fixing the Everblog to the wall. You can actually use a stand if you prefer but that isn’t included and you would need to buy one separately.

Setting up the Everblog is really easy – plug it in, peel over the screen protector and follow the steps. You have to connect it to your home wifi, set the date and time, give it a name and choose which room it is going in and then create a unique email address for the Everblog so you can email things to it.

You also need to download the Everblog app to your smartphone to complete the initial setup.

Once that’s done it’s time to set up anything else you want, including configuring the online calendars you want to sync with (such as Apple and Google calendars).

There are some really useful applications that make up the Everblog, including a Fridge Manager to keep an accurate list of what’s in your fridge, and also the entertainment hub so you can watch Netflix!

One of my favourites is the photo frame mode – upload some of your photos and the Everblog will turn into an electronic photo frame displaying your pictures rather than just a blank screen. It looks really cool!

You can add tasks to the Everblog directly, via the app or even using your voice – it’s all really simple!

Unlike other similar devices, the Everblog doesn’t require a subscription to get all the features working – this certainly sets it above the rest.

If you have multiple calendars and need to know what everyone is doing, plus have a whole load of additional useful applications and features, then you must check out the Everblog, it’s a game changer!

The Everblog 21.5″ Digital Calendar is available now priced around $699, but at the time of writing it was on sale for $349.

You can learn more from the Everblog website.

Review: Fallout Brotherhood of Steel glasses

Daniel Waite
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Review: Fallout Brotherhood of Steel glasses

The Fallout Brotherhood of Steel glasses from GUNNAR are impressive! This latest addition from this gaming glasses powerhouse will blow you away. Not only do they look incredible, but the accessories are next-level.

I reviewed the previous Fallout glasses, and I still adore the style and the impressive case. Thankfully, GUNNAR has delivered an equally eye-catching product that doesn’t disappoint. 

On top of the amazing extras, you get eye health-improving features that’ll keep you fresher for longer. Moreover, you’ll reduce dry eyes and headaches. Accordingly, these glasses are perfect for gamers, workers, and those who love fashion. 

What’s in the box of the Fallout Brotherhood of Steel glasses?

  • The packaging is refined but durable. Moreover, it can be recycled. 
  • The Fallout Brotherhood of Steel glasses look great. They have aviator frames, and you can select different lenses. If you require prescription lenses, these can be arranged at checkout.
  • A soft case and microfibre cloth are provided. 
  • The hard metal case will make collectors go crazy. 

Technical aspects. 

GUNNAR has patented lens technology to reduce eye strain, headaches, and dry eyes. Moreover, as your eye health improves, you’ll become more productive and endure marathon work and gaming sessions.

The Fallout Brotherhood of Steel glasses incorporate several lens types. I was provided with the amber 65% blue light and 100% UV light protection option. Alternatively, I could have selected the 98% sunglasses or the amber sun shift for the best of both worlds. If you require prescription lenses, you can select -5 to +5 for an additional cost at checkout.

Build quality. 

I’ve tested many GUNNAR products, and they are all built to last. Furthermore, the hidden Easter eggs, amazing frame material, and impressive hinges ensure they are durable.

These glasses are part of the Epic range. This may mean nothing, but it guarantees polycarbonate lenses and G-Shield protection to reduce glare and scratches. Additionally, the weathered metal frame is strong and can resist wear and tear.

Thankfully, the flexible spring hinges reduce tension on the side of your face. Additionally, if you have a wider face, you can wear these glasses without feeling unwanted pressure on your temples.

I’ve touched upon the amazing accessories, but a quick recap won’t hurt. The metal case is fantastic. The lettering, sombre colour, and durable materials will appeal to lovers of the brand. Alternatively, the soft case and cloth can be used to keep your glasses clean and safe. 

Are the Fallout Brotherhood of Steel glasses worth it?

If you want a pair of tech-packed glasses that have that apocalyptic edge, you need the Fallout Brotherhood of Steel glasses. They are comfortable, durable, and look amazing. Moreover, your eyes will appreciate the reduced glare and the lack of horrible blue light. Accordingly, they are amazing, and I recommend buying them here!

(More information on GUNNAR can be found here!)

The Fallout Brotherhood of Steel glasses have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Clue: Murder by Death

Saim Khurshid
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Review: Clue: Murder by Death

I don’t talk about it often, but I really love a good murder mystery, especially… Clue: Murder by Death… Now that the subtle like a train opening is done, let’s talk about the game.

Developed by Cocodrolo Games, Clue: Murder By Death is a narrative-driven detective adventure set in 1930s England. It blends classic British crime fiction with modern investigative design, offering a focused mystery that values deduction, conversation, and choice over action. From the outset, it makes one thing very clear. Time is your greatest enemy.

There is something deeply satisfying about following clues, questioning motives, and slowly piecing together the truth before the final reveal. That feeling of confidence when you think you have it all figured out, followed by the doubt that creeps in when a detail does not quite line up, is hard to replicate.

Muh…Muh… Murder

The story begins with the death of Lord Robert Anderson, who has been found murdered in his secluded country manor. You are summoned by his loyal butler, an old comrade of your father from the Great War, and arrive at the estate in the dead of night. 

The house is quiet, the guests are shaken, and everyone appears eager to cooperate. Of course, polite smiles and calm manners quickly give way to hidden grudges, long-held secrets, and motives that are anything but innocent.

You do not know who committed the crime or why, but you do know that Scotland Yard is on its way. You have exactly 120 minutes to uncover the truth before they arrive and take over the investigation. That hard time limit immediately sets the tone, transforming the manor into a pressure cooker where every decision carries weight.

The real standout mechanic in Clue: Murder By Death is its use of time. You are constantly aware of the clock ticking down, and every action pushes it forward. Exploring rooms, examining evidence, and engaging in conversations all consume precious minutes. There is no opportunity to see everything, talk to everyone, or follow every lead in a single playthrough.

This creates a strong sense of tension and forces you to prioritise. Do you spend time pressing one suspect harder, or do you move on in hopes of uncovering new evidence elsewhere? Do you accuse someone early based on instinct, or wait and risk running out of time? The game encourages you to trust your deductions, even when you are not completely sure.

Atmosphere and Presentation

Every suspect has their own version of events, and not all of them are telling the truth. Some will mislead you, others will withhold information, and a few may reveal more than they intend. The branching narrative structure ensures that each playthrough can unfold differently, depending on who you trust and which clues you connect.

The 1930s English setting is a perfect fit for this type of mystery. The manor feels imposing and full of history, with each room hinting at untold stories and hidden tensions. The atmosphere leans heavily into classic whodunnit vibes, evoking the works of Agatha Christie while maintaining its own identity.

Rather than overwhelming the player with complexity, the presentation keeps things focused and accessible. The emphasis remains on observation, logic, and narrative rather than convoluted systems or mechanics.

Good enough to MURDER!

If you enjoy detective stories, narrative-driven games, or mysteries that reward careful thinking under pressure, this game is shaping up to be a compelling experience.

Clue: Murder By Death understands the appeal of a good mystery and respects the player’s ability to solve it. Placing strict limits on time and information, it creates a sense of urgency that makes every choice feel meaningful. It is not about finding every answer, but about finding the right one before time runs out.

Review: Cozy Caravan

Saim Khurshid
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Review: Cozy Caravan

Developed and published by Brisbane-based studio 5 Lives Studios, Cozy Caravan is a cozy adventure exploration game that fully commits to the idea that getting there matters more than arriving.

I’ve played a lot of cozy games since the genre surged in popularity during the pandemic. Most either copy Animal Crossing: New Horizons or Stardew Valley, or try to do something different, only to end up repetitive or shallow. Cozy Caravan sits somewhere in the middle. 

It borrows what works, but it slows everything down to a pace that demands patience, and that choice defines the entire experience.

Cozy Gaming

You begin by creating your character, choosing their species, outfit, and voice, before starting your journey as a brand-new guild member in Fellowood Acers. 

Your first companion is Bubba the frog, and from there, you set off on the road, harvesting resources, visiting towns and villages, selling goods, and helping out whoever needs it. There’s no urgency, no looming threat, just a long road and a lot of small tasks that gradually pull you into the world.

Cozy Caravan is not a game you can rush. Travel is slow, roads are narrow, and progression is locked behind Guild Tokens earned through helping others. Early on, it can feel grindy, but once upgrades stack, the pacing starts to feel deliberate rather than limiting.

Time management is crucial, with a day-and-night cycle where almost every action consumes time. You can’t do everything in one day, and planning routes, especially around Market Days, becomes essential, reinforcing the game’s slow, thoughtful rhythm.

Market Day is where preparation pays off. Selling desired goods fills your heart meter faster, making planning important, especially since resources take time to respawn and reward longer, more scenic routes.

Travelling feels closer to a driving game than a traditional cosy experience. Your bee-powered caravan requires careful steering, and light travel banter with Bubba or hitchhikers adds charm without overstaying its welcome.

There’s no fast travel, GPS, or waypoint system here. You’ll need to memorise routes and constantly check your map, which can be frustrating but ultimately reinforces exploration and discovery.

Crafting continues the game’s slow philosophy. Items require resources, inventory space, and quick-time mini-games, making upgrades feel meaningful by reducing friction rather than simply boosting stats.

Over there and beyond

Where Cozy Caravan truly shines is its worldbuilding. Each town and village feels distinct, with its own layout, atmosphere, and background music. There are fun pop culture Easter eggs scattered throughout, clever naming conventions for crops and characters, and a clear effort to make the world feel lived in. 

Some names are more inspired than others, but overall, it never feels like a copy-and-paste job. Wandering through these spaces can feel maze-like at times, but that sense of discovery is part of the appeal.

Over time, as you help more people, the game begins to acknowledge your presence. You unlock new recipes, deepen relationships, and slowly become part of the community rather than just a traveller passing through. That gradual sense of belonging is where Cosy Caravan feels most rewarding.

Cozy Outcome

Cozy Caravan is the embodiment of “it’s all about the journey, not the destination.” It can feel drawn out, and it absolutely requires patience, but that slowness is its defining charm. It’s not trying to overwhelm you or keep you constantly engaged.

It’s offering a quiet escape, one road at a time. If you’re willing to meet it at its pace, Cozy Caravan delivers a warm, thoughtful experience that sticks with you long after you’ve parked your caravan for the night.

Review: The Fortress

Saim Khurshid
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0
Review: The Fortress

With the PC launch now official, I can finally talk about this Dark fantasy dungeon crawler called The Fortress. 

Developed and published by Baryonyx Games alongside Stratos Gaming, the game is a modernised throwback that leans heavily into classic PC dungeon crawler design, both visually and mechanically.

At a glance, The Fortress immediately evokes older PC titles through its interface and art style. It opts for a darker, more restrained presentation, paired with turn-based mechanics and a strong focus on strategy rather than fast-paced action. The result is a dungeon crawler that feels intentionally unforgiving and designed around careful decision-making.

Protect the Fortress

You play as a nameless prisoner captured by a powerful Lich during his expansion wars. You are thrown into his fortress alongside other outcasts, left to rot in a place built on death and despair. With no past and no identity, your only goal is to survive long enough to escape.

Progression happens one room at a time as you move through the fortress, facing enemies and making choices that shape your run. Every decision matters, whether it happens in combat, through upgrades, or during interactions with other characters. The path forward is deliberately slow and methodical, reinforcing the game’s bleak tone.

Each run through The Fortress is procedurally generated, ensuring that no two attempts play out the same way. Paths shift, encounters change, and the fortress remains unpredictable, forcing players to adapt rather than rely on memorisation. This structure encourages repeated playthroughs while keeping tension high.

Options, Plans, Execution

Players can choose from nine different classes, each with their own abilities and strengths. Along the way, you can further customise your prisoner through upgrades, gear, and relics, allowing you to shape your playstyle over the course of a run. With hundreds of items available, builds can vary significantly from one attempt to the next.

Combat in The Fortress is turn-based and driven by dice rolls, blending strategy with risk. Planning is important, but outcomes are never fully guaranteed, which keeps encounters tense. Even well-prepared players can find themselves in trouble if luck turns against them, reinforcing the idea that survival is never certain.

The fortress is not only filled with monsters, but also with strange and unsettling characters. During your escape attempt, you may encounter vampire merchants, disgraced abbots, and other eerie figures who offer assistance. However, their help often comes at a cost, and not everyone can be trusted.

These interactions introduce another layer of choice. Forming alliances may provide short-term advantages, but betrayal is always a possibility. Deciding who to trust and when to walk away can have lasting consequences on your run.

Death is an expected part of the experience. When a prisoner falls, another takes their place, continuing the cycle and attempting to escape once again. Rather than ending progress entirely, failure feeds into the game’s structure, encouraging players to learn from past attempts and push a little further each time.

Lost in the Fortress

With its turn-based, dice-focused combat and emphasis on risk and strategy, The Fortress presents a challenging experience for players who enjoy methodical gameplay and unforgiving worlds. 

Those looking for a grim, old-school dungeon crawler with plenty of replayability will find plenty to dig into within the walls of the Fortress.

The Fortress offers a dark fantasy dungeon crawler that leans heavily into classic design sensibilities while embracing modern systems like procedural generation and choice-driven progression.

Each run feels unique, with shifting layouts, unexpected encounters, and branching decisions that shape your story. Players must carefully weigh every action. From combat choices to alliances, survival is never guaranteed in this unforgiving, gothic world.

Review: Saborus

Daniel Waite
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Review: Saborus

Saborus is a game that is creepy, uncomfortable, gruesome, and somewhat outrageous. This combination of elements shouldn’t really work, but boy, oh boy, does this game do a good job of combining its core ideas. If you love stealth horror games with an unusual twist, I suggest you keep on reading.

This stealth horror game was developed by High Room Studio and published by QUByte Interactive. It is a single-player, third-person game that combines logical thinking, stealth mechanics, and puzzle solving. Moreover, it has some tongue-in-cheek moments that make you shake your head in disbelief. However, at its core, it is creepy, horrific, and just a little cruel.

Saborus proves that KFC is not good for you.

I love animals, and I hate animal cruelty. Accordingly, whenever I buy meat, I have to get it sourced from my local butcher. I despise the thought of caged chickens, cramped sheep, and ill-treated cows. Sadly, Saborus highlights the unfair treatment of poultry for human consumption.

You play the role of a helpless chicken. This poor beast has escaped its shackles and now has one desire: to escape. This is easier said than done as the factory is a deadly maze of blades, locked doors, obstacles, and heartless humans. If the bird can somehow avoid these problems, they have plenty of puzzles to solve. As such, this isn’t the chicken’s lucky day, and getting your head hacked off is likely to be the outcome.

Brilliantly balanced.

Many horror games try and fail to incorporate an array of different genres and mechanics. Luckily, Saborus delivers an impressive game that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Whether it is a chase scene, the use of stealth, collecting items, hacking systems, or leaping chasms, the hero chicken gives it everything to survive.

The balance of challenge and unique mechanics works perfectly. Subsequently, no one section outstayed its welcome. Yes, I struggled at times, but this was a me issue, rather than a problem with the game. I also admit to having to use a walkthrough in some of the trickier moments. This made me feel dirty, but I didn’t want to attempt my review without saving the poor chicken.

Saborus is dark and sinister.

We all know that slaughterhouses are horrible places. However, Saborus takes it to the next level. The use of dark colours, shade, and tight spaces makes the game feel claustrophobic and uncomfortable. Moreover, I enjoyed the third-person perspective and how everything looked from the chicken’s point of view.

The audio is phenomenal. The use of music and silence creates an eerie and uncomfortable experience. Additionally, the footsteps of the humans, the clucking of the chicken, and the pitter-patter of claws on metal work perfectly. In short, this is filled with suspenseful moments that make your skin tingle.

The controls were questionable.

For all of its pros, the controls are probably the weakest point. The camera angles do not help with the platforming moments. However, it is the lack of definitive movement that makes it difficult to navigate each platform. This leads to frustration and death. Alongside this, it can be difficult to navigate the maze-like world as gaps are not always as big as they seem. This again causes death and guaranteed cursing.

Saborus wasn’t as long as I expected. If you are good at the genre, you can plough through the action in around 4 to 5 hours. However, if you want to search everywhere and absorb the atmosphere, you’ll enjoy around 8 hours. As such, it offers good value for money.

Saborus is a good horror title.

Horror and December/January don’t really go together. However, if you want a break from festivities and would like to test your resolve, this is one game that should be on your radar. Despite the short game time and the problematic controls, it excels in most areas. Accordingly, it is an uncomfortable and grim game, and I recommend buying it here! Can this chicken escape its fate? Keep your head down, avoid the humans, and prove that chicken’s lives matter.

Review: Project Motor Racing

Patrick Sullivan
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Review: Project Motor Racing

Straight4Studios have raced onto the scene with their newest racing simulator, Project Motor Racing. Showing off a wide range of classic and legendary cars, does this professional racing simulator win the race or is this one you need to steer clear of? Buckle up!

Vehicle Gameplay

Like I mentioned above, Project Motor Racing has a wide range of cars available. Over 70 in fact. From the Lamborghini Huracan to the Aston Martin, there is a lot of choice here for players. The cars also look amazing. Every car looks incredibly detailed and of course, sound great too. Top tier cars to low tier all look good. But then the gameplay begins and beauty is no longer important.

Every vehicle feels like they all run similar to each other. Even the high end cars, despite having better stats and should be more powerful, handle and drive like crap. No other way to put it. Changing cars seems to not matter as each one is the same. The best cars range from just decent to terrible. I feel like when I pick a better car, the stats should reflect the difference. This leads to the game becoming frustrating to play and makes races boring and repetitive. Feels like no matter what, you will not have a good time. I played on controller on the PS5 and I have seen some people say that the game is broken or a downgrade on controller as the game is better experienced on a wheel. If this is the case, it is hard to even recommend this game for those on console if they plan on using a controller due to how poorly the game plays. After a while, I did kind of get used to the poor handling of the cars but it was still a nightmare to play. And it gets worse.

Project Motor Racing PS5 Gameplay

Stop Hitting Me!

The A.I in this game reminds me of online players in GTA Online. Ramming you off the road every chance they get. Well, the A.I is somehow even more mean than those kinds of players. Every race or qualifier, they act as if you are not there. You may as well be a ghost haunting the tracks. They will smash you off the road every time. At first I found it funny. But after the 50th time, it was just annoying. Even more so when they hit you right off the track. Going off track in a qualifier can lead to your lap time not counting and in a race against the other fifteen racers, going off track leads to the game punishing you and forcing you to stay back a few seconds. The game punishes you for the A.I hitting you.

Countless times this happened which forced me to pause, restart and try again. It happens too often and will drive players nuts with how frustrating it is. I found myself restarting more races than actually participating.

Career Mode And Tracks

Project Motor Racing features many iconic tracks for players to race on. Some retain their real names while some are renamed but are identical to the real life locations. From Brianza (The Monza Circuit) to Circuit Zolder, there are many tracks to choose from. Now, the graphics of this game isn’t the best. Not exactly the worst ever but for next-gen, you would expect more. Some of the tracks can look bland but there are plenty of them to enjoy. Won’t save you from the gameplay but I need to give some credit here and there.

There is also a career mode. Players will have the chance to start their own racing career and compete in the top competitions to move up in the racing world. One of the best parts of career mode is the ability to choose which sponsors you want. This affects pay-outs from races. Some give you a lot, some less, others 50-50. Choosing the right one is important. You can also choose a budget to work with. The money can be used to purchase cars and entry-fees for competitions. If you want to play in the top tournaments, you need to be prepared to spend the most money. Or, you can go for the lower tournaments for cheap entry-fees and work your way up. A cool idea and gives players lots of freedom.

A Dead Multiplayer

Just a quick mention that this game does have an online mode. Players can play ranked or custom lobby. Ranked is for those who wish to play competitively and rise the ranks. Before doing this, players must complete a race in a certain amount of time to obtain their beginner licence. After obtaining it, they will be placed in their skill pool. Custom lobby is a more casual mode and players can join other player’s custom lobbies. Unfortunately, when I went on I only found a small few servers and the most players in one was seven. Just seven players in an online mode that can hold up to 32 players, which is more than double the racer count the single-player offers. The online community seems to be very small at the moment which is worrying if you plan on playing this game for online.

Verdict

Project Motor Racing is not a good game. The frustrating vehicle gameplay, the violent A.I that comes to make your life a living hell and the fact the game punishes you for its own mistakes, really bring this game down. It isn’t fun to play and the online mode is evident that a lot of people don’t care about this game. Despite having nice looking cars, tracks based off of iconic locations and a career mode that does offer lots of freedom, it doesn’t make up for the poor gameplay. This is one race simulator you need to steer clear of.

Review: Legends BMX

Daniel Waite
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Review: Legends BMX

Legends BMX should have been an exciting game that I couldn’t stop playing. Instead, I found it to be too shallow, limited, and a little dull. This was unfortunate as it has plenty of potential. The developers have incorporated a fun trick system and an array of enjoyable arenas to navigate. However, everything feels bland, and the action suffers as a consequence.

Saga Legends Dev and Firenut Games have developed this simple riding simulation. Furthermore, the action can only be enjoyed alone. This drawback was overcome with a global leaderboard. However, I’d have loved to share the streets with friends and strangers. Sadly, this wasn’t to be, as you are left to your own devices.

Become a champion in Legends BMX.

Legends BMX does little to add depth or a plot to its approach. Instead, it wants you to enjoy the freedom of the skating world. Losing yourself in your tricks and riding freely is the name of the game. This lack of guidance was a little disconcerting. However, I enjoyed pulling off grinds, flips, and other tricks.

Gamers are asked to experiment as much as they can in each skatepark. You may pull off a combination of grinds, flips, and manual floorwork. As long as you keep things clean and land every trick, you’ll increase your score and become a modern-day legend.

Trick lines.

Hitting high scores and completing weekly tasks are the name of the game. Legends BMX has a fresh roster of tasks for gamers to complete. This was great as it adds a focal point to an otherwise free-flowing game. Alongside this, you must top the leaderboard to show your skills and prowess to global players.

As you flip, grind, and manual your way across each park, your score will multiply. However, some caution is needed as a minor error can undermine your top score. Consequently, you must learn when to quit if you want to achieve the highest score.

Legends BMX lacks realism.

Unlike other games in this category, Legends BMX has a cartoon edge. This wasn’t an issue, but it undermines realism. If you consider Tony Hawk, Skate, or any other serious skating franchise, they all have a sense of realism. This slight sideways step will impact gamers’ desire to play it.

Unlike the cartoon visuals, the audio has a slightly more realistic tone. The sound of your wheels on concrete and the noise of the metal on metal as you grind was fantastic. Furthermore, there is that uncomfortable moment when you inevitably crash and lose your streak. The audio was probably the best element of the game, and the other core layers should have followed suit.

Interesting controls.

Legends BMX is an easy game to pick up and play. However, mastering it and getting the timing correct is a different matter. Although there is a decent tutorial and the core mechanics are relatively basic, you will make mistakes. This could lead to frustration, but every tumble and lost streak is a learning opportunity. Consequently, if you can take the rough with the smooth, you’ll enjoy the fair and balanced learning curve.

Replay value and longevity are questionable. In theory, this could keep you playing for hours. However, the lack of content makes it feel like a demo. Additionally, things become repetitive, which was disappointing.

Legends BMX is fun but not great.

If you want a casual game to distract you, Legends BMX will do just that. However, if you want something to get your teeth into, this falls short of the mark. Although I enjoyed it, I was left wanting much more. As such, I tentatively recommend buying it here! Can you top every leaderboard? Complete your weekly tasks, string together your tricks, and become a master of the skate park!

Review: MoveMaster hybrid joystick

Daniel Waite
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Review: MoveMaster hybrid joystick

The MoveMaster hybrid joystick proves that traditional gaming is evolving. This unusual device blends accurate movement with macro customisation. Alongside this, it has a modular approach, and the buttons can be adjusted to match your needs. In short, this unusual device is ideal if you want to breakaway from familiar gaming constructs.

Designed primarily for gaming, this hybrid peripheral works extremely well with FPS, MMO, and RTS titles. However, I can’t see why it wouldn’t be a hit with every genre going. Alternatively, if you use your PC or laptop for editing, this accurate device will be suitable for that task as well.

This review does come with a word of warning! Don’t expect to install this unusual item and be as good at a game immediately. It takes practice and an adjustment of muscle memory before things really click. Yet, once your body is accustomed to the free-flowing style and well-placed buttons, you feel more in tune with the action. Therefore, the MoveMaster hybrid joystick can improve your gaming experience considerably.

What’s in the box of the MoveMaster hybrid joystick?

  • The packaging is sleek, professional, and eye-catching. Furthermore, everything is well-packaged, and there is no chance the joystick will get damaged in transit.
  • The MoveMaster hybrid joystick is a hefty piece of kit. This isn’t a complaint, as the build quality is out of this world. Moreover, each adjustable part is durable and a joy to handle. 
  • A spacer is provided if you have larger hands. 
  • Learn the basics with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

The MoveMaster hybrid joystick is aimed at a niche audience, and this group of gamers knows what it wants! Responsive inputs, accurate movement, a comfortable design, easy-to-use software, and exceptional build quality. It’ll probably be easier for me to say that it ticks every box. However, it wouldn’t be much of a review if I left it there. Subsequently, let’s break down my thoughts.

This controller has an in-built braided cable and 2 spare USB-A ports. This wired-only design may annoy wireless-loving gamers, but I appreciated the lack of battery and the ultra-low latency. Each of the switches can be adjusted for comfort, accuracy, and speed. This custom approach was a little strange at first, but once my hands adjusted to the controller, it quickly became second nature.

I was sent the left-hand joystick and right-hand mouse option. This was lucky as I’d have struggled otherwise. If you are left-handed, make sure you select the correct option at checkout. Once you are set up, you can move your keyboard to one side as it is no longer needed. This is ideal if you want to remove unwanted distractions while optimising your gaming experience.

Gamers of technical RTS or MMO titles will benefit in particular, as macros, key shortcuts, and other essential elements can be mapped to each of the 10 keys. Alternatively, you can invest in a Button Commander to enhance your options further.

The software.

The MoveMaster hybrid joystick excels because of its exceptional software. This free-to-download program lets users create an array of profiles for every game they play. The simple imagery, easy-to-adjust buttons, and intuitive design let users create the correct settings for every game they play. Once a profile is selected, the joystick instantly reacts to the new mapping.

I have used other MMO gaming mice, and the programming wasn’t anywhere near as easy or as straightforward as this device. Piano build inputs become a nightmare, and adjusting the most minor of details creates a stressful environment. Thankfully, these negatives never materialised with this joystick. Whether it is the WASD of the moveable joystick or the mapping of each button, this peripheral felt like a joy to use.

Build quality.

This might be the first time that you’ve heard about this product and this brand. I must admit, I only came across them by pure chance. However, this German-based company do not do things by halves. Everything about the MoveMaster hybrid joystick is impressive! The combination of high-grade materials makes this an extremely desirable piece. A stainless steel base and rubberised feet ensure that it is stable during gaming sessions.

On top of this, the hardened plastic joystick will move smoothly through every navigated movement. This responsive controller adds phenomenal accuracy to any game you are playing. When combined with a gaming mouse, the results are incredible. The outcome is buttery smooth strafing and dodging during hectic FPS sessions. 

We all love mechanical keyboards. However, the clacky sound can become a little annoying. Luckily, this uses Cherry MX Silent Switches to reduce noise but not accuracy and durability. Therefore, you get a familiar and durable controller that doesn’t drive you insane during marathon sessions.

Is the MoveMaster hybrid joystick worth it?

Getting used to the MoveMaster hybrid joystick wasn’t a walk in the park. My brain was focusing on keyboard inputs, and the smooth nature of the joystick felt alien. However, I’m glad I pushed through and kept practising. Once I got my head around the madness, I came to appreciate the freedom and accuracy this device offers. Moreover, the software is incredibly easy to use, making it simple to switch between profiles. Accordingly, it is an amazing product, and I recommend getting yours here!

(More information on MoveMaster can be found here!)

The MoveMaster hybrid joystick has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Street Racer Collection

Daniel Waite
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Review: Street Racer Collection

The Street Racer Collection (QUByte Classics) is nostalgia personified! This collection of dated racing games will bring a smile to fans of the genre and retro gaming. However, despite the massive walk down memory lane and the joy this gave me, I found the modern experience to be a little frustrating. The UI isn’t great, and the loading times are borderline woeful. Yet, I’m a sucker for old-school action, and I pretty much forgave this collection for many of its shortcomings.

QUByte Interactive has published and developed this dated racing game. It combines fast-paced racing with the brawling elements of a fighting game. The outcome is a hard-hitting title that is silly, competitive, and unbelievably addictive. It must be the arcade mindset that makes this tough to put down, because I played it for hours. 

Street Racer Collection offers 4 classic moments.

If you love retro gaming, Street Racer Collection will appeal to you. This modern collection delivers 4 unique looks at this racing classic. Gamers will enjoy the SNES,Mega Drive, MS-DOS, and Game Boy versions of the game. Each of them leans heavily on the original mechanics and core ideas. As such, it reeks of dated gameplay, and that was fine by me.

Gamers can enjoy an array of game modes. Whether it is a Practice, Championship, Head-to-head, Rumble mode, or Soccer mode, there is something for everyone. I liked that this didn’t rely solely on racing, and although I was terrible at the latter two options, it was a nice distraction.

A little sluggish.

Sadly, Street Racer Collection is a little sluggish by modern standards. The cars, animation, and general gameplay haven’t aged particularly well. This was unfortunate, but many players will forgive this shortcoming. If you are new to the franchise, you’ll probably wonder what all the fuss is about. Whereas lovers of the series will admire the ability to play it on modern machines.

As a fan of this series, I could ignore many of the poor elements. However, from a neutral perspective, this should have been much better. Street Racer Collection doesn’t capture your attention as much as other games from the era. Furthermore, I found my attention fading after a few races. Subsequently, I had to play this casually to get the best out of it.

Street Racer Collection retains its old-school appeal.

The developer has carefully revisited this old-school title. The result is a direct representation of each unique platform. I found the MS-DOS version to be challenging to play on a large screen. However, when played on small devices, it worked much better. As you progress through the platforms to more modern systems, the game performs well on Xbox. Although the performance was okay, the visuals were strongly pixelated, garish, and uncomfortable to look at. As such, it is a little rough around the edges.

The audio combines synth music with ear-splitting sound effects. Alongside this, it does a nice job of replicating the original soundscapes. This may be a little shrill for some gamers, but I like the trip down memory lane.

Ropey controls.

I found the controls to be very sensitive and tough to handle. Once I got used to the technicalities, the racing was enjoyable. However, Street Racer Collection does demand a regression in gaming standards if you wish to win every race.

Replay value and longevity are questionable. Unfortunately, this will only appeal to hardcore fans of the franchise and genre. If you are neither, you’ll enjoy this in short, sharp bursts. I sit somewhere in between and will return to it for a casual and retro racing hit.

Street Racer Collection won’t blow you away.

I enjoyed my time with Street Racer Collection, but it could have been much better. The controls weren’t great, and the visuals are understandably rough and basic. Alongside this, it’ll only appeal to a niche audience. Accordingly, it is good, but it could have been much better. Despite my complaints, it is good enough to recommend buying here! Can you master each race and win? Take to the track, learn every circuit, and take home the crown.

Review: Bail Force Cyberpunk Bounty Hunters

Luke Hedingham
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Review: Bail Force Cyberpunk Bounty Hunters

You’d have to travel all the way back to 1977 to when the first side-scroller Canyon Bomber was released by SEGA. Playable at arcades you took control of a plane, dropping bombs in a canyon to destroy targets. Fairly simple gameplay as one would expect from a game released nearly fifty years ago, despite that though it still brought a lot of excitement and joy to kids back then even if compared to today’s standards of games most would find it boring.

I find a lot of beauty in modern games which use core mechanics similar to retro titles and choose to stray away from the usual 3D flashy games we see plastered all over the internet. Not because they only give us nostalgia, but for those who grew up in the early 2000’s such as myself, it gives us a chance to at least experience and feel what the past generation felt when they booted up their Atari or Sega Mega Drive to play a 2D title. Whilst they can’t perfectly capture the 70-90’s like experience because, well, it’s quite literally impossible, it still gives us glimmers of what they were like.

There’s a reason why even in 2026 games like those are still being made, they’re enjoyable, popular, and well-loved, especially for those who can appreciate the detailed and meticulous design which goes into them.

Bail Force Cyberpunk Bounty Hunters is the latest of the retro-inspired titles to be released, set in a dystopian society where you choose to play as one of two bounty hunters Angel and Lea, each have their own different motives though their paths fatefully cross as they battle cybernetic enforcers and elite criminals who inflict chaos upon the world.

Whilst it wasn’t one of the best and most engaging retro-inspired titles I’ve played, I still had my fair share of fun fighting my way through the linear designed levels.

Simplicity was ultimately its downfall

Now there’s absolutely nothing wrong with simple games, ones that don’t have you confused, frustrated or wanting to return to the title screen as quickly as possible. They may be straightforward, but you can sink your teeth right into them and just experience them without having to forcefully endure a cut scene or a tutorial.

Bail Force: Cyberpunk Bounty Hunters exactly fits that description, it was a fairly basic and short game only taking me around six hours to beat. The story was just okay and lacked any real depth, along with pretty much everything else but that’s not necessarily a bad thing, after all, sometimes simple games can turn out to be great ones.

Whilst it certainly wasn’t that it was still quite a fun game, with all of the enjoyment coming from the combat which isn’t surprising really since it was what the whole game was built around anyway. Despite that though there actually wasn’t much variety in terms of characters and weapons which did make the combat quite repetitive, they were only two playable characters to choose from and not a wide range of weapons either, which as you can imagine got boring rather quickly.

When games face this issue, they more times than not make up for it by ensuring it’s engaging in a way which keeps players coming back, but in Bail Force: Cyberpunk Bounty Hunter’s case it ultimately missed that spark to make it good enough for me to remember after a week.

Beware of the fully aware enemy AI who are actually competent

For a lot of things this game didn’t achieve, there was something I have to praise it for which was their efficient use of the Enemy AI. They adapted to your playstyle over time which I found rather interesting and refreshing.

They analyze your preferred fighting style and then adapt. I played as Lea for the most part and guns were her main weapon, so obviously I attacked from long-range and kept my distance whenever possible which quite frankly made killing enemies a lot easier which in turn did make it a bit boring. However the enemies noticed my strategy and proceeded to close the distance and try to overwhelm me, most times I would just dash through them and not take any damage since it made you invincible, then make distance and return to my preferred fighting style.

I was still able to defeat most of them without losing a lot of health, but there were also some times where I found myself overwhelmed or even dying due to this. The bosses were a completely different story though, they repeated the same attacks regardless of your playstyle and didn’t really need to adapt.

Needless to say it was a refreshing mechanic and made the combat a bit more challenging which I think was something that was much needed.

It’s worth noting that I played this on early access so I came across a few bugs/glitches, I came across a specific one which made me fall out of the map a few times and not able to return to the surface, which resulted in me having to close the game and start over from my last checkpoint. Luckily though it only happened a few times and didn’t really affect my experience and overall thoughts on it.

  

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