Review: I Am Your President

Daniel Waite
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Review: I Am Your President

I Am Your President is a satirical title that tries to make light of American politics. Additionally, it allows you to take the seat of the “most powerful job on Earth”. As such, you’d think there would be some tactical elements and a pinch of logical thinking. Instead, you are overwhelmed with never-ending dialogue and some pretty clunky controls. Accordingly, it was a bit of a mess even though I laughed throughout.

This simulation title was developed and published by Ultimate Games. Furthermore, it is a solo experience that is played out from a first-person perspective. There are layers of statistics to get your head around and plenty of ways to influence your term as President. Yet, I found much of the action to be confusing and many of the core elements were poorly explained. Even with some trial and error, I struggled and this frustrated me repeatedly.

I Am Your President has branching storylines.

I’m not an expert in American politics. Consequently, the whole Republican and Democratic Party divide is alien to me. What’s more, the heavily laced political in-jokes and nods to recent agendas were lost on me. Yet, I’m not sure if this mattered too much as you may select your agenda, political party, and goals from beginning to end. I liked this as it was a gentle learning curve that wasn’t too overwhelming. However, if you have an understanding of what happens over the pond, you’ll probably appreciate this more than I did.

The action focuses on your term as the President of the United States of America. During your first or second term, you must set the agenda and work with different members of staff to make each element work. However, this is easier said than done as you have to work through mountains of dialogue and plenty of paperwork. Moreover, there was a problem with the overworld map that prevented you from seeing all the information. This was disappointing as this led to plenty of guesswork and many failed opportunities.

So many choices.

The gameplay flows from one moment to another without respite. Consequently, you must spin many plates if you wish to be a success. As each member of staff proposes a new idea, you must contemplate how it’ll impact your stats and the aims of your term. Sadly, you can not always appease every person and must make some difficult decisions. Whether this is going to war, signing a challenging bill, or aiming to become the most powerful country in the world, it isn’t easy.

As you make decisions, you’ll improve your popularity and increase your influence. Alternatively, bad decisions will hit your numbers and make you extremely unpopular. Either way, you have to balance the books whilst attempting to keep to your pledges. Unsurprisingly, the game throws in some curveballs that muck things up. Yet, at times, the massive political scandals have almost no impact and this was surprising. This lack of realism undermines much of the action and left me feeling confused about I Am Your President’s overall aim.

I Am Your President has an unusual style.

I Am Your President reminded me of a Monty Python sketch. The strange cardboard cutout characters and the weird facial expressions create a cold and almost emotionless atmosphere. Every time a member of staff marches into your office, they walk with a stiff and uncomfortable strut. Moreover, they stand with a gormless look on their faces that doesn’t match the severity of the message they are delivering. Though I found this to be strange, it worked particularly well. My biggest complaint is the ridiculous UI. The map is tough to navigate, and the text doesn’t fit the display. Subsequently, you missed key information and that wasn’t acceptable.

As expected, the audio has outlandish moments that match the American theme. Yet, this rarely takes away from the numerous issues on display. Furthermore, the basic sound effects are suitable, but they rarely add to the action. As such, though it delivered what was expected, it did not blow me away.

Poor controls.

This was originally a PC-only title. Having been ported to console, I expected the developer to deliver smooth and responsive controls. However, sadly, they are often clunky and this makes the UI tough to navigate. This was maddening as I wanted the gameplay to flow nicely. Instead, the immersion is often broken as you struggle to move from each key element.

In theory, I Am Your President has plenty of replay value. Yet, the aforementioned issues hold it back. Consequently, I struggled to work through my 2nd term and this annoyed me. This was a shame, as I love a satirical approach. Disappointingly, the amusing elements are often marred by the non-stop negative moments.

I Am Your President should have been much better.

Though I liked the idea, much of the execution was poor. Unfortunately, I Am Your President misses the mark on several layers. The UI is appalling and this undermines much of the action. Furthermore, the controls are woeful, and I found it to be too confusing to be enjoyable. For these reasons, I don’t recommend buying it. However, more information can be found here! Can you successfully run the most powerful seat in the world? Choose your party, pick your goals, and make it to a second term.

Review: B Project Ryusei Fantasia

Dawid Wisniewski
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Review: B Project Ryusei Fantasia

“B Project Ryusei Fantasia,” a visual novel that places players in the role of an A&R representative managing a thriving with personality idol group of 14 boys. This game shines with its vibrant visuals, engaging storyline, and dynamic character interactions, offering a thoroughly immersive experience even for those who might not typically gravitate towards visual novels, like myself.

Immersive Narrative

The narrative of “B Project” centres around your character, an enthusiastic A&R representative tasked with propelling a new idol group, B-Project, to stardom. The game plunges you into the bustling, high-stakes world of the Japanese music industry. Where you’ll navigate through challenges, make critical decisions, and build meaningful relationships with each member of the group. The colourful, detailed settings—from recording studios and concert halls to cosy cafes and bustling city streets—add depth to the experience, making the journey as visually stimulating as it is narratively engaging. There are so many wildly different personalities in B project that a deep connection with a few of them is guaranteed for any player.

These visuals are why we have auto play

One of the most striking aspects of B Project Ryusei Fantasia” is its visual presentation. The game is a feast for the eyes, popping with bright colours and beautifully crafted character designs. Each idol is meticulously drawn, with distinct features and fashion styles that reflect their unique personalities. The backgrounds are equally impressive, capturing the essence of various locales with vivid detail. This visual richness not only makes the game a pleasure to look at but also enhances the storytelling by creating an immersive environment that players can lose themselves in.

A visual novel for fans and newcomers alike

Despite not being a typical visual novel enthusiast, I found myself deeply immersed in the decision-making process that “B Project Ryusei Fantasia” offers. The game excels in providing players with meaningful choices that influence the story’s direction and the development of relationships with the idols. There are two primary endings, but the journey to each can vary significantly based on your interactions and management style. This branching narrative encourages replayability, as each playthrough can offer a different experience depending on the paths you choose.

Managing the B-Project group involves a series of interactions with all 14 boys, each with their own distinct personalities and backstories. From face-to-face meetings to phone calls and text messages, every decision you make impacts the group’s dynamics and individual character arcs. This level of interaction makes the game feel alive, as your choices have tangible effects on the story and characters.

14 likeable personalities

The heart of “B Project Ryusei Fantasia” lies in its characters. Each one of the idols is well-developed, with unique traits, aspirations, and personal challenges for you to engage with. Whether it’s the confident leader, the shy newcomer, or the rebellious artist, the diversity in personalities ensures that players will find themselves gravitating towards certain characters more than others. This natural selection process adds a layer of personalization to the gameplay, as the idols you spend the most time with will shape your overall experience and influence the story’s outcome.

Final thoughts

“B Project Ryusei Fantasia” is a standout visual novel that transcends the genre’s typical boundaries. Its vibrant visuals, compelling story, and intricate character interactions create an experience that is both entertaining and emotionally engaging. For those who enjoy narrative-driven games, this title offers a rich tapestry of choices and consequences that make each playthrough unique. Even if visual novels aren’t usually your style, “B Project” is worth exploring for its captivating depiction of the idol industry and the meaningful relationships it fosters. Whether you’re a fan of the genre or a newcomer, this game has something special to offer.

B project Ryusei Fantasia has been released to the western audience, July 15th 2024 and is available on Microsoft windows, Nintendo switch and Android devices.

Review: The Last Alchemist

Saim Khurshid
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0
Review: The Last Alchemist

The Last Alchemist is a 3D-isometric farming and alchemy simulator with story-driven and complex gameplay.

Going in, I was not expecting such a heavy game, and I am not just talking about the constant drop in frames. For better or worse, The Last Alchemist truly has a lot to say.

The Last Farmer

The farming side of The Alchemist is fairly basic as most games go. You go out and scavenge resources, then come back to grow them in your mansion. As it sounds, the goal here is to find seeds for required resources and ultimately create a semi-automated factory for yourself.

You have a few tools at your disposal, like the axe and the looking glass. You need to look through the looking glass to search for items and break down the ones you need with the axe.

The Last Alchemist

And now here’s where things get interesting. When you get a resource or a collection of resources, you can put them in a machine that will extract their essence and leave them as nothing more than chemical formulas in the form of liquid in a bottle. Now that I think about it, we were just juicing those things.

This juice is then used either by itself or by another machine, combining with other juices to create concoctions that are then either used to add to other machines or make tools, basically just creating anything to make your life more efficient. It is quite insane to look at.

The Last Alchemy Story 

The plot of 3D-isometric The Last Alchemy is where it really shines. You play as an old man titled The Last Alchemist. If his name was ever mentioned, I must have missed it.

After a plague killed everyone in his village, he left to find a cure for them and himself. Ultimately, he failed and decided that he would never go back.

But when he lost his own leg due to illness and was dying, he decided to return to his old master, Sindivogius, to find a cure.

To his dismay, the master had died of the disease himself.

Our MC decided to use his master’s machines to try and create a cure but ended up causing an explosion that blew the entire castle to the ground.

When he woke up, he found himself in the care of creatures called the Enoki and their leader Agari… or they are the Agari, and their leader is called Enoki.

Whatever the case, we must now use the help of these creatures to fix the castle and find a cure for our disease before it kills us. It is all thrilling stuff and worth going through the complex story.

Of course, The Last Alchemist isn’t all perfection.

Alchemy is Not all rainbows and Sunshine.

There is a system where, when you want to create something or get a machine to do something, you have to wait for the process with a timer overhead. Sometimes, this takes a few minutes and is very annoying, especially when you don’t have any other tasks to do and just wait.

The camera is really bad at behaving, and it gets annoying when you have to walk long distances just to look at something, when a camera tilt could have been really helpful over the 3D-isometric feeling.

Finally, putting items into your inventory is very annoying. You either carry them automatically or do it manually. The automatic feature always ends up making you pick things you don’t want, while the other method has you use your cursor to slowly pick things up and drag them to the inventory box.

Putting things out or managing them in the inventory is even worse. You have to drag them from side to side, and if you go too fast, they will lock back into place.

Worth the curve

Despite its flaws, The Last Alchemist offers a unique blend of farming, alchemy, and storytelling that keeps you engaged.

The complex 3D-isometric gameplay and intriguing plot make it worth the effort, even with the occasional frustration with the alchemy and Farming. If you can handle the quirks, you’ll find a rewarding experience that stands out in the genre.

Review: PowerWash Simulator: Alice’s Adventures

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: PowerWash Simulator: Alice’s Adventures

PowerWash Simulator: Alice’s Adventures is the latest addition to the crazy and often eclectic PowerWash franchise. This relaxing and rewarding title allows gamers the freedom of some psychedelic and weird arenas. Furthermore, you can play this alone or ask up to 5 friends to join you as you clean some whacky environments. Like the other DLC titles, you get a smattering of stages to enjoy. However, each one is massive and cleaning them thoroughly is no easy task.

This simulation game was developed by FuturLab Limited and published by Square Enix. Moreover, it sticks to tried and tested mechanics and fans of the base game or other DLC content will have a whale of a time. Yet, if you are new to this title, you needn’t worry. Thankfully, a thorough tutorial and excellent controller layout help you to cut through the red tape and get up and running quickly.

PowerWash Simulator: Alice’s Adventures tells a limited tale.

Though Alice in Wonderland is a crazy acid trip with a thrilling and twisty tale, PowerWash Simulator: Alice’s Adventures doesn’t follow suit. Instead, you are introduced to titbits of lore and information to build up an interesting foundation. Now, this isn’t a complaint, as I’d be surprised to find any sort of plot. Instead, I enjoyed the minor story elements and the incredible settings.

The gameplay revolves around 5 monstrous stages. Each level captures the essence of the theme and you’ll enjoy cleaning each arena. You flit from the White Rabbit’s house to the caterpillar’s mushroom. On top of this, you can enjoy a cuppa with the Mad Hatter or witness the cruel nature of the Queen of Hearts. Each scenario is unique and if you are familiar with the book, you’ll adore the Easter Eggs you’ll discover.

Standard mechanics.

Though the levels are striking and interesting to explore, the mechanics tread familiar ground. Your cleaning hero is armed with a pressure washer and a handful of nozzles. Each tool must be used to clean an array of surfaces. At first, the level is covered with grime and dirt as far as the eye can see. Yet, as you let your pressure washer go to work, the true nature of each world comes to light.

I loved this element of discovery and the relaxing gameplay. Though many of the structures are often overbearing, it is fascinating to see the dirt disappear. Additionally, there is a knack for finding every last ounce of dirt. Subsequently, you must remain calm and work methodically if you wish to succeed.

PowerWash Simulator: Alice’s Adventures is a vivid experience.

Having played the Spongebob DLC, I didn’t expect the developer to create another outlandish and crazy DLC. However, I was wrong as PowerWash Simulator: Alice’s Adventures is a vivid and psychedelic experience. The bright colours and strange landmarks capture your attention. Furthermore, the larger-than-life items play with your mind. I cherished the layers of detail and particularly enjoyed the caterpillar stage. The enormous mushroom was paired with plenty of tiny layers. Moreover, the eye-watering colours only add to the madness that unfolds.

Sadly, the same can’t be said for the audio. There is a lack of background music and this was disappointing. Instead, you are met with a wall of water noises that will drive you crazy. What’s more, you occasionally hear some skittish and strange noises that enhance the fantasy layers. However, these moments are few and far between and that is unfortunate.

Spectacular controls.

Where this excels is its user-friendly approach. No matter your ability or level of skill, you will master this in no time. Each level opens with an explanation of the controller layout, and you are free to take as long as you like to complete every level. Consequently, this relaxed approach allows you to take in every sight without a sense of pressure.

This laid-back idea was great. Yet, there is unfortunately a lack of replay value and longevity. If you tackle this as a solo gamer, you will invest plenty of time in getting it finished. But if you team up with your friends, you will nail it in no time at all. Thankfully, there are some hidden achievements if that is your thing and this will pad things out slightly.

PowerWash Simulator: Alice’s Adventures is a great addition to the franchise.

Though it isn’t long enough, I still believe that PowerWash Simulator: Alice’s Adventures is great value for money. If you love the franchise or the book/film, then this is a must-have title. Moreover, I adore the relaxing gameplay and how easy it is to play. Additionally, the vivid graphics and wonderful stage layout are eye-catching. Accordingly, this is a great DLC and I recommend buying it here! Can you clean every ounce of dirt? Grab your machine, gather your friends, and get to work.

Lucky Green Casino: Maximizing Wins with Comps and Reward Programs

Andrew Edney
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0
Lucky Green Casino: Maximizing Wins with Comps and Reward Programs

The world of online casinos is fiercely competitive, with operators vying for player loyalty. Lucky Green Casino stands out by offering robust comps and reward programs designed to enhance the gaming experience and maximize player wins. Understanding these programs can significantly boost your chances of success at online casino Lucky Green.

Understanding Comps and Reward Programs

Comps, short for complimentary items or services, are rewards given by casinos to encourage continued play. In online casinos, these rewards can range from free spins and bonus cash to exclusive event invitations. Lucky Green Casino has developed a comprehensive rewards program to ensure that players receive maximum value for their time and money. These programs are designed to retain players by offering consistent value and exciting incentives.

Key Components of Lucky Green’s Reward Program

Lucky Green Casino’s reward program is multifaceted, offering various incentives to keep players engaged. Here are the main components:

  1. Welcome Bonuses: New players are greeted with generous welcome bonuses, including match deposits and free spins, providing a strong start to their gaming journey.
  2. Loyalty Points: Players earn points for every wager made, which can be redeemed for cash or other rewards, ensuring every bet counts.
  3. VIP Program: High rollers and frequent players can enjoy exclusive perks, such as personalized account management and special bonuses tailored to their play style.
  4. Regular Promotions: Weekly and monthly promotions offer additional opportunities to earn rewards and bonuses, keeping the gaming experience fresh and exciting.

These components work together to create a rewarding experience for all players, regardless of their level of play. By participating in these programs, players can significantly enhance their overall gaming experience at Lucky Green Casino.

Benefits of Participating in Reward Programs

Engaging in comps and reward programs at Lucky Green Casino offers several benefits. These programs are designed to add value and enhance the player’s overall experience.

  • Increased Value: Players get more value for their deposits through bonuses and rewards, maximizing their investment.
  • Extended Playtime: Bonuses and free spins provide additional opportunities to play without extra cost, allowing players to explore more games.
  • Exclusive Access: VIP members receive access to exclusive events and promotions, enhancing their gaming experience and making them feel valued.
  • Higher Winnings: By utilizing rewards, players can increase their chances of winning without additional expenditure, optimizing their gameplay.

Participating in these programs can lead to a more enjoyable and potentially profitable gaming experience. Players who take full advantage of these programs can see significant improvements in their gaming results.

How to Maximize Rewards at Lucky Green Casino

Maximizing rewards at Lucky Green Casino requires a strategic approach. Here are some tips to help players get the most out of the rewards programs:

  1. Take Advantage of Welcome Bonuses: Ensure you claim the full value of welcome bonuses by understanding the terms and conditions, giving you a solid foundation.
  2. Accumulate Loyalty Points: Make regular wagers to accumulate points quickly and redeem them for valuable rewards, turning every bet into potential cash.
  3. Participate in Promotions: Regularly check for new promotions and take part to boost your rewards and stay updated with the latest offers.
  4. Join the VIP Program: If you’re a frequent player, aim to join the VIP program for enhanced benefits and exclusive perks.

By following these strategies, players can maximize their rewards and enjoy a more enriched gaming experience at Lucky Green Casino.

Example Reward Programs at Lucky Green Casino

To illustrate the potential benefits, here are some specific reward programs available at Lucky Green Casino:

ProgramDescriptionBenefits
Welcome BonusMatch deposit and free spinsExtra funds to play with, more chances to win
Loyalty PointsEarn points for every wagerRedeem points for cash or other rewards
VIP ProgramExclusive perks for high rollersPersonalized services, special bonuses
Monthly PromotionsRegularly updated promotions offering various rewardsExtra opportunities to earn and save

These programs are designed to enhance the player experience, offering substantial benefits for those who participate actively. By engaging with these programs, players can significantly improve their chances of winning and overall enjoyment.

Additional Tips for Players

Maximizing your rewards and comps at Lucky Green Casino goes beyond just participating in the programs. Here are a few additional tips to consider:

  • Stay Informed: Regularly check the casino’s website or subscribe to their newsletter for updates on new promotions and changes to the reward program. Staying informed ensures you never miss out on valuable opportunities.
  • Understand Wagering Requirements: Be aware of the wagering requirements attached to bonuses to make the most out of them and avoid any surprises.
  • Budget Wisely: Set a budget for your gambling activities and stick to it, ensuring you play responsibly while maximizing your rewards.

Lucky Green Casino also offers special promotions and seasonal offers that can provide additional value. These promotions are often time-limited and can include holiday-themed bonuses, exclusive tournaments, and limited-time deposit matches. By keeping an eye on these offers, players can take advantage of extra rewards and enhance their gaming sessions during special events.

The Importance of Responsible Gambling

While maximizing rewards is important, Lucky Green Casino also emphasizes responsible gambling. The casino provides tools and resources to help players manage their gaming activities, such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and access to support services. Ensuring a balanced approach to gambling helps players enjoy their experience without negative consequences.

Conclusion

Comps and reward programs are essential components of the online gambling experience, providing players with additional value and enhancing their chances of success. Lucky Green Casino excels in offering comprehensive and rewarding programs that cater to both new and seasoned players. By understanding and strategically participating in these programs, players can significantly boost their gaming experience and maximize their wins. Explore the exciting opportunities at Lucky Green Casino and take advantage of the myriad rewards on offer.

Review: Bloodhound

Mani Naghshbandi
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0
Review: Bloodhound

The first person shooter genre has always been one of the most popular video game genres, and in recent years its popularity has increased more than before, and every year a large number of games are released in this genre, some of which are very successful and some fail, but those that are successful attract the attention of the players, and developers get great opportunities to reach the peak of success, and this is due to the large number of fans of this genre.


FPS sub-genres are also very popular and each has its fans, Bloodhound falls under the boomer shooter sub-genre and one of the most famous examples for this sub-genre is the doom series.


When a game is released, everyone compares it to the biggest games of the same genre, and this is inevitable, but if all the small games made by independent, low-budget, small studios fail, then how are many of these games successful? And the answer is innovation and creativity, a game like Bloodhound doesn’t have to be bigger than doom, but it has to have interesting innovation to keep it from being compared to other big and popular games.

STORY

The story begins with comic-like pictures, a motorcycle rider whose face is not clear and hidden under his hood attacks several people who seem to be a satanic cult, the sound of a fight is played, and shows a fight in comic-like pictures, the motorcycle rider kills all of them, and puts the ring on the table in his finger, and then a force is released from it and a portal opens from which an evil creature comes out and he defeats the creature too, then He picks up the map on the table and heads to a marker on the map, and he starts his/her search for Astaroth.


Astaroth wants to open the gates of hell and your character as a member of the keepers of the gates must stop her.
The beginning of the story has no dialogue and only gives you this information, and nothing much is added to it until the end of the game, and the story is very general and there is no focus on the story, it is not attractive at all and has no surprises.

GAMEPLAY

At first, I only had a revolver and a machete, but it didn’t take long to find a shotgun and I used that most of the time. Giving every weapon in the game to the player so quickly at the early parts of the game, although it seems attractive at the beginning, but it makes the later parts of the game repetitive and makes it not have anything new to offer.


The variety of enemies and weapons is very large, the enemies have various weapons, various ways of fighting and various ways of moving, and you can deal with them by learning their movements. there are ten weapons in the game, none of which are not in the same category, for example, you don’t have two types of rifles.

all weapons except the machete have an ability that is activated by pressing L2, three of the weapons have akimbo ability, and by pressing L2 when you hold those weapons, they will turn into two weapons, this ability is timed and after its deactivated you have to wait until you can use it again, the rest of the weapons have different abilities, for example, pump action shotgun hits the enemy with the back of the gun and throw them back.


The lack of finishing move is very felt in the game, but the animations of the enemies’ body parts cutting off is very good.


The weapons don’t feel real and heavy, and every weapon, whether small or big, feels the same.


There are three abilities in the game that are activated by pressing the d-pads, one of them makes your ammo infinite for a few seconds, one of them slows down time, and another one temporarily increases health.

At least for me, the abilities were not that useful and the game didn’t put me in situations where I was forced to use them, and maybe I used the slow time ability three or four times through the whole game.


By filling a circle on the left side of the screen and pressing one of the d-pads, your power will increase temporarily and you will deal more damage to the enemies.


The fights are very fast and you have to keep moving and moving around the enemies, but most of the time you just have to move around the enemies and shoot until they are all dead and don’t even use dodge or jump and this makes the fights repetitive and boring, and all boss fights except for the last boss fight are the same as normal fights, with the difference that sometimes you may have to dodge.


There are approximately two and a half to three hours of gameplay from the beginning to the end of the game, and there is no innovation in the gameplay compared to other games of this genre.

VISUALS

Visually, the design of the enemies is good, the quality of most of the textures is good, but it could be better.


The resolution and FPS are stable, but there is very annoying screen tearing in many parts of the game.


The hellish atmosphere of the game is good, but the hellish atmosphere could also have variety, but unfortunately there is no variety in it.


In the setting, there is an option called juicy retro style, which makes the image a bit pixelated and retro-like, and this option is great for those who like retro, by activating this mode, you can change the resolution from 240p to 1080p and adjust it as you like.

SOUND DESIGN

The sound design is not good at all and neither the weapons nor the enemies have good sound design.


The soundtrack is very well during the fights, and gives a lot of excitement to the gameplay.

the developers have tried to cover the weakness of the sound design by increasing the volume of the soundtrack.

CONCLUSION

The story is very general and only vague information is shown at the beginning of the game with the help of pictures.


The gameplay is fast and enjoyable, the variety of weapons and enemies is very good, but the high speed of giving weapons to the player so early, the lack of balance in their power and other problems in the gameplay make it not very enjoyable.

Review: Acefast E15 desktop charger

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Acefast E15 desktop charger

The Acefast E15 desktop charger is a fantastic option for anyone requiring multi-charging from one location. Furthermore, the streamlined finish looks great, and the usability ensures that the greatest of technophobes will not struggle. Accordingly, if you have a compatible phone, watch, or wireless earbuds, then this product should be on your horizon. 

This tech-packed item will clean up your desktop or bedside table. Moreover, the handy watch charging unit can be removed if you wish to charge it from another location. The wireless charging facility is supported by a dual-coil configuration and this increases the charging area without undermining performance. As such, you may place your phone in the holder and get on with your day.

What’s in the box of the Acefast E15 desktop charger?

  • The clean packaging is informative and attractive. The simple messages and images were eye-catching. Additionally, it can be recycled.
  • The Acefast E15 desktop charger looks great. The sleek white design has a modern edge. Moreover, the simple cable management and USB port help to streamline the finish. Each charging pad is easily identifiable, and the unit is sturdy even when loaded.
  • A robust and flexible USB cable is provided to charge the device.
  • Learn the fundamentals with the user guide.

Technical aspects.

Though the Acefast E15 desktop charger is a simple device to master, it is loaded with impressive tech. What’s more, each charging pad has a unique output. Consequently, the maximum output for the mobile phone section is 15W and the TWS is 5W. Finally, the watch delivers 2.5W. Now, this may not seem that great, but this device is designed for slow and steady charging whilst you sleep or work at your desk. To this end, this product is fantastic. Whenever I used it whilst gaming or working, my phone trickle charged and this was sufficient. However, if you want a rapid boost of energy before leaving the house, it may not work for you.

Where this excels is its large charging area. The dual-coil configuration allows you to charge your mobile phone horizontally or vertically. Either way, the handy LED indicator shows when a compatible device is charging. Moreover, if it hasn’t read the phone correctly, it will highlight a fault. This was great as it prevents you from making mistakes. What’s more, it was a simple way to identify whether an item is compatible with wireless charging.

The 15W maximum output depends on the number of devices connected to the stand. The phone portion of the Acefast E15 desktop charger has 4 unique output settings. Consequently, the charger will automatically select the correct output across each of the charging pods.

Build quality.

I’ve tested a handful of wireless units and I found this one to be one of the best. The white finish is eye-catching and the ergonomic design and smooth silicone edges keep your phone safe whilst protecting the stand. Additionally, the ability to remove the watch section makes this particularly versatile. Word of warning though, if you disconnect this charging pod, you will need another USB-C cable.

Balancing your phone on a piece of plastic may be a cause for concern. However, the solid base and 60-degree angle ensure that the Acefast E15 desktop charger is going nowhere. Moreover, as you can choose to charge both vertically and horizontally, you can find the option that works for you.

Is the Acefast E15 desktop charger worth it?

If you wish to streamline your bedside table or desktop, then you’ll need a wireless charging solution. Luckily, this 15W charger does a great job of multitasking and looking classy. Consequently, if you want a stylish and professional device that tidies your workspace and keeps your phone, watch, and earbuds powered, then this is right for you. What’s more, it is affordable, and I loved the hard-wearing and stable design. Accordingly, I love it and I recommend buying it here!

The Acefast E15 desktop charger has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

(More information on Acefast can be found here!)

(Full disclosure! Acefast provided a sample for an unbiased and free review!)

Review: Cuktech 20 25k mAh power bank

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Cuktech 20 25k mAh power bank

The Cuktech 20 25k mAh power bank is a fantastic device if you love high-powered gadgets. This versatile product will keep you juiced up no matter how much you play or work. Furthermore, if you love to camp or hike, this power bank will keep your GPS, watch, or mobile phone powered up for days.

If you love something stylish, hard-wearing, versatile, and impressive, look no further. This amazing item blows its competitors out of the water. Additionally, it is aeroplane-safe, and it has enough power output to keep up with the most demanding tech. I could charge my Steam Deck from empty in no time at all. Moreover, I could refill the battery of 3 devices at once. Consequently, my kids were happy when their tablets and Kindles needed additional juice.

What’s in the box of the Cuktech 20 25k mAh power bank?

  • The packaging is simple but effective. The clean lines and the transparent window create a professional finish. What’s more, most of it can be recycled.
  • The Cuktech 20 25k mAh power bank is a hefty beast. This charger weighs around 600 grams. Accordingly, it is chunky, robust, and well-built. The top has 3 ports, 2 USB-C and 1 USB-A. The front has a clear and easy-to-read display. 
  • A 6A 240W USB-C to USB-C cable is provided.
  • Use the handy travel pouch when out and about.
  • Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

Unlike other power banks, the Cuktech 20 25k mAh power bank prioritises anyone who uses a Xiaomi device. If you happen to own any of the modern Xiaomi mobile phones, you’ll enjoy proprietary functionality through their Hyper and Turbo Charge facilities. Subsequently, their flagship product can be charged at a whopping 120W. Alternatively, if you own a MacBook Pro, you’ll notice 140W of charging power!

Alongside this, this item can boost the battery level of any compatible mobile phone in no time at all. For example, a Galaxy S23 Ultra can be fully charged in under 60 minutes. Now, this may not seem important, but no one wants to wait for their phone to be charged. As such, you can plug in your technology, put it in your bag, and you’ll be up and running in no time at all.

Rapid charging is all well and good. However, what happens if the charger runs low on power? Well, worry not as you can boost the supply by 40% in under 20 minutes, or you can enjoy a full battery in under 2 hours. This was a fantastic feature if you have no patience. Alternatively, if you are in a hurry, you needn’t worry about running out of power again.

Safety.

Cuktech focuses on the safety of their goods and yours. Accordingly, this power bank has been tested to the highest standards. Moreover, it will last around 1000 full power cycles. This is 3 times more than its peers. If this isn’t enough, wait for the list of safety protection that this item promises. Temperature, Short Circuit, Reset, Input Overcurrent, Input Overvoltage, Output Overvoltage, and much more. 

This list of protective features blew me away. Furthermore, I was reassured that I could plug in my expensive laptop, Steam Deck, running watch or phone and not worry about technical issues. What’s more, there is an 18-month worry-free service and a phenomenal customer service team to help you out in times of trouble. Thankfully, I don’t feel that I will need this, but I like the extended support.

Usability.

The Cuktech 20 25k mAh power bank is a plug-and-play device. Yet, some technicalities could throw you off of your game. This device has a maximum 210W output if you are using each of the 3 charging ports. The combinations are comprehensive, but in layman’s terms, the USB-A is always capable of 30W output. The USB-C port 1 delivers 120W for Xiaomi devices or 65W for laptops. On the other hand, if it is used alone, it can push 140W on a compatible device. Finally, the USB-C port 2 always offers a maximum of 45W for laptops and 60W for Xiaomi phones.

Though these figures may seem confusing, the handy TFT display relays every ounce of information clearly and concisely. Furthermore, you’ll see the battery level and the predicted time before it runs out at the current power output. This was great as you didn’t have to guess whether your devices were drawing power, nor was I surprised when the power bank ran low on juice. Instead, I could keep on top of things and always enjoy optimum performance.

Build quality.

If you have a power bank, then no doubt you want it for commuting or outdoor activities. Thankfully, the Cuktech 20 25k mAh power bank is robust and stylish. The grey matte finish is complemented by a sci-fi blue light strip. As you charge your devices, you will see the strip light up and the TFT display. Additionally, the handy button allows you to check the power status when it is not in use.

Though the 600+ grams may put some people off, I liked the rugged and robust nature. The rectangular design makes it easy to handle and the USB ports are secure and well-built. Consequently, no aspect of this device feels cheap or badly manufactured. Instead, you’ll chuck it in your bag and you won’t be concerned about damage or scratches. Finally, the supplied cable was a pleasant surprise. It has a rubber finish and is flexible enough to reduce the risk of accidental damage.

Is the Cuktech 20 25k mAh power bank worth it?

This marketplace is saturated. Consequently, finding the right device for your needs is easier said than done. However, I think that Cuktech has hit the sweet spot. Not only does this product look amazing, but it offers high-powered charging. Furthermore, you can charge 3 devices at once and the handy display keeps you on top of your stats. Then you must consider the excellent 25k mAh capacity. This whopping battery can charge your iPhone 4 times before it needs charging! This was impressive especially when you consider the rapid charging facility. Accordingly, I was impressed and I recommend buying it here!

(More information on Cuktech can be found here!)

The Cuktech 20 25k mAh power bank has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

(Full disclosure! Cuktech provided a sample for a free and unbiased review!)

Review: Galactic Glitch

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Galactic Glitch

Galactic Glitch blends 2 genres and plays with a sci-fi theme. The result is a moreish title that is tough to put down. Though the gameplay is relatively simple to understand, the action is hard to master. As you exploit the normalities of physics and encounter weird and wonderful foes, you must think on your feet. It is this sense of desperation and luck that makes this a hell of a rewarding game.

This rogue-like sci-fi experience was developed and published by Crunchy Leaf Games. Furthermore, it is a single-player title that demands you bend the laws of physics. Now, this may sound infuriating, but it wasn’t. I adored throwing rocks at my enemies or grabbing each little robot and turning them into a weapon. Either way, you must flit between each node as you jump from glitch to glitch. 

Galactic Glitch lets you explore a simulated existence. 

Real life is tough to navigate. As such, how would you feel about mastering a simulated experience? I’m not sure I’d like the challenge. Yet, I couldn’t put down this virtual experimentation. What’s more, there is a sneaky and often underhand guide to keep you on track. However, I question their intentions and this leaves you feeling uneasy from the off.

You play the role of a ship’s captain. This vessel can be altered with an array of power-ups and abilities. However, it is your skills and abilities that make you stand out from the crowd. If you can master each weapon and overcome every obstacle, you may be able to escape the cruel reality and finally rest. 

A never-ending cycle. 

Rogue-like titles are cruel by definition. Failure is essential, and the sense of grind is never too far away. Therefore, why do we keep coming back for more? Well, it is that addictive and rewarding edge that drives us to think, “Just one more go”. Thankfully, Galactic Glitch has this by the bucket load.

First, your ship is a weak shell. Disappointingly, death isn’t too far away and this can drive you mad. However, if you stick with it, you can earn orbs and money to improve your vessel. The money is a temporary boost that improves an array of skills. Whereas the orbs offer increased health, more powerful weapons, and increased speed. Alongside this, there are many other game-changing abilities. If this isn’t enough, you can invest in new weapons to improve your chances. Either way, you must grab those orbs to enhance your spacecraft. 

Explore each glitch. 

As you progress, the glitches become increasingly difficult. New enemies test your skills and boss battles push you to your limits. Consequently, you must move quickly and manipulate each situation to suit your loadout. If you have focused on weaponry, then going in all guns blazing is essential. Alternatively, maybe you concentrate on throwing asteroids and junk. Whatever your decision, you must formulate a plan and stick with it. 

Each world comprises a handful of node arenas. As you annihilate your enemies, a new pathway opens. If you survive long enough, you can tackle bosses for huge rewards. If you win, you’ll improve your vessel and move on to bigger and more dangerous environments. As such, the action never stops, and you are always chasing the next big thing. 

Galactic Glitch looks fantastic. 

Each world has a unique edge that prevents tedium. Additionally, there are an array of character models to keep you on your toes. As you delve into each special area, you notice that no playthrough is the same. This was fascinating as you never knew what to expect. Moreover, as the game evolves, it becomes a bullet-hell mess that is challenging, yet enjoyable.

The sci-fi edge is enhanced by the dramatic and upbeat music. Additionally, the loud and uncomfortable sound effects demand that you perfect your movement. As rocks are thrown or mines explode, the crunching sound effects keep you going.

Exceptional controls. 

The exceptional controls make this a pleasure to play. Moreover, the detailed tutorial leaves you in no doubt. As such, this is an easy game to pick up. However, the tough alien creatures and the often brutal action make this a challenging title. 

If you can accept inevitable failure, then you’ll love Galactic Glitch. This rogue-lite title doesn’t stray too far from well-trodden mechanics, but I didn’t mind. Instead, it combines familiar elements with physics-based combat to create a more rewarding experience. 

Galactic Glitch will get under your skin. 

Galactic Glitch got its sci-fi claws into my skin. The excellent combat and wonderful progression elements push you from the first playthrough. Moreover, the fascinating stages and tough monsters will keep you busy. Accordingly, I love it and I recommend buying it here! Can you find a way out of the glitches? Master your vessel, improve your skills, and tackle every monster.

Review: Tchia

Khloe Turner
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0
Review: Tchia
Title of Tchia

Thierry Boura and Phil Crifo grew up in Lifou, a small island within the territory of New Caledonia. Together, these childhood friends moved to France and created their game developing company: Awaceb. Inspired by their memories and fondness for New Caledonia, Awaceb took on an impressive passion project titled Tchia.

In the words of Matt Miller, editor-in-chief of Game Informer, Tchia is ultimately a “love letter” to Lifou, and a worldwide window to the Kanak culture of New Caledonia. Players play as a little girl named Tchia who sets off on a fantastical journey exploring the beauty and culture of the archipelago whilst on a mission to rescue her father from a tyrannical, otherworldly being.

Initially released in 2023, Tchia can be played on Steam, PC, the Nintendo Switch, and the PlayStation 4 and 5.

A fabric in time

The game begins at an orphanage at some point in the future, where a new boy arrives. He joins the other children around a campfire, while an older woman tells them the tale of a young heroine named Tchia.

Tiare flower as Tchia's birthday gift

Her story begins on Tchia’s twelfth birthday, where she resides on a tiny remote island alongside her father. Joxu, Tchia’s father, is a mysterious man who loves his daughter, and has a passion for cooking and music. The following day, a man named Tre arrives from a nearby island. Tre is an old family friend who often brings Tchia and Joxu various food and goods. He gifts Tchia a tiare flower, which when placed on her right ear, symbolizes that her heart is “free to be taken”. Tchia is ultimately a coming of age tale.

On that night, seemingly out of nowhere, a sky craft descends down. Out pops a henchman of Meavora’s, who is “the God of the Depths,” reigning over the inhabitants of the archipelago. The henchman emerges with several alien-looking fabric soldiers and kidnaps Joxu. In a desperate rescue attempt, Tchia’s right eye glows green and she magically launches upwards, narrowly missing the henchman. After plummeting into the ocean, Tchia wakes up the next day in Tre’s home. Tre gifts Tchia a powerful ukulele, and warns her to leave his island soon. The fabric soldiers are coming for him next.

Tchia sailing the archipelago of new Caledonia

The world opens up to the player as Tchia departs on her raft, sailing the seas of the archipelago to reach Ga Ngazo hovering above the town Aemoon. She attempts to request a meeting with Meavora, but has to go through all of this red tape and complete “la Coutume” first. La Coutume is a Kanak custom of giving cloths, coins, and other items accompanied with a speech to show respect for a host. Tchia thus sets off and becomes more acquainted with her special “soul-jumping” ability, where she can transmogrify into animals and objects.

Continue playing as Tchia and learn more about her special identity, and rescue Joxu from the clutches of the fabric soldiers.

A hidden gem

Tchia is immersive, stunning, and full of awe and passion. It is a impressive piece of work regarding the small but mighty indie development team Awaceb. The game is massive, charming, and voiced in both French and the native tongue Drehu. The Drehu lines were voiced by locals of New Caledonia due to the struggle of finding professional voice actors who know the language. Drehu is spoken by around 12,000 people!

Changing the time of day with the ukulele in Tchia

Overall, the game plays smooth and beautifully. The landscapes are full of color and vitality, and the music only adds to the tropical, comfy atmosphere. Tchia can do many things, from soul-jumping (like Mario Odyssey), paragliding (like Breath of the Wild), diving underwater, using a slingshot (like Minecraft), play the ukulele to alter surroundings (like Ocarina of Time), emote, screaming into the world to mark significant locations, sail the open seas (like The Wind Waker), swap up outfits, and so much more. Yes, this is quite a lot of game mechanics, but each and every one of them are highly enjoyable. It serves as a great mix of human realism and cultural fantasy in respect to the Kanak way of life.

Playing the ukulele around a campfire or near friends is quite a treat. I think this game mechanic is very interesting, as it is more than just button mashing. Players have to rhythmically hit a button in time while also hovering over the correct string/note. If this is too difficult, the game allows automatic play as well.

“Too much water”

While Tchia blew my mind in a myriad of ways, the game might have flown too far from its perimeter of capabilities. The game’s map itself is very large and has a hard time living up to its open-world genre. This is namely because of its lack of side quests to give Tchia ulterior purposes aside from the main storyline, aside from the player’s own curiosity to explore the landscapes. I dedicated several extra hours to the 12ish hour-long game to dillydallying, collecting, and observing all the areas I can.

Tchia soul jumping into a bird

On the same note, most methods of in-game travel are clunky and slow. The boat Tchia sails on to get from each island feels heavy, making controlling it not very fun or efficient. Tchia herself cannot dash either. There are very few spots to fast travel, and sometimes Tchia might go faster if she soul-jumps to a speedy animal or a far-launching object. I will say, it was very humorous to control Tchia as a speedy deer or a stampeding boar.

Again, with the map, it is really difficult to identify where exactly the player is. There is an option to press “Where am I?” on the map . . . yet it still fails to be specific. A little chalk drawing of Tchia appears on the map but it is very large, covering a general area of where you could be in relation to your objective. The drawing does not move as you move either. I had to greatly rely on my compass or wait until a cutscene suddenly happened to know that I was close to where I was supposed to be.

Tchia's map of the archipelago in New Caledonia

I suppose there was uncertainty in determining whether Tchia was going to be a comfy linear game or an open-world sandbox. It is certainly both, but does not excel at either idea. It could help if there were either more optional side quests to do, or just narrow the scope of the map to allow for an easier time getting through the story.

Final thoughts

Tchia took me by surprise, and ended up as a whimsical visual and musical product full of beauty and joy. Tchia herself is a great protagonist who is trying to understand herself and her role as a powerful being hoping to rescue her father. The mix of languages, the expansiveness of each town and biome, and the plentiful activities to do are wonderfully captivating. I cannot recommend this game enough.

Tchia and her soul jumping ability

These developers have set an inspiring precedent. It would be lovely to see more anthropological video games to allow people worldwide to become acquainted with unfamiliar cultures. Overall, I think that Tchia is a gem that needs more spotlight, regardless of its shortcomings.

Review: Sky Survivors

Dawid Wisniewski
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0
Review: Sky Survivors

A Survivor-like with an upwards twist.

At its core, “Sky Survivors” sticks to the tried-and-true mechanics of the survivor genre: you face progressively harder waves of enemies, choose upgrades at every level, and encounter mini-bosses that challenge your skills. The twist here is the 2D platforming element. Instead of being confined to a single plane, you can jump, climb, and dodge around vertical world. Defeating mini-bosses not only grants you a free upgrade but also expands the play area, unlocking new platforms and giving you more room to manoeuvre. This adds a strategic layer to the gameplay, as you must place yourself accordingly when the waves of enemies start rolling in.

Each good run lasts around 20-30 minutes, making the game perfect for short sessions. However, due to the lack of optimization and the Switch’s hardware limitations, frame rate drops can become a significant issue. When enemies pile up and the screen fills with projectiles, the game can slow to a crawl, extending the duration of runs and sometimes hampering the overall experience.

Clarity over style.

The art style of “Sky Survivors” is a charming, hand-drawn, and colourful 2D aesthetic. While the graphics are not particularly detailed or varied, they serve their purpose well. Clarity is crucial in a game where dodging enemies and projectiles is key, and “Sky Survivors” excels in this area. Enemies are easily distinguishable, with some even having highlighted attacks to give you a fair chance to react. Pick-ups and upgrades are also clearly visible, ensuring that you can make split-second decisions without confusion.

Do you know the definition of insanity?

Between runs, players can unlock new starting weapons and characters, each with unique gimmicks and upgrade trees. This adds some depth and variety to the game, as experimenting with different combinations can lead to varied play styles. Additionally, smaller upgrades boost overall stats for all characters, providing a sense of progression.

However, the game’s replay-ability is somewhat limited. Many upgrades are available from the start and primarily offer stat boosts to your current weapon, which can make runs feel repetitive. While the character-specific upgrade trees are more interesting, the lack of variety in unlockable cards during gameplay and limited map diversity detracts from the game’s longevity. The lack of more maps wouldn’t be as much of an issue but the lack of variety in enemies and the fact that what the game offers is also not very diverse makes every run feel the same for longer than it should.

My thoughts.

Despite its shortcomings, “Sky Survivors” is an enjoyable game that tries to offer a fresh twist on the survivor genre. The combination of 2D platforming with traditional survivor mechanics creates a unique and engaging experience. Its short run times make it perfect for quick sessions on the go, particularly on the Switch. The hand-drawn art style, while not overly detailed, ensures clarity during intense moments.

The game does suffer from performance issues and a lack of variety, which may affect long-term replay-ability. However, for its price point, “Sky Survivors” is a worthwhile addition to any Switch owner’s library, especially for those looking for a quick and satisfying gaming experience during short journeys or flights.

The game is available in full release on X Box One, X Box Series S/X, Microsoft Windows and the Switch from 27.07.2024

Review: Nuke Them All

Jorge Castilho
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0
Review: Nuke Them All

The New Rise of RTS?

While RTS games aren’t the current “hot topic” of the video game market, Nuke Them All rekindled my passion for the genre and makes a strong case for a resurgence of these strategic battles.

You headfirst into a whirlwind of strategic action. Forget the slow burn of base building and resource management – this indie RTS is all about conquering territory and obliterating your foes in a gloriously chaotic rush. While it lacks depth in some areas, Nuke Them All makes up for it with its frantic gameplay, quirky charm, and focus on pure strategic warfare.

Simple With a Little Twist

Nuke Them All wastes no time. You’re dropped onto a map, given a handful of units, and tasked with wiping your enemy off the face of the planet. The core gameplay loop involves capturing strategic points, building your army, and launching a devastating nuclear assault. This streamlined approach makes for incredibly fast-paced matches.

You’ll be constantly on the move, scouting for opportunities, and adapting your tactics on the fly. While the lack of base building simplifies the experience, strategic thinking remains crucial. Capturing flags grants resources for unit production, and strategically controlling chokepoints can give you a significant advantage. Different unit types have strengths and weaknesses, requiring you to adapt your army composition based on the enemy’s forces and the map layout.

Navigating the Unpredictable World of Nukes, Zombies, and Aliens

The game throws curveballs your way too. Zombie outbreaks can erupt, forcing you to contend with the undead alongside your human opponents. In some scenarios, alien invaders add another layer of chaos to the battlefield. These unexpected events keep matches fresh and force you to think outside the box.

The titular nukes are the ultimate weapon, capable of wiping out entire armies and instantly securing victory. However, launching a nuke comes at a cost. You need to build a launch silo and charge it up, leaving you vulnerable during this time. A well-timed attack can disrupt the launch, turning the tables on the would-be nuclear warlord. This creates a tense risk-reward dynamic, deciding to launch a nuke is a strategic gamble.

Nuke Them All embraces a retro, pixelated art style that evokes classic sci-fi strategy games.
The visuals are simple but functional, and the explosions from those nukes are undeniably satisfying.
The soundtrack is a campy mix of electronic music and synthesized war drums, perfectly complementing the game’s over-the-top tone.

While Nuke Them All excels in frantic action, it needs more depth in some areas. The single-player campaign is short and repetitive, offering little beyond a basic tutorial for the core mechanics. The AI, while competent, can need help with adapting to player strategies. Additionally, the lack of online multiplayer at launch feels like a missed opportunity, but one that can be added in time.

Conclusion

Nuke Them All is a very good game. It’s a fast-paced, strategic brawl that thrives on chaos. However, if you’re looking for an RTS that prioritizes action over base building, “Nuke Them All” delivers a frantic and engaging experience. The streamlined mechanics make it easy to jump into, and the strategic depth, coupled with the unexpected events, keeps matches exciting. While the single-player and lack of online multiplayer are shortcomings, “Nuke Them All” earns its place on your RTS shelf with its frantic action, strategic core, and quirky charm.

Review: Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake

Daniel Waite
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2
Review: Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake will not disappoint! This polished version of the 2013 game will impress fans of the original and new gamers alike. Additionally, the developer has incorporated some new secrets to add some spice to the heartwarming tale. I played the original and was blown away by its plot and the emotional layers. Accordingly, I was a little worried a remake would lose its impact. Thankfully, I was wrong as this enhances an already spectacular experience.

This puzzle adventure title was developed by Avantgarden SRL and published by 505 Games. Furthermore, it can be enjoyed alone or cooperatively with a friend on one screen. This flexible approach works perfectly. Additionally, no matter which one you choose, the action is incredible. Though the gameplay is over 10 years old, it stands out from its peers. The straightforward puzzles and the amazing story combine to deliver a memorable endeavour.

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake tells a remarkable story. 

It isn’t easy to deliver a touching and emotive story. Normally, some flaws undermine key elements. Thankfully, Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake is practically flawless. The bizarre language is tough to follow. Yet, the use of tone and body language helps to uncover each mysterious layer. Furthermore, the strong bond between the brothers and the secrets they discover keeps you hooked from beginning to end. 

The story is unbelievably sad. The 2 brothers lost their mother in a tragic accident. Accordingly, when their father falls ill, they’ll stop at nothing to save him. This adventure of finding the “water of life” isn’t easy. En route, the brothers must use their unwavering bond to support one another and solve the puzzles they face. If they are lucky, they will complete their task. Additionally, they may discover elements of themselves that they didn’t know existed.

Balanced gameplay. 

The plot gets under your skin, and you immediately empathise with the boys. However, it is the balanced gameplay, incredible characters, and the fantasy fairytale edge that is hard to forget. If you play this alone, you must use both analogue sticks to control the lads in tandem. This takes some getting used to, especially when you are climbing vines, operating machinery, or moving items. 

Thankfully, the developer has incorporated plenty of checkpoints to remove stress. If you fail, and you will, you simply restart and try again. This layer of generosity lets you freely explore the wonderful world. Alongside this, there are plenty of characters that need your help. Some of these minor players can be ignored. However, if you wish to see everything, I recommend searching every area and interacting with every person. 

Logical puzzles.

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake blends logical puzzles with a semi-linear narrative. This restrictive approach creates a safe environment that begs to be explored. Furthermore, if you wish to discover every secret, you can do so with ease. 

The puzzles demand a methodical approach. Whether you are escaping from an angry dog, moving levers, grabbing sheep, or clambering over trolls, it never gets old. However, if you are expecting a complex and testing time, then you will not find that here. Even the most challenging of objectives will not push you. Instead, the story and the relationship between the pair take priority.

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake looks great.

A wonderful story deserves the best graphics. Luckily, the modern polish enhances an already incredible title. The lush fantasy environments are filled with wonderment and magic. Furthermore, each character looks amazing. I loved the animation and the simple-to-navigate areas. Additionally, the seamless camera movement helps you to explore every nook and cranny. 

Where Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake excels is its acting. The bizarre language is tough to comprehend. However, the use of tone and pace helps you to understand the message. Moreover, the facial expressions and body language deliver each core message expertly. Alongside this, the music delivers a dramatic dynamic that is hard to ignore. I loved the sombre songs and the captivating melancholy atmosphere.

Spectacular controls.

Tandem player control is somewhat confusing. However, the tight controls and impressive layout make this a spectacular game. Yes, there were challenging moments. However, this is a skill issue rather than a development fault. Additionally, if you play this cooperatively, these problems fade into insignificance. 

Though there are plenty of secrets to discover, there is limited replay value. Sadly, there is little reason to return once you’ve exhausted every avenue. Thankfully, the core playthrough is good enough that this matters not.

Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake is incredible.

I loved the original and I adore the remake. Undoubtedly, this has to be one of recent history’s best tales. The amazing bond between the brothers and the exceptional storytelling has aged perfectly. Additionally, the balanced gameplay and the fun puzzles tie everything together. As such, it is easy for me to recommend buying it here! Can you complete your task and save your father? Work together, solve the puzzles, and help everyone along the way.

Review: Mr Prepper: Animal Farm DLC

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Mr Prepper: Animal Farm DLC

Mr Prepper was a game I covered in March 22. I scored it a 6/10, and I moaned about the clunky controls and the imbalanced gameplay. Roll on 2 years, and I’ve been tasked with covering the Mr Prepper: Animal Farm DLC. As this is a large expansion of the base game, I expected the same issues to rear their ugly head. Disappointingly, they did! However, the action was oddly rewarding and addictive.

This survival title was developed by Rejected Games and published by Ultimate Games. Furthermore, it is a single-player experience with plenty of micromanagement elements. As this is a DLC, you’ll need to invest in the base game. Additionally, it is advised to have a strong grasp of the core fundamentals before you tackle this sizeable addition.

Mr Prepper: Animal Farm DLC works particularly well. 

Occasionally, developers get their DLC wrong. The additional elements are confusing, and they move away from the base game too much. Luckily, Mr Prepper: Animal Farm DLC doesn’t fall into this trap. Instead, the action complements the original and the story blends in nicely. 

The action revolves around the titular survivalist. He has built a shelter under his house as he plans to escape his dystopian existence. Yet, in this latest update, the government wishes you to restore Murricaville’s farm. This is no mean feat, as there are plenty of tasks to complete and aliens to contend with. However, if you can balance the books, you’ll enjoy the additional content alongside the familiar base mechanics.

What’s new?

Though the core concept remains the same, Mr Prepper: Animal Farm DLC adds plenty of nifty elements and some new areas to explore. Furthermore, there is new crafting content that revolves around the animals in your care. You could adopt a dog and care for some chickens. The former is a great way to stave off loneliness, whereas the latter is a glorious method of increasing food supplies. 

Alongside this, there are fences to repair and the classic survival elements to balance. Additionally, there is a fishing mini-game to master and milk and grains to enhance your diet. On top of this, you can explore some interesting and bizarre new areas. 

Aliens.

No alien invasion would be complete without a spooky labyrinth of corn to navigate. The developers have brilliantly incorporated many clichéd and familiar alien tropes into the action. What’s more, the basic survival layers and the building mechanics work perfectly with the exploration elements and the zany sci-fi plot. Moreover, the introduction of animals juxtaposes the oppressive and daunting survival edge. 

Surviving after a nuclear event is no mean feat. Yet, if you include an overbearing government and the fear of an alien invasion, it is a tough pill to swallow. However, if you plan and master the core gameplay mechanics, Mr Prepper: Animal Farm DLC is a clunky but rewarding experience. 

Mr Prepper: Animal Farm DLC keeps things simple. 

The blend of earthy colours and 50s Americana was fascinating. Additionally, the simple but striking graphics were pleasant to look at. If you then consider the basic side-scrolling perspective, you get an effective but straightforward visual experience. I adored the varied landscapes and the OTT sci-fi edge. Moreover, there are plenty of stats to observe, and the UI keeps things simple.

I loved the original audio and my opinion remains unchanged. The dramatic soundtrack enhances the oppressive nature of the hero’s plight. Furthermore, it complements the sense of fear and exploration during every arduous day. This is matched by the uncomfortable and often obnoxious sound effects. Consequently, the result is an edgy experience that makes your skin crawl. 

Clunky controls. 

Thankfully, I was familiar with the control layout. However, I moaned repeatedly as the clunky inputs made things unnecessarily challenging. Additionally, though the UI is well-considered, it can be tough to navigate. Subsequently, it would be better if it were played with a mouse and keyboard. 

Surviving is no mean feat! Matters are made worse when you have the base game and DLC madness to contend with. Yet, it is the vast swathe of tasks that deliver replay value and longevity.

Mr Prepper: Animal Farm DLC enhances the original. 

The developer has done a great job of enhancing the base game. However, they have failed to address some core issues and that wasn’t very reassuring. If you are new to the franchise, I recommend mastering the main elements before tackling the DLC. Alternatively, if you know what you are doing, you’ll enjoy the new content even though it is a little clunky. Despite the shortcomings, I recommend buying it here! Surviving is easier when you plan ahead. Build a bunker, restore the farm, and see what these pesky aliens want.

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