Review: Universal Conquest

Saim Khurshid
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Review: Universal Conquest

In the infinite expanse of the universe, I played Universal Conquest and I for the life of me cannot find another human who has played this RTS. There are 4 reviews on Steam at the time of writing so I guess there is someone out there.

Alas, if you need a guide, expect Flashing lights, spaceships and more numbers than a maths test inside a calculator.

Universal Conquest Trailer

At first glance, Universal Conquest is not a game I’d normally play but one should often leave their comfort zone. The RTS however failed to grab me in any significant way.   

Don’t get me wrong, it is no lazy game. The attention to detail in the expansive universe and the depth of the gameplay mechanics are commendable, offering a unique experience that stands out in the grand-strategy genre.  

An RTS of this size and detail is an impressive show of effort and the game cuts no corners showing off what it has.

Crowded Universe

Universal Conquest masterfully merges grand strategy, 4X, and RTS elements, creating a complex and engaging experience that challenges players to think critically and strategically. 

Your job is to control the leadership caste of a collective in the distant future, navigating a procedurally generated universe teeming with possibilities. Your mission? To either subjugate or peacefully expand across the stars—the choice is yours.

As the game unfolds, you encounter various gameplay mechanics, from real-time combat to turn-based strategy. With over 5000 unique units and endless procedurally generated scenarios, it offers an intense and immersive journey. Your decisions will shape the destiny of your civilization, and trust me, there are countless ways things can unfold.

Side note: When I first saw the trailer of this game, there was not a lot that seemed interesting. Visually, it looked like a mess and the sound felt like someone was blowing raspberries in my ear. While yes, I don’t have much love for what the game ended up being, it was still far better than what was shown in the trailer. For aspiring game makers, this is a true example of how not to make trailers.

Okay, back to the review…

The Evolving Complexity of RTS

The beginning of Universal Conquest instantly drew me in. I became fascinated with the intricate universe and the enigmatic history of the leadership caste. 

The game’s blend of procedural generation and rich lore gradually revealed its depth as I ventured further. Every planet, star system, and alien civilization is intricately designed, providing a sense of wonder and discovery that keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting.

The one-man development team behind Universal Conquest has spent a lot of time perfecting this RTS. Each detail reflects meticulous care, and as the game progressed, the quality remained consistently high, showcasing the dedication of its creator.

An Intense RTS Experience

At one point, a significant galactic conflict erupted. Expecting it to become a micromanagement nightmare, I was pleasantly surprised by the strategic depth and flexibility available. Every decision I made had lasting impacts on my campaign.

This wasn’t the only highlight. Throughout the RTS, you’ll make decisions that feel natural and impactful, leading to a wide array of outcomes.

A Must-Play for Strategy Fans

If you’re a fan of grand strategy or RTS games, Universal Conquest is essential. It offers a compelling mix of strategic depth, real-time combat, and procedural generation that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

While the gameplay might not suit those seeking a more straightforward or less complex experience, the 5000 unique units and endless procedurally generated scenarios make it a standout in its genre. If you’re ready for a surprising and deeply engaging experience, give Universal Conquest a try.

Review: Pine Hearts

Jorge Castilho
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Review: Pine Hearts

The Rise of Cozy Games

In recent years we have seen a growth in so-called “cozy games”, a genre of video games
that focus on relaxation and creating a calming atmosphere. The main objective is not to
create moments of stress or present graphic violence to the player, it is to offer exactly the
opposite. A safe place to relax your mind and body after a busy day.

The Journey in Pine Hearts

Pine Hearts, a cozy exploration game by Hyper Luminal Games, isn’t your typical adventure.
Released in May 2024, it sheds the usual focus on adrenaline-pumping challenges and grand
narratives, instead opting for a heartwarming exploration of grief, self-discovery, and the
power of community.
You take the role of Evelyn, a young woman returning to her childhood town of Pine Hearts
after her grandmother’s passing (not that relaxing i know). Lush pixelated landscapes bathed
in warm hues invite you to explore, while the calming soundtrack provides a constant
companion.

Finding Comfort in Connection

Pine Hearts’ magic lies in its inhabitants. Each resident, with their unique background and
personality, feels authentic and easy to connect with. The game bravely explores the many
facets of grief, but with a gentle hand. You’ll have conversations with a gruff lumberjack
grappling with the loss of a friend, or a kind baker cherishing memories of her deceased
husband. These interactions are the heart of the game, fostering a sense of closeness and
reminding us of the power of community in healing from loss.

Pine Hearts transforms exploration itself into “a path of healing”. Forests bursting with life
and charming meadows sprinkled with wildflowers create a feast for the eyes. The game
gently nudges you to slow down, to savor the simple joys of a walk in nature or tending to a
garden. This mindful approach extends to its excellent accessibility features. Adjustable text
size, fonts designed for those with dyslexia, and simplified controls ensure everyone can find
peace within the serene world of Pine Hearts.

Layers of Grief and Love

There are no timers, no wrong choices, and the world opens up for you to explore at your
leisure. The core gameplay revolves around completing tasks for the townsfolk, often
running errands or fetching items. While some might find this repetitive, the true joy lies in
the conversations you have along the way. Each completed task feels like a small act of
kindness, a way of reconnecting with the town and its people while dealing with your own
grief.

Though the story unfolds at a gentle pace, it delivers a powerful emotional impact.
Conversations and subtle environmental details become breadcrumbs, leading you to piece
together Evelyn’s past and the depth of her bond with her grandmother. The narrative
tackles grief with a layered approach, acknowledging the raw ache of loss while also
celebrating the enduring love and memories that continue to hold meaning.
The repetitive nature of fetch quests might deter players seeking a more action-packed
experience. The lack of puzzles also means the gameplay itself can feel somewhat shallow at times.
However, these aspects are arguably intentional. Pine Hearts prioritizes atmosphere
and character development over challenge, creating a world that feels lived-in and relatable.

Conclusion

Pine Hearts is a game best played with an open mind and a desire for a relaxing experience.
It’s a beautiful reminder of the power of community, the importance of self-care, and the
healing potential of nature. While the gameplay might not be for everyone, those seeking a
heartwarming story and a chance to explore a world brimming with empathy will find Pine
Hearts to be a balm for the soul.

Review: Autopsy Simulator

Daniel Waite
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Review: Autopsy Simulator
Enjoy my video review.

Autopsy Simulator is wonderfully morbid. Furthermore, it has a weird horror narrative that keeps you on your toes. However, a lack of freedom and the constant groaning protagonist were somewhat tiresome. Accordingly, I liked much of what I saw but found it far too linear and frustrating. This was disappointing as there was plenty of potential. Maybe the upcoming autopsy-only mode will make this flourish.

This linear narrative adventure was developed by Woodland Games and published by Team17 Digital Ltd. Moreover, it is a 1st person single-player game. This enhances the horror aspects whilst giving you a hands-on experience at the morgue. Alongside this, there is a censorship mode if you don’t fancy seeing the private areas of each dead body. Either way, the corpses must be sliced, diced, and examined if you wish to solve each mystery.

Autopsy Simulator tells a grim tale.

You play the role of a middle-aged pathologist who has an addiction issue. Sadly, his wife passed away in tragic circumstances. The hero cannot see past this event and his life is on hold as he grieves. However, his job doesn’t stop, and the bodies keep rolling in. Consequently, he fills his time by piecing together the clues and solving each crime.

This element of the game was fascinating. Though guided through each autopsy, you get a sense of authenticity at every stage. Autopsy Simulator does a great job of telling each story whilst methodically highlighting every moment. The hand-holding was infuriating and this was my biggest complaint. You are supposed to solve each crime through a logical process. Yet, you can mindlessly work through each case as the game pushes you to the correct conclusion. I hope this issue is removed when the developer releases its autopsy-only content.

Perfectly balanced action.

Where Autopsy Simulator excels is its well-balanced action. The story ebbs and flows alongside each case. Furthermore, as the hero becomes panicked or stressed, his addictions come to the fore. Though this wasn’t essential, it created a sense of empathy for the protagonist. Additionally, it was a nice distraction from each cold slab of meat on your dissecting table.

I also liked the varied tools and the gruesome but fascinating elements of each case. Removing organs and dissecting them never gets old. What’s more, the drip-fed mechanics ensured that there was something new to pique your interest. However, at times, I get lost when new items are added. Even though the required item was highlighted with a glorious hue, it wasn’t easy to find them. This annoyed me as I wasted plenty of time opening drawers and clicking on unnecessary items.

Bugs and glitches.

Sadly, the complaints don’t end there. I would have completed this much quicker if it wasn’t for the never-ending bugs and glitches. Unfortunately, the game crashed countless times, and the action became stuck in an endless loop. This wouldn’t have been too bad, but the game has no auto-save facility. Subsequently, you must restart every chapter if there is an issue.

Autopsy Simulator looks great.

Though the gameplay wasn’t perfect, I loved the attention to detail. Autopsy Simulator looks great. The horrific wounds and the bloated bodies were phenomenal. Furthermore, I liked the accurate equipment and the gruesome nature of each dissection. If you then add in the grim nature of the morgue and the oppressive 1st person perspective, it enhances the horror aspects.

The audio was a mixed bag. I adored the excellent acting and the uncomfortable sound effects. Moreover, the music was delightfully sombre. However, the constant groaning and moaning was enough to drive you insane. I know that working is lame, but moaning about it every 3 seconds was stupidly annoying. 

Brilliant controls.

The hand-holding was frustrating. Yet, I liked how each activity revolved around a “mini-game”. Cutting requires you to follow a pattern, whereas organ removal requires you to examine every angle. The well-considered mouse and keyboard layout helps make this easy to master, and I understood the fundamentals quickly.

Autopsy Simulator is far too short. Even if you consider the glitches and bugs, I ran through the story in no time. This was disappointing as I wanted more cases to solve. Furthermore, the abrupt end to the action was strange. The game would have been longer and more fulfilling if the developers improved this.

Autopsy Simulator needs some polishing.

I enjoyed many aspects of this game. The grim setting and horror elements were captivating. Additionally, it was fascinating to dissect the bodies and piece together each crime. However, too much hand-holding and a lack of freedom were annoying. Moreover, the bugs and glitches were awful. Yet, despite the shortcomings, I recommend buying it here! Can you keep it together and complete each job? Take your pills, dissect every body, and solve every crime.

Review: Chornobyl Liquidators

Phant0m
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Review: Chornobyl Liquidators

The concept of this game truly attracted me to what I thought would be a pleasant but stressful firefighting simulator. What I got in return was definitely not close to what I thought. But I’m kinda ok with it. Hi my name is phant0m and these are my thoughts on… Chornobyl Liquidators!

Visuals

First thing I noticed was subpar visuals. I say this is because a lot of the game has you taking out fires, and the tools you use look fine, the character models look fine, the structures look good! But what they failed to nail was the fire itself and also the water to take it down. To begin, the fire doesn’t look horrible. The main bad thing is that for most of it you can tell the fire texture is just repeated and resized. But the water couldn’t have looked more unconvincing… It looked weird? Straight up it looked like specks of dust. It basically looked dry which is probably the funniest thing you can mention about water in a game about firefighting. Luckily those are my only 2 complaints when it comes to the style. I personally loved the notebook feel to the menu and also the crazy set pieces too see! I was personally surprised by how insane a fire very early on looked and it gladly hooked me!

Gameplay

The gameplay of chornobyl is kinda relaxing, you spray fire with water with the only real strategy being where to put the end of your hose, and if the level design was mostly that I would personally be giving the gameplay section a 10 because I enjoyed that base level gameplay so much! But sadly I think the devs pushed the game a little too much, I felt the other mechanics like traversing the building felt weird and unnatural. The crowbar sections of opening the door were cool but other times there were animations that looked funny and gave me a good laugh because I knew some of the scenes were supposed to be taken serious, at least that’s how snappy the story makes you feel, yet the gameplay didn’t immerse me and instead took me away from the experience.

Story/Characters

Which brings me to the story… This is probably the hardest part of the review for me, mostly because I can’t exactly explain the story as I was laughing a lot. The easiest way for me to say this is that the animations and spoiler alert.. multiple character deaths didn’t make sense. For example in the beginning you would play as several firefighters who all just straight up die, some of them die in stupid ways that made me laugh sometimes even because of audio cues. And I think that changed my emotions for the rest of the game because what happened in the beginning possibly gave me the impression I should feel that way, but then the story tries to take a serious tone that I couldn’t quite follow since I was still thinking like a goofball.

Music

The music in this was ok, it did a good job of setting tone and didn’t sound bad, I think if the music was louder and dramatic more of the story beats would hit me!

Performance

This is surprisingly the section that I had the least issues with! I had nearly 0 issues, the only one being the already mentioned weird animations. The rest of the game runs nice and looks nice! (This is specifically reviewed on an RX 6750 XT Power color and an Intel i5 13400f)

Verdict

Anyways if you’re wondering I don’t recommend this game. At least not yet. Chornobyl Liquidators gives me the vibes that it will be an awesome game one day! If it just hits a few touch ups, the only mistakes it made were being too ambitious in certain areas. I give it a 5/10 I could see this being amazing with a few fixes but as of now it still isn’t tickling my fancy. Those were my thoughts on Chornobyl Liquidators. Please let me know what you think and thanks for reading! 🙂 keep doing great things. Your good at them. Bye!

Review: Nordic Ashes: Survivors of Ragnarok

Dawid Wisniewski
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Review: Nordic Ashes: Survivors of Ragnarok

“Nordic Ashes” is an exhilarating bullet hell roguelike set against the rich backdrop of Norse mythology. As you navigate through waves of relentless enemies, face off against mini-bosses, and conquer relatively easy main bosses across the nine distinct realms of Yggdrasil, you’ll find yourself immersed in a frenetic battle for survival.

The core gameplay of “Nordic Ashes” revolves around surviving increasingly challenging waves of enemies. Each realm introduces new adversaries and mini-bosses that keep you on your toes. While the main bosses may not pose a significant challenge, they serve as satisfying milestones in your journey through the mythological realms.

As you progress, your character levels up amidst the chaos, granting access to a comprehensive skill tree. This tree allows you to upgrade core skills and unlock new, more powerful weapons. The variety in the skill tree ensures that no two runs are the same, as you can tailor your upgrades to suit your playstyle. The introduction of ascension crystals after each main boss adds another layer of strategy, offering unique upgrades to your weapons that can turn the tide in your favour.

One of “Nordic Ashes” standout features is its diverse roster of characters inspired by Norse mythology. Each character boasts a unique playstyle, ensuring that players can find a hero that resonates with their preferred combat approach. A nice touch is that “Nordic Ashes” strays from the popular Gods and Goddesses to explore the lesser known and equally as interesting characters. Each of them offers a distinct experience, they are not only visually distinct but also come with unique abilities and weapons that add depth and variety to the gameplay. Unlocking new characters happens at a satisfying pace, keeping the experience fresh and engaging.

The game’s progression system is well-designed, with resources gathered during each run used to enhance core stats that persist through subsequent attempts. This persistent progression means that even failed runs contribute to your overall growth, making each attempt feel rewarding. After defeating a main boss, you enter a shop where you can purchase upgrades, new weapons, stat boosts, and consumables. This shop system is a welcome addition, providing a much-needed breather and a chance to strategically improve your odds for the remainder of the run.

“Nordic Ashes” excels in replay-ability as well as most in this genre. The combination of distinctly different realms, varied character options, and the extensive skill tree ensures that each run can feel unique. The idea to implement a re occurring skill tree based on the character you are playing means trying different builds and techniques isn’t based on pure luck and makes it a lot easier to keep the game fresh from run to run. The game’s fast-paced nature and the constant influx of unlocks keep players hooked, encouraging countless hours of gameplay. The variety of upgrades and the strategic depth they introduce further enhance the game’s longevity.

Considering the game’s price, “Nordic Ashes” offers tremendous value. The sheer amount of content, coupled with the engaging gameplay loop and the multitude of upgrades, makes it a worthwhile investment for fans vampire survivors style games.

Visually, “Nordic Ashes” is vibrant and engaging, with each realm featuring distinct aesthetics that contribute to the game’s immersive experience. The character designs are creative and memorable, while the enemy designs and strategies are varied enough to keep encounters interesting. The Norse mythology-inspired environments, from the fiery fields of Muspelheim to the icy landscapes of Niflheim, are charming and reminiscent of newsground flash games with definitely have a certain charm to them. The soundtrack complements the gameplay well, with energetic tunes that match the intensity of the action on-screen and evoke the epic atmosphere of Norse legend.

In conclusion, “Nordic Ashes” is a thrilling bullet hell roguelike that successfully combines frantic action with deep strategic elements, all set within the captivating world of Norse mythology. The variety of characters, extensive skill tree, and persistent progression system all contribute to an engaging and replayable experience. While the main bosses could offer more of a challenge, the overall journey through the nine realms is satisfying and rewarding.

For fans of the genre and Norse mythology enthusiasts, “Nordic Ashes” is a must-play. Its combination of chaotic gameplay, strategic depth, and excellent replayability makes it a standout title. With a reasonable price point, it’s easy to recommend this game to anyone looking for an addictive and enjoyable bullet hell experience. I rate “Nordic Ashes” an 8/10 and look forward to many more hours of chaotic fun in the realms of Norse legend.

Review: Nordic Ashes: Survivors of Ragnarok is available on Windows PC on 26th April 2024

Review: Doki Doki AI Interrogation

Daniel Waite
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Review: Doki Doki AI Interrogation

Doki Doki AI Interrogation plays with the latest AI technology. The use of ChatGPT was fascinating. Moreover, the sense of oppression and the borderline absurd sense of misjustice were fantastic. In short, if you have ever dreamed of incriminating an innocent individual for personal gain, this is the game for you!

This cruel interrogation title was developed and published by YAMADA. This solo experience is only available on PC and relies heavily on ChatGPT. Accordingly, if there is an issue with the AI tech, you will be left up shit creak without a paddle. Thankfully, I never encountered any problems and loved my short and cruel time as an aggressive police officer. 

Doki Doki AI Interrogation tells an odd story.

At first glance, Doki Doki AI Interrogation has no story and limited guidance. However, as you understand the mechanics and get your “victim” to confess, the story unfolds. The shocking twist creates an uncomfortable sense of morality that is tough to swallow. Additionally, if you believe that AI is taking over the world, you may wish to wear a tinfoil hat to protect you at all times.

The horrific truth behind the interrogation leaves a bitter taste in your mouth. Yet, once the guilt subsided, I relished the opportunity to get more creative with my line of questioning. The result was a ridiculous barrage of abuse, lies, and underhand tactics. Consequently, the AI had no option but to break and confess his non-existent sins. Though I knew this was wrong, it made me laugh nonetheless.

Intelligent game design.

The action revolves around 7 short questions. Each time you spit a question at the detainee, the ChatGPT gets to work. A smooth answer is thrown your way, and you must twist the narrative to suit your agenda. However, 7 questions isn’t a lot, and it can be challenging to piece together a sensible narrative. Accordingly, your conversation will be strange and you must roll with the punches.

Doki Doki AI Interrogation could be improved if there were more suspects to question. What’s more, if the developer incorporated a note system and the ability to build a rapport with each person, then there would be plenty of depth. As it is, every session feels rushed. This was unfortunate, but it was mitigated with the introduction of a hard mode. 

This additional game mode should make the action more challenging. However, my questioning became increasingly absurd. This let my imagination run wild, but the sense of realism was sadly reduced. Accordingly, though it was a step in the right direction, it wasn’t perfectly implemented.

Doki Doki AI Interrogation has a futuristic edge.

The neon colour palette and the ghostly suspect were great to look at. Consequently, this title has a pleasant sci-fi edge that works with the theme. Furthermore, the setting was suitable even though it lacked variety. Had unique interrogation rooms and a range of suspects been included, then this problem would have been overcome.

The audio is equally rudimentary. I loved the suspenseful sound effects and the minor dialogue layers. You can sense the frustration and fear as the pressure increases. However, the gameplay is so short that the drama is over before it begins.

Simple controls.

The action focuses on your questions and little else. Accordingly, the controls are undeniably simple. My only gripe is the limited characters for each question. This reduced approach forces the user to turn to “text” spelling. Though it works, I despise poor grammar and shortened words. Subsequently, the total character count should be increased or removed altogether.

Doki Doki AI Interrogation is far too short. Your first playthrough is bound to fail. Yet, once you get to grips with things, you will fly through every other interrogation. Additionally, the hard mode isn’t challenging enough. Therefore, though the concept is fascinating, and the execution is superb, I was disappointed by the short playtime.

Doki Doki AI Interrogation is a great concept.

I love it when games push boundaries. Thankfully, Doki Doki AI Interrogation does just that. I adore the concept and the absurd nature of the questioning. Moreover, the hard mode was an interesting idea that needed some minor tweaks. If the developer enhances the core gameplay and creates a sense of depth, then this will fulfil its potential. Accordingly, I adore it and I recommend buying it here! Will you make the suspect crack? Choose your approach, trick your suspect, and get a confession.

News: Backbone – Post Malone Limited Edition Controller

Daniel Waite
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News: Backbone – Post Malone Limited Edition Controller

The Backbone – Post Malone Limited Edition Controller has been announced. This stunning device is eye-catching, unique, and perfect for gamers who love to play on the move. Backbone is the leading platform for mobile gaming. Consequently, you know you will enjoy market-leading tech and exceptional build quality.

If you want a stylish controller that gives you a match-winning edge, then look no further. This amazing device is suitable for Android and recent Apple phones. Furthermore, it is suitable if you stream from the cloud or you remote play directly from your console.

A closer look at the Backbone – Post Malone Limited Edition Controller.

The Backbone – Post Malone Limited Edition Controller has a translucent green body. Furthermore, it has a glow-in-the-dark “PM” logo and a unique aluminium d-pad and ABXY buttons. Additionally, each of the 500 units is numbered to ensure authenticity.

Quotes from the collaboration.

Post Malone on his personal experiences using a Backbone:

“Backbone found the perfect solution to bring gaming on the road. My schedule makes it difficult to game from home as much as I want. Grateful to collaborate with them on this release :)”

Austin Rosen on how the deal came together:

“Post Malone’s love for gaming runs deep, and when the opportunity arose to merge his creative energy with Backbone’s innovative technology, it felt like a natural fit”, said Austin Rosen, CEO of Electric Feel. “This partnership is more than just a brand collaboration; it’s a fusion of two worlds where Post’s authenticity and dedication to his craft shine through, elevating the gaming experience for fans worldwide.”

CEO of Backbone, Maneet Khaira, on his strategic vision of the collaboration:

“We are so excited to announce this product in partnership with Post Malone and his entire team”, said Maneet Khaira, founder and CEO of Backbone. “Bringing the Post Malone brand and his sincere love for gaming to the category-defining Backbone platform felt like a perfect match.” “We are thrilled to unveil our latest groundbreaking collaboration alongside Post Malone and his dedicated team,” said Maneet Khaira, co-founder and CEO of Backbone. “The fusion of Post Malone’s renowned brand and his genuine passion for gaming with the category-defining Backbone platform felt like a perfect match.”

Don’t miss out.

This limited-run controller will sell quickly. Subsequently, you’ll have to be quick if you don’t want to miss out. Though the link isn’t live until June 25th, you can click here to get ahead of the game.

Review: Blockbuster Inc.

Thomas Hopkinson
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Review: Blockbuster Inc.

Blockbuster Inc. is a simulation game that focuses on developing a media business. The developers for this game are Super Sly Fox, and the publisher is Ancient Forge. It was released on June 6th, 2024.

When looking into the game before playing it, I was intrigued and wondered how much potential it could have. I haven’t played too many of these games so I was excited to try it out. Upon playing it, I can say it does have a lot of potential going forward but what is here right now is very bare bones. At its current state, I would not recommend this game.

Building Your Business

Screenshot showing the build mode.

The first thing I will discuss about this game is its building aspect. The building is quite simple and easy to get used to. Placing items and walls is easy thanks to the grid system in place. There are even pre-set rooms you can add to speed up the process.

You can use several tools in the build mode, which are the options at the top of the screen. These tools are convenient when it comes to building your business and make it a much smoother process. Each tool has multiple functions too. The most essential tools for me are the clone tool, which allows you to copy and paste sections around and the undo/redo tool. I also quite like how, with the selection tool, you can expand rooms out and make them larger.

Some cracks start to show when you look at the available items to build with though. It’s quite limited for a game that focuses on this, especially at the start of the game. It would have been nice for them to have included a few more options for the indoor objects and decorations in particular.

The building is probably the game’s best aspect, though its decorative options are still a bit limited.

Managing The People

Screenshot showing my current employees.

Moving on, let’s talk about the people who will be working for you. You can hire characters for a set amount of cash per month. Each character has a role they will be doing for you in the media-making process. They also have different traits which can be beneficial or hinder you in certain ways. Because of this, you should check to see what each character offers before you hire them. Ultimately though, these traits don’t matter much at all, as they don’t have a big enough impact on the game, so you don’t need to worry about it too much.

The employees will follow the workday you have set up once you hire them and will complete the tasks assigned to them throughout the day. However, you need to make sure you are staying on top of each employee’s needs as they all have a happiness meter. This is affected by several things such as the food served, the hours they work, housing, or other more specific events that can influence their mood. Managing this can get quite tedious though, especially with having to rehouse the employees so often.

Something else to mention here is the character creator. This is a cool feature to have for the game, creating employees with their own attributes. Though, sadly, even this has its issues. There are just not enough options for this creator, it’s very limiting. It also feels like a cheap way to get good characters and make the game even easier than it is. That’s exactly what I did with it anyway.

There are some interesting ideas for the employees and how they work but it feels too tedious to manage them at times.

Media Making

Screenshot of a scene being directed.

Creating movies and shows is the game’s moneymaker, allowing you to keep growing your business and do bigger and better things. There are several aspects to note when it comes to making the media. This includes things such as assigning people to specific jobs, choosing the media type and creating the scenes.

When you want to make a piece of media a window is brought up where you input the details of the media such as if it’s a movie or show, who’s going to be assigned to what roles, and what genre/theme it is. When starting you only have access to 2 different genres and 2 themes. It stays this way for a long time too. This results in you making the same type of media often. It becomes such a repetitive chore to make these pieces of media.

When you have got all the details of the media done then you can go into the actual scenes and direct them. For this, you can assign animation to the actors and move them around as well as add in some effects and alter the camera. The actual options for these though are very lacking. The total amount of animations, while it may seem quite lengthy, is much smaller when you try to match the animation with the specific genre and theme of the media. However, I will say, you can make some funny scenes with the supplied animations. So I found myself having some fun with it, at least at first. This quickly changed when I had done quite a few.

The media-making aspect can be fun and has lots of potential but at the moment it gets very stale and doesn’t respect your time.

Editing The Media

Screenshot of the video editor in the game.

Directing the scene is one thing, but this game also has a video editor to add more flavor to the media you make. This video editor has quite a few options for you and is quite easy to use. It also has the appearance of many other video editors, so people with experience will feel at home.

In this editor, you can move scenes around, edit scene length, add text, or even add sound effects. There are quite a few options for sounds which is nice. Though it would have been great if we could have a backing track too, not just sound effects. The text though is extremely limiting. There is just one font style and there is no option to move the subtitle around the screen. It would have been nice to have seen screen decals, such as thought bubbles to use in the editor as well.

I like its ease of use, but just like the scene directing, editing also feels pointless to do as it doesn’t seem to impact the product much.

Conclusion

Screenshot of the main menu screen.

Blockbuster Inc. is a game that is full of potential but is let down by its current state. There are many cool ideas here but the overall execution is poor. The good news is that the developers have indicated there is a roadmap for the game. Because of this, there is still hope for things to change and for it to achieve its true potential. I want to also mention that there seems to be some technical issues as well. From other accounts, there have been issues with crashing, framerate and pop in too, though I didn’t experience this myself. So do also bear that in mind.

If you would like to get the game, you can get it here on Steam.

Review: Roxy Racoon’s Pinball Panic

Daniel Waite
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Review: Roxy Racoon’s Pinball Panic

Roxy Racoon’s Pinball Panic attempts to retell the original platform adventure. However, instead of exploring an old-school world, you hit bumpers, targets, and bells in a giant pinball machine. This simplicity won’t be for everyone, but I loved the casual gameplay and its rudimentary nature.

This bizarre pinball game was developed by Sinomod Studios and published by Eastasiasoft Limited. Furthermore, it is a solo experience with a story mode, arcade gameplay, and some basic challenges. The variety of options increases the depth. Yet, the basic approach makes it easy to play. As such, it is perfect if you want some mindless fun.

Roxy Racoon’s Pinball Panic tells an unnecessary story. 

If you’ve read my other reviews, you know I love a good story. Consequently, I’m going against the grain when I state that this plot is unnecessary. Moreover, it has little influence on the gameplay, and I’m not sure how closely it represents the original title. However, I enjoyed the madness and went along for the zany ride.

A power-hungry and egotistical witch wishes to spread her dark magic. She believes that she is invincible and wants a challenge. Yet, she didn’t count on a little raccoon with the heart of a lion. This monochromatic beast will stop at nothing to defeat the witch and restore peace.

As you can see, the plot has very little to do with pinball. But this matters not as the action is fast-paced and addictive. What’s more, the occasional cutscenes were interesting to watch. 

Plenty of action.

Roxy Racoon’s Pinball Panic has 9 unique worlds to explore. Alongside this, there are 27 arcade games to try and plenty of cosmetics to unlock. Though much of the gameplay utilises the same mechanics, it was fun nevertheless.

Each round comprises a set number of lives and some witch-related tasks to complete. Additionally, you are expected to push for a high score. As the game unfolds, you will smash into bumpers, tilt the table, and hit an array of strange objects. Moreover, you must attempt to collect each of the witch’s jewels. Though this isn’t essential, it highlights your skills and is important if you are a completionist. 

Where Roxy Racoon’s Pinball Panic falls short is its repetitive gameplay. If you desire ever-changing action or a high degree of difficulty, then this won’t be the title for you. However, if you want to chill and unwind, then you’ll enjoy every minute. 

Roxy Racoon’s Pinball Panic won’t win any beauty awards. 

If you want a modern game that pushes next-gen machines to their max, then you had best look elsewhere. Roxy Racoon’s Pinball Panic is a typical indie title. The voxel-style cinematic and basic imagery won’t wow you. Moreover, the animation is a little sluggish and the textures are occasionally off. Yet, I liked the garish colour palette and the varied backdrops. Additionally, the developer has done a nice job with the cosmetics even if they don’t influence the action.

The audio is upbeat, aggressive, and dated. Accordingly, it works with the simple aesthetic. The noises are shrill, loud, and uncomfortable. However, I loved the energy they created and the cacophony of sounds.

Excellent controls. 

Pinball games need accurate and responsive controls. Thankfully, this delivers on both counts. The straightforward control layout is easy to master and I never experienced any input problems. As such, this is ideal for gamers of all ages and abilities. 

Another shortcoming was the lack of longevity. Yes, there are plenty of modes and worlds to conquer, but the gameplay is pretty repetitive. As such, you could tire of it quickly. Subsequently, I recommend playing this in small bursts.

Roxy Racoon’s Pinball Panic could have been better. 

Though I enjoyed playing Roxy Racoon’s Pinball Panic, it could have been better. The action was too repetitive, and the story didn’t flow. However, the responsive controls and casual nature make it pleasurable to play occasionally. Moreover, I liked the graphics and the audio. Therefore, I recommend buying it here! Can you defeat the witch? Examine each table, complete each objective, and save the day.

Review: Pro Cycling Manager 2024

Daniel Waite
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Review: Pro Cycling Manager 2024

Pro Cycling Manager 2024 hits the market as cycling fever is at its peak. Each major race is starting to crank up and gamers want to get involved. Consequently, what’s better than sitting at your desk and commanding the cycling team of your dreams? Additionally, you won’t have to get wet, sweaty, or wear revealing Lycra.

This sports simulation title was developed by Cyanide Studio and published by Nacon. What’s more, it is only available on PC, so console gamers sadly miss out. However, if you have a reasonable gaming rig, you can tackle this in-depth game. This is my first go at a PCM experience. Subsequently, I felt somewhat out of my depth. Furthermore, I can’t compare this to its predecessors, so please accept my apologies. Nacon has outlined the list of modern features and a little research has highlighted some missing elements. As such, fans may be disappointed with this year’s amendments.

Pro Cycling Manager 2024 lets you write the story. 

This genre of games allows you to write your history. Furthermore, you are free to carve your path in the complex and often competitive world of racing. This freedom was fantastic, and the addition of multiple sponsors, in-race objectives, and visibility based on your successes was intriguing. Moreover, there are plenty of game modes, multiplayer action, and every major and minor event you can think of.

This spectacular mix of depth and detail enhances the realism. What’s more, it allows you to focus on the races that truly matter. As the months and days wear on, you are free to focus on whatever makes your sponsors and your team happy. Additionally, you can mix and match your riders, scout for fresh talent, and upgrade your equipment.

Racing. 

Pro Cycling Manager 2024 isn’t just about racing. However, let’s focus on this element for a moment. If time is short, and you want to push through the season, you may simply simulate each event. Yet, this approach takes a lot of planning, especially if you wish to beat the big boys. By studying the course and utilising each skilful rider, you have an opportunity to manipulate the results.

The ability to successfully defeat the major players was phenomenal. However, this isn’t a task for the faint of heart. Furthermore, you will have to be meticulous if you wish to be successful. I loved this attention to detail and the challenges that it poses. Alternatively, if you pick one of the major teams, you will need to rotate your riders to get the most out of them. Ditching out-of-form teammates is harsh but necessary. Additionally, weighing up the sponsor deals and your overall visibility is a must if you want better gear and increased funding. 

What’s new? 

The aforementioned sponsorship is the flagship addition to Pro Cycling Manager 2024. This advanced feature influences every decision you make. Moreover, it helps fund research and enhances your ability to entice the best riders to join you. Alongside this, the revamped information screen helps to tidy up your desktop whilst making it easier to digest the mountains of data. 

If this isn’t enough, there are some improvements with the AI and the sprinting. There is now a non-collision mechanic that improves sprint finishes. This was a little controversial as it doesn’t always work and causes occasional imbalanced results. However, the dirt tracks were great, and I loved how this altered your riding approach and the surrounding teams. 

Pro Cycling Manager 2024 is a little rough. 

The almost never-ending screens of data caused my eyes to water. There appears to be a tab for every element of the game. This is perfect if you love to micromanage. Yet, it can be overwhelming if you want to jump into the action. Thankfully though, the clear and concise writing and excellent UI make things bearable. Sadly, the racing element was a little rough. There were glitches and the textures weren’t perfect. Luckily, though, you spend more time organising your riders than you do watching things unfold, so this rarely mattered. 

I spent hours tweaking my career and trying new tactics. Accordingly, the limited soundtrack was frustrating. Alongside this, the commentary should have been more detailed and exciting. Consequently, there are plenty of quiet moments and this undermines the excitement. 

Plenty of trial and error. 

The developer has done a great job of explaining the fundamentals. The detailed tutorial navigates the UI and helps you to get started. However, plenty of trial and error and tactical tweaks are required to get the most out of the action. This may frustrate some people, as Pro Cycling Manager 2024 is tough enough as it is. 

If you love cycling and have a tactical mindset, you’ll adore every second. The detailed action and new features push you all the way. However, the trial and error were a little unfortunate and may put off some gamers. Subsequently, replay value and longevity could be impacted. 

Pro Cycling Manager 2024 gets the heart pumping. 

I’ve not been hooked on a sports management title for a while. However, Pro Cycling Manager 2024 has so much depth that I found it tough to put down. Furthermore, the ability to play various modes and the multiplayer action was fascinating. I also loved the new sponsorship layers and the opportunity to create a custom rider. In short, this game packs in a lot and is fascinating if you enjoy the sport. Accordingly, I love it and I recommend buying it here! Running a successful team isn’t as easy as you think. Choose your riders, plan your approach, and win every event.

Review: Lexar SL500 Portable SSD

Andrew Edney
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Review: Lexar SL500 Portable SSD

Here is our review of the Lexar SL500 Portable SSD.

Featuring an ultra-thin, rugged aluminum unibody construction that fits in the palm of your hand, the Lexar SL500 Portable SSD delivers exceptional read speeds of up to 2,000 MB/s and write speeds of up to 1,800 MB/s, maximizing efficiency.

The SL500 portable SSD is available in 1TB, 2TB and soon 4TB capacities. It is compatible with a wide range of devices, including laptops, cameras, Xbox X|S, PS4, PS5 and mobile devices. Specifically, it supports Apple Log video recording in ProRes 4K 60FPS format on the iPhone 15 Pro (and Max).

Thanks to Silicon Motion’s single-chip portable SSD controller solution, the SL500 portable SSD offers better performance while consuming less power. In addition, it comes with Lexar DataShield AES 256-bit encryption software to secure files.

Features

● 2000 MB/s read and 1800 MB/s write to transfer files quickly and work more efficiently (performance on Mac and other systems not supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 may be lower).

● Slim, stylish and durable metal design that fits easily in a pocket.

● Supports Apple Pro Res recording, allowing you to shoot directly to the player in 4K 60FPS with iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

● Compatible with iPhone 15 series, mobile devices, laptops, cameras, game consoles, etc.

● Type-C data cable for plug-and-play convenience.

● Includes Lexar DataShield™ AES 256-bit encryption software to protect files

What’s in the Box?

A Closer Look

Final Thoughts

The SL500 is both very small, it’s 4.3mm thick, and lightweight, weighing only 43g, it’s very easy to slip it into your pocket and forget it’s even there.

Connecting it to a device was simple, just use the included USB-C cable. You can connect it to a computer, a camera, a gaming console, whatever you want, as long as it used USB-C. It even supports Apple Pro Res recording up to 4K 60FPS from an iPhone 15 Pro or 15 Pro Max.

Performance wise, the SL500 is really fast! Supporting read speeds up to 2000 MB/s and write speeds up to 1800 MB/s (using a device that supports USB 3.2 Gen 2×2), it’s very fast. Even if you don’t have a device that supports USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, it’s still really fast!

If you want or need to protect the contents of the SL500, then Lexar have provided a copy of their DataShield software on the drive. This software will allow you to create a private safe and simply drag-and-drop your valuable files inside. Access to your safe is protected by a personal password and your files are automatically encrypted using 256-bit AES encryption. The drive includes versions for both Windows and Mac.

One thing I have noticed with some portable drives is that they can get very hot when in constant use, this isn’t the case with the SL500. The design is such that it ensures low temperatures even during high speed operations.

The Lexar SL500 Portable SSD is available now priced around £109.99 for the 1TB version and is a must have if you need a small, portable, fast and protected drive.

You can learn more from the Lexar website.

Review: Fading Afternoon

Sam Butler
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Review: Fading Afternoon

Fading Afternoon is a 2D beat-em-up game developed and published by Yeo. The game follows Seiji Maruyama, a Yakuza member recently released from prison and looking to return to his old life. The game examines Maruyama’s battle with age and the nuances of being an older Yakuza in a changing world.

Returning to the Family

The game starts as you leave prison and return to the Azuma family, where you hope to resume your duties as a family member. After a lengthy combat tutorial, you have a map with several locations to explore. You can start gang wars to gain territory for the Azuma family or go to different locations to talk to different people. A big factor in this game is time management. You can only go to an area once a day and three zones total for the day. Managing your time is key to progress throughout the story.

Gang wars make up a big portion of the game. On your map, you pick an area controlled by one of the various gangs, go up to one of their henchmen, and hit them. This will trigger a brawl where a bunch of gang members will come in, and you have to fight them off. After clearing a fight, you have to kill one of the lieutenants. Which can be difficult, but once you sneak up on them, you can pull out your gun and quickly dispatch them. From there, you have to fend off the territories from gangs as they attempt to take back what was once theirs.

Waiting for the end

Fading Afternoon has a very strong story. I think the way the game tells the story is interesting. Interactions with different characters talking about how they are getting lost in time, flashbacks to Seiji’s past, and little character interactions with your friends brings depth to the game. There are also multiple endings to explore, giving the game replayability and different paths to explore. One thing that I like is how the health bar tells the story about Seiji. The maximum health Seiji has is 999, but it is not possible to have that health. The game starts you at around 400 health, and as the game progresses, the lower your health gets. I think it is a brilliant way to tell how Seiji, a once prominent Yakuza, is aging and getting weaker. I also want to commend the soundtrack of the game. The music is very good at immersing you in Seiji’s world. I’ve also put down the controller to listen to the music before remembering that there is a game to play.

Unfortunately, the downside to all of this is the combat. Most of your time in the game is spent fighting rival gangs. You’re fighting on a 2D plane as waves of enemies appear on the screen. Sometimes, they throw glass bottles at you; sometimes, they jump-kick at you; and sometimes, they have weapons. You only have a punch and kick button, and pressing those buttons can block and counterattack. Unfortunately, most of these encounters can be button-mashed, and they become repetitive after the first few encounters. Also, I have gone a few in-game days without seeing any progression in the story. Sometimes, I’m just wandering, hoping to trigger a story beat. Most of the time, it feels like I’m fighting without a purpose.

The Life Of Seiji

Fading Afternoon tells the interesting story of Seiji Maruyama, an older Yakuza trying to re-establish himself in the newer world. There is a lot of interesting commentary on aging and reflections on the life you live, which I liked. To get to these moments, you have to battle through repetitive encounters. The game doesn’t give you much direction, so sometimes you aimlessly explore, hoping to trigger another cutscene on Seiji’s journey. If you can get through the repetitive combat, Fading Afternoon is worth checking out.

Review: Lost in Tropics

Daniel Waite
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Review: Lost in Tropics

Lost in Tropics instantly piqued my interest. I love the survival genre and the idea of getting my Robinson Crusoe on. However, a lack of depth and ideas reduces creativity. Moreover, the action lacks oomph and quality. The result is a tepid experience that leaves a sour taste in your mouth. Additionally, the exciting blurb gets your heart racing. In reality, it’s a slow and cumbersome adventure across a lifeless, sandy island.

This tropical survival experience was developed by Lukas GameLabs and published by SIG Publishing. It is a single-player title that plays out from a first-person perspective. What’s more, there are some randomly generated assets and in-game events to endure. Accordingly, it attempts to mix things up to prevent monotony from setting in. Sadly, though, it fails miserably.

Lost in Tropics will bore you to death. 

Surviving on a desert island should be an exciting and challenging time. Deadly animals, the heat, and a desperate search for a way home should all be at the fore. However, this sense of despair and danger is rarely present. Instead, the grind of resource gathering and the inane statistics drag you down. 

Alongside this, there is no backstory, and you feel no sense of rapport with your NPC survival buddy. This lazy individual sits around your rudimentary campsite as you gather food, water, and resources. They occasionally help if they are in the mood. Yet, their happiness is short-lived, and you have to beg them to find a leaf or the odd larvae to eat. When you combine this with no plot and droll gameplay, things turn sour very quickly. 

Basic mechanics. 

Lost in Tropics demands that you survive 21 days on your tropical island. You must explore your tiny piece of land and scavenge any useful resources. Alongside this, you must build a shelter, a fire, and some basic workstations. Once this is complete, there is little else to do. This was frustrating, as the developers should have added more crafting elements and the ability to expand your base. As it is, you may unlock every item in less than 30 minutes and hope to survive.

The inclusion of random in-game events should have been interesting. However, they are so far-fetched, that they are laughable rather than interesting. For example, I hunted numerous crabs, and suddenly they were after revenge. I’m not entirely sure how the living crabs knew about my slaughtering ways, but they were pissed off nonetheless. Alongside this, I picked up deadly parasites from the water, but I never touched the water… It was very strange, unhinged, and badly implemented.

Lost in Tropics looks great. 

Though the core mechanics are questionable, visually, Lost in Tropics looks great. The island setting was realistic, and the water had a glorious shimmer. Moreover, the lighting was great and I admired the crab animation. Furthermore, I liked the rendering distance and this helped you to explore new and unique locations. Alongside this, I experienced no glitches or frame rate problems.

The audio wasn’t so good. Sadly, there is no depth to the action as the developers haven’t incorporated footsteps or any swimming sounds. This flat and unrealistic approach was laughable and disappointing. Furthermore, the sound bites of your NPC companion are repetitive and annoying. In short, the soundtrack and sound effects fall way below modern standards. 

Simple controls. 

Lost in Tropics utilises a simple UI and basic controls. Yet, an inability to expand your inventory space annoyed the hell out of me. Accordingly, whenever you went exploring, you were stuck between taking supplies or risking your life. This was problematic as death ends your run. As such, I rarely ventured too far as I didn’t want to start again. 

Theoretically, there is plenty of replay value. In-game events mix things up and finding the correct resources can be challenging. However, there is not enough depth or items to craft. Furthermore, it is repetitive and unrealistic. Consequently, you’ll become bored long before you complete each of the difficulty settings. 

Lost in Tropics is a massive let-down. 

I had high hopes when I first installed Lost in Tropics. However, things quickly went south as the gameplay and core ideas ran dry. The lack of depth and the missing elements will leave you wanting. Moreover, the audio was so poor that it undermined any potential. Subsequently, this is a massive let down and I don’t recommend it. Yet, more information can be found here! Can you survive for 21 days? Gather food, build a shelter, and cross your fingers.

A Closer Look at the Minecraft Nano Metalfigs from Jada

Andrew Edney
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A Closer Look at the Minecraft Nano Metalfigs from Jada

Here we take a closer look at the Minecraft Nano Metalfigs from Jada.

Build your own adventure with all of your favourite characters from the world of Minecraft in Nano size! Featuring authentic character likeness, these die-cast figures are sure to be a standout in any collection!

  • Add these Series 8 figures to your Minecraft collection
  • 100% die-cast
  • Authentic character likeness
  • Contents: 18x Minecraft Nano figures
  • Dimensions: 4H cm (varies slightly by character)

If you are a fan of Minecraft, or you know someone who is, then this is a great set to get them!

The Minecraft Nano Metalfigs from Jada are available now priced around £19.99.

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