El Paso, Elsewhere

Xavier Berry
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El Paso, Elsewhere

Writing can carry a game with mediocre gameplay while steller gameplay mechanics can make a boring story tolerable. Video games have to have this level of balance in order to maintaining a persons interest and while some games are able to get around this general rule, it is important to understand that this is usually the outlier. Now what happens when you get a game that nails both gameplay and story, resulting in an experience that you cannot put down or walk away from? Well, you end up with El Paso, Elsewhere.

El Paso, Elsewhere blends the gameplay mechanics of Max Payne with a story that will pull at the heartstrings in ways I wasn’t expecting. The game has us following the main character, James Savage, as he descends into the void to stop a powerful vampire named Draculae. James understands that this journey into the void may be his last and that there is a lot at stake here. Armed with a plethora of guns and a handful of pills to aid him through the journey, Savage steps into an elevator and starts the descent into madness. Oh and Draculae? She’s not only a strong adversary but she is also his Ex.

The story here is full of twists and turns throughout its long run time. I expected the game to keep their relationship on the back burner and focus more on the monsters that we encounter over the course of the game while the romance would take a backseat. While the first couple of levels do talk about the void as well as the presence of creatures that haunt it, we will see James talk amongst himself in regards to the relationship he had with Draculae. She kept him in the dark about a lot of things in her past but now James has the opportunity to find out more about herself since the void seems to reflect both his and her feelings. While the monsters are terrifying and put up a fight to prevent James from moving forward, the real horrors here can be found in the shape of the abuse that Draculae dealt over the course of their relationship. She asserted dominance over James which eventually led to him fleeing in a car that he didn’t own while picking up an addiction to pills to help aid his escape. 

Gameplay will see us running around a multitude of levels, 50 to be exact, in an attempt to reach the bottom and stop Draculae. Each level will have a horde of enemies waiting to jump at us from around every corner while we try to save the hostages spread throughout the locations. From twisting motel hallways to an eerie castle, we will be picking up heart shaped keys in order to unlock doors and move throughout the levels. Warewolves, Mummies, and Puppeteers await us around every corner but thankfully James knows how to handle himself. Gunplay has a strong presence here with James being armed with a multitude of weapons ranging from twin pistols to a tommy gun and an uzi. Each gun has its own ammo pool that can be replenished by various pickups found throughout the levels and when monsters get a little too close for comfort, we are able to utilize one of the stakes we can pick up. The influence from Max Payne shows in the gameplay since James is able to dodge and leap around the level while slowing time down to get a better read on the situation while being able to adjust his shots to hit vital points in order to save on ammo. The ability to enter this bullet time mode will drain a separate bar located next to his health so it is important to keep an eye on the bar or else you may find yourself overwhelmed and underprepared. Thankfully, you can toggle the slow motion with the press of a button so you can make use of it when things get tough without having to worry about completely draining the bar.

Visuals are impressively smooth while still retaining a retro look here. The areas you will be exploring have some phenomenal lighting effects and are filled with a plethora of destructible objects. Smashing wooden objects will sometimes reward you with extra stakes so it’s important to break everything you can. I personally found myself with a topped off supply of stakes and pills over the course of the game so while ammo preservation is important, with proper management of your resources you will be able to make it to the end credits without hitting a wall. 

The music here is another key point that I would love to point out since each track does a wonderful job of adding to that atmosphere. There are vocal tracks that are sung by the same voice actor for James, Xalavier Nelson Jr. If that name sounds familiar, that is because he is also the head of Strange Scaffold, the company that brought us this wonderful gem. Tracks such as I want Wealth and Stay awake show up at key moments in the story and had me on the edge of my seat. Along with a phenomenal soundtrack, we are also graced with some amazing voice acting. James is full of metaphors and the rough tone he has makes each sentence hit you in the core with every delivery. The perfect use of pauses in between sentences makes the delivery of his realizations hit even harder. 

El Paso, Elsewhere is a beautiful example of what happens when a developer puts all of their heart into a game. In the beginning  I was here to take on the hordes of monstrosities that Draculae throws at our main character but by the time the credits rolled, I was broken up over the relationship between the two. James isn’t a perfect person and often admits that he was a drug addict who made mistakes in his life but this was his one chance to do good. Draculae might be an interesting take on Dracula but she is more fleshed out than that. She isn’t just some reskin of the famous monster but has her own personality and emotions that we uncover over the course of the game.  

This is a game that I can highly recommend to anyone who has been looking to fill the hole that Max Payne has left while still having its own personality. With 50 levels to run through and 2 different endings to get, this is definitely something that will take up a good chunk of time but is worth every minute spent here. So grab your trench coat, grab your arsenal, and prepare yourself to experience a  one way trip that is bound to stick with you well after the credits roll.

Review: Lumectra RGB LED light strip

Daniel Waite
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Review: Lumectra RGB LED light strip

The Lumectra RGB LED light strip from PowerA is a fantastic addition to your gaming set-up. Accordingly, this easy-to-handle and user-friendly device will make your console or PC pop. Alternatively, maybe you wish to add some colour to a child’s bedroom. Whatever the reason, this affordable accessory won’t disappoint.

On top of this, this light strip can be used in conjunction with the Xbox Advantage Wired controller with Lumectra. Consequently, you can have the most eye-catching gaming room ever. Furthermore, with plenty of colour options and 4 light modes, this is bound to impress.

What’s in the box of the Lumectra RGB LED light strip?

  • The alluring packaging caught my eye. The rich colours and striking images are impressive. Moreover, the box is robust, and the contents are well-packaged for transit.
  • The Lumectra RGB LED light strip is lightweight, sturdy, and easy to handle. What’s more, the adhesive strips make it a cinch to connect it to any compatible surface. 
  • Control the lights with this handy remote control. Select the lighting pattern or your favourite colour with ease. 
  • Learn the fundamentals with the startup guide. 

Technical aspects. 

This lighting strip is approximately 18 ft long. As such, it is suitable for many applications. Whether you have a massive TV or you wish to highlight the edge of your gaming area, this lighting strip won’t let you down. Additionally, thanks to the in-built control panel, you can adjust the settings with ease.

This control panel is equipped with an IR sensor. This sensor works with the provided remote control or the Xbox Advantage Wired controller with Lumectra (sold separately). Accordingly, getting the right colour for your man/woman cave or gaming area has never been easier. However, if you simply want to add colour to your cinema or playroom, the remote control is phenomenal and straightforward to use.

Build quality. 

I was impressed with the excellent build quality. The Lumectra RGB LED light strip is extremely flexible and the adhesive strips will stick to most surfaces. Moreover, the internal cables are well protected. Consequently, this prevents your lights from becoming damaged. On top of this, the in-line control system is rugged and easy to use. 

My only gripe is a minor point. Sadly, you have to connect the light strip to the mains. Consequently, there isn’t the benefit of plugging it into your console or PC USB port. This was disappointing, but luckily, the power draw is so low that this complaint is negligible.

Is the Lumectra RGB LED light strip worth it?

Making your gaming set-up pop is always worth the effort. You may not be a streamer or a garish person. However, personalising your gaming environment is a rewarding experience. As such, the Lumectra RGB LED light strip is a simple addition that improves any space. Consequently, I loved it and I recommend that you buy it here!

(More information on PowerA can be found here!) 

The Lumectra RGB LED light strip has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

Review: Monochrome Mobius: Rights and Wrongs Forgotten

Damien Gorman
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Review: Monochrome Mobius: Rights and Wrongs Forgotten

Most JPRGs follow some very distinct tropes. The hero is often strong, and stoic but confused/flustered by the enthusiasm of others. The villain is sinister, and maniacal but has a tragic past. The heroine is mysterious, and playful but has an edge you do not want to find.

All these are true of Monochrome Mobius: Rights and Wrongs Forgotten.

As a quick aside, I am once again begging video game developers to look up the definition of brevity.

Monochrome Mobius: Rights and Wrongs Forgotten_20230920115617

The first thing that must be noted about Monochrome Mobius is that it lacks an English dub. Whilst not debilitating to the gameplay experience, I know that it can be off-putting for some players, so I thought I’d mention it up top just in case.

Also from now on I’m going to refer to the game as Mobius because I’m lazy and that’s too many letters to type every time I want to refer to the game as a whole.

You play as Oshtor, a young warrior thrust into a grander scheme when he meets Shunya, a young woman claiming they share a father despite his father having died when he was very young. She appears to have travelled from a distant world and is now stranded, can he help her return home, and stop the evil machinations at work there? Yeah, probably.

Monochrome Mobius: Rights and Wrongs Forgotten_20230920101355

Gameplay is fairly simple if you’ve played a turn-based RPG before. Combat is a matter of selecting a skill, target, and carrying it out. The only wrinkle is the introduction of a priority wheel, by taking certain actions during battle you can move towards the centre of the ring, giving your attacks more power and allowing you to act more often. As you advance through the story you will gain more companions, increasing the scope of what this system can do but as combat systems go it’s fairly rudimentary.

Interacting with the overworld is fairly straightforward and unexciting too. The world is divided into small areas you can run around in, these are sometimes very small and feel somewhat restrictive. Especially so, given Oshtor runs around like he’s been shot out of a cannon, sometimes feeling very uncontrollable. There is a minimap showing you where to go at all times although venturing off the beaten path may uncover some side quests or loot that could come in handy later on.

The aesthetic of the world is pleasant enough if a bit simple, you’ve probably played games that look somewhat similar if you’re reading this review. I did, however, find the character models to be slightly off-putting during dialogue scenes as their mouths did not sync up with the dialogue at all, albeit they were speaking Japanese and I do not.

Monochrome Mobius: Rights and Wrongs Forgotten_20230925130216

The score is gorgeous however, the true strength of the game is in the way its dramatic beats are accentuated perfectly through the music.

On the whole, whilst I enjoyed the story, which I shall not spoil here on the off chance anyone picks this up, I found the whole experience to be somewhat stale. Nothing here is truly innovative. And whilst I’m an advocate of games not having to innovate with every release to be great, in the JRPG space it just feels as though there are better things to be playing. Combat is too simple, the character models often look like mannequins, and the side quests are dull.

On the other hand, as I’ve stated the story is very enjoyable, I liked both of the main heroes, Oshtor and Shunya, and I found the music to be enchanting.

In summary, if you’re a fan of JRPGs and are looking for a small time-sink whilst waiting for some of this Autumn’s more blockbuster releases then Monochrome Mobius: Rights and Wrongs Forgotten will certainly pass the time, but there’s a chance that there’s something out there in the same space doing something more interesting.

Review: ELEMNT RIVAL

Daniel Waite
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Review: ELEMNT RIVAL

The ELEMNT RIVAL is a fancy multi-sports watch that is jam-packed with useful and interesting features. What’s more, this lightweight device is robust and simple to use once you know what you are doing. Furthermore, it can be used alongside the incredible ELEMNT ROAM to keep on top of all your training needs.

This affordable sports watch focuses heavily on cycling, running, and swimming. However, there are many other built-in sports that can be tracked with ease. Accordingly, this is an excellent device if you want to keep on top of your data without breaking the bank. Moreover, its accurate heart rate monitor and calorie counter help to keep on top of your everyday metrics.

What’s in the box of the ELEMNT RIVAL?

  • The compact box is attractive and sturdy. Additionally, the striking colour palette and key selling points deliver a professional edge.
  • The ELEMNT RIVAL is available in 2 colours. As such, I was provided with the black version for this review.
  • Charge your watch with the handy USB docking station.
  • Understand the fundamentals with the handy user guide.

Technical aspects.

The ELEMNT RIVAL attempts to be a bit of a jack of all trades. Now, this normally puts me off. However, Wahoo has delivered a user-friendly accessory that will appease many athletes. Thanks to its get-up-and-go attitude, you don’t need to muck about by stopping and starting your watch. Instead, if you are training for a multi-sport event, this device tracks each activity seamlessly.

On top of this, it can be used in conjunction with your cycle computer. As such, you can focus on your running or your swimming and decide to finish off on your bike. Normally, this would normally lead to messy transitions and lost data. Yet, Wahoo allows you to jump on your bike and the technology will take over. Subsequently, your training session will be nicely broken down into its relevant parts. Alongside this, if you decide to continue your training after you finish your ride, the watch will acknowledge a new activity and the data will continue to be recorded.

Focus on your training.

This excellent approach ensures that you can focus on your training regime without worrying about the tech. What’s more, you are free to customise your data fields to receive the metrics that matter to you. This was great, as no one likes to be bamboozled with unnecessary information.

Talking of training, you can load, adjust, and monitor your workout plans directly from your watch. Select the program you wish to follow in the ELEMNT app and get to work. This user-friendly system makes it much easier to keep on top of your training and I loved the intuitive functionality.

One area that particularly impressed me was the accuracy of the heart rate monitor. Furthermore, the calorie and step counter and the sleep monitoring technology were on par with its market-leading peers. As such, if you want a watch that focuses on everyday health, then you won’t go wrong with this device.

Connectivity.

I’ve never been one for notifications on my watch. However, I’m a dying breed and this is a key feature that many people enjoy. Therefore, those users will be happy to know that this syncs with your texts, calls, emails, and many social media apps. Consequently, you can stay connected even when you are pushing yourself to train harder.

Have you ever considered how dangerous your training route could be? Well, if this is a concern, the ELEMNT RIVAL uses the Live Track Portal to deliver your real-time position. As such, this is perfect for anyone who wishes to keep an eye on you when you are out and about.

Build quality.

A sports watch must be prepared to be abused! The amount of tumbles, trips, and falls that occur whilst training is countless. As such, you don’t want your precious device to break at the first hurdle. Thankfully, the ELEMNT RIVAL is built to last. The Gorilla Glass is tough, slim, and wonderfully hard-wearing. Additionally, the ceramic bezel is scratch-resistant and stylish. Subsequently, I bashed this watch multiple times, but it didn’t show.

Alongside this, the silicone strap is comfortable and fits nicely on your wrist. Like its peers, though, there is an issue with sweating and dirt catching on the heart rate sensor. Consequently, you’ll need to keep cleaning the device if you wish to have the most accurate data readings.

Usability.

Sadly, the ELEMNT RIVAL takes some getting used to. For reasons unknown, the button layout isn’t that well explained. As a result, it takes a little trial and error to get on top of things. However, once you understand the lay of the land, the watch is incredibly intuitive and responsive.

Additionally, it was a cinch to change your activity or undertake multi-sport events. As such, though there is a slight learning curve, I believe that this watch will be perfect for the greatest of technophobes.

Is the ELEMNT RIVAL worth it?

Purchasing the right sports watch isn’t easy. However, if you want a stylish device that has a great battery life and an accurate GPS, you should consider the ELEMNT RIVAL. Furthermore, this excellent device seamlessly tracks your activities and works well during multi-sport events. Moreover, the ability to adjust your data fields and track your everyday statistics was thoroughly impressive. Accordingly, I love this device and I recommend that you buy it here!

(More information on Wahoo can be found here!)

The ELEMNT RIVAL has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

The Future of Bonus Innovation: AI’s Role in Unveiling New Types of Rewards in Online Gambling

Christopher John
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The Future of Bonus Innovation: AI’s Role in Unveiling New Types of Rewards in Online Gambling

The online gambling landscape is expanding exponentially, attracting participation from a vast user base. To stand out in such a competitive landscape, online casinos provide inventive bonuses and rewards to attract and retain users.

Revolutionary strides in technology have spurred the transformation of online casino rewards, with the integration of AI at the center of it all. AI-powered online gambling is redefining how gamers enjoy rewards for their loyalty, promising an exciting future for casino promos and bonuses. This article dives deep into AI’s multi-faceted impact in unveiling new reward schemes in casino sites.

The Progressive Evolution of Casino Rewards

Bonuses and promos have been etched into casino gaming tradition since the land-based casinos debuted. These incentives have proven to be a powerful advertising tool for operators, attracting and retaining avid gamers.

Conventionally, casino rewards presented a straightforward approach – sign up and receive a bonus offer. The offers typically spanned from free spins to no-deposit bonuses and prize multipliers. However, while the welcome package still exists, operators offer more substantial amounts with friendlier betting requirements to stay ahead of the competition.

Due to the surging popularity of online casino gaming, rewards programs have evolved considerably in complexity and variety. Nowadays, you can choose from an extensive range of enticing and innovative bonuses, each providing exclusive perks and wagering requirements. 

Moreover, adopting technological advancements like AI has facilitated the seamless integration of gamification components into casino bonuses. Consequently, players now enjoy a more dynamic and engaging casino experience that caters to all gaming needs.

How AI is Driving the Evolution of Casino Bonus Types

Introducing AI in the casino gambling sector is an exciting development influencing reward options. In this section, we delve into the impact of this transformative technology in shaping the future of casino rewards.

 Personalized Rewards

Casino operators leveraging AI technology utilize sophisticated algorithms to customize incentives for gamers. These algorithms yield insightful data on player activity, such as gambling habits, behavioral dispositions, and individual preferences. The information comes in handy in generating tailor-made casino bonuses.

With advanced information analysis, online casinos can oversee participant involvement on their platform. They track the games you prefer, the time spent on each game, and your gambling patterns to offer rewards beyond regular promotions. For instance, if a gamer enjoys spinning reels, the online casino will provide extra rewards that enhance experiences in slot games like free spins.

 Additionally, casino gambling platforms that employ AI frequently request feedback from gamers via surveys. The feedback mechanism helps the AI algorithm gain insights about player reward preferences. Online casinos utilize this information to constantly enhance customized reward offerings for gamers.

Gamification of Bonuses

Gamification strategies add an exciting touch to a site’s gaming experience, and AI technology is crucial in driving this innovative trend. These systems go beyond regular casino bonuses by incorporating elements that mimic video games, such as:

  • Leaderboards
  • Daily challenges
  • In-game objectives
  • Virtual achievements

AI has introduced a multi-tiered bonus structure into casino gaming where users progress through tiers based on their gaming activity, like the leveling systems seen in video games. Here, the more you advance, the more rewards you can unlock. This aids in evoking a sense of accomplishment and progression, which is crucial in online gaming.

Real-Time Adjustments

The power of AI to make real-time adjustments has transformed how casinos deploy and distribute prizes. These changes entail constantly monitoring and adjusting casino promos based on variables such as player behavior, operator performance, and context-specific characteristics.

Furthermore, AI-powered gaming sites provide significant rewards that are adjusted in real time. Instead of fixed incentives, the platforms offer awards strategically in response to pre-existing gaming conditions and player behaviors. AI systems monitor player data and apply predictive analytics to pinpoint important moments when players are responsive to casino promotions.

Final Thoughts

Artificial intelligence abilities have limitless potential in determining future online casino bonus rewards. The technology is at the helm of personalizing promotions, improving real-time flexibility, and including gamification elements into casino games. As a result, in the coming days, gamers can expect more immersive and rewarding casino gameplay.

However, as casino incentives change dramatically, players must comprehend the associated terms & conditions and embrace responsible gaming. You can optimize AI-powered bonuses through awareness and informed decision-making while relishing your casino adventures.

Review: LUXEA Pro Video Editor 7

Daniel Waite
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Review: LUXEA Pro Video Editor 7

LUXEA Pro Video Editor 7 has broken the mould! This incredibly powerful software enables would-be streamers to edit their videos without breaking the bank. Moreover, it stands head and shoulders above its predecessor, and that is almost unheard of. I reviewed LUXEA Video Editor 6 in August 2022, and I adored it. However, this latest iteration has smashed its predecessor out of the park.

Yet, this doesn’t mean that ACDSEE’s latest video programme is perfect because it isn’t. But the minor shortcomings do not undermine an otherwise incredible editing experience. Consequently, if you want something that is relatively easy to use, whilst being surprisingly powerful, then I suggest that you look no further.

LUXEA Pro Video Editor 7 allows you to record and edit your streams.

LUXEA Pro Video Editor 7 makes some great steps forward.

This suitably entry-level programme is jam-packed with top-end editing features. Accordingly, if you are used to using Adobe’s premium service, or any one of its monster peers, you’ll be surprised by what you see. Not only does this have customisable workspaces, but you can pre-edit your work from the source monitor. Though this wasn’t a feature I took advantage of, I can see the benefits and was impressed, nonetheless.

The new features that blew me away were the transition effects and the masking options. On top of this, I loved the precise controls and ability to flit through your clips with ease. Additionally, the option to lock each aspect of your project to prevent mistakes enhanced the usability.

Alongside this, you can adjust each layer of media at the touch of a button. Subsequently, you’ll create the perfect transition from clip to clip. Furthermore, you can play with the opacity, rotation, scaling, blend, and audio for each clip. This was incredible, as you felt in control of everything you were doing. Additionally, it made removing errors and unwanted clips a cinch.

Transitions and masking.

Creating a seamless video that blends and merges is no easy feat. However, LUXEA Pro Video Editor 7 allows you to “cheat” your way to victory with its fantastic transition and masking tools. If you are familiar with video editing, you’ll know how important both of these features are. Yet, this software makes incorporating them into your project a straightforward endeavour.

There are plenty of standard or fancy transitions to choose from. As such, you can be as sensible or as outlandish as you like. Furthermore, adjusting each transitional stage is a cinch. Consequently, you can hide horrendous cuts behind a “fade to black” or a “checkerboard” effect. On top of this, you can blend two clips beautifully using the pre-set masks or any you wish to download. These masking tools create a natural transition from one clip to another. Subsequently, they allow you to deliver something slightly understated, but just as smooth.

Behaviours, captions, and speed.

LUXEA Pro Video Editor 7 allows you to generate some incredibly fancy projects. Thanks to the speed ramping feature, you can increase and decrease your clips. This was particularly useful for promotional videos or sports clips. Alongside this, you can adjust the behaviours of any media you use. Accordingly, you can have overlaid text explode into a shot or fade away.

Finally, you may wish to be bold and brash with amusing or informative captions. This was a great tool that was simple to edit while delivering excellent results. Additionally, if you combined this with the behaviour settings, you were rewarded with some interesting and fancy results.

LUXEA Pro Video Editor 7 needs a better audio tool.

I was spoilt when I used Adobe Premiere Pro. The audio tool is second to none, and I became lazy as a consequence. Now that I’ve moved to this software, I am left yearning for a better audio tool! Unfortunately, the balancing options and the transitional phasing is not good enough. As such, you have to invest plenty of time and effort to get things right.

Though there is a steep learning curve regarding the audio elements, LUXEA does deliver a decent end product. Thanks to the audio monitor and the excellent equaliser, you can adjust your levels for every clip. Yet, for reasons unknown, you can not alter multiple clips at once. On top of this, there is no pre-set balancing for narration, sound effects, game audio, and so forth. As such, there is some trial and error needed if you are to get the balance right.

Usability.

If you are new to video editing, it can be a daunting experience. You are welcomed by multiple workspaces and plenty of mixers and editing tools. As such, you are tempted to quit before you get going. Thankfully, though, LUXEA Pro Video Editor 7 is different. The ACDSEE team has invested plenty of time and effort into creating “how-to guides” to get you started. What’s more, there is a helpful community of hardened users to get you started.

However, if you prefer a trial-and-error approach, the clean workspaces and excellent audio monitor are easy to understand. Subsequently, you can work through many of the harder elements and still produce something impressive. Alternatively, if you are a video editing aficionado, you’ll adore the straightforward set-up and easy-to-handle editing tools.

Is LUXEA Pro Video Editor 7 worth it?

If you want an affordable and powerful video editing suite that will deliver incredible videos, then look no further. This easy-to-handle software is incredibly user-friendly and wonderfully responsive. Moreover, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. Consequently, every video that I’ve created has impressed me. Yet, for all its positives, I wish that the audio had better transitional features. The limitation of fading in and out wasn’t good enough. However, this doesn’t tarnish an otherwise incredible experience. As such, I recommend that you buy it here!

(More information on ACDSEE can be found here!)

LUXEA Pro Video Editor 7 has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

Review: Astrea: Six Sided Oracles

Josh Blackburn
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Review: Astrea: Six Sided Oracles

There’s a term in warfare called a ‘pyrrhic victory’. This is when you achieve victory, technically speaking, but the losses you’ve suffered are so high that it might as well be called a defeat. Named for Pyrrhus of Epirus. Must sting to be remembered solely for sucking at tactics. Anyway, Astrea: Six Sided Oracles made me think of this more than once as I reviewed my hand of dice. I could use them to deal a lot of damage to the enemy but it would also hurt myself.

It’s a constant gamble. Though in most cases, it would only kill, say, one enemy. Less a pyrrhic victory, more a pyrrhic sucker punch. I ended up loving it though. Astrea: Six Sided Oracles balances life and death, and rewards taking risks, which took a little getting used to for me. When I stepped outside of my comfort zone though, I found myself having fun, though the world I stepped into does feel a tad cold at times.

Astrea: Six Sided Oracles - a boss battle, with Moonie as the player character.

Casting The Dice

Astrea: Six Sided Oracles is a roguelike, tower-climbing game. The usual MO for these sorts of games is to deal you a hand of cards and send you off to play incredibly violent poker. Astrea takes the cards away and instead hands you some dice. At the start of each turn, you and your foes roll the dice. Each individual die has its own combo of faces, so you’ll usually get presented with a splattering of different skills that you need to stitch together into a reasonable turn. Honestly, I think I actually prefer it to cards.

Dice bring in a special double helping of luck. No matter how much you stock up your dice bag, there will always be a chance that half your dice land on the ‘punch yourself in the face’ option. Rerolling or shielding becomes essential, but the handful of turns where you get all your strongest dice together is wonderful. Still, bad doesn’t necessarily mean bad. See, rather than life we have ‘corruption’ and ‘purity’, labelled red and blue respectively. Purity deals damage to enemies and heals you and corruption does the opposite. Too much corruption and you’ll end up sprouting tentacles in awkward places.

However, the more corrupted you are, the more ‘virtues’ you can pop off. Corruption should therefore be seen as another resource, and the interplay between purity and corruption is handled well. It clicked with me when I played as Cellarius, a handsome shark man. A lot of his attacks deal corruption to himself while hitting enemies, but he has a virtue that can heal. So I ended up rigging my dice bag so I could chain heavy attacks on enemies, while my virtues ensured I was always at full purity by the end. It’s an extremely rare thing for me to properly engage with deckbuilding, but Astrea: Six Sided Oracles’ dice and the well-defined character roles make it a joy.

Astrea: Six Sided Oracles - Dice are rolled during a regular battle.

Snake Eyes

The different characters are well thought out. The basic character, Moonie, revolves around changing corruption to purity and enhancing weak dice. From that relatively straightforward starting point, you progress up to characters like Hevelius, who revolves around sentinels. There are little robots that tag along. Hevelius makes them stronger each turn, so I mainly used the dice to block all damage and then giggle as my sentinels did all the work. Each character seems relatively well balanced too and I haven’t yet found one I don’t get along with.

So, everything’s looking peachy at the moment. The art style nearly seals the deal. It’s a very clean style with lots of bright colours. It’s very pleasant to look at and the distinction between corrupted and purified is well done. I love how the enemies revert back to their purified form once beaten. Shame they don’t care to stick around and help their friends though. Character art is nice all around, with each character being its own distinctive race. It’s odd, then, that my overall feeling about the world is one of coldness.

It’s in how we progress, I think. There’s very little flavour going on. Progression is done on a node system, with small nodes connecting battles. Pretty much all of these nodes are just chests, netting you more dice, with the occasional upgrade point. The few event spaces are brief, just netting you a chance at a bonus. It’s crying out for some little stories; a little feeling that life still clings to this corrupted world. When I lose at these games (which is often), I like to at least feel I’ve learnt something about the world. Astrea: Six Sided Oracles doesn’t have that, despite the intro cutscene setting up a decent plot.

Astrea: Six Sided Oracles - A chest opens, offering a choice between a safe, balanced or risky die.

Dice Overload

The other major issue is one that is perhaps unavoidable: the deck building (or whatever you call it with dice) gives me a headache. If you struggle to manage a deck of cards, then balancing ten plus dice, all with their six faces, is near impossible. Once you open the dice screen, you’ll be bombarded with different symbols, a lot of which look similar, and it can very quickly become overwhelming. There must be a better way to manage the dice than just hurling them at our face.

Still, these are minor issues that don’t dampen an otherwise fantastic core gameplay loop. I mean, this game got me to stop and think about deckbuilding. Not many games can penetrate through the thick level of apathy that comes from a full day of work. That alone is worth the good score. But even aside from that, Astrea: Six Sided Oracles is an excellent roguelike that feels like a constant balancing act between life and death. If your evening game of Yahtzee just isn’t doing it anymore then give it a whirl.

(Astrea: Six Sided Oracles’ Steam Page)

Mastering the Internal Assessment: Tips and Strategies for Success in IB Biology

Christopher John
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Mastering the Internal Assessment: Tips and Strategies for Success in IB Biology

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and commitment to holistic education. Among the many challenges that IB students face, the Internal Assessment (IA) stands out as a critical component, particularly in IB Biology. The IA is not just another assignment; it’s a substantial research project that can significantly impact your final IB score. In this article, we will delve into the nuances of mastering the Internal Assessment in IB Biology, providing you with tips and strategies to excel in this crucial endeavor.

The Role of the IA in the Overall IB Score

The Internal Assessment in IB Biology plays a pivotal role in determining your final grade. It accounts for 20% of your overall score in the course, making it a substantial contributor to your final mark. This means that dedicating time and effort to your IA can have a substantial impact on your academic success in the program.

Understanding the Structure and Requirements

Before we dive into the specifics of excelling in the IA, it’s essential to understand its structure and requirements. The IB Biology IA consists of several key components:

– Research Question: This is the foundation of your IA. It’s the question you aim to answer through your experiment and analysis.

– Exploration: Here, you will outline your methodology, materials used, and procedures followed. This section should provide a clear roadmap of how you conducted your experiment.

– Analysis: In this part, you will present and analyze the data you collected during your experiment. This is where you demonstrate your understanding of biological concepts and statistical tools.

– Evaluation: The evaluation is your opportunity to reflect on your experiment’s success, discuss any challenges or errors, and explore the broader implications of your findings.

Each of these components contributes to your final IA grade, with the evaluation typically carrying the most weight. Understanding these components and their respective weightage is crucial for planning and executing your IA effectively.

Choosing the Right Research Question

The first and perhaps most crucial step in the IA process is selecting the right research question. Your research question should be both scientifically relevant and personally interesting. Here are some tips to help you choose wisely:

– Relevance: Ensure your research question is directly related to the field of biology and addresses a specific biological concept or phenomenon. It should contribute to the broader understanding of biology.

– Feasibility: Consider the resources, time, and equipment available to you. Your research question should be feasible within the constraints of your environment.

– Personal Interest: Choose a topic that genuinely interests you. Your passion for the subject will shine through in your work and keep you motivated throughout the IA process.

Avoid common pitfalls in question selection, such as questions that are too broad, too vague, or lack a clear hypothesis. Your research question should be specific and testable.

Designing a Robust Experiment

Once you have a well-crafted research question, it’s time to design your experiment. A robust experiment is characterized by control, reproducibility, and reliability. Here’s how to achieve this:

– Control: Clearly identify and control variables that could affect the outcome of your experiment. This ensures that any changes observed are a result of the manipulated variable.

– Reproducibility: Design your experiment in a way that others can replicate it. This is a fundamental principle of scientific research.

– Reliability: Choose materials and methods that are reliable and produce consistent results. Avoid overly complex procedures that may introduce unnecessary variability.

Additionally, your experiment should have real-world relevance. Consider how your findings can contribute to our understanding of biology or address practical problems. However, be cautious not to over-complicate your experiment, as simplicity often leads to more meaningful results.

Data Collection and Analysis

Data collection is a critical phase of your IA. To ensure accuracy and consistency:

– Record data meticulously, paying attention to detail.

– Use appropriate tools for data collection, such as calibrated instruments or standardized procedures.

– Present your data effectively using tables, graphs, and charts. Label your figures clearly, including units of measurement.

When it comes to data analysis, use statistical tools where applicable to test hypotheses and identify trends. Draw clear and supported conclusions based on your data. Remember to reference the research question and biological theory in your analysis.

Crafting the Evaluation

The evaluation section of your IA is your chance to reflect on the entire experiment. Here, you should:

– Discuss the successes and challenges you encountered during the experiment.

– Address any errors or unexpected results and propose improvements.

– Explore the broader implications of your findings. How do they relate to the research question, and what do they contribute to the field of biology?

It’s crucial to link your evaluation back to the research question and the biological concepts you set out to investigate. This demonstrates a deep understanding of the subject matter.

Presentation and Writing Tips

The presentation of your IA is just as important as its content. Adhere to IB formatting guidelines, including word limits and document structure. Here are some writing tips to keep in mind:

– Write clearly and concisely. Avoid unnecessary jargon or complex language.

– Use appropriate scientific terminology, but ensure you explain any technical terms for clarity.

– Properly cite all sources and references, and avoid plagiarism at all costs.

Seeking Feedback

Throughout the IA process, seek feedback from peers, teachers, and mentors. Constructive criticism can help you refine your work and identify areas for improvement. The IA is an iterative process, so be prepared to revise and refine your work based on feedback.

Preparing for the Viva Voce (Oral Defense)

The Viva Voce, or oral defense, is the final step in the IA process. It’s an opportunity for you to present and defend your research findings. Here are some tips for success:

– Practice your presentation multiple times to ensure you can confidently explain your research process, results, and conclusions.

– Be prepared to answer questions from your assessors. Anticipate potential questions and have well-thought-out responses.

– Maintain composure and professionalism during the Viva Voce. Confidence in your research and presentation is key.

Conclusion

Mastering the Internal Assessment in IB Biology is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. It requires dedication, critical thinking, and a passion for biology. By understanding the IA’s structure and requirements, selecting the right research question, designing a robust experiment, collecting and analyzing data effectively, and crafting a thoughtful evaluation, you can excel in this essential component of your IB education.

Remember that seeking feedback and continuous improvement are integral to success in the IA process. Approach your IA with confidence, curiosity, and dedication, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering this critical aspect of IB Biology. Good luck!

9 Hauntingly Romantic Horror Movies to Watch with Your Date

Christopher John
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9 Hauntingly Romantic Horror Movies to Watch with Your Date

If your date is not into your usual blackjack real money gaming online and you’re looking for an exhilarating film to make your date night more thrilling, horror movies with a hint of romance can be a great choice. They not only provide a sense of danger they also provide ample opportunities to cozy up during the truly hair-raising moments. Here is a collection of nine horror movies that can add some chills to your date night.

1. A Quiet Place (2018)

“A Quiet Place” (2018) is a captivating experience set in an apocalyptic world skillfully combining elements of horror and tenderness to take viewers on an emotional rollercoaster. The story revolves, around a couple portrayed convincingly by John Krasinski and Emily Blunt as they navigate the challenges of surviving in this reality while protecting their children.

The unique adversaries in the film are creatures who lack sight but possess hearing. Their relentless pursuit relies on tracking sounds creating an atmosphere filled with suspense throughout the movie. This constant tension transforms the noise into a potentially fatal threat intensifying the horror and making it truly nerve-wracking to watch.

At its core “A Quiet Place” also serves as a heartwarming family drama. Moments of love, acts of courage, and selfless sacrifices seamlessly blend with the horror backdrop adding depth to the narrative. This fusion of contrasting genres makes “A Quiet Place” a thought-provoking film – a perfect choice, for a memorable date night.

2. Warm Bodies (2013)

“Warm Bodies,” released in 2013, offers a fresh approach to the widely loved zombie horror-comedy genre by playing around with the star-crossed love concept.

This clever parody infuses an unlikely romance into its core plot, where a zombie becomes enamored with a human girl. This unconventional love story takes a refreshing departure from the established norms of horror films, offering viewers an amusing and surprising narrative journey.

The film brilliantly balances comical elements with traditional horror, managing to serve up an equal portion of laughter and fright, an unusual feat in the genre, which heightens the film’s viewing experience.

The juxtaposition of romance and horror makes “Warm Bodies” an exceptional choice for a date night, providing an engaging blend that could appeal to diverse tastes. This offbeat narrative ensures that the film stands out in the over-crowded zombie movie landscape, taking a unique stance in an otherwise predictable genre.

3. Crimson Peak (2015)

“Crimson Peak,” directed by Guillermo del Toro is a captivating gothic horror film that takes place in a mansion. With its gripping romance, visuals and eerie supernatural aspects this movie is a choice, for a thrilling date night, in a spooky setting.

4. Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)

“Only Lovers Left Alive” is a captivating blend of horror, romance and dark humor that sets itself apart from most stories. Directed by the Jim Jarmusch and released in 2013 this film stands as a work-of-art. It revolves around two lovers who have managed to sustain their relationship, for centuries delving into the depths of love and its challenges.

The main characters inhabit the shadows adding a layer to their timeless love tale. They have navigated a world that constantly evolves while deliberately keeping themselves isolated from interference. Despite their nature their love story remains touchingly human.

Breaking away from comedies “Only Lovers Left Alive” introduces supernatural elements that transform the classic narrative into something hauntingly mesmerizing. This unique twist makes it an appealing choice for those seeking complexity and depth beyond romance tropes. Notably the film’s gothic aesthetic adds a layer of dimension and intrigue enhancing the experience for viewers.

With its perspective on cinema, “Only Lovers Left Alive” delves deep into the mysteries of everlasting love and captures the hearts of its audience. Undoubtedly it stands out as an addition to the genre.

5. Let the Right One In (2008)

“Let the Right One In” is a film that came out in 2008. It combines elements of horror, romance and drama to create a captivating story. The plot revolves around two children who feel disconnected, from society and form a bond.

This intriguing storyline not only makes us care about the characters but also keeps us on the edge of our seats, with suspense. The beautiful cinematography and chilling visuals add to its haunting allure. With its narrative and stunning visuals it provides a captivating experience that will stay with you until the very end.

6. The Shape of Water (2017)

Guillermo del Toros’ Oscar-winning movie delves into a love story, between a woman who cannot speak and a creature from the water. Blending elements of horror, fantasy and romance “The Shape of Water” is a unique pick, for a romantic movie night.

7. It Follows (2014)

“It Follows” is not just your usual horror movie; it goes beyond that to showcase the aftermath of intimacy. The film’s eerie ambiance, intense suspense and lasting sense of dread will surely keep you and your companion holding onto each other from start to finish.

8. Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)

No horror compilation would be considered comprehensive without including a vampire movie. The legendary tale of “Dracula” is beautifully reimagined in this film by Francis Ford Coppola incorporating elements of romance.

“Bram Stoker’s Dracula” is an exhilarating and visually striking blend of horror and romance making it an ideal choice, for a captivating movie night with someone.

9. Spring (2014)

“Spring” is a captivating tale of love that unfolds between a gentleman and a mysterious woman who holds an enigmatic secret. This extraordinary blend of romance, drama and horror creates a cinematic experience that will leave you both enchanted and astonished. It’s the kind of film that sparks engaging conversations, between you and your companion after the credits roll.

Conclusion

Why not consider watching horror movies on a date night? This list of 9 films offers a combination of horror and captivating love stories. So prepare for a movie night grab some popcorn, hop on Netflix and embrace each other tightly. Afterall, there’s something romantic about shielding your partner from the monsters that appear on the screen, isn’t there?

How To Design An Online Casino Game – It’s Not As Easy As You Think!

Christopher John
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How To Design An Online Casino Game – It’s Not As Easy As You Think!

The online casino industry has wholeheartedly embraced rapid technological advancements and digital innovation like no other. With millions of players worldwide seeking to replicate the excitement and thrill of the casino floor at their fingertips, the design of these platforms’ games has evolved into an art form in its own right. It takes the perfect blend of creativity, technology, psychology, and mathematics, all working harmoniously together, to create a truly captivating and immersive online gambling experience.

Having an extensive games library for players is all well and good, but this means nothing if the offerings are not well-designed and developed. But it’s not just online casino operators that stand to lose, if cutting edge technology isn’t offered to their customer base. Top affiliate sites like NoDepositFriend: Home of The Best No Deposit Bonus Codes, also have a reputation to uphold, which is precisely why they only choose to work with already established game developers.

As such, designing a successful online casino game can be quite a challenging process, requiring careful planning and attention to detail. From the alluring visuals that draw players in to the intricate game mechanics, let’s take a closer look at what it takes to create an online casino game.

Idea Generation

First things first, you need an idea, ideally an original one, to kickstart the game development process. Some software development companies host brainstorming sessions, inviting members from different departments to contribute their suggestions on what they believe should be the theme of the company’s latest offering. Another effective tactic is to engage in comprehensive market research to determine the latest trends and scope out what competitors are currently offering.

Furthermore, it’s essential to analyze which themes resonate most with the target audience to decide whether the company should align with current preferences or explore entirely new directions. Once the development team has generated a pool of ideas, they can carefully sift through them, identifying the concepts with the most potential and conducting in-depth research to verify their viability. The importance of theme selection cannot be overstated, as it is a fundamental element in how online casino software functions.

Consider this: a game’s underlying concept is what captures players’ attention and ignites their interest. If it fails to excite them, they are likely to seek alternative forms of entertainment. Therefore, once developers have selected the idea they want to pursue, they must be confident that it will not only attract players but also deliver the desired results.

Mockup

Once the concept is finalized, the next stage involves creating mock-ups for the designs of the casino game. This includes sketching out characters, significant symbols, and backdrops to provide a clear visual representation of what players can expect from the game. While these aspects pertain to the game’s aesthetics, developers also need to construct a basic blueprint outlining the structure of the game and how it progresses as players interact with it. Mock-ups serve as a vital tool in bringing a concept to life, transforming it from an intangible idea into a tangible reality.

Prototype

The best way to ensure your concept works is by developing a fully functional prototype. This will allow developers to test the game mechanics, including the slot functionality and user interface, and determine whether the theme effectively comes across. Prototypes extend beyond the game’s static appearance, enabling all stakeholders to evaluate which aspects require improvement for the final version.

Game Design & Development

Take all the feedback you’ve received during the prototype stage and incorporate all necessary changes. Evaluate which of your mockups is the most effective and direct your UI/UX designers to develop a functional version, ensuring the game is optimized for all types of devices. Subsequently, you will need to address the critical backend components of the game, including implementing a random number generator, integrating a payment gateway, and ensuring compatibility with various operating systems, including iOS, Android, Windows, and VR.

Quality Analysis

Before releasing the game to the market, another round of testing is imperative. This represents the final opportunity to identify and rectify any weaknesses or bugs before its official launch. During this stage, it is essential to assess loading speeds, code quality, features, playability, and other functions. Releasing a game with unresolved issues can be severely detrimental, potentially causing significant damage to a game developer’s reputation. Therefore, this stage is of utmost importance in ensuring a successful launch.

Review: Xbox Advantage Wired controller with Lumectra

Daniel Waite
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Review: Xbox Advantage Wired controller with Lumectra

The Xbox Advantage Wired controller with Lumectra by PowerA is an exceptional way to game and brighten your life. This vivid controller is obnoxiously bright, and I adored its garish approach. Furthermore, PowerA has enhanced its game with a free-to-download app. Consequently, you no longer need to settle for their colour palette. Instead, you can customise this accessory to your heart’s content.

Alongside this, it comes with a short but useful LED light strip. As such, you can sync the controller and the light strip to generate a gloriously vibrant hue. On top of this, the controller has many elite features. This was impressive as this wired controller won’t break the bank. 

What’s in the box of the Xbox Advantage Wired controller with Lumectra?

  • The compact packaging catches your eye. Thanks to the vivid imagery, I couldn’t help but stare. 
  • The Xbox Advantage Wired controller with Lumectra looks fantastic. Additionally, it is available in a white or black finish.
  • A 10-foot rubberised USB-C cable is used to power the controller.
  • Illuminate your gaming arena with the 4-foot LED strip. 
  • Learn the fundamentals with the user manual. 

Technical aspects.

No matter the price, I expect a controller to be responsive, comfortable, and familiar. Thankfully, the Xbox Advantage Wired controller with Lumectra ticks these boxes. Moreover, it has some exceptional features that you wouldn’t expect at this price point. For example, it has 3-way trigger locks and impulse triggers for enhanced realism.

On top of this, there are mappable rear buttons to enhance your gaming experience further. These well-placed inputs can be altered on the fly and that is great if you flit between games. Additionally, you can adjust both the LED light strip and the controller lights using the rear buttons. Thanks to the built-in IR sensor, your lighting display can be adjusted or extinguished at the touch of a button. 

Build quality. 

The Xbox Advantage Wired controller with Lumectra is officially licenced to the Xbox brand. As such, you know it is built to the highest standards. What was particularly good about this device, however, was its weight, familiar button location, and ergonomic design. Moreover, I loved the tactile grips and the responsive nature of each button. 

This comfortable but heavy controller may surprise you. Yet, I loved the reassuringly heavy design and how great it felt in my hands. Furthermore, the outer shell is robust and can withstand some minor roughhousing. The ergonomic design and the grips were perfect for extended gaming sessions. During testing, I never felt fatigued and there was no risk of it slipping from my hands. 

The 3-way trigger lock and the impulse triggers make this controller stand out from the crowd. The trigger locks give you a competitive edge, whereas the impulse triggers deliver a rumble feature that enriches your experience.

LED lighting. 

Technically, the Xbox Advantage Wired controller with Lumectra is identical to the PowerA Advantage Wired controller that Andrew Edney reviewed. However, the RGB and LED lighting are the key differences. This incredibly vibrant controller has 4 unique colour areas that can be customised using the PowerA app. Moreover, there are 3 lighting settings to customise things further.

If that isn’t enough, you can sync the controller and the LED strip to create a complementary and vivid gaming space. This was fantastic, as your TV, monitor, or desk will look as great as the controller you are holding. 

Is the Xbox Advantage Wired controller with Lumectra worth it?

This accessory blew my mind! The in-built RGB creates a gaming experience that usually costs a fortune. Additionally, the mappable buttons, 3-way trigger locks, and impulse triggers deliver next-level gaming. Furthermore, the wired connection is secure and responsive. Accordingly, I love this controller and I recommend that you buy it here!

(More information on PowerA can be found here!) 

The Xbox Advantage Wired controller with Lumectra has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

What the Overhaul of Counter Strike’s Esports Tournaments Ecosystem Spells For Future Tournaments

Christopher John
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What the Overhaul of Counter Strike’s Esports Tournaments Ecosystem Spells For Future Tournaments

Image Source: Freepik.com

Game developer Valve recently announced new changes to rules governing tournament organizers that seem to have sent shock waves across the ecosystem. The new rules set to take effect from 2025, stipulate that tournament organizers cannot have business relationships with teams in their tournaments as this amounts to conflict of interest. 

With these rules coming into effect, they put to an end the semi-franchised partnerships that have dominated CS:GO tournaments. Valve wants to ensure that a team’s ability is what pushes them to the top of competitive events and not money. Sharing the new development in a 200-word blog post, Valve noted with concern how Counter Strike’s professional tournaments have been drifting away from the initial ideals of the tournament and now access to the highest levels of competitions for teams was being curtailed by business relationships. The competitions according to Valve are supposed to be an open playing field where a team’s ability will be the only hindering factor in their progress to the top.

The rules further stipulate that any competition that the organizers pay participating teams, the prize money and other revenue streams should be made public and be open for scrutiny by the community. 

More Teams to Access Opportunities

With these new rules, more teams are going to get realistic opportunities to play at the highest level. This means a wide pool of teams will have more exposure that they can sell to brands and access to other league revenue-sharing streams. This will have a ripple effect in the whole tournament ecosystem including esports betting where the introduction of new teams will throw a spanner in the works and make things more interesting. 

Top esports bookmakers like GGBet are also following the developments closely as they seek to adjust and ensure their players reap maximum benefits from any changes to the tournaments. For all your CS:GO betting now and even after the changes come into effect play at GGbet by visiting https://ggbet.zone/en to enjoy the most competitive odds and the most diverse markets.

Small and medium-sized organizations with interests in esports have also welcomed the news. They now smell an opportunity to be part of the Counter Strike tournament ecosystem through sponsorships that are now the preserve of the big boys with well-oiled pockets. 

More Teams for the Same Size of Pie

But regardless of the new expected changes, even with the current semi-franchised model, most top teams are still struggling to make profits. Being one of the most stable titles with a huge fan base, CS:GO attracts top teams thanks to its pedigree and attractive revenue-sharing models. But even with these, most teams are finding it hard to achieve profitability and the proposed changes can spell bad news to an already tricky situation. This will turn into a situation where the amount of shareable revenue will be spread thinner as more teams get a share of the pie without the pie having increased in size.  ESL and BLAST, the two semi-franchised tournament organizers seem to have their work cut out for them to comply with the new changes.

Valve is well aware that there will be challenges as expected of any transitions. But even with the rough edges expected, their resolve is still strong to ensure the changes come into effect for the benefit of the larger CS:GO tournaments ecosystem. As we have come to expect of them we know they won’t just sit and do nothing in case of challenges. Valve is King and a King ensures the survival of all its subjects especially in situations that threaten their survival.

Review: Shalnor Legends II: Trials of Thunder

Xavier Berry
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Review: Shalnor Legends II: Trials of Thunder

Setting up a proper sequel can be quite challenging since you have to attract both new players as well as new ones. While some sequels will separate themselves from the previous game in the series in order to help newcomers get adjusted, others will simply assume that you have prior experience with the game without giving any information. Shalnor Legends II: Trials of Thunder thankfully allows players to set off on this adventure without any prior knowledge but is a rough experience and a hard recommendation after its opening hours.

The game starts off with a cutscene showing our main character, an orc named Mogren, sailing across the sea. He is on a quest to prove himself to his clan but things start off rough when his boat crashes on an island during a storm. Washed up on the mysterious island, our hero soon finds an ax and is summoned by the god of thunder to be his champion. Mogren has no interest in being a gods champion but instead wants to continue on his journey. Our hero has one goal in mind and wants to see it through to the end. The thunder god finds this humorous and explains that by making Mogren his champion, finishing his personal journey will be much easier than it would have been before. WIth this new ax in hand and the blessing of the Thunder god, Mogren sets off on an adventure full of mediocre peril and paper thin comedy.

Gameplay is similar to most top down adventure games such as The Legend of Zelda and Oceanhorn, where the player has a few basic actions that they can perform while they explore the map. Mogren is tasked with taking on 5 different dungeons in order to restore power to the ax given to him by the thunder god. While not extremely challenging, each dungeon consists of simple puzzles and basic enemies to take on before fighting the dungeon’s boss. As you take out enemies, Mogren will gain experience that can be used to unlock new skills during the journey. These skills can be utilized in combat but unfortunately, combat felt sluggish and dragged. When you hit an enemy they stop moving momentarily but after a slight pause, they continue right on their path. There is no knock back for enemies so if you get put in a sticky situation, things are just downhill from there. 

While the story here is one of the big focuses, the writing can drag on for quite some time in an attempt to squeeze as much humor out of an interaction as possible. For instance, in the beginning, there is an elder that Mogren must seek out in order to figure out the next step on his journey. Upon finding the elder, we spend the next couple of minutes going over the fact that the elder was given a mighty responsibility and failed to listen to the gods directions. This is repeated multiple times in the same dialog section and grows tiresome quickly. Since Shalnor Legends II does not utilize the full text box space for the dialog, there felt like an excessive amount of text boxes for simple conversations. I realized this when it came time to talk to a fisherman in order to receive the fishing pole. Conversations just felt like they dragged on longer than needed to. This unnecessary padding in dialogue often means the jokes run well past the punchline and leaves you ready for it to just end. 

For those looking for a short adventure to pass an evening, Shalnor Legends II is an okay title. My playthrough took me roughly 10 hours or so to see through to the end and was an alright way to pass a weekend. Unfortunately,  there are a lot of better options out there when it comes to the adventure genre. While it is not terrible in any aspect, there are a lot of things that are just okay here. The visuals are passable but with some caveats. Some of the character models look extremely rough and hard to comprehend at first glance. Music is another instance of mediocracy. No tracks really stood out as exceptional or terrible during my time with the game. Everything about Shalnor Legends II just lands below average, making it extremely hard to recommend in a sea of games in the same genre. 

Review: Humankind

Daniel Waite
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Review: Humankind

Humankind is another title to hit Microsoft’s Game Pass subscription service. However, can this 4X title stand out from a rather saturated marketplace? With some monster games leading the field, it is always tough for a newcomer to break through. Moreover, this genre is much-loved on PC, but there are numerous reports of failings on console. Consequently, I was pretty apprehensive when I first loaded this up.

This 4X strategy title was developed by Amplitude Studios and published by SEGA Europe Ltd. What’s more, this tough era-defining experience is data-heavy and requires a lot of concentration. However, once you’ve got to grips with the layers of fundamentals, you’ll enjoy the depth of gameplay and the unique nature of each civilisation on offer.

Humankind lets you write your own history.

Though this genre is time-consuming, I’ve always adored the complexities and the challenging but rewarding action. Yet, I’m always put off by the steep learning curve and I have to be in the mood to start a new title. Consequently, it took me several attempts to get to grips with this almost overwhelming game.

The core gameplay loop is straightforward to follow. You must pick your leader from a range of different models. Additionally, you’ll select which civilisation you wish to be and an array of other traits that alter your basic skills. From here, you must complete tasks to earn stars and evolve your people. However, en route, there are many fiddly layers that must be addressed and plenty of twists and turns that’ll make or break your society. Accordingly, though the progress structure is simple, no playthrough is ever the same.

You can choose how your civilisation evolves in Humankind.
How will your civilisation evolve?

What type of leader will you be?

As you work from the Neolithic era to modern society, you must tackle a range of problems whilst expanding your empire. Additionally, you are expected to interact with other civilisations whilst keeping your people happy. In typical 4X fashion, this is easier said than done. Will you live a peaceful existence and focus on science, religion, and prosperity? Alternatively, will you find your wealth by ransacking your opponents and besieging their cities?  

Whatever option you choose, you must spin plenty of plates if you wish to be victorious. Focusing on science, religion, or your bank account will earn you stars. Each era requires a threshold to be hit across each of these categories. If you succeed, you can transcend your people, or move on to the next era of humanity. Alternatively, you can dick about making your opponent’s lives a misery. However, this unnecessarily wastes time, and the results weren’t worth the invested time.

Plenty of depth.

Though it was tough to decide on a valid approach, I can’t complain about the level of depth. The developers have created a monstrous amount of goals for your civilisation to work towards. Whether it is discovering natural wonders or finding fresh resource nodes, there is plenty to see and do. Furthermore, research and development play a key part in how you progress.

Unlike its peers, Humankind has an easy-to-understand research tree. Moreover, as you learn new skills, it is simple to see how they impact your everyday life. Whether it be new buildings, troops, or the ability to tame animals, your civilisation benefits massively. What’s more, you can use any new skills to adjust your standing with other tribes.

Take to the seas in Humankind and expand your empire.
Take to the seas and expand your empire.

Peace or war?

One element that I loved was the democracy panel. I adored the idea of treaties and business partnerships. Furthermore, the ability to declare war without justification was excellent. However, this layer was painfully shallow. What’s more, the AI was ridiculously unpredictable, and negotiating with them was a pointless act. Subsequently, though this was great, it wasn’t as detailed as I’d have liked.

Another confusing mechanic was the poorly explained combat. Whenever you used the manual fighting option, you’d have little idea of what was happening! Troops would take it in turn to charge at one another, and then there was an outcome. Thankfully, an automatic button was incorporated as this reduced confusion and sped up the gameplay.

Humankind: a text box simulator.

4X games are hard at the best of times. However, Humankind takes it to the next level. With layer upon layer of text boxes to wade through, the action is often disconnected and tough to follow. On top of this, exploring the map can be arduous because of the weird walking routes and the “fog of war”. Resource nodes and interesting POI appear at the last minute. Accordingly, you can waste your valuable movement points as you climb mountains or take the wrong route.

Intricate UI.

Humankind won’t blow you away visually. However, there are some nice moments that will make you smile. For example, as your cities evolve and your boundaries expand, it is impressive to observe. On top of this, I liked the varied landscapes and the clearly defined areas. However, the intricate UI and vast amounts of submenus were often tough to manage. Consequently, the sheer scale of gameplay options and menus will put off less battle-hardened gamers.

The audio wasn’t as impressive as its peers. The Civ franchise delivers an atmospheric experience that works on many levels. However, Humankind doesn’t quite get this right. On top of this, the sound bites and the sound effects weren’t all that inspiring. Subsequently, the action felt flat, and I was left wanting.

Will you fight or be a peaceful empire?
How will you solve this dispute?

Easy to control (mostly).

I expected this to be a horrible mess to play. However, I was surprised by the excellent controls and the simple button mapping. Yet, occasionally, it was frustrating to highlight your troops, and remembering every interface shortcut wasn’t that straightforward. Consequently, it wasn’t as intuitive as I’d have liked and I think this would be better on PC.

Humankind is undeniably massive. Playing through every era will take you hours and there are plenty of civilisations to experiment with and loads of subcategories to explore. Additionally, you can adjust your gameplay style at any time and you can change the difficulty settings to test your resolve. As such, this has both replay value and longevity if you can cope with the massive learning curve.

Humankind is good but not perfect.

Fans of 4X games will enjoy Humankind. Yet, it doesn’t reach the heights of its meaty and much-loved peers. As such, having this title on Game Pass was a stroke of genius. Though I wasn’t blown away by every element, I believe that it is a good title that can be enjoyed once you forgive the shortcomings and you know what you are doing. Accordingly, I liked it and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you rewrite history? Choose your civilisation, rule as you wish, and evolve to overcome every challenge.

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