Originally published by Bigfish Games and Gamehouse and developed by Wildfire Studios. Tumblebugs is a cute Match-3-color puzzle game akin to Zuma and the likes. This review however, will be focused on the recent re-release of the 2018 remastered version of the game that are developed by the same studio and published by Atari.
Despite its dated visuals, Tumblebugs offer a fun experience as a time waster or as a way to keep your mind preoccupied.
Gameplayand Story
Tumblebugs pretty much the same with other games in the Match 3 color genre. It is simple, easy to pick up and play. I had a blast playing this game. There are interesting power-up mechanic to add more complexity and to break the monotonous gameplay like: being able to catapult your orbs, time stop, rewind, multi-colored orbs and so on.
Controls in this game are very simple and easy to understand. You only have to use mouse and left and ring click. That’s it. It feels precise and responsive to control the turret. I have no issues with the controls in any way throughout my playthrough.
Oh yeah, and you can practice your puzzle solving in the main menu too. Yes, the background in the main menu is playable.
The story of Tumblebugs are delivered through 2-3 pages of comic panel style drawing. It pops out every now and then after you completed a set of levels or progress to the next world. It is largely generic and simple story but, I can see that it can keep the younger audience to be more engaged with the game.
Graphic and Sound
While I like the slick and nice bug and backyard oriented art style, Tumblebugs had a incredibly dated graphics and visuals. For some reason, this version of Tumblebugs is still in 4:3 format despite the HD tag and there is no option in the setting to change the resolution. However, despite in 4:3 ratio, the remastered version has improve the framerate and the overall quality of the resolution.
Same with the level design and variety, music in Tumblebugs are limited in variety and pretty repetitive. It is fun and enjoyable to listen. However, since the game had only one music, it became repetitive after a while. Sound effects are forgettable and plain generic. I often just muted out the game music and sound effects altogether and play a podcast in the background.
Conclusion
Though, I can see why people can be driven away by the dated visual and by the repetitive music. Tumblebugs offer a fun, engaging and it is pretty much accessible for all ages gameplay experience. It is a Zuma clone but, this is an easy recommend from me to people that are looking for a simple puzzle game.
Here is our review of the Thrustmaster T.Flight Full Kit X.
Thrustmaster is proud to offer a full flight simulation kit for gamers looking for immersion and realism in their flight sessions.
T.Flight Full Kit X is the perfect solution for playing Microsoft Flight Simulator on Xbox Series X|S.
Just connect the devices to your console: everything is instantly recognised by the game, and already configured for use right away.
Fly around the world and explore without any constraints!
T.Flight Full Kit X is the solution you’ve been looking for: take to the skies and make your way across the globe in popular flight simulation games, with total control of your aircraft!
What’s in the box?
The box includes the T.Flight Hotas One — the much-loved, versatile plug-and-play joystick for Xbox Series X|S and PC. Ergonomically designed and realistic, it’s great for all types of flight games, including flight simulation (air combat, space adventure, civil flight, etc.).
Also included in the box is the TFRP — rudder pedals featuring Thrustmaster’s S.M.A.R.T (Sliding Motion Advanced Rail Track) slide rails system, for smooth turns and an optimised flight experience.
A Closer Look
T.Flight Hotas One
TFRP
Final Thoughts
With Top Gun: Maverick out in the cinema and Microsoft’s Flight Simulator getting Top Gun: Maverick content, there has never been a better time to get the Thrustmaster T.Flight Full Kit X and take to the skies.
The full kit is well packaged and comes with two separate boxes – the joysticks and the pedals.
The user guide advises that you download the latest firmware, manual and drivers from the Thrustmaster website, which only takes a few moments.
Then you are ready to get going! The Hotas One clicks together to make it a single unit, although if you find it more comfortable to use apart it will work fine. You will need a flat surface to get the proper use out of it, although I did manage to use it fine on my lap!
You have to connect the pedals to the Hotas One which is simply a case of plugging in the cable – although depending on where you want to sit you may need to be a bit closer to your Xbox as the cable is only 1.5m.
Then depending on whether you are using the kit with an Xbox One or a PC, you need to set the switch on the back of the Hotas One, the plug into whichever device and thats it, you are ready to fly! Depending on which game you are playing there might be some tweaking of the controls. This is where you will need your existing Xbox controller as its not that easier to do all that from the flightstick!
The flightstick itself feels really comfortable to use, and the build quality is excellent, and the various buttons you need are very well placed although they will take a little getting used to where they are. The throttle feels fairly loose which is great, you can make minor adjustments to your speed whenever you need to. You can also adjust the tension on the flightstick if required – basically you can set it all up to work best for you.
The pedals work really well and feel comfortable, and natural to use. When you combine the use of the pedals with the flightstick you really get that immersive experience. You will want to set the pedals up so they are as secure as you can get them, you don’t want them sliding from under your feet if you get a little too involved in the action!
Overall this is a great piece of kit and Thrustmaster has once again knocked it out of the park – everything you need is ready to get you flying!
The Thrustmaster T.Flight Full Kit X is available now priced around £159.99 and is a must if you play Flight Simulator, or you just want to pretend to be Maverick!
Here is our review of the Review: Flexi-Chair BackSupport Office Chair BS1B.
Specifications
Model
BS1B
Height adjustment (chair)
44 – 53 cm
Height adjustment (header)
115 cm – 124 cm
Material
Black nylon base with PU rollers
Max. Loadability
125 KG
A Closer Look
Putting the Chair Together
The Finish Product
Final Thoughts
The Flexi-Chair BackSupport Office Chair BS1B comes very well packaged, which is what I have come to expect from FlexiSpot. Each piece of the chair is individually wrapped and protected for transport.
One very nice touch was that FlexiSpot included a screwdriver in the box – its only needed to remove and then add two screws at the very end to hold the headrest in place but it was a nice addition!
Putting the chair together was very simple – the instructions were very clear and easy to follow and everything needed was in the the box, including the screwdriver and a hex key and screws.
The chair is very comfortable – the back part of the chair has integrated lumbar support and it really helps if you have to sit in the chair for any extended period of time.
The chair has a headrest that is fully adjustable in both height and inclination, and its very easy to remove if you decided you didn’t want it there, but my advice would be to keep it as it really makes sitting more comfortable.
The chair itself is also fully adjustable, you can raise and lower the seat, you can also move the seat cushion in and out so you can find that perfect seating position. The chair back is made from breathable elastic so it helps on those occasional hot days when you are having to sit all day! The seat cushion is padded and very comfortable. You can also move the arms to whatever position you need them in too!
This is a very comfortable chair – even if you are only going to be sitting in it for a few minutes your body will thank you!
The Flexi-Chair BackSupport Office Chair BS1B is available now priced around £259.99.
FlexiSpot’s New Warehouse in Northampton Celebration Sale up to 38% OFF 1st June to 30th June 2022.
Ten seconds doesn’t seem like a long time. However, when your life is on the line, it can feel like an eternity. What would you do if you had such a small window of opportunity? Would you cry and fail, or would you fight back? This is the concept behind TEN! It is a brutal gaming experience that is not for the weak.
Developed by The Bworg and published by Ratalaika Games, this is a hardcore platforming experience. It will kick your ass throughout and make you want to scream. Yet, its tough action is super rewarding and undeniably addictive. Furthermore, it is not a title for the faint of heart and it will break the best gamers around.
TEN is a cruel game.
If you don’t like to fail, then TEN is not for you. It is a game that tests your patience, memory, and resolve. I admit that its cruel ways make me roar with anger. However, I couldn’t put it down. Its simplicity and sick ways demand you keep playing. Consequently, no matter how many times I died, I just tried again. Like Dark Souls and Super Meat Boy, TEN taps into that stubborn part of your brain. Its repetitive nature allows you to fine-tune your approach and succeed, eventually.
Where TEN falls short is its lack of a story. From what I can gather, you are part of some cruel experiment. Potentially, you may be entertainment for a sick society. Whatever the reason, the outcome is the same! You must tackle a gauntlet of deadly rooms. You’ll face a gargantuan boss if you survive each of the 9 tasks. Defeat this monster and you’ll continue to the next floor, where the action begins again. If you have the skills and the luck, perhaps you’ll escape this madness, but I very much doubt it.
How will you approach this room?
So many traps.
The core concept of TEN is straightforward. Each floor is made up of 10 rooms and each room lasts for 10 seconds. As you explore, you must avoid traps, lasers, bullets, and spikes. On top of this, there are circular blades, monsters, and bombs to disarm. If you get hit, and you will, your health will be impacted. You’ll lose your hearts and death is all but assured. This is made worse as this will wipe your progress and you’ll have to restart the level. This was infuriating, unfair, but oh so brilliant!
As you restart your run, you must learn from your mistakes. Subsequently, your memory is put to the test. You’ll be expected to remember where the traps are, how they move, and the best path to take. If you forget, or you make an error, you’ll die. Therefore, practice makes perfect in this harsh arena. However, things are made easier as your hero can be improved.
New skills and abilities can be purchased from the rest area. But, like the other elements, affording the upgrades isn’t an easy task. You must collect tokens in each of the rooms. However, if the timer runs out, the coins disappear. Consequently, you have to move quickly if you wish to collect them all. With the tokens, you can improve health, speed, agility, and more. They are a game-changing aspect and are essential if you wish to progress.
Jump into the machine to be reborn stronger and more agile.
TEN is captivating to look at.
The art style of TEN is old-school and simple, yet it’s captivating. Its brilliant monochromatic style is punctuated with orange and red colours. These vivid tones highlight danger and death and work perfectly. Every trap, projectile, and enemy glows red and fills you with fear. What’s more, the impending danger burns orange before turning red. This simple approach is fantastic, as there is no confusion. Consequently, you know exactly what to expect from the off. What’s more, the fixed-screen perspective allows you to study each arena. This was also an excellent decision, as it gave you a tactical advantage. This, in theory, should help, but instead, it infuriates you more as you make unnecessary errors.
What I also loved was the sci-fi soundtrack. The futuristic nature of the action is captured within each synth song. The electronic and fast-paced music matches the madness on the screen. This is then complemented by the cruel sound effects. Projectiles whistle through the air as saw blades churn. The combination of sounds is uncomfortable but adds to the drama.
How will you spend your tokens?
Remarkably responsive controls.
In a game where every error is fatal, you need responsive controls. Fortunately, TEN is remarkably easy to play. Thanks to its excellent layout and clever UI, it’s easy to master. Luckily, this continues as you upgrade your hero. With clear instructions, you’ll know exactly what you are doing.
If you can overcome every trap and problem, you’ll experience a relatively short game. However, there is both a hardcore and simple mode to increase longevity. If, on the other hand, you want an easy completion, there is a god mode. Now, this option undermines everything and is pointless. But, with it activated, you can complete the game with ease. If you don’t cheat, you’ll find some replay value as each playthrough is graded. Accordingly, hardcore gamers may wish to improve their score and their time.
TEN: you have to be cruel to be kind.
I game to relax, so normally I avoid these hardcore titles. Yet, I’m glad I got to review this one. It’s simple to pick up, cruel as hell, and will test you. Yes, I thought god mode was pointless, but that’s just me. All things considered, I recommend you to buy it here! Life is cruel and unjust, but what are you going to do? You can accept your fate and hope for the best, or fight with your last dying breath.
Melatonin. The name of the sleep-associated hormone produced under cover of darkness. But also the name of an upcoming rhythm game from indie studio, Half Asleep, in which you explore your dreams.
I recently had the pleasure of playing through the demo for this title, which comes out in September. And I must say I loved every minute of it. We’re all in for a treat when it drops.
Keep the Beat
As a rhythm game, Melatonin’s gameplay mostly revolves around timing key inputs. It may sound simple on paper, but it does present a reasonable challenge at times. Especially the first time you play a level. In this game, visual clues and sound cues keep you on the beat and give you the signal to hit a key. For the most part, it works smoothly, but as a newcomer to the rhythm game genre, I did struggle to recognise my cues at first.
This is where the ability to train really came in handy. It gives you the chance to have a low-stakes, no-pressure run at the level. Training also provided visual and audio assistance. Visual assistance displays the upcoming beats and inputs, and audio assistance includes a metronome to help your timing. These accessibility options can also be used in regular modes with no consequences, which many people will appreciate, I’m sure.
All in all, gameplay was a heap of fun. I personally couldn’t find much fault in it. After overcoming my initial inability to stay on beat, things really picked up, and I saw the light so to speak.
Each stage has a hard mode which increases both the tempo and number of inputs. The full release will even include the ability to script your own levels using an editor. Although, I’m not sure exactly how much creative freedom players will have. Either way, all of this just means that more good times are ahead of us.
My Ears Thank You
The gameplay is solid, but the real star and possibly the most important aspect of the entire thing is the music. Now If you’d permit the phrase, Melatonin’s music slaps. Every track I heard from the moment I landed on the title screen to the end of the demo’s first night, was a certified banger. Music taste may be subjective, but I’d be willing to bet you’ll be grooving in your seat before long. You may not even realise it until you’ve finished a stage.
The producers and sound engineers really did a great job of eliciting a feeling of lighthearted joy. The soundtracks of each stage also made a much-appreciated effort to incorporate the sound effects you create into the tracks themselves. For example, when you dream of food, snacks are shot into your mouth at high speeds, with every input you chow down. This sound effect is not only input confirmation, but part of the music itself.
My Eyes Thank You Too
I really loved Melatonin’s design and style. Every aspect was executed wonderfully. From the music (which would have been a bummer otherwise) down to the hand-drawn art. Half Asleep has created a beautiful world filled with pastel colours and detail that really nails the feeling of a pleasant dream.
The dream world is an absolutely perfect setting for this rhythm game. The surreal landscape is just rife with possibilities for imaginative animation and design. However, it didn’t always hit it out of the park in this demo. The four stages I had access to had a few moments of dreamscape absurdity, at times things kept one foot flat on the plane of realism. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing though. The mix of dreams and the waking world kept things from completely flying off the handle and more in line with people’s actual dreams. Or at least my own dreams.
However, most stages delivered on creativity. And by the looks of things, the full release is going to have a lot more fantastical and inventive stages, which I personally can’t wait for.
Melatonin arrives on PC and the Nintendo Switch on September 16, 2022. A playable demo should also be available to download and play on Steam from June 13, 2022.
The loss of all your worldly possessions is a very real threat to many people. Consequently, you work hard and will do anything to keep the wolf from the door. However, sometimes this isn’t enough, and you must take on side hustles and other strange tasks to survive. This is exactly what happens in Why pizza?. It is a strange but charming title that will make you scowl and giggle simultaneously.
Developed by Marginal act and published by Sometimes You, this is a physics-based platform puzzler. Its strange content will confuse and intrigue you as you avoid obstacles, make friends, and complete tasks. Furthermore, its aesthetics are weird as hell and loud, but the mechanics are tried and tested and feel familiar.
Can the pickle save the day?
Why pizza? Is a strange concept.
Thanks to its dated mechanics, veterans and newcomers will love what’s on offer. What’s more, its straightforward and familiar approach ensures you can pick it up with ease. However, it is still challenging because of the physics-based elements and the absurd characters you control. Each protagonist has a massive head that flops and flaps all over the place. This odd element makes traversing tight spaces that bit harder. Alongside this, leaping platforms and avoiding traps can be tough. Accordingly, you must be patient, plan your approach, and work your way through the levels.
The story of Why pizza? is pointless. Effectively, you control a delivery person from a pizzeria. You must deliver your meals from A to B while they are still hot. If you fail to do this, you will be sacked. You’ll lose your home, and your life will be over. This wouldn’t be so bad, but no job is easy, and to make extra cash, you help every creature you meet on your way. Subsequently, a short level becomes a tactical nightmare! You’ll have to deliver messages and goods while completing your main goal. However, if you don’t fancy the extra work, you can simply ignore it and get on with your day.
Such a dreamy and weird game.
Collectables and hidden paths.
The best platformers have plenty of collectables, luckily Why pizza? doesn’t disappoint. You must find secret tokens and coins within each level. The money is used to buy upgrades and special powers. These are essential if you wish to progress as the action quickly becomes difficult and precise. You can purchase hearts, a lava shield, and “a helping hand”. The latter option stops you mid-jump and allows you to reach higher points. The lava shield removes the deadly molten liquid. Whereas the hearts help you against your foes.
Alongside this, if you wish to explore every stage, you must learn to control your crazy arms. You are asked to recycle boxes to gather items or grab a pickaxe to destroy certain blocks. Whatever you choose, they will open hidden paths that enhance the puzzle elements of the game. With minor Metroidvania aspects, you can easily lose your way on the larger levels. However, you can prevent this by creating new paths or using your special powers. This wonderful concept ensures that every player will have a unique experience. Furthermore, success in every stage isn’t rigid or linear and this was fantastic.
Why pizza? looks strange as hell.
From the bizarre protagonists to the vivid and odd backdrops, Why pizza? looks strange as hell. The vivid and often OTT settings are super weird and surreal. The trippy stage design supports the odd nature of the gameplay while looking fantastic. Moreover, the crazy imagery was reminiscent of a Monty Python skit, albeit a lot more colourful and in your face.
The audio enhances the fun and crazy nature of the action. With upbeat tunes and strange noise, it is a cacophony of ear-splitting sounds. Though the loud and obnoxious audio is uncomfortable to listen to, it is perfect for this game.
Need a hand?
Simple controls.
Each stage is jam-packed with enemies, traps, and obstacles. Consequently, it was important that the controls were tight and responsive. Furthermore, as you progress and more mechanics are added, you must be precise in your movements. Fortunately, the excellent UI and button layout ensure that you are accurate and that it is easy to pick up and play.
Though it was simple to play, I was worried that the limited plot would impact the action. Luckily, I was wrong, as it has both longevity and replay value. With many side quests to undertake, secrets to find, and extra levels to explore, there is plenty to do. However, I would have liked the side quests to have more relevance and this would have added depth. What’s more, a speedrun option would have worked well and this should be added retrospectively.
Why pizza? is a charming but weird game.
I love weird and humorous games. Subsequently, Why pizza? resonated with me. Its strange plot, absurd characters, and odd missions enhance the madness. Yes, fundamentally it adds little to the genre. However, its weird but brilliant style makes it stand out from its peers. It is for this reason that I recommend you to buy it here! Can you deliver the pizza and survive each day? Control your head, avoid the traps, and complete each level.
The online casino market is filled with a wide variety of games to play. From games like roulette to online video slots, you will never run out of titles to play.
Most of the online casino market’s best games are video slots. In fact, it is the most abundant that is being marketed alongside the top table games. With the popularity of slots, several variants are made available.
Video slots are also among the best games that you can play because of their fast-paced and easy gameplay. All players have to do is place their bet, press the button to spin the reels, and wait for the result.
The main goal is to get the right patterns to win. Of course, there is no assurance that you will get the patterns which is why people love to play slots over and over again. To learn more about video slots, here are some of the best online crypto slots:
Mega Fortune (NetEnt)
Mega Fortune features a standard of 25 paylines, 5 reels, and an RTP of 96.6%. This game is designed to offer you a glimpse into the life of luxury and wealth because it has the likes of yacht and limousine rides and champagne toasts as icons.
The most interesting feature of Mega Fortune is the three different progressive jackpots which are Mega Jackpot, Major Jackpot, and Rapid Jackpot.
You can also use many kinds of bonuses in this game. This involves the wild symbol which will help you get a winning combination when you spin the reels. This activates the Wheel of Luck which is a bonus where you can activate a bonus game that can give you coins. Lastly, free spins can be given to you with the Scatter feature and it can even help you get multipliers.
Avalon II (Microgaming)
This game has five reels, 243 paylines, and an RTP of 97%. This is also a sequel to Microgaming’s first Avalon game which was a big hit. In this game, the 243 ways to win is a big deal for players because the potential rewards are pretty enticing. This game is medieval-themed like its predecessor. Avalon II also has several bonus features which are activated by the Holy Grail symbol.
Starburst (NetEnt)
As a slot game that has been present since 2012, NetEnt’s Starburst is a fantastic example of the potential of video slots. This game has 10 paylines, 5 reels, and an RTP of 96.01%. It has been one of the longest-lasting slot games but it has remained prominent because of how fun it is to play.
It also has bonus features which make the overall experience more fun and exciting. Re-spins and wilds are present in this game as well which proves to be a productive set of bonuses because it makes players keep playing the game.
The game’s aesthetic is reminiscent of the video game called Bejeweled. It is one of the most recognisable games in the online casino market because of its interface.
Slots will continue to be a top online casino game
There is no denying that slots are among the top dogs in the online casino industry. That is also because of the absurd number of slot games on the market. It should not be a surprise that this will keep growing because of the presence of video slots or even online crypto slots. Do not miss out on this game because it is worth the price of playing due to the potential rewards and fun that you can have.
On the casino-ohne-lizenz.net portal, you can also find a variety of video slots and choose the best option for yourself.
If you are a streamer, your microphone setup is the key to your success. Accordingly, if you purchase a poor quality or difficult-to-use accessory, this can be the difference between success and failure. What’s more, looking great while having perfect sound is also a must. Therefore, a small and sleek design that incorporates RGB lighting must be of interest. However, a microphone like this will definitely break the bank. Consequently, newcomers and small-time streamers will want a cost-effective alternative. This is where the Ampligame A8 microphone from Fifine comes into play. It is an excellent alternative to top-end products and will surprise you with its amazing recording qualities.
Thanks to the combination of low-cut frequency response and decent mids and highs, it delivers respectable clarity for the price. What’s more, it is jam-packed with features that make it user-friendly, vivid, and fantastic for an array of gaming options. With a simple plug-and-play set-up, you can use this microphone in seconds. It is compatible with PS4/5, PC, and macOS, has adjustable RGB, a touch mute button, and the ability to alter the gain level. In short, it’s a small microphone that packs a lot of punch.
The Ampligame A8 microphone in all its glory.
What’s in the box of the Ampligame A8 microphone?
The packaging is lightweight but pleasant on the eye. Sadly, my box arrived a little worse for wear, but fortunately, the contents weren’t damaged. Furthermore, most of the packaging is recyclable, and this was great.
The Ampligame A8 microphone. This compact accessory is available in three colours. It also has a shock mount, adjustable stand, and a pop filter as standard. On the underside is the USB-C connection point as well as a 3.5mm audio socket. The buttons are easily identifiable and the brushed metallic finish is classy and hard-wearing.
USB-C charging cable. This is now the industry standard and can easily be replaced if necessary. At approximately 2 metres long, it is suitable for most setups.
Boom arm connector. If you work using a boom arm, this microphone can be adjusted to accommodate it. It is easy to install and sturdy.
User manual. A short but helpful guide that explains the fundamentals.
Plenty of RGB colours to choose from. The Ampligame A8 microphone. Sadly, the packaging was a little battered. Fancy attaching it to your boom arm. The USB-C charging cable. A simple to understand user manual. The complete package.
Technical aspects.
Type
Condenser
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Output Connection
USB Type-C (mic end) to type-A 2.0 (computer end)
Power Consumption
USB 5V Power
Frequency Response
50Hz-20kHz
Sensitivity
-40±3dB
Shipping Weight
1.0 kg
As stated, a microphone is only as good as the sound it records. Thanks to the excellent pop filter, you record all your content without interference. Unlike some of its peers that have the filter built into the device, the Ampligame A8microphone has it externally mounted. Now, I liked the design as it enables you to know where to direct your voice. Furthermore, it is removable if you wish to streamline the device further.
A filter is one thing, but unwanted vibrations affect your recordings as well. Luckily, the rubberised shock mount works wonders to reduce this. The silicone ring perfectly balances the microphone and keeps movement to a minimum. I found this to be key when manually adjusting the RGB settings or the gain at the rear of the device. If the shock mount wasn’t present, it would be much harder to handle and the quality of recording would be vastly reduced.
Light up your desk with the vivid RGB display. Now, I know fancy lights won’t be for everyone, but I couldn’t resist. With an array of solid lights, no lights at all, or a pulsed gradient, you can set it as you wish. Thanks to the touch button on the rear of the device, you can easily select the perfect option for you. Alongside this, there is a helpful mute button that changes from red to green. This touch-sensitive switch is accurate, obvious, and user-friendly. I particularly loved this feature, as I didn’t record unnecessary content in error.
Another handy feature is the gain control and 3.5mm audio jack. Combining these two features allows you to adjust and control the levels of your recording. This was an excellent inclusion as you set the audio levels as you make content. Subsequently, this reduces the need to edit, and this saves you time.
Excellent features that make it user-friendly.
Is the Ampligame A8 microphone worth it?
The elephant in the room has to be addressed. What is that you may think? The answer? How does it compare to its high-end peers? Well, it is an excellent audio device and packs a lot of oomph for the price. However, it doesn’t quite compare to the ROCCAT Torch USB microphone. This more expensive and higher-end product has more features, a built-in mixer deck, and an exceptional pop filter. But, the Ampligame A8 microphone can be purchased for around half the price! Therefore, it shouldn’t be overlooked by the streaming community.
I think, for the money, you won’t find better. Thanks to its plug-and-play approach, and easily accessible controls, it can be used by the greatest of technophobes. More importantly, each recording is clear, free of popping and background noises, and is suitable for most streamers. Alongside this, you must admire the RGB lighting, the touch mute switch, and the shock mount. Fifine has considered every streaming issue and has overcome it with its sturdy and well-thought-out design. Accordingly, I loved using this microphone and I recommend you to buy it here!
Summary.
The Ampligame A8 microphone won’t compete with its high-end peers. However, it is inexpensive for such a sturdy and stylish accessory. I loved its vivid RGB colour palette, its compact looks, and how easy it was to use. On top of this, the inclusion of a boom arm mount was perfect. It proves to be great value for money, but why not save some more? Use discount code 15AMPLIGAMEA8 and reduce the price further still.
In 1989, designer Steven Baker, in collaboration with Milton Bradley and Games Workshop, created the fantasy board game HeroQuest. The concept for HeroQuest was to make a more accessible version of D&D by bringing it into the tabletop space. This resulted in the creation of the dungeon crawler genre, and inspired new contemporary titles such as Gloomhaven.
HeroQuest came pre-packaged with everything you would need to run it. The standard rulebook, a board to play on, a wide selection of monster and player figures to use, and finally, environmental models to place on top of your board. This made HeroQuest quickly stand out from its competitors, as no other game came packed with this much content.
Upon its release, it received both commercial and critical praise. A number of expansions followed shortly after the release, and built upon the foundations made in the base game. The popularity of HeroQuest subsided in 1993, and all development of the product ceased in the following year.
However, seemingly out of nowhere, Hasbro setup a crowdfunding campaign in 2020 for a new edition of the game. Unsure if there was still a market for this, they started with a goal of $1 million. Shockingly, the campaign reached its target within the first 24 hours, and ended with a whopping $3.7 million in funding.
HeroQuest 2021 plays the same as the original, with only minor tweaks made to meet modern standards. These include things like updated artwork, male and female characters models, a world map to explore, and brand-new monster types. After playing this recently, I was very happy to discover that the game holds up phenomenally well.
Gameplay
One player takes on the role of the gamemaster, simply referred to as Zargon in the manual. Zargon manages the games rules and reveal the maps layout as the Heroes progress further into the dungeon. The quest book provides Zargon with an overview of the dungeon ahead of time. This keeps the Heroes on their toes as they never know what is around the corner.
Each quest also comes with a small introductory blurb. This informs the Heroes of what they are trying to accomplish in their missions. The objectives range from killing a deadly gargoyle, to rescuing an injured ally. Completing quests reward Heroes with gold, which they can use to buy better equipment. It is also possible for them to receive powerful artifacts, which will bolster their power in some way.
The great thing about this system is the flexibility it provides to create homebrew scenarios. I was able to develop an entirely new campaign for my party after we had finished with the main game. The simplicity made it a lot easier to setup and manage in comparison to something like a D&D campaign.
Heroes
The other players control 1 of 4 available Heroes. These consist of the Barbarian, Elf, Dwarf, and Wizard. They each have their own unique playstyles, and come with different benefits and drawbacks. Hasbro have also released additional Heroes including the Bard, Druid, Warlock and Knight, but unfortunately, these do not come with the base game.
A Heroes turn consists of movement and an action. To move, the Hero must roll two standard 6-sided dice. They can then move the number of spaces up to the total amount rolled. Non-combat actions include searching for treasure, traps or secret doors, and, if you have the tool to do so, attempting to disarm a trap. It is up to the Heroes choice whether they want to move or use an action first.
Attacking
Both the Heroes and Monsters attack and defend in the same way. This involves rolling a special 6-sided dice called the ‘combat dice.’ In place of numbers are various symbols, all of which indicate something different. 3 of the sides are skulls, 2 are white shields, and the final side is a black shield. The skulls measure a successful hit while attacking. The white and black shields measure defence, with white being for the Heroes and black being for Zargon.
The Hero cards indicate their starting attack and defence power. For example, the Barbarian has a standard attack roll of 3 and a defence roll of 2. This means they roll 3 combat dice when attacking, and 2 when defending.
Quick scenario: Let’s say the Barbarian is aiming to attack a Skeleton. The Barbarian manages to roll 2 skulls with their combat dice, and the unfortunate monster only manages to roll 1 black shield with theirs. This means that the monster takes 1 total point of damage, as basic math indicates 2 – 1 = 1. The simplistic nature of this keeps combat moving incredibly quickly, and ensures there is little downtime for each Hero between their turns.
Spell Casting
The Elf and Wizard are the only two which can cast spells, at least in the base game. In line with regular attacking, casting a spell is pretty straight forward. The Hero states to Zargon which spell they want to cast. At this point, if the target is within the Heroes line of sight, the spells ability will transpire.
As each spell can only be cast once per quest, it creates an additional level of strategy for Heroes. I often found my party discussing when to use this limited resource, and in turn, led us to becoming more immersed in the game. As a note, spells can cover both damage and utility purposes.
HeroQuest Thoughts
HeroQuest may seem costly with a retail price of £100, but the value for money you get in the box is unbelievable. It comes packed with 65 highly detailed and sturdy models, reference cards which track everything the players need, and a quest book which perfectly captures the fantasy aesthetic. On top of this, they all feature absolutely gorgeous artwork which is worth the cost of admission alone.
HeroQuest lends itself to all age groups. Regardless if you are new to this genre, you’ll be able to pick up the rules rapidly and start playing in no time. The game system also provides room for creation and innovation. The community over on YeOldeInn.com does just that, so be sure to check that them out if you are looking for some Homebrew content.
Linked below is the best sales pitch that you may ever receive. It is a video by longtime board game legend BardicBroadcasts who emphatically tells us “Why HeroQuest is so great.” Although he is using the original version of HeroQuest to illustrate his points, all of the same principles still apply to HeroQuest 2021.
Conclusion
In my opinion, HeroQuest is the quintessential game for those that are new to the dungeon crawler experience. Veteran gamemasters can also use HeroQuest as a gateway to get their friends into other tabletop roleplaying games. Fans of titles like Decent: Journey in the Dark and Gloomhaven should check this out and pay homage to the grandfather of the genre. Although it is currently unavailable to purchase on the Hasbro website, you can still find copies within your local game store.
Do you have what it takes to bring down a group of mutant rivals causing havoc and rescue man’s best friend, the dogs? If so, then The Last Friend will be an excellent game to try! It’s packed with a variety of adorable dogs and large demonic-style bosses with plots to cause destruction to the world.
So if you want to help these pups and save the planet then this is your time to shine! As you play as the hero named Alpha, you will be able to team up with all types of rescued doggies in their armored gear, and push forward in your RV to rescue so many more while defeating a variety of enemies blocking your way. Just plan your attacks, be prepared for anything, and let loose!
🐶 How Was The Game 🐶
The stunning Alpha with his flaming red hair and huge muscles, make us stand out very much from many of the characters in the game. We may look tough but we do break easily. Especially cause there is always some huge villain ready to take us down or just so many foes that want to bombard us from getting by. So a good strategic plan before battle needs to be perfected enough to succeed. Thankfully this game isn’t too difficult to get a hang of and yet still requires a few play-throughs to get it right. Of course, what is a game if it isn’t challenging?
Another thing that is interesting, it may just be me, but I feel our one little doggy friend, T. Juan the chihuahua seems to be the chattiest character than we are. For a dog partner, he feels more like the brains of the game and we just follow his orders, even though our name stands for a leader of the pack, we are more the muscles. No matter, it’s absolutely cute, and even the fact that it’s full of different dogs to play with in the game all done in this cartoony-style design makes them even more adorable. Especially when they play as members of our team battling the bad guys. Putting dogs in armor and using weapons makes the game even cuter and more fun to play. Action and cuteness are so much of a positive for me. Also, it is not gruesome and dark, but cheerful and pleasant, which I love!
For the most part, the game doesn’t have many flaws. It loads each part quickly, every scene plays perfectly without glitches, and the graphics and sounds that were heard and seen throughout the game were spot-on. The only issue, my personal opinion about the game, is that during the times you are going through each wave of enemy. I wish there was a limit to how far you can place dogs from the selection on the road. Building a team on the road is great and having so many is helpful, but without that limited to the right side of the screen, you may be blocking or making it hard to see the enemy coming into the picture that you can reach or attack. There should be a small limit line to where the dogs can be placed, leaving you enough viewing room and space for fighting.
Other than that, I really had no horrible feelings with this game. It really packs plenty of action and gets challenging as new waves of enemies head down the street, allows for new dog team members rescued to be set up to use in the next battle, and allows you to earn stars for each stage that is completed fully and objects during battle, able to level up and get stronger, and requires speed and planning when using the acquired gears to purchase different dogs to help protect the RV move you along in the game. Also, there are a few additional ways to play, not just as waves, but through sandstorms and other styles of playing, changing it up from each stage and making it even more entertaining than redundant as you play. Always a new surprise to come around the corner.
Lastly, as the hero Alpha, not only the name but the leader of this dog pack, I feel like the game really made the humorous use of dog terminology and gameplay in one. It really made the game feel joyful and entertaining. Plus, for those who don’t really want to play for the cuteness but for the action. Well then, there are tons of that, and it does get difficult as more come down the street and you need to work quicker. So it basically covers everything for a perfect strategy-wave style game.
🐶 Final Thoughts 🐶
Honestly, The Last Friend is more like EVERY Last Friend. There are so many doggies to rescue and each one is just as adorable as the last. Every friend is a new team member and can be used to take down difficult enemies at a time. It’s just so much fun with the number of members you can place on the street to help you battle and how happy the dogs are when they get rescued. It’s just a fun game and very much one for dog lovers and those who are looking for a new reason to fight through challenging waves of enemies and save the planet!
The looter shooter genre is probably the most enjoyable party-based game around. A big claim I know, but I find MMO-type titles too much of a time sink. Consequently, I want something that I can play casually while still enjoying depth, destruction, and a fascinating story. Luckily, the Borderlands franchise ticks all these boxes and more. Therefore, when I was offered Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, I jumped at the chance.
Developed by Gearbox Software and published by 2K Games, this is a looter shooter adventure title. It is a spinoff of the main Borderlands theme and reignites the DLC from Borderlands 2. Subsequently, you’ll experience a familiar game with lashings of weapons, armies of enemies, massive bosses, and an amusing story. What’s more, the characters are endearing and hilarious and work brilliantly to keep the plot flowing.
Will luck be on your side?
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands mirrors Borderlands 3.
Now, fans of the series may or may not be disappointed with my next statement. For the most part, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands is a reimagining of Borderlands 3. It utilises the best from that title but adds a massive fantasy twist. Accordingly, you’ll loot to your heart’s content, kill masses of monsters, level up your character, complete quests, and genuinely cause mayhem. On top of this, you can play it solo or with friends using the Cross-Play feature.
However you tackle the main story, you will instantly fall for its fantasy charms. Set in a Dungeon and Dragons type world known as Bunkers and Badasses, you’ll enjoy a tabletop experience. You control a newbie who must help Butt Stallion prevent The Dragon Lord from rising and taking over the world. FYI, Butt Stallion is a beautiful diamond-encrusted rainbow-loving unicorn who is the Queen of this fantasy land. Tina, the crazy explosive-loving girl, plays the part of the dungeon master. She, alongside Valentine and Frette, set the rules of engagement and helps to create a deeply amusing and dangerous adventure.
As you can tell, the scene is set for a bizarre, absurd, and downright stupid affair. However, I cared not! I quickly became swept up in the madness as I gathered up every weapon insight and shot flaming bolts from my crossbow. Like the rest of the franchise, the action grabs your attention immediately, and it’s tough to put down.
Don’t mess with the Dragon Lord.
A few changes keep things fresh.
Now, sticking so closely to a brilliant franchise isn’t a bad thing. Borderlands 3 was fantastic and consequently, I didn’t mind revisiting its wonderful mechanics. Fortunately, though, there have been some distinct gameplay changes that make this stand out. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands splits the core action between FPS madness and an isometric overworld. What’s more, there are combat encounters, a new way to level your character, and a fun but grindy endgame element.
Overworld or FPS madness.
I absolutely adored this change of pace as it breaks up the gameplay nicely. Whenever you are traversing this large world, the viewpoint reflects the tabletop experience. Here you may explore, search for goods, or take on multiple side quests. Alongside this, there are camps to clear and shortcuts to open. However, this led to the combat encounters and these claustrophobic moments weren’t great.
For unknown reasons, the developers stifled their open-world and fast-paced ideas with an arena-based deathmatch. If you are unlucky enough to stumble into this element, you’ll have to annihilate a set amount of monsters before you can carry on. This wouldn’t be so bad if each encounter was more interesting. Sadly, though, it screams “rinse and repeat”, is of little interest, and stagnates the momentum. Now, I understand why it was introduced, but more objectives, new and unique enemies, and a quicker pace would improve it vastly. Annoyingly, this never materialised, and it’s something you simply have to accept.
One hero, multiple classes.
Unlike its predecessors, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands has addressed the limited notion of a set hero class. Instead, levelling up feels more fluid and unique to the player. Yes, there are some skills that overlay one another, but this can’t be helped. You may select from 6 classes that each have a primary skill set. As you progress, a second skill tree unlocks, and this expands your options. This was great, as your character development matches your game style. What’s more, when playing with a familiar group, you can develop a more rounded approach.
Alongside this, there is the introduction of melee weapons, and grenades have been thrown out. Instead, you are now armed with a magic wand and an array of spells. Furthermore, you have a magic shield to keep you protected and an amulet to increase your stats. I adored the madness of the magic, and using it, never got old. Whether you were freezing your foes, stealing their health, or turning them into sheep, it was always enjoyable.
Ahhh Butt Stallion, you are a thing of beauty.
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands looks fantastic.
If you love the franchise, you’ll know exactly what to expect. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands nails the striking and clean-cut comic book imagery. Its vast open-world is incredible to explore and the developers have a wicked imagination. Furthermore, the fantasy theme explodes with an array of colours, horrific monsters, and interesting landscapes. Even though the action is fast-paced and hectic, I never experienced a problem. The frame rate never drops and there were minimal glitches and bugs. Sadly, though, the aforementioned isometric viewpoint is a little understated in comparison. Though it matches the theme and is vivid and interesting, it isn’t as polished and it somewhat lacks finesse. This isn’t a problem, however, it is noticeable compared to the familiar franchise style.
Where this title excels is its phenomenal audio. With incredible music, loud and crazy sound effects, and excellent acting, you won’t be disappointed. The hilarious plot is brilliantly narrated by each of the characters. The well-paced delivery, D&D tropes, and witty one-liners will have you chuckling for hours. Furthermore, you’ll cherish how the relationships develop, the overarching good vs evil ideas, and the stupidity of it all.
Use your imagination and get inside the castle.
Excellent controls and a brilliant UI.
With so much going on, the controls needed to be tight and responsive. Fortunately, this is exactly what I experienced. An excellent tutorial talks you through the fundamentals and soon you’ll have things mastered. This is helped in part by the brilliant and user-friendly UI. No matter how hectic things get, you always feel in control. Whether you are flitting between weapons, casting spells, sliding or crouching, it’s never a problem. Then there is the well-designed menu system, easy-to-handle inventory, and everything that goes with it. Tiny Tina’s Wonderland is extremely user-friendly and is great for newcomers and veterans.
Now, I touched upon endgame content, but I failed to elaborate. So, let’s look at it now. Once you’ve ploughed through around 25 hours of gameplay, you’ll unlock the Chaos Chamber. This option is effectively a more advanced combat encounter that will push you to your limits. Furthermore, it is great for grinding XP and loot and has some rogue-like elements to make it tougher. Now, you may think, what’s the point of returning? Well, Gearbox Software has announced 4 upcoming DLCs that will ensure you want to keep playing.
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands has rekindled my love of the franchise.
I’m not sure if it was the crazy theme, the colourful and loud aesthetics, or the insane dialogue. No matter the reason, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands has rekindled my love of the franchise. Yes, the combat encounters could and should have been better, but perfection is hard to come by. I adored nearly every element and I can’t wait to see how the DLC develops the action further. Consequently, I recommend you to buy it here! Can you help Butt Stallion defeat the Dragon Lord? Shoot, loot, and become a badass hero.
When playing a game, I often wonder what it would be like to play as an ordinary character in that game’s universe. I find myself wondering about this extensively and quite often, but I’m not sure why this idea is so appealing to me, I guess it’s just that I’d like to experience the game’s world through another perspective.
In that sense, Hardspace: Shipbreakerdefinitely falls within that category, so if you ever wondered about what happens to those spaceships that end up getting decommissioned, or if the mere idea of dismantling spaceships sounds interesting, then you’ll probably have a good time with this game.
In case it wasn’t obvious, Hardspace: Shipbreaker is a space game about breaking spaceships apart. You play as a newly appointed shipbreaker, whose job is to take apart spaceships of all sizes and salvage as much of them as you can. When I first heard about Hardspace: Shipbreaker, this sounded like a great idea, but, now that I’ve played it, I can safely say that it ended up being more fun and engaging than I could’ve possibly imagined.
Moving around in space is exactly as you’d expect, if you fire up your thrusters just for a bit, you’ll gain some momentum, but you can move even faster if you use your grapple gun to pull yourself to something that’s far away from you. Likewise, you can also pull light objects towards you, which makes the task of moving ship parts around a lot easier.
In that aspect, the game plays phenomenally well. The way that things move around in space in zero gravity and how you can move any way that you want, roll, or whatever, adds a ton of freedom to the whole experience. This is only exacerbated by how your tools help you do your job, the cutter, the grapple, the demo charges, and your helmet’s scanner that lets you find weak spots in each ship. You don’t have that big of an arsenal, but the developers have definitely made sure that what you have has a very specific purpose and feels great to use.
While the gameplay is undoubtedly the crown jewel of Hardspace: Shipbreaker, another key part of the game is not only its story and characters, but also its worldbuilding. In some aspects, I think that the worldbuilding here is superb and pulled me in right from the very start.
As a new worker for LYNX Corporation, you’ve pretty much signed your own eternal death sentence when you signed up to be a shipbreaker. Hardspace: Shipbreaker spares no expenses in portraying a grim and depressing future where the working class finds itself at the mercy of its corporate overlords. With Humanity having finally expanded towards the rest of the solar system, it’s corporations like LYNX that keep the constant flow of traffic and goods circulating throughout the solar system.
These entities promise a new beginning and a promising future if you join their ranks, but as soon as you’re in and the papers are signed, you quickly see yourself drowning in a ludicrous amount of debt. It’s all from processing fees and other shenanigans associated with your hiring process, and you’re supposed to quickly chip away at it, but that clearly is far from being easy. The daily work life of a shipbreaker is no easy task, not only because it’s tough manual labour, but also because death is always lurking around the corner waiting for you if you end up being careless with your work.
The gameplay loop of Hardspace: Shipbreaker is a pretty tight one, and you’ll find yourself doing a lot of the same over and over. Each shift starts when you select which ship you want to salvage ext. Then, once you’re out in space, you have to use your suit’s thrusters to manoeuvre around and use your tools to slowly cut through each ship. At the same time, and depending on the difficulty you’re playing at, you also need to manage your oxygen levels and your thrusters’ fuel.
Whether you’re using the laser cutter to cut through each part of the ship, or whether you’re using a grapple gun capable of tethering ship parts together, it’s important to take your time and avoid thrashing any salvageable part of the ship as much as possible. If you mess up and ruin a lot of things, you might find that you’re not making that much progress and you’ll eventually be out of money once it comes the time for your next debt payment. You also have to send different types of materials and parts to specific processing areas, and failure to do so will result in a payment penalty at the end of the day.
Up until this point, everything should sound pretty simple, but the game keeps getting more complicated as you level up and unlock access to more complex spaceships. These spaceships not only get increasingly bigger, but they also come with new and challenging hazards, such as fuel tanks and electrical components which can quickly ruin a good portion of a ship if you don’t remove them carefully.
Salvaging each ship is almost like solving its own puzzle, because one small bad cut can cause a series of explosions or push some debris your way and you can quickly find yourself on your way to an early grave. Slow and steady wins the race here. You’ll gain experience as you complete your work on each ship, which will let you increase your rank as a shipbreaker and gain access to new tools’ upgrades and new ships. The bigger and more complex the ship, the more money you’ll get out of its salvage, at least that will remain true as long as you don’t damage it too much.
Visually, Hardspace: Shipbreaker is stunning. It doesn’t have groundbreaking graphics or what some might call “next-gen”, but its aesthetic is deliberate and striking. The Homeworld influence here is obvious, and it’s expected due to the developers, Blackbird Interactive, having made Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak and they’re currently working on Homeworld 3. However, the game still has its own distinct look that gives it a space frontier kind of vibe.
At the end of the day, Hardspace: Shipbreaker can be as much of a repetitive slog as it can be an extremely relaxing and soothing experience. It sure won’t please everyone, but for those that it does, it will most likely be carved in their memory. It’s a remarkable and unique experience unlike anything else out there, and if not for anything else, then I think that it deserves to be played at least for being so unique.
The campaign is worth playing through at least once, but if you just want to play the game for the music, the visuals, and the gameplay, then you can also just chill in the Freeplay mode for eternity. Whatever might be your case, if you’ve read this far, I’m sure that you’ll deeply enjoy it. If you’re not really sure if it’s your thing, you can always try the game out through the PC Game Pass and buy it later if you want to support the developers, and I believe that they definitely deserve that support. Safe shipbreaking cutters!
Puzzle games come in all shapes and sizes. No matter what the style or theme, they usually start off easy and then break you. Freshly Frosted does just this thanks to its cute theme, colourful levels, and gentle learning curve.
Developed and published by The Quantum Astrophysicists Guild, this is a testing puzzle title. It has doughnuts at its core, but it’s anything but sweet. Thanks to the conveyor belt mechanics, you must be patient and methodical in your approach.
Freshly Frosted is a game I previewed in June 2021 as part of the Steam Fest. Needless to say, I was impressed and was desperate to try the full game. Now this time has come. Am I still in for a treat, or will it make me sick?
Pick a doughnut and complete the puzzle.
Freshly Frosted: an interesting conveyor belt sim.
There are plenty of strategy conveyor belt games, but the puzzle genre is seriously lacking. Thankfully, Freshly Frosted blasts onto the scene with some interesting and unique ideas. Consequently, you experience a challenging and moreish title from the off.
The idea is simple! You must deliver doughnuts from points A, B, C, or D to an end goal. The amount of starting points vary, as does the aim of each stage. You must place conveyor belts to pass frosting machines to top each treat. However, you must add toppings in a specific order to be victorious. Therefore, you must plan your paths, produce the correct doughnuts, and move to the next level.
Join the belts and get the doughnuts to their delivery point.
Hints and mind-boggling levels.
Now, as a concept, it doesn’t sound that challenging, right? Wrong! As you progress through each of the 144 levels, it becomes mind-bogglingly challenging. With an array of toppings to use, delivery hatches that take specific orders, and belts that must be combined, it’s pretty tough.
Luckily, though, the developers aren’t monsters, as you can skip puzzles or use hints. The latter option is perfectly balanced, as it doesn’t undermine the difficulty. Instead, it gives you small clues to get you started. I loved this approach, as too many puzzle games get it wrong. They either give you unlimited tips and it’s too easy, or no help and it’s impossible to play.
Freshly Frosted looks delicious.
Playing out from a top-down perspective, the puzzles are easy to look at. What’s more, each of the 12 chapters has a unique appearance. With different doughnuts to deliver and a specific colour palette, it never gets old. Alongside this, I adored the soft pastel shades that create a serene atmosphere. You’ll love the surreal trip through seasons as the action cycles from winter to autumn. You’ll also experience a day-night cycle and plenty of treats to look at.
The calm experience is enhanced because of the mellow audio. With chilled out music and a softly spoken narrator, you never feel rushed. However, the factory noises and clunky machinery add some grit to the gameplay. The polar opposites wonderfully combine to create a powerful audio experience.
This one takes some thinking.
A brilliant PC to console port.
There is a long list of failed games that don’t work on consoles. For one reason or another, they feel clunky and slow. Fortunately, Freshly Frosted is an excellent port. With responsive controls and a simple but effective UI, it’s a joy to play. You can easily place your belts, adjust their direction, or remove them altogether. It’s brilliantly straightforward and is exactly what is required.
144 stages of increasing difficulty are no mean feat. Consequently, completing this game is not for the faint of heart. Luckily, though, you can tackle it casually and this makes it rewarding. However, if you simply love to unlock achievements, you won’t find it so difficult. I have spent around 6 hours so far and the end isn’t in sight. The sheer amount of puzzles ensures great value for money and that it has longevity.
Alongside this, an array of new mechanics increases the difficulty. Thankfully, this prevents the action from plateauing and this is fantastic. You’ll merge belts, clone doughnuts, play with splitters and more. Though each new element was simple to understand, it made the puzzles much harder, and this keeps you on your toes.
Freshly Frosted is as addictive as sugar.
Everyone loves a sweet treat and to be tested. Subsequently, Freshly Frosted ticks many boxes. Its levels are deceptively difficult and its mechanics are devilishly moreish. I adored it and I recommend you to buy it here! Use a methodical approach and decorate every doughnut.
Couch and online cooperative titles are big business. With the likes of Overcooked, Tools Up!, Moving Out, and more making a big splash, I’m never surprised to see new titles. Therefore, when Spacelines from the Far Out hit the market, I couldn’t wait to give it a go. This genre is always maddening, addictive, and wonderful to play with friends. Consequently, it’ll make you laugh, scream, and drive you stir crazy as you try to complete every objective.
Developed by Coffenauts and published by Skystone Games Inc., this is a rogue-lite space simulation title. The gameplay is hectic, challenging, and moreish, and it can be enjoyed solo or with up to 3 friends. What’s more, it is free to play on Game Pass for Xbox and PC, so what’s not to like? On top of this, it’s a fantastic casual title that is easy to pick up, but tough to master.
Spacelines from the Far Out has 60s vibes.
Though much of the action is set around fantasy and futuristic themes, there are distinct 60s vibes! Your spaceship feels and looks like an American diner and this was intriguing and bizarre. With Bakelite-inspired appliances and some whacky flight attendant costumes to wear, this will teleport you back in time. However, the dated appearance is juxtaposed with futuristic madness. You will soar through space while avoiding comets, asteroids, and other debris. Alongside this, you must repair your ship, maintain its fuel levels, and pick up tourists. If you survive, and that is a big if, you will be paid handsomely, and you’ll continue your quest.
Now, you may wonder, what is this quest you are talking about? The aim of the game is to run a factious space airline that transports tourists across a deadly area of space. You must travel many miles to arrive at planet Gambulon V in the vacation sector. In theory, this should be an easy task. However, in reality, you’ll fail repeatedly, lose your ship, and run out of both money and fuel. Like its peers, it is a balancing act where your priorities are forever changing. Subsequently, you must stay on your toes and attempt to keep everyone happy. If you can’t, the rogue-lite elements will bite you in the ass and you’ll lose everything.
Keep them happy and impress the inspector.
Upgrades and spaceships.
This genre would be nothing if it didn’t drive you insane. Luckily, Spacelines from the Far Out makes you spin many plates at once. You must manage your ship’s systems, please your passengers, upgrade your vessel, and search for new vehicles. This may sound like an easy task, but it isn’t. As a solo player, you will struggle to keep on top of your workload. You’ll have to entertain aliens with a quirky dance while using a laser to cook them a meal. All the while, you’ll steer around asteroids, hone in on fuelling stations, and try to get everyone to the goal on time.
Luckily, the madness eases as you earn cash and you upgrade your spaceship or buy a new one altogether. As you improve your equipment, the action becomes much easier. However, this takes a lot of luck, patience, and money. Sadly, things rarely go to plan and you must expect to lose your progress multiple times.
Thankfully, this is made exponentially easier if you play with friends. For some bizarre reason, the developers didn’t scale the difficulty for the number of players in a room. This oversight makes solo gaming much harder, and it is almost too difficult and overwhelming. Yet, as a team, it is much more enjoyable and accessible.
Spend those hard-earned bucks on several ship upgrades.
Needy passengers.
There is little you can do to alter your surroundings. But you have complete control of your passengers and the ship’s systems. You can upgrade your engines, radar, gravity, navigation, and more. Every new piece of tech you install makes your life much easier. What’s more, a more efficient ship makes for much happier tourists.
Talking of happier tourists, they are your priority. These moaning turds will complain about anything and will pee and vomit over your faux leather 60s-inspired furniture. Therefore, you must do your utmost to appease them. Whether you take regular toilet breaks, install a WC, hire a cleaner, purchase a TV, perform a dance, or cook a meal, it is your choice. You can, of course, ignore them, but this will cost you dearly. After all, you want to make a profit and happy customers will spend their cash freely.
Spacelines from the Far Out looks familiar.
This genre has a distinct look that appeals to all. Its cartoon style and vivid colours are easy on the eye and look fantastic. Luckily, I never tire of the familiar art style and I enjoyed the quirky touches. What’s more, the variety of obstacles, aliens, and objectives keep things fresh throughout. Alongside this, there is a large array of ships to unlock and many custom options. You can choose your company colours, logo, and name, and this was great. However, I would have preferred more freedom to create everything from scratch rather than using a template.
The 60s vibes continue with the jazzy soundtrack. The upbeat songs work perfectly with the madness while adding urgency and energy to proceedings. This is complemented further thanks to the loud fantasy sound effects. I adored the small touches that made me chuckle throughout. Whether it was the aliens screaming, the systems failing, or the crashing of debris on the hull, it never gets old.
Repair that hull or lose your ship.
It is so easy that a child could play it.
This genre isn’t renowned for being accessible to younger players. The action is normally overwhelming and the controls are usually complex and tricky to understand. Luckily, though, Spacelines from the Far Out is different. Its simple approach, excellent tutorial, and clever UI make it easy to pick up and play. Yes, the fundamentals are challenging, but the basic concept is extremely user-friendly. Moreover, the controls are responsive and this helps when all hell is breaking loose.
Like its peers, this screams longevity and replay value. Because of its rogue-lite elements, and the multiplayer option, you’ll play this for hours. However, there are still some shortcomings that must be addressed. First, solo gamers will find it particularly hard to defeat. Annoyingly, the NPCs are tough and they vie for blood. Second, dying repeatedly is a very real risk. If you don’t have ship insurance, your progress is lost and you must start from scratch. Now, this certainly adds to the replay value, but boy, it’s tough and annoying.
Spacelines from the Far Out is great, but it needs some balancing.
In short, I adored nearly every element of Spacelines from the Far Out! It is free to play if you subscribe to Game Pass. The graphics and audio are great, and the controls are fantastic. However, the multiplayer is limited to friends, as there are no open lobbies. Furthermore, the gameplay needs balancing. As a solo player, it is simply too difficult, and this is disappointing. If the developers could address this issue, it would be more rounded and much better. All things considered, I loved it and I recommend you to buy it here! Will you become the next big thing? Fly your passengers, keep them happy, and arrive at planet Gambulon V in one piece.
