From Orchid of Redemption, who made Dream of the Star Haven, comes their newest title, After Light Fades. Much like their naming scheme, Orchid of Redemption specializes in complexity. After Light Fades is a puzzle game where players must lead the character through a gate to advance to the next level. Levels are laid out in one dioramic room with a square grid. All of the elements of the puzzle lay inside the room, so there’s no crazy meta Nonary Game business. The puzzles in After Light Fades are difficult enough without including some grand overarching puzzle…
Within the first hour, I was stumped. I left my ability to play games out of the critique, lest we run into another run of headlines featuring a journalist who can’t play video games. But after a while, it was hard to tell if I was getting dumber, or the game was getting harder.
The Twist
The goal isn’t hard to figure out: get the key to the lock and pass through the gate. What seemed to trip me up a lot of times was how precise I had to be. The worlds introduce something new frequently. Then it tests the player with a room that left little margin for error. Fortunately, there is an undo button for retrying, and a total level reset button that costs nothing. There’s no time limits, and no additional side content to discourage using resets. So, we’re ultimately left with a complex game that highly encourages trial and error.
I’m not sure I agree about going this direction. After all, the game did not get easier, especially with the strange mechanics like the statues added in. You can haul the statue around anywhere, and it leaves a shadow. The shadow can bring certain things down, and only down, if players can wedge said thing onto the path. I’m all for a challenge, but it seemed like Orchid of Redemption wanted to start off high, and finish even higher.
The Ambience
After Light Fades strikes a balance between difficult puzzles, and relaxing atmosphere. To make the game feel cozy, the aesthetics and music add a blanket of serenity. Vibrant plants of deep color, still waters with bold hue, and clouds of clear white. The hub worlds have various biome themes. The accompaniment of flutes and synths invite players to stop and think. The heavenly choir from time to time was nice even though it felt foreboding.
This is a game about mastering mechanics. Once I figured that out, I was able to see how creative the game is. Between controlling multiple characters, spiders reflecting your moves, fires burning down objects, I found a unique game that simply wanted to do more than provide simple block puzzles. It becomes a game about the journey instead of the destination.
The Make-Up
The story is about Alice going on a healing journey to let go of the lover she lost. In order to do that, she travels to the seven worlds which represent memories they shared. In a way the puzzles reflect something from Alice’s relationship with her love. This kind of storytelling through gameplay is done well. It’s especially interesting when that ability is forgotten and a new one is used in the next world.
If having over a hundred levels isn’t enough, there’s a level editor that can be accessed at any point, no unlocking needed. Creating and sharing with others gives players a chance to express what they’ve come to learn through the story. Or it’s a great way to make impossible puzzles to make others suffer. The possibilities are out there.
Conclusion
After Light Fades was a nice reminder to slow down and blow up the rocks. Its unique take on puzzles, extensive level selection, and care-free approach invites everyone willing to be challenged. The beautiful graphics help players stay longer. But rest assured, it is challenging. The difficulty arises quickly within the first few levels. I spent an hour on one puzzle in the first world, and it didn’t get better once I knew what I was doing. I’ll say it, “It’s the Dark Souls of puzzle games,”.
I am not going to talk badly about ‘Untitled Hand Game’ for trying to mimic something bigger and falling short. However, if the thing that inspires you about an olympic athlete is that they know how to tie their shoes, then you are either hurt in the head… or a child.
Developed and Published by OtterSea Studio, Untitled Hand Game: Titled Edition, is a Physics Based hidden object Claw Machine Simulator.
If you ever want an example of what the term Cargo Cult really means, I would like to introduce you to Untitled Hand Game. This low effort claw machine simulator is the product of failing to understand. You’ll get what I mean in a second but first…
Hand-y work
The goal is simple. You are a hand that resembles the movement of a claw machine, and you must gather required items from a bin in the order the game requests. There is a timer constantly ticking down to add to the stakes.
Although, I would not call it high stakes as more time wastes….(I’ll see myself out)
The hand is controlled with the mouse and acts as a stand-in for the cursor as well. If you are in the main menu or options, you will be dragging this large hand to click on things.
This is where the biggest problem I had with Untitled Hand Game, shows its ugly face.
The hand cursor always controls like you are trying to use your mouse on a shaggy carpet. It hangs, slows down, or speeds up without much logic, and it gets very frustrating.
You could argue that this is on purpose, that it is supposed to create a challenge. That’s the thing… It does not!
Untitled Hand Game itself is very easy and you never feel the pressure of the mouse or the timer. It only makes you angry. Not, Bennet Foddy, angry, annoying cousin not leaving the house long after the party is over, angry.
Untitled Goose Hand Dilemma
My main annoyance came from the game’s title as it shows a real lack of understanding. Naming yourself as a direct reference to another game is understandable, especially in the comic sense but when you do it because you think that the name is the reason behind the other games success, you are stuck somewhere wrong, my friend.
Untitled Goose Game was a great game because it boasted a fun gameplay involving a list of tasks and NPCs to mess around with. There were even interesting stealth mechanics at play. It was the cherry on top that you were a Goose and the game was called Untitled Goose Game.
Untitled Hand Game is sadly just a cherry on top of something that was probably Cake in the Recipe Book, but came out as bland bread.
Hand, Don’t Touch
Untitled Hand Game: Titled Edition is the kind of game that makes you appreciate polish through its absence. It tries to be quirky, tries to be challenging, and tries to ride the coattails of a far more successful title, but trying isn’t the same as understanding.
There’s no real bite to the gameplay loop, no tension from the timer, and no joy in the clunky controls. The charm it aims for ends up feeling like noise over silence.
To ask if ‘Untitled Hand Game: Titled Edition’ is worth your money? This hand’s empty!
Prime Day 2025 is upon us. The sales begin on the 8th of July and end on the 11th. Consequently, there isn’t much time to grab a bargain. This guide will highlight some of the brands we love. Furthermore, there will be new items that we hope to get our hands on.
Whether it is a microphone or a mouse for your PC or a set of headphones for your kids, this guide will highlight them all. Moreover, there are earphones for athletes, and vibrant LED lighting for your house. Accordingly, you can purchase some essential tech and save some pennies.
The SteelSeries Alias Pro is a sleek, gamer-focused XLR condenser microphone designed for streamers and content creators who want high-quality, professional audio without the usual complexity. It features a 1″/25 mm ClearCast capsule, a cardioid pattern, and supports 24‑bit/48 kHz recording, capturing clear, rich vocals with minimal background noise.
The SteelSeries Aerox 5 Wireless is an ultra‑lightweight gaming mouse (≈74 g) featuring a ventilated honeycomb shell and customizable 3‑zone RGB. Powered by the TrueMove Air optical sensor (up to 18,000 CPI, 400 IPS), it delivers pixel‑perfect tracking via Quantum 2.0 2.4 GHz or Bluetooth 5.0. Durability is enhanced by IP54 AquaBarrier protection and Golden Micro switches rated for 80 million clicks. You get nine programmable buttons, fast USB‑C charging (40 hrs in 15 min), and up to 80 hrs of wireless runtime (Bluetooth mode reaches ~180 hrs). Sleek, fast, and resilient—a top pick for gamers.
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is a premium over-ear gaming headset featuring dual‑driver, high-fidelity 40 mm speakers with 360° Spatial Audio support for sharp positional accuracy and immersive sound. It offers seamless multi‑device connectivity via low‑latency 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, and a 3.5 mm jack. Enjoy uninterrupted play with its hot-swap Infinity Power System—two swappable batteries with up to ~44 hrs runtime. A hybrid 4‑mic ANC and AI‑powered retractable ClearCast Gen 2 mic delivers crystal-clear comms, while Sonar software and GameDAC let you fine-tune EQ settings. Sleek, comfortable, and feature-packed—ideal for serious gamers.
The Backbone 2nd Generation Controller transforms your iPhone or Android device into a powerful gaming console. With improved ergonomics, responsive analogue triggers, and pass-through charging, it offers a seamless mobile gaming experience. Compatible with Xbox, PlayStation, and Apple Arcade titles, it features a collapsible design for easy portability. The Backbone app enhances functionality with social features, screen recording, and game discovery. Whether at home or on the go, it delivers console-quality gameplay right in your hands.
OpenFit 2 delivers bigger, more dynamic open-ear sound with DualBoost™ Technology, offering a richer listening experience while keeping your ears open to the world around you. Featuring dual drivers for detailed audio, it allows you to manage calls, music, and more with new physical buttons that provide precise control. The comfortable, ergonomic design—enhanced by an upgraded inner silicone layer—ensures a secure fit that stays in place all day. With up to 48 hours of listening time, OpenFit 2 is built for those who want premium sound, all-day comfort, and situational awareness in one sleek package.
The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 provides astounding sound quality for sports enthusiasts, delivering up to 12 hours of unmatched audio. Equipped with wind-resistant microphones and a premium nickel-titanium frame, it ensures crystal-clear phone conversations even in extremely windy conditions. Additionally, its comfortable and secure fit offers peace of mind during use.
The Lepro E1 is a year‑round, permanent outdoor LED lighting system featuring individually addressable RGB+IC LEDs and tunable white light (2200–6500 K), perfect for both festive displays and everyday outdoor ambience. Weather‑resistant (IP65/67), it withstands extreme conditions and offers both Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth control via the Lepro app, with no separate remote.
The Lepro S1 is an indoor, 5–10 m smart LED strip featuring RGB+IC addressable LEDs and adhesive backing. Its AI‑powered LightGPM assistant crafts lighting scenes, while LightBeats syncs to music. Control via Lepro+ app, Alexa or Google Assistant. Offers millions of colours, schedules, and an easy plug‑and‑play setup.
The iClever HS19 Kids Headphones are foldable, over‑ear wired headphones with an in-line microphone, dual-stage volume limiter (85/94 dB) to protect young ears, and comfy 40 mm driver sound. They include a share port for sibling listening, an adjustable headband, ultra-soft earmuffs, and universal 3.5 mm compatibility.
The BTH20 Bluetooth Kids Headphones offer over-ear comfort, active noise cancellation, and a safe 80 dBA volume cap. With durable, BPA‑free construction, 60 hrs battery, quick‑charge USB‑C, 90° rotatable cups, and wired backup, they’re ideal for ages 3+.
The TickTalk 5 is a kids’ smartwatch combining communication, safety, and fun. It features video calling, messaging, GPS tracking, and parental controls. With its sleek design, school mode, and water resistance, it keeps kids connected and parents reassured—all without the need for a smartphone. Ideal for ages 5–12.
The TCL NXTPAPER 14 is a 14.3″ Android 14 tablet featuring a textured 2.4K NXTPAPER 3.0 screen with three display modes—Regular, Colour Paper, Ink Paper—designed to reduce blue light and glare. It’s powered by a Helio G99 chip, 8 GB RAM (plus 8 GB virtual), 256 GB storage, a10,000 mAh battery with 33 W fast charge, quad speakers, stylus support, and an IP54 rating.
Lightweight and powerful, Notta Memo is the portable AI meeting assistant that works both for conference calls and in-person meetings. Memo transcribes voice notes in real-time, summarizes conversations, creates action items, and syncs them across your devices. It’s perfect for meetings, interviews, and idea capture, like having a searchable second brain.
VIAIM NoteKit & RecDot: AI Note-Taking Earbuds That Keep Up with You.
Whether you write by hand or speak your thoughts, VIAIM’s AI notetaking earbuds convert your meetings or spoken thoughts into organized, searchable, digital records. Ideal for meetings, multitasking, students, and creative pros, RecDot earbuds can be used like traditional earbuds, or can be placed in their charging case in the middle of the meeting to capture everybody’s thoughts.
RecDot – AI Voice Recorder Earbuds with Transcription, to-Do Lists & Summaries.
I’ve highlighted a few of the great products from these amazing brands. Their websites have plenty of impressive savings and brilliant tech for you this Prime Day 2025. Subsequently, you can grab a bargain while improving your tech.
The AKKO 5075B Plus keyboard is attractive, affordable, and fully customisable. Accordingly, it is the perfect option if you are upgrading your gaming setup, or if you are just starting out. AKKO make some incredible keyboards and I was thoroughly impressed by their MonsGeek M1W – Iso RGB keyboard. However, that device is at another level altogether. As such, if your budget doesn’t stretch to over £100, then I suggest you keep this excellent device in mind.
This 75%-formed gaming keyboard comes with an array of keycaps and 5-pin hot-swappable switches. Accordingly, it allows you to create the perfect gaming accessory. In its vanilla form, this device is perfectly usable. In fact, I adored its stunning RGB lighting that can be controlled using the robust media knob. Alongside this, the adjustable feet allow you to change the typing angle without jeopardising your comfort.
What’s in the box of the AKKO 5075B Plus keyboard?
The monochromatic packaging is eye-catching. However, its refined approach is unusual but alluring. The packaging is fully recyclable, and the box protects the contents whilst in transit.
The AKKO 5075B Plus keyboard is lightweight and has a hardened plastic finish. The keyboard uses a UK standard setup and the monochromatic finish is easy to look at. Additionally, there is only one USB-C port and the USB-A dongle is housed on the underside. This was an excellent design choice, as it maintains its professional and streamlined finish.
A set of special character keycaps are provided to add a unique finish to your device. Alternatively, you are provided with a different profile of keycaps if you don’t like the pre-installed option.
Special tools are provided to remove the keycaps.
A white USB-A to USB-C cable is used to connect the keyboard.
A Quick Start Guide talks you through the fundamentals.
Technical aspects.
The AKKO 5075B Plus keyboard is wonderfully versatile. Thanks to its 3 connectivity options, gamers can opt for a wired, Bluetooth 5.0 or Wireless 2.4Ghz connection. Furthermore, the keyboard can be used with Windows, Android, or Mac. As such, this makes it brilliantly versatile if you work and game on multiple platforms. What’s more, switching between platforms was a cinch thanks to the Fn macro system.
I prefer a wired connection. However, I didn’t experience any issues when I used either wireless approach. Accordingly, the low-latency gaming and highly responsive inputs kept me ahead of my competitors. Moreover, I never endured any stuttering or input lag. This was an essential feature that made this keyboard stand out from its peers.
Usability.
If your keyboard is tough to use or hard to set up, it can be frustrating. Thankfully, the AKKO 5075B Plus keyboard is straightforward to use. Whether you are an expert in changing keycaps, or you are relatively new to the scene, this keyboard is undeniably easy to customise. The included tools make changing the keycaps or switches a simple task. However, the provided ASA profile keycaps were comfortable and easy to get used to.
I adore the harsh noise and movement of a linear key switch. However, if you are not a fan, you can swap the linear switches for a softer tactile option. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy a responsive and comfortable experience no matter the length of the gaming session. What impressed me most, though, were the special keys! These PBT double-shot keycaps were eye-catching and the details are built to last.
Finally, adjusting your in-game volume or the lighting profile can be achieved with the well-positioned media knob. This handy switch allows you to adjust your settings without the need to leave your game. Accordingly, it was an excellent design feature that adds to the usability.
Build quality.
Though I adored the metal casing and professional finish of the MonsGeek M1W – Iso RGB keyboard, it comes at a cost. Therefore, if you want something that looks great whilst being robust and affordable, you must consider the AKKO 5075B Plus keyboard. The white finish is complemented by the RGB lighting and the stark black icons. Moreover, the refined finish and 75% form factor look great in a smaller space. Additionally, the simple white USB cable complements the overall look and is a great choice.
The side-facing RGB lighting generates an attractive hue that isn’t overbearing. What’s more, you can adjust the brightness to your liking. Additionally, you can extinguish the lights altogether if you want a stealthier approach. As such, this keyboard can be as loud or as quiet as you wish.
The robust nature of this plastic keyboard was a pleasant surprise. Thanks to the layers of unique materials, this device focuses on comfort, safety, and build quality. Moreover, the adjustable feet and TPU plate mount stabilisers create a luxurious finish that helps to reduce fatigue during long gaming sessions.
Is the AKKO 5075B Plus keyboard worth it?
The AKKO 5075B Plus keyboard is available for under £90. Accordingly, this high-spec keyboard is an affordable option. Furthermore, its 75% form factor is great if you are short on space. What’s more, the ability to customise the switches, and the keycaps was a fantastic addition that I wouldn’t expect to see at this price point. Additionally, the responsive inputs and 3 unique connectivity modes make it an attractive option for newcomers and those who want to improve their setup. As such, I loved this device and recommend buying it here!
Developed by Nippon Ichi Software and published by NIS America, Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero is a long-awaited sequel to the 2004 original. It follows Marona, a girl who converses with spirits. After her partner Ash is separated during an encounter with malevolent ghost ships, she allies with a young phantom named Apricot. Together, they reassemble a lost pirate crew to rescue their loved ones
An interesting twist on tactical combat
At its core, the gameplay of Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero thrives on tactical experimentation. The absence of a traditional grid allows for more organic positioning and movement, creating a sense of freedom rare in the SRPG genre. Players command phantoms that Marona, the protagonist, can “confine” into physical objects on the battlefield, each object affecting stats differently. Confine a phantom into a rock, for instance, and you might boost its defense; use a flowerpot, and the result might be wildly different.
The game introduces new systems like “Confire,” where phantoms can fuse with weapons, and “Confriend,” a mechanic where Marona merges with her phantom allies, unlocking devastating attacks or buffs. These features deepen the strategic pool, though they come with a learning curve that might overwhelm newcomers. The lack of a formal grid also brings some jank, especially with physics. Enemies and objects can unpredictably bounce, fall, or block paths, sometimes soft locking and forcing the player to restart the fight. Still, it’s certainly a new way to innovate tactical combat and I would love to see it implemented in a more solid title.
The combat is certainly more innovative than the story
Narratively, The Lost Hero continues the journey of Marona, a young girl who can communicate with spirits. Her long time phantom companion, Ash, is separated from her early in the story due to the rise of ghost ships and a new supernatural threat. Marona teams up with a new phantom, Apricot, and sets out to gather a pirate crew to save Ash and battle this growing menace.
The story maintains the whimsical, heartfelt tone that Nippon Ichi fans will recognize, blending humour with moments of genuine emotion. However, some players may find the stakes feel lighter and more juvenile than expected. While character interactions are charming and well-written, the overarching plot often feels predictable and rarely reaches the emotional highs seen in other entries. That said, long-time fans will likely enjoy returning to this world and seeing Marona take centre stage once again. Where The Lost Hero truly excels is in its wealth of side content. In true NIS fashion, the post-game is practically a second game in itself. Randomly generated dungeons, hidden bosses, and advanced mechanics like character fusion and reincarnation ensure that min-maxers and completionists will find no shortage of things to do.
The game includes over 50 different unit types, each with their own playstyle and skill tree, as well as 300+ abilities to discover. You can also recruit and customize a vast roster of phantoms, test builds in challenge dungeons, and engage in item crafting and enhancement systems that go deeper than most modern RPGs dare. For those who thrive on grinding and optimization, the side activities alone may justify the purchase.
A very disappointing issue
Unfortunately, Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero stumbles hard when it comes to downloadable content and pricing. While the base game is priced at nowadays standard pricing rate for a full-length strategy RPG, several key characters, scenarios, and bonus dungeons are locked behind paid DLC. For example, iconic crossover characters from other NIS titles are only available through the “Character Pack” DLC, while the “Another Marona” side story must be purchased separately.
What stings most is that these DLCs were ready at launch, suggesting they were deliberately withheld from the base game to be sold piecemeal. This practice has drawn considerable backlash from fans, especially considering the game already launched with technical issues. It creates the impression that the game is incomplete without additional purchases, undermining the goodwill built by its gameplay systems.
My thoughts
Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero on PC is a rewarding but flawed experience. Its unique grid-less combat, deep customization, and endgame content make it a standout within the strategy RPG scene. Marona’s story offers emotional moments and whimsical charm, even if the pacing drags and the narrative stakes feel low. On the downside, the PC version suffers from occasional crashes, physics bugs, and AI glitches that should have been ironed out before launch.
The most serious misstep, however, is the DLC strategy. Locking substantial content behind paid walls, especially at launch, dampens enthusiasm and calls into question the publisher’s priorities. I cannot recommend a game with such practices in good conscience. If the title sounds like something you would enjoy, wait for a deep discount with a “all DLC included” version.
Taxi Life -VIP City Guide is the 2nd DLC for the Taxi Life series. I previously covered the Delivery Driver DLC, and here is a link to that review. Thankfully, this latest addition follows many of the core mechanics while adding some freedom to your working day. This versatility takes advantage of the open world while incorporating the light business aspects.
This business simulation game was developed by Simteract and published by NACON. It is a single-player game that uses various viewpoints to maximise realism. If you own the previous DLC, you can combine taxi work, VIP trips, and delivery driving into your day-to-day tasks. However, if you missed the Delivery Driver DLC, you can enjoy every other aspect of this steadily expanding game.
Taxi Life -VIP City Guide has a limited plot.
Sim games are not renowned for their storytelling. Unfortunately, Taxi Life -VIP City Guide follows this approach. Instead of adding a sense of rivalry, loss, or family ties, you are left to your own devices. Though this could be hollow and tiresome, you rarely have a moment to yourself.
Driving around Barcelona is a treat. The city looks incredible, and the tourist attractions are eye-catching. Furthermore, the combination of narrow backroads, sprawling main streets, and unruly NPC drivers was great to witness. Additionally, there are plenty of people who wish to pay you good money to take them around the city.
A sense of freedom.
Originally, Taxi Life was quite a rigid game. Pick up passengers or deliveries and move them from A to B. Though you could drive wherever you wished, you wouldn’t make money if you didn’t have any passengers. Fortunately, Taxi Life -VIP City Guide breaks this mould.
You can take your tour-seeking passengers on a jolly around the city. Though they have a clear goal in mind, you can visit as many tourist attractions as you like. Additionally, the more you cram in, the more money you make. Word of warning, though, bad driving habits, accidents, and other mistakes negatively impact your bank balance. Accordingly, you must abide by the rules of the road if you wish to maximise your profits.
Taxi Life -VIP City Guide looks great.
I love driving around Barcelona. The city is vibrant, and the varied backdrops are pleasant to look at. Yes, there are the usual repetitive assets, and each passenger has an amusing edge, but this matters not. You’ll spend most of your time focusing on the road and the mad Spanish drivers who stop, change lanes, and unintentionally cause accidents.
The audio is a blend of realistic ambient sounds and wooden acting. The sound of engines roaring and cars crashing is all too familiar. Moreover, each passenger asks a selection of inane and random questions. Thankfully, these can be ignored if you don’t mind losing money.
Lively controls.
The cars can be a nightmare to control. The steering feels erratic, and crashes are commonplace. However, once you get to grips with the handling system, you’ll have no problems. Another strange layer is the lack of walking. You never leave your car, and everything revolves around menus or driving.
The map is huge, and this DLC adds a nice open element to the gameplay. However, it doesn’t expand or create any new content from the core ideas. Consequently, replay value is limited unless you love the tours and the large open world.
Taxi Life -VIP City Guide is a good addition.
I thoroughly enjoy this franchise. It is relaxing, casual, and great to experience. Moreover, driving around Barcelona is a treat and the freedom to do as you please is well conceived. Accordingly, I think it is great and I recommend buying it here! Can you become the best tour guide? Grab your map, explore the city, and maximise your profits.
Once Upon a Puppet tells the story of Drev and Nieve, two unlikely companions thrust together by fate and forced to unearth the secrets of their theatre-themed world. It offers a variety of environmental puzzles to solve, but by and large your enjoyment will be predicated on how engaging you find the game’s narrative.
Our protagonists must figure out what’s happened to the increasingly tyrannical King Caliban, who’s been banishing those who dissent to the Understage. It’s far from a complex tale (lasting around six hours), and feels straight out of an animated children’s film with themes of forgiveness and teamwork. It’s nothing you haven’t seen before, and even younger audiences may find it a bit rote.
Still, it’s competently told, and the tone is well-balanced. It’s more Pixar than Saturday morning cartoon, allowing for adults to enjoy it while still being accessible to children. It’s by no means “kiddy”, and although it treads familiar ground, the story itself is presented well, with good pacing and well-written banter between the two leads.
While much of your enjoyment will be determined by whether the story grabs you, this is by no means a walking sim. You’ll be tasked with numerous puzzles throughout Puppet’s campaign, all asking you to use Drev and Nieve’s unique abilities to manipulate the environment. You won’t be too challenged by anything the game asks you to do, mostly dragging items into their designated spots. It’s far from stimulating, and can often feel like completing busy work just to get to the next cutscene.
Thankfully, developers Flatter Than Earth start introducing new gameplay mechanics in the Lost Acts, flashback sequences that reveal the backstory of the King and his son. You’ll get access to a bow, flashlight, and ice pick, as well as the ability to double jump (though your platforming prowess will never be truly tested). These open up the gameplay significantly, creating more thoughtful puzzles and helping you grab collectibles.
Throughout the environment, you’ll find a few different items to pick up, including stained glass pieces, character costumes, and props. Most glass shards are immediately visible within each level, but if you want to collect everything else, you’ll need to search a bit harder. This activity will likely be relegated to super fans and completionists, however, given that none of these collectibles impact gameplay in any way.
Something that becomes immediately apparent upon booting the game up are its terrible graphics; in the Switch version I played, it was very apparent that the 2017 hardware is aging. Lighting and shadows are extremely poor, and the resolution is putrid. Aliasing is impossible to ignore on a big screen, and pre-rendered cutscenes are compressed with frequent artifacting. It runs at thirty frames per second, and even then there are some minor dips. If you have interest in this game, I recommend you play it elsewhere.
The poor technical state of the game is only made disappointing because of the genuinely fantastic art design. The developers have crafted a host of beautiful environments (garish royal halls, snowy mountains, verdant forests, etc), all within an inspired stage-play aesthetic. It’s a refreshingly original setting for a video game, one that I’m sure shines on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
Unfortunately, I did encounter a few bugs during my playthrough. Multiple times I clipped through the environment, making it impossible to proceed. Later, I had parts of the environment disappear completely, where I was then met with barren greyboxed walls. These glitches could be solved rather easily by pausing and restarting from the last checkpoint, but it was still annoying and a few more patches would certainly be appreciated.
There is a solid foundation here for Flatter Than Earth to build from, and I’m certainly curious to see what their next game looks like. As it stands now though, Once Upon A Puppet leaves quite a bit to be desired, and I think one playthrough will satisfy any interested parties.
Edifier, a leading innovator in premium audio solutions, is proud to announce the launch of the MR5. Featuring patented acoustic architecture and a sophisticated tri-amped active crossover, the EDIFIER MR5 delivers rich, natural sound with seamless transitions across lows, mids and highs. Engineered for precision, the new Edifier MR5 captures every detail—ideal for music production, video editing, and everyday listening.
Flat Frequency Response The EDIFIER MR5 is engineered for accuracy, offering a wide and flat frequency response from 46Hz to 40kHz. This neutral and transparent sound profile ensures that every nuance is faithfully reproduced, allowing you to hear exactly what was recorded—making it an excellent choice for critical listening, mixing, and mastering.
Wide Sweet Spot The EDIFIER MR5 features a specially designed dimpled tweeter waveguide that enhances high-frequency extension and clarity while significantly broadening the listening area. This innovative design creates a wide sweet spot, delivering consistent and accurate sound no matter where you are in the room—perfect for collaborative workspaces or dynamic studio environments.
Room-Filling Power With a total output of 110W RMS and a peak SPL of 101dB (@1 meter), the EDIFIER MR5 delivers impressive volume and clarity. Whether in a near-field or mid-field setup, it provides ample power to fill medium-sized rooms effortlessly, making it a versatile choice for studios, editing suites and high-fidelity home listening.
Hi-Res Audio Certified – Wired and Wireless The EDIFIER MR5 is built for audiophile-grade performance, featuring a premium analog front end and Class-D amplifiers that support 24-bit/96kHz resolution for precise signal conversion and accurate amplification. It is also Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified, enabling high-resolution streaming via LDAC at up to 990kbps and 24-bit/96kHz. With Bluetooth 6.0 compatibility for Android 8.0 and above, you get the freedom of wireless listening without compromising on sound quality.
Versatile Connectivity Options The EDIFIER MR5 offers professional-grade balanced XLR and TRS inputs for low-noise connections with audio interfaces and mixers, along with RCA and AUX inputs for easy multi-device connectivity. A dedicated headphone output adds convenience for private listening.
Bluetooth Multipoint Connectivity The EDIFIER MR5 supports Bluetooth® 6.0 with multipoint technology, allowing you to connect two devices simultaneously. This ensures a stable wireless connection and effortless switching between sources for seamless streaming.
Easy Control with EDIFIER ConneX App Download the EDIFIER ConneX app to access playback controls, customize sound effects, adjust room compensation settings and explore the user manual—putting full control of your MR5 speakers right at your fingertips.
The Ellipse headphones from Kiwi Ears are a great budget-friendly option. I’ve recently looked at the Division headphones and I was impressed. Accordingly, I had high hopes for these open-back DJ/monitor headphones. They look incredibly smart and the eye for detail, metal and plastic finish, and braided cable add a professional edge. Furthermore, the ear cups are comfortable to wear.
Not only are they well built, but the audio is pretty decent as well. Though they are reasonably bass and treble-heavy, there is a nice rounded sound profile. The result is a warm soundscape that works with an array of music genres. Alongside this, they are as plug-and-play as you get. The provided cable is high quality, and you won’t be disappointed with the initial setup.
What’s in the box of the Ellipse headphones?
The packaging is reasonably discreet. Though it won’t blow you away, it was attractive, nonetheless.
The Ellipse headphones are lightweight. Moreover, the metal grills and laser-etched writing add a touch of flair.
The braided cable is around 10 feet long. It has a gold-plated 3.5mm audio jack on either end. Furthermore, you can attach a quarter-inch adapter for versatility.
Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
The Ellipse headphones incorporate 50mm drivers and an open-back design for a rich soundscape. This approach isn’t normally found in a budget-friendly device. Accordingly, Kiwi Ears breaks the mould. Though this product has no Bluetooth functionality, I didn’t care. The wired-only design is suitable for its intended audience.
A lack of Bluetooth may annoy some people, but it shouldn’t. You have no battery to worry about and no charging requirements. Subsequently, you simply connect the cables and away you go. Talking of cables, the detachable design was a great choice. The provided braided cable is useful and durable. Though it may not be top of the range, it is good enough to deliver high-quality audio.
Audio quality.
I’ve touched upon the audio. However, I want to compare it a little to the Division headphones. The open-back design delivers an immersive soundscape that its counterpart cannot compete with. Furthermore, the rich bass, punchy treble, and pleasant mid-tones create a generous and enjoyable listening platform. The Division headphones deliver comfortable audio, but there is a fuzzy edge at times. Consequently, the Ellipse headphones offer a better end product.
I tested these with an array of generic songs. Each sounded great without breaking, cracking, or struggling at any point. Furthermore, I tested the headphones via the 3.5mm and quarter-inch adapters, and both performed admirably.
Build quality.
Kiwi Ears has combined metal and plastic to great effect. The finish is striking but simple. Furthermore, the headphones are light and comfortable. The ear cups are large and have a deep recess. Consequently, your ears do not feel trapped or pinched by the pleather material.
The headband is light and flexible. Additionally, it is durable and it took some beatings through testing. I was pretty heavy-handed while using it and the headband didn’t suffer. The matte finish remained untarnished and I couldn’t damage it. This isn’t to say that it is indestructible, because it isn’t. However, it was extremely robust and the hinges, cables, and ear cups will last the test of time.
Are the Ellipse headphones worth it?
These headphones could be used while commuting or when gaming. Yet, I think there are better options. Subsequently, they excel when you use them when DJing or other audio production tasks. The sound quality is impressive and I love the durability. Moreover, they look great and they are affordable. Accordingly, I enjoyed using them and recommend buying them here!
(More information on Kiwi Ears can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
Heroes of Mount Dragon launched on June 25, 2025, developed by Canadian indie studio RuniQ and published by indie.io. Developed by veterans from studios like Beenox, Ubisoft, and Crash Bandicoot, it’s a side-scrolling beat‑’em‑up that combines arcade-style brawling, vibrant hand-drawn visuals, and a playful fantasy world. Players pick one of four heroes (with four more to come post-launch), each infused with dragon-morphing powers. The game supports single-player, couch or online co-op up to four players, and competitive PvP modes, complete with chaotic curses like shrinking or flipping controls
The ideas are there, but need more time to cook
Its art style is striking, a blend of 2D hand-drawn character art layered in a 3D world, creating a colorful, Saturday cartoon-like aesthetic. I find it nostalgic yet fresh, like a well recreated feeling of PS2 era games. The world of Üna, the fantasy realm, is brought to life through lush environments such as elven forests, swamps, and desserts, all rendered with vivid depth and charm.
Combat feels polished and accessible. Movesets are fluid, with satisfying combos and special attacks. Transforming into dragons mid-battle is visually and mechanically exhilarating. Multiplayer co-op shines brightest, fostering synergy between characters and chaotic fun through curses and PvP modes. Action is smooth, with juggles and aerial combos bringing that classic arcade energy. However, I noticed issues with combat precision. There’s some positional jank: attacks may miss if enemies aren’t perfectly aligned vertically, a small but noticeable clunk amid the flow.
Unfortunately there’s a few drawbacks, especially UI issues. When playing couch co-op I could not see player 2’s move set which meant when levelling and unlocking new moves we either had to quit or just attempt combinations. Also you can not back out to main menu from the “map” and have to wait to get into the level, which then if I tried to quit out it would usually result in a crash. Sometimes it would show me unlocking a new move but when attempting to pull it off, it wouldn’t work until the next level. Another issue I found also UI related. The four characters promised in future updates are showing on the character select screen. but no where in game does it say how to or when they’ll be unlocked, leaving me frustrated until eventually googling the reason.
There’s a decent hours of gameplay but only a couple hours of new
Here lies a gameplay problem: despite four distinct locales, many feel like reskinned versions of the same stage. Enemy variety and level hazards are limited, making the experience feel repetitive after a couple of hours. This repetition dulls the initially exhilarating combat loop, even though upgrades and dragon transforms try to spice things up, they only patch the monotony rather than solve it. You play as one hero of the Dragon‑Souls tasked with restoring balance. The narrative is whimsical and light-hearted, narrated with charm, though delivery lacks voice acting, many players will skip through dialogue. The lore expands beyond the game: it’s tied to a pre-existing French‑Canadian board‑game series and an ongoing book franchise, with eight heroes total and nine volumes exploring their backstories. While that integration is intriguing, launch content reveals only half the roster, which as I mentioned was disappointing.
The game offers Adventure co-op, score-based competitive modes, curses, unlockable upgrades, and future DLC promises. But limited stage diversity and predictable enemy encounters undercut longevity.
My Conclusion
Heroes of Mount Dragon is a vibrant, ambitious start for RuniQ. It nails presentation and accessible brawling, with dragon transformations adding spectacle and depth. Co-op play, curses, and humour make it a fun pick-up-and-play party game, especially for fans of classic arcade beat‑’em‑ups.
But it currently lacks sufficient content and variety to maintain long-term engagement. Identical stage structures, limited enemy types, and some rough edges in gameplay precision and performance hold it back. The lore-rich world hints at growth potential, supported by upcoming content. Bug fixes and expansions could elevate it from “fun” to “compelling.”
The first game in the Garten of Banban series was released on January 6, 2023 for PC and twenty days later for mobile, and in 2024 for consoles.
I reviewed the first part of this game about a year ago and gave it a score of 2, and this version has 10 million downloads on the Google Play Store.
Now more than a year has passed since the experience of the first part, and I experienced Garten of Banban 7, which is actually the sixth game in this series. This version was released in May 2024 for mobile and PC, and was released for consoles in December 2024, and has 10 thousand downloads on the Google Play Store.
I have not played the four games before this version, but I tried to read their stories and in this review I compare this game with the first game.
STORY
The first game was just a prologue without a voice actor that only told you that you play the role of a parent looking for their lost child in a daycare and didn’t tell you anything else.
But the next games introduced different characters and the story gained depth and became much more than a piece of paper.
In this part of the story, you go to the lowest part of this facility, which you have found out before that it is actually a laboratory and not a daycare, and you continue to search for your lost child.
The most important character in this version is Syringeon. He is a very intelligent mutant surgeon and he is also the mayor of Cityngeon, a city that was built in this same laboratory and its citizens, who are named case 4b, are also made by Syringeon in the laboratory and he is constantly making new citizens for his city.
This part is dark in terms of story and offers you a good story but the story is very simple and it is just good and nothing more. Ultimately, many questions remain unanswered in this version after 6 games, and it creates even more questions, and it can be said that the main story does not reach a conclusion.
It takes approximately an hour and a half to complete the story, which is very short.
GAMEPLAY
The first game was just a 2$ tutorial with simple and not entertaining puzzles.
In Garten of Banban 7 the gameplay hasn’t changed much and the controls are still not smooth and are annoying, especially using the drone is very annoying.
The puzzles are way better and not repetitive and the this is very good. A new mechanic has also been added to the game that allows you to control the drone more.
Overall, the gameplay issues are still present, but the new mechanics and much better puzzles provide much better gameplay.
SOUND DESIGN
The sound design is good and creates a sense of fear. Of course, it’s not high quality, but it’s scary and helps create a scary atmosphere.
The voice actors are excellent and I think they are the best part of the game. Syringeon’s voice acting is especially lovely and I loved listening to him.
VISUALS
Visually, it is not acceptable at all and it is exactly the same as the mobile version and I did not see any changes to it. While this game was made with Unreal Engine 5 and could have performed much, much better, it is weak in this area, like the first game.
However, the atmosphere of the game is good and it has managed to create a sense of fear.
CONCLUSION
Garten of Banban 7 is definitely better than Garten of Banban 1, but it’s still a mediocre game with nothing special about it. The story is dark and doesn’t answer many questions while raising new ones. The gameplay hasn’t improved and the controls can still be annoying. The puzzles are much better. The voice acting is very nice and I think it’s the strongest part of the game. The visuals are very bad and not acceptable at all.
We take a closer look at the Airbrush Plush Hair’iffic Salon Set from Canal Toys.
Treat your adorable Airbrush Plush to a makeover at the Airbrush Plush Hair’iffic Salon Set! It’s the ultimate hair play experience for kids who love to style and decorate. Can’t decide on a look? Wash it out with the pump-powered salon shower just like at a real salon – simply wash and repeat!
With over 120 reusable stencils and 20+ fun hair accessories, you can create endless styles to match your mood – crazy, cute or glam. Use the real battery-powered airbrush and 6 brightly coloured pens to decorate its long hair with vibrant designs.
Treat your adorable Airbrush Plush to a makeover at the Airbrush Plush Hair’iffic Salon!
Use the real battery-powered airbrush and 6 brightly coloured pens to decorate its long hair with vibrant designs.
Can’t decide on a look? Wash it out with the pump-powered salon shower just like at a real salon – Simply wash and repeat!
With over 120 reusable stencils and 20+ fun hair accessories, you can create endless styles to match your mood—crazy, creative, or glam.
The ultimate hair play experience for kids who love to style, decorate, and repeat!
Here we take a closer look at Pergola from Asmodee.
Welcome to your very own Pergola! An enticing new cosy offering from Asmodee Games and Rebel Studios. Pergola beautifully gifts players the opportunity to curate their perfect oasis in nature. With 42% of the UK being keen gardeners and the demand for cosy boardgaming on the rise, Pergola is the perfect crossover for players with green fingers, especially for those without gardens!
Beautifully crafted with captivating hand-painted watercolour illustrations by the talented Karolina Kijak, renowned for her work on the artwork for Meadow, and over 100 exquisitely designed wooden play pieces, Pergola is as kind to the planet as the gameplay.
Due to be released in May 2025, Pergola was created to allow the gardener in you to blossom. Bring your dream garden to life by planting a wonderful mix of flowers and plants that will invite all sorts of charming birds and insects to visit including ladybirds, bees, dragonflies and frogs! Every decision you make will shape the beauty of your little garden oasis.
Pergola is designed to bring players into nature by allowing an unparalleled freedom to arrange elements blending tile placement, drafting and set collection. Making replayability easy, exciting and addictive.
While away an afternoon with two players or root for yourself in solo mode choosing tools, planting seeds, hanging lanterns and watching your garden come alive. Pergola is the perfect game to encourage you to relax and recharge away from the stresses of the modern world.
The whole family can also be enchanted by Pergola with its easy to learn rules, accessible themes and colourful elements. Spark your kids’ creativity and strategic thinking in the cheerful surroundings of your garden!
Pull on your welly boots, roll up sleeves and expand your collection with a game that seems innocent but unfolds into a thrilling strategic journey you’ll never want to leaf!
Pergola is available now from Asmodee priced around £37.99 Its for 1 – 4 players aged 10 and up and each game takes around 45-60 minutes to complete.
If you love old-school games and you can remember Lemmings, you’ll probably adore Moons of Darsalon. It is a weird and wonderful game that tests your reactions, logical mindset, and grit. Furthermore, it has a dated appeal that is delightfully retro without being rough around the edges.
This puzzle platformer was developed and published by Dr. Kucho! Games. It is a single-player experience that focuses on a side-scrolling design. Moreover, pixelated aesthetics and basic audio take centre stage. As such, this retro title may not strike a chord with younger gamers.
Moons of Darsalon tells a tale of bravery and honour.
No one wishes to be stranded on an alien moon. However, this is the fate of the hardworking and unfortunate Darsanauts. This bunch of workers have been left isolated and lost on each barren moon. Luckily, a hero steps up to guide each person to the moon base and save the day.
The story is somewhat outlandish. However, it works perfectly with the sci-fi theme. Moreover, the alien backdrop has a distinct 80s edge. As you progress, things become increasingly tough. Aliens wish to destroy you, and spaceships do their best to ruin your day. However, an array of tools is at your disposal to overcome every obstacle.
Guns and terraforming.
Moons of Darsalon has some basic puzzle elements. Effectively, you must create new paths if you wish to rescue every person. Furthermore, there are voice commands to instruct every Darsanaut where to go. Follow me, wait, move left, and move right are the instructions you may use. Accordingly, you need to plan and hope that luck is on your side.
Luck isn’t the only tool at your disposal. A laser rifle, jet pack, torch, and terraforming tool let you carve new paths and overcome obstacles. As you explore each moon, you’ll discover ammo, a collectable, and a host of aliens. You can ignore each alien if you wish, but remember that you must rescue a finite number of survivors if you wish to proceed. This is easier said than done, and death and failure are the consequences of a poorly executed plan.
Moons of Darsalon is impressively dated.
The developer has combined an old-school handheld appearance and pixelated graphics to great effect. Moreover, the simple but impressive stage design is a joy to explore. You must traverse chasms, caves, and platforms as you move from beginning to end. Additionally, learning which surface can be destroyed and which cannot is essential to creating new pathways.
The audio is fantastic. The raspy commands sound perfect against the daunting musical backdrop. The synth soundtrack enhances the dated feel and has a sci-fi quality that matches its impressively old-school influences. Moreover, the sound effects are great even though they are refined.
Excellent controls.
It took a little practice to master Moons of Darsalon. However, once you understand the fundamentals, you’ll adore the excellent controls. Moving each survivor was a joy, and overcoming each problem was a pleasant test. The simple control layout is easy to understand, and swapping your weapons and flying through the air with the jet pack was amazing.
If you love finding secrets and testing your resolve, Moons of Darsalon will appeal. However, replay value is limited, and once you’ve nailed each of the 30 stages, you won’t return for more. Thankfully, every level has a glorious difficulty curve that keeps you coming back for more.
Moons of Darsalon is a well-thought-out game.
The simple mechanics and cheeky stage design make this a great game to play. I loved the interesting puzzles and the genuine eureka moments. Furthermore, it is a visual treat, and the audio has a great old-school edge. Accordingly, it is a well-thought-out game and I recommend buying it here! Can you become a hero and save the day? Destroy the aliens, forge new pathways, and get to the base.
