Delivering an immersive and captivating 3D world is Meta Quest 3’s main job. Thankfully, it delivers on every promise when you play Ghost Town. This insanely good title will hook you in from the start. Moreover, its short playtime ensures you progress with baby steps. This was great as I limit my VR action to approximately 1 hour a session. Accordingly, this took around 5 attempts to complete, and I enjoyed every moment.
Fireproof Games developed and published this chilling puzzle adventure. It is a single-player game that has a detective edge. Additionally, there is a hefty slice of supernatural mumbo jumbo to deal with. However, everything is perfectly balanced, and the characters, story, and settings will get under your skin.
Ghost Town tells a fantastic tale.
If you adore an outlandish but fascinating plot, Ghost Town will appeal. The story is unrealistic, but I didn’t care. Furthermore, some of the characters are larger than life, and that was appreciated. Though it could have gone too far, it kept the writing, direction, and pace on point.
You control Edith Penrose. This young lady has otherworldly powers that are as scary as they are impressive. She is a medium who can see and talk to the dead. When her brother goes missing, she cannot sit back idly waiting. Instead, she uses her ungodly powers to uncover the truth anyway she can.
Puzzles, ghosts, and plenty of obstacles.
Ghost Town is broken down into minor arenas and plenty of cinematic scenes. Each location is filled with brilliant puzzles, tricks, and ghostly beings. Brewing potions, moving dials, finding symbols, and testing your grey matter are all par for the course. En route, you’ll enjoy spectacular cinematic that knits it together.
Each of the puzzles is nicely presented and reasonably challenging to solve. Searching for clues in each compact area helps to overcome the problem you face. Alternatively, if you become stuck, a helpful hint system pushes you along. Though I tried to avoid “cheating”, occasionally, my brain failed me. As such, it was nice to have the help when I lost my way.
Ghost Town delivers a stunning VR experience.
Ghost Town is a truly immersive game. It shows the world how good a VR title should be. Each location is wonderful to explore. Craggy rocks, seagulls, dank rooms, and tight spaces must be searched if you wish to save your brother. Moving through the world is seamless and simple to achieve. Unlike other games, you don’t become disoriented or sick. Consequently, the buttery smooth animation and slick visuals will impress the toughest critic.
The audio is just as good. Music, ambient noises, and weird sound effects punctuate the action. The world pops with every atmospheric sound. Whether it is the noise of a ghost, the call of a bird, or the whoosh of the wind, it sounds great. Additionally, the excellent acting and dialogue help to sell the story and keep everything on track.
Exceptional controls.
Ghost Town allows you to play this seated or standing up. Moreover, there are plenty of settings to make this a comfortable VR experience. Subsequently, this is a user-friendly game that’ll appeal to a large audience.
Where this fails is in replay value and longevity. My 5 or so hours of gaming were incredible, but I have no reason to return. Though there are some collectables and the ending is satisfying and suitable, I was left wanting more.
Ghost Town is an incredible VR experience.
Ghost Town proves how well VR can be utilised. Immersive audio, captivating storytelling, and spectacular graphics keep you hooked throughout. Moreover, the controls are great, and the puzzles are enjoyable to solve. Accordingly, it’s an incredible VR experience that you should purchase here! Can you solve the mystery and save your brother? Solve every puzzle, speak to the ghosts, and unfold the creepy mystery.
The Folio turntable from Majority Audio impressed me. Its sleek design is eye-catching, and the blend of modern and dated tech brings your vinyl to life. Additionally, it has plenty of connectivity modes for a versatile and user-friendly experience. As such, if you want a plug-and-play option or something to test your musical ability, this is the turntable for you.
Unlike the Stylo turntable, the Folio turntable has built-in stereo speakers. This adds a little bulk to the design, but this wasn’t a problem. I appreciated the quality speakers and the ability to use it as a standalone device. Moreover, I was impressed by the USB recording facility and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.
This versatile turntable is suitable for an array of vinyl, and the pitch and balance control are reassuring. Moreover, the moving magnet cartridge helps to reduce damage to your records and unwanted skipping.
What’s in the box of the Folio turntable?
The packaging is large and strong. Moreover, it is recyclable and easy to handle.
The Folio turntable is a desirable piece. The wooden top juxtaposes with the darker base. Furthermore, it has a strong aluminium tonearm.
Play your 45 records with the adaptor.
Plug it in with the power cable.
The rubber mat prevents your records from becoming damaged.
Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
Old-school tech shouldn’t be this exciting. However, the Folio turntable is loaded with exciting gizmos to improve your audio experience. First, Majority Audio has included an adjustable counterweight. Now, this should be boring, but it prevents cartridge and vinyl damage. Consequently, you keep your gear safe and get the best audio experience.
Alongside this, there is AUX, Bluetooth, RCA, and USB output to maximise your listening choices. Whichever mode you select, you’ll enjoy a seamless and user-friendly time. The USB mode allows you to record your vinyl. This was perfect if you are worried about losing them or if you wish to keep them in immaculate condition. Alternatively, you may wish to become a DJ and have your favourite songs without lugging every record around.
Usability.
Every aspect of the Folio turntable is extremely user-friendly. Whether you are planning on using a Bluetooth device or hardwiring it using RCA cables, it couldn’t be easier. Additionally, the USB recording and playback feature was incredibly intuitive. As such, this product is perfect if you are new to vinyl or a bit of an old hand.
Perfecting your settings was a walk in the park. Handy pitch control, RPM, volume, and input switches are located next to the aluminium tone arm. Each dial is nicely labelled, and the movement has a strong tactile nature. Subsequently, you can make minor adjustments with ease.
Audio quality.
This turntable has the AT3600 L cartridge included. This popular choice delivers a pleasant range of tones and excellent pickup. Furthermore, it is reasonably robust for heavy-handed users.
Though audio quality will depend on many factors, I was impressed by the built-in speakers. These little powerhouses deliver a healthy range of tones and a decent bass. Yet, if this isn’t enough, you can use whatever speaker system you have to generate the perfect soundscape.
Build quality.
Majority Audio creates quality products. The materials are second to none, and the result is a magical device that’ll turn heads. The Folio turntable combines a die-cast metal platter with a rubber mat. This creates a stable foundation for your vinyl. On top of this, the eco-plywood construction is fantastic.
This secure base is both hard-wearing and visually appealing. Alongside this, the dark dials and clean aluminium tonearm deliver a sleek and memorable finish. Whether you are using this as a standalone device or with speakers, it’ll add a contemporary edge to any room.
Is the Folio turntable worth it?
Majority Audio has 4 amazing turntables for sale. The Moto is a great entry-level piece. Additionally, the Stylo is compact and ideal for those who prefer minimalist tech. However, the Folio turntable ticks many boxes. It is stylish and easy to use. The audio and build quality are good, and I love the versatility. Accordingly, it’s a fantastic device, and I recommend buying it here!
(More information on Majority Audio can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
Edifier, a leading innovator in premium audio solutions, is proud to announce the launch of its latest product line – the ES Series – a stunning new collection that redefines what it means to blend high-fidelity sound with sophisticated style. The new ES Series includes the ES20, ES60, and ES300 speakers, alongside the sleek and powerful ES850NB over-ear headphones.
A symbol of Edifier’s evolving vision, the “ES” in the series’ name carries layered meaning:
“E” for Elegant – capturing the series’ sleek, modern design language.
“S” for Superb (or Luxurious) – representing the elevated quality, premium materials, and refined finish.
And “ES” as Edifier Sound – reflecting Edifier’s legacy of high-performance audio and immersive listening experiences.
From rich leather-like textures to precision-engineered components, each product in the ES Series is designed to evoke a sense of timeless luxury while delivering the clarity, depth, and detail that audiophiles expect. “ES” also stands for “Edifier Sound”, reinforcing the brand’s long-standing dedication to high-fidelity audio and deeply immersive sound experiences.
Whether it’s the compact brilliance of the ES20, the powerful stage presence of the ES60, the immersive soundscape of the ES300, or the noise-cancelling performance of the ES850NBheadphones, the ES Series marks a new chapter for Edifier – where sound meets style without compromise.
Elegant Design Meets Powerful Performance with the Edifier ES300. Thispremium desktop combo speaker combines handcrafted wooden construction with leather-like accents, a braided grille, and a sleek metallic control panel—blending effortlessly into any decor. It features dual 1.25″ silk dome
tweeters and a 4″ long-throw mid-bass driver, powered by 60W RMS through dual Class-D amplifiers for crisp highs, detailed mids, and punchy lows. Edifier’s MazeTube and TurbMuff technologies enhance bass depth while minimizing noise and resonance.
With high-res audio support up to 24-bit/96kHz, dual-band Wi-Fi, and Apple AirPlay 2, the ES300 enables seamless streaming and multi-room connectivity. USB-A and AUX inputs offer flexible wired options, while an integrated ambient light system with 3 light effects and 2 colours adds a stylish finishing touch.
The Edifier ES60 is a sleek, portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers 34W RMS of powerful, high-quality sound through dual 22mm tweeters, an oval mid-bass driver with neodymium magnets, and a passive radiator for rich audio depth. Featuring Bluetooth 5.4 with stereo pairing and multipoint support, it ensures seamless wireless connectivity. With up to 9 hours of playback, USB-C charging, and a built-in high-sensitivity microphone for crystal-clear calls, the ES60 is designed for all-day use. Its dustproof and waterproof design, dynamic ambient lighting effects, and compatibility with the Edifier ConneX app make it a versatile companion for both indoor and outdoor listening.
The Edifier ES20 is a compact portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers 6W RMS of crisp, full-range sound through a 43mm driver with neodymium magnets and a 55mm passive bass radiator for enhanced low-end performance. With an IP67 dust and water resistance rating, it’s built for both indoor and outdoor use. Enjoy up to 15 hours of continuous playback, Bluetooth 5.4 with stereo pairing and multi-point connection, and clear calls via the built-in high-sensitivity microphone. Ambient lighting effects and Edifier ConneX app support add a personalized, connected experience.
The Edifier ES850NB wireless over-ear headphones combine sleek design with powerful performance, featuring Hi-Res Audio certification, 40mm titanium-coated drivers, and support for LDAC, AAC, and SBC codecs. With upgraded ANC up to -45dB, AI-powered call clarity, and up to 92 hours of battery life, they’re built for immersive, all-day listening. Lightweight and foldable with skin-friendly cushions and a travel case, the ES850NB offers comfort, portability, and smart features like touch-to-chat, multipoint connectivity, and seamless control via the Edifier ConneX app and TempoHub.
Price & Availability:
The ES20 portable speaker is available at £49.99 in Black or White
The ES60 speaker is available at £119.99 in Black or White colourway
The ES300 desktop combo speaker is available at £299.99
A professional keyboard is essential for gamers and office workers. Whether you work from home or you commute to work, you’ll want your device to be stylish, hardwearing, and easy to use. Additionally, a compact and sleek design is always a bonus. Thankfully, the Luma84 keyboard ticks all of these boxes and much, much more.
This tri-mode device is perfect if you need versatility. Moreover, changing between settings is a cinch. One switch powers the device, and handy macroing takes care of the rest. A high polling rate can be enjoyed through a wired or USB dongle connection. An aluminium case delivers a slender, robust, and eye-catching finish. Furthermore, the low-profile but ergonomic design is comfortable to use.
What’s in the box of the Luma84 keyboard?
The packaging is simple but impressive. The box can be recycled, and the contents are well protected.
The Luma84 keyboard is an attractive proposition. I adore the metal casing and the wonderful thocky mechanical sounds.
Power the device with the braided USB-C to USB-A cable.
A wireless dongle is provided.
Pull the keys with the keycap puller.
2x spare switches.
Learn the fundamentals with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
I’m a bit of a Jack of all trades. Accordingly, I need my keyboard to be comfortable and easy to use. Furthermore, I love RGB and the ability to customise inputs. The VIA and QMK functionality let you customise every aspect of this device. I didn’t play too much with the inputs, but the freedom to macro keys, adjust RGB lighting, and test my keystrokes was impressive.
A high polling rate is essential! 1000 Hz can be enjoyed through the wired and USB dongle connection. Alternatively, Bluetooth delivers 125 Hz for a suitable but less responsive option. Though many gamers will avoid the latter option, it was stable, easy to set up, and great whenever I commuted. Moreover, Bluetooth 5.3 has a low power draw, and this enhances the longevity of the 3000 mAh battery.
If you love to customise your peripherals, you are in luck. Epomaker allows you to hot-swap the switches for any compatible 3 or 5-pin alternatives. The provided red Gateron Low-profile switches were responsive, and the actuation distance was great for typing and gaming.
Usability.
The Luma84 keyboard is a plug-and-play device. If you hate the idea of customisation, you can ignore this and get on with your day. However, if you like to adjust RGB, the macros, or check battery life and other key features, you can with ease. FN shortcut keys can be adjusted using VIA programming. If this isn’t your thing, you can use the quick guide to play with the preinstalled shortcuts.
Changing the switches or the keycaps was a cinch. The handy key pulling tool lets you adjust each element with ease. Ideally, you should replace the switches and the keycaps with low-profile products for the best performance.
Build quality.
Epomaker always impresses me. The products are great to look at, easy to use, and wonderful for an array of PC tasks. Luckily, the Luma84 keyboard is no different. The impressive aluminium case is substantial without being too heavy. Additionally, it is a 75% form factor device with 84 keys. This compact design is ideal for commuting or smaller workstations.
Mechanical keyboards are renowned for their loud clacky sounds. This mechanical device has a delightful thock with every keystroke. However, it isn’t obnoxious or antisocial. The sound-dampening layers remove that shrill and uncomfortable audio profile. The result is a gentle but familiar soundscape that can be used in a library, office, or on your commute to work.
Is the Luma84 keyboard worth it?
There are many great keyboards, and picking the right one is a minefield. However, you won’t be disappointed with the Luma84 keyboard. Its compact and low-profile design is great for long gaming or work sessions. Furthermore, the RGB is pleasant without being overpowering. Alongside this, the clacky typing noise is great, and it is remarkably easy to use. Accordingly, this is a great tool for gamers and office workers, and I recommend buying it here!
All aboard the rail of fame, as the public opinion shifts towards the mundane Monster Train.
Developed by KShiny Shoe and published by Big Fan Games, Monster Train 2 is a PVP roguelike card battler, the sequel to Monster Train.
I heard a lot of people harping about their love for the original Monster Train, the weight of the sequel giving them life. I never played the original, so this was going to be my first rodeo. A week later, I can safely say, what on earth were these harpers smoking? Luck-based waste of time nonsense!
The Lucky Strategy
I won’t get fancy. I am going to describe the gameplay of Monster Train 2 as simply as I can. You can be the judge.
The game begins with you getting some cards, which are either fighters or effect cards. These cards are randomised, and as the game continues, you get new cards and lose old ones.
When a round begins, you place soldiers on available spots in a 4-story building(on a train). These soldiers are your defenders who must defend a living lifebar that is at the fourth level.
At the start of each round, enemies appear on the 1st floor.
You can attack them using cards and apply debuffs. Any enemy that survives will move to the next floor in the following round. If they reach the final floor, they will attack your health bar, dealing damage with each attack.
To win, you must defeat every enemy in the rounds.
After each battle, you move your train to shops, upgrades, and eventually to the next battle.
As great as this concept sounds, the entire game falls into the shuffle of the cards. It is all about chance. If you get the right cards at the right time, you win. Otherwise, any real skill or strategy be damned, you lose.
Train goes Choo Choo.
In Monster Train 2, you take on the role of a conductor guiding a train through the depths of hell, carrying with you a precious cargo: a living, sentient flame that must be protected at all costs. The world has been overrun by divine forces aiming to snuff out this final ember of infernal power.
Your mission is to defend the train from waves of invading celestial enemies while collecting and cataloguing every monster you defeat along the way.
Each monster that appears in the game is part of a growing bestiary. As you progress through battles, you encounter new enemies, and once defeated, their data is recorded into a massive living library. This archive serves both as a log of your accomplishments and a comprehensive record of the various fiends and factions that exist within the game’s universe. Over time, you’ll fill this library with detailed entries about each monster’s abilities, traits, and lore.
TrainWreck
In the end, Monster Train 2 is a ride that promises hellfire and havoc but mostly delivers a slot machine in disguise. Beneath the bold aesthetics, catchy animations, and endless streams of demonic jargon lies a game that seems more interested in flipping coins than rewarding planning or skill.
Sure, there are moments when the cards line up, your units hold their ground, and the monster library gets a new dusty entry. Strategy might give you the illusion of control, but don’t be fooled, this train doesn’t run on tactics, it runs on dice rolls.
Maybe that’s enough. Maybe the spectacle, the lore, and the familiar mechanics still hold some spark. But for newcomers like me, Monster Train 2 isn’t a calculated journey through the underworld.
Get off at the next station, if you can. This train doesn’t care who’s driving.
Undivine is a dark endeavour that will appeal to a sadomasochistic audience. Its seamlessly never-ending labyrinthine world is eerie, uncomfortable, and a joy to explore. Moreover, there are RPG and souls-like elements to push you all the way.
Brainium Games developed and published this sinister Metroidvania. It is a single-player experience that twists your mind and reality. Furthermore, it has fast-flowing combat, a minor progression system, and plenty of relics and treasure to find. In an atypical genre style, you must find new powers to open otherwise locked gateways. Accordingly, there is plenty of back and forth as you progress.
Undivine has a secretive and alluring plot.
If you want a dark, creepy, and weird plot, you’ve come to the right place. Undivine has a wonderfully secretive and alluring story. Additionally, its approach works perfectly with each key genre mechanic. Consequently, if this is your thing, you will adore this latest addition.
You control a hero known as the traveller. This unknown warrior has a huge task on his hands. A giant chasm has opened in a desolate village. Other wannabe heroes have entered and never returned. Subsequently, this is a challenge you cannot refuse. As you enter the hole, things are not as they seem. Monsters, traps, puzzles, and a host of bosses await. Has the hero bitten off more than they can chew?
Typical Metroidvania.
Undivine is as typical a Metroidvania as you’ll find. However, its opening gambit is easier than I expected. Exploring the first area flows at an unbelievable pace. Moreover, unlocking the first magical ability and tackling the opening boss was a walk in the park. Thankfully, things quickly ramp up as the world expands and puzzles, monsters, and bosses become increasingly tougher.
The hero begins as a relatively weak individual. Yet, they soon master new talents and abilities. The talents improve your chances of survival. Whether it is increased mana or health, it all helps. The new abilities are where this shines! Wall climbing, power ground smashes, fire, teleportation, and much more await. Each of these powers unlocks rooms and unseen paths. The tightly knitted exploration thrives as a consequence.
Undivine looks grim.
Describing a game as grim may not be the most complementary statement. However, Undivine is beautifully grim. Its pixelated aesthetic and dark colour palette create a despicable world to explore. Furthermore, the bosses and monsters are great to look at.
The audio is just as good. Each area has its unique vibe, and the music complements it wonderfully. Alongside this, you’ll enjoy some outlandish sound effects. Your sword slices through the air, and your magic pings with a hellish zip. In short, Undivine is aesthetically pleasing.
Excellent controls.
Precision platforming combined with Metroidvania madness is a recipe for rage-quitting. Luckily, the excellent control setup kept me in check. As you progress, you must master your sword, magic, and abilities. Luckily, the responsive inputs ensure that this isn’t a tough learning curve.
I adore it when a developer creates different playstyles. Undivine lets you combine a range of talents, armour, swords, and magic. The result is a variety of approaches that’ll appeal to a large audience. Furthermore, finding every secret and unlocking the full map is no mean feat. Subsequently, this will keep you busy for hours.
Undivine is a great indie game.
This may not be my favourite genre, but I love Undivine regardless. The setting is horrible but captivating. Moreover, the gameplay is fascinating, and I appreciate the different playstyles and varied bosses. Accordingly, I think it’s a great indie game and I recommend buying it here! Can you better the failed warriors? Explore the labyrinth, master your skills, and return to the surface.
Utopia Must Fall does one of my favourite things when it comes to futuristic settings. It takes the names of actual cities, then bolts on words like ‘neo’ or ‘hyper’ on the front of them. I love it. I wonder what prompts the city to make the change. Is it when you’ve put up enough glowing neon lights and giant TV screens? We can’t be that far away from ‘Neo New York’ then. Though personally, I’m more into ‘hyper’. ‘UltraHyperMega London’ is surely what we should be aiming for.
Anyhow, despite ostensibly being set in the future, Utopia Must Fall‘s gameplay is a definite shot into the past. It’s very deliberately modelled after arcade games. That sort of lays out what to expect. Very simple gameplay, bright colourful graphics, some upbeat music and a big, flashing high score counter at the top of the screen. Arcade games have their good and bad sides, though. Utopia Must Fall is extremely accessible and has a good, entertaining skeleton – but it’s lacking in staying power right how.
Neo London Has Fallen
The specific arcade games that Utopia Must Fall is calling back to are Missile Command and Asteroids, with a health dose of Space Invaders in there. You start a run by getting handed a city, which could be, say, HyperParis. It’s protected by a shield, and a giant cannon that follows your mouse cursor. You need to defend it from encroaching waves of asteroids and aliens, and all their assorted missiles. After each wave, you pick an upgrade from an extensive tree. That might be increasing your fire rate or shield strength, or spawning in a drone for help.
It’s an intensely bright and colourful experience. As you progress through the days, your screen will get filled with brightly coloured ships and rockets, and flashing explosions. If it gets too much, you can release a nuke to wipe out a section of the screen. You keep going until the enemy manages to punch through your shield and reduce your population to zero. The core loop is quite frantic, and fun as a result. My highest result came around day 27, and I was barely holding back the constant barrage of missiles. It’s bright, flashing insanity.
Midnight in HyperParis
That said, while I found the core gameplay of Utopia Must Fall quite fun, it didn’t really get its hooks into me. I had to vivisect that feeling for a while before getting to the bottom of it, because Utopia Must Fall has a lot going for it. There’s a staggering amount of enemy variety and a decent amount of upgrades. I think the problem lies on two fronts. Firstly, there’s just not much variety in the actual enemy designs. Coloured triangles don’t really look that different from each other. So, while each run is technically different, it all starts feeling the same.
The second point is related to the first, there just isn’t enough build variety yet to keep the runs interesting. Most of my upgrades follow the same lines. Invest in getting triple shot, gets some drones done, beef up the shields and increase nuke production. Then keep pressing on until the enemy missiles get too much. There need to be some truly exciting upgrades. In fact, the ‘refresh’ upgrades button is given a silly name each time. One of them is putting wheels on the city; very funny. But, honestly, why not? Moving the city would add a complete new dimension. Maybe we could split the city, giving us two targets but essentially, two lives? These are the things that keep me coming back.
Utopia Must Fall – A Good Skeleton
Maybe there are exciting upgrades way further down the tree, but I’m too incompetent to get there. As a result, I’m left with the sole draw: the high score. I’ve never really been one for chasing scores. In fact, I tend to set one that I’m vaguely happy with and then never think about it again. And that’s sad, because I’d like to think about Utopia Must Fall again. It has a lovely, fun core. It just needs to build on it. Perhaps literally, in a way. Maybe the image of our city could change the more upgrades we have?
That’s sort of what I need. The feeling that something is changing and improving as we go, beyond the hidden stats attached to the upgrades. The Steam description points towards some meta-progression in the future, which may help. As it is, I think it just needs more stuff in general. No bad place for an early access game to be in. If you want a fun little arcade game to soak up a few hours, check out Utopia Must Fall now. But if you’re patient, I’ve a feeling it might become much more than that in the future.
Alone and weak, you wake up in a prison with hardly a thing to your inventory. Anybody who has RPG experience knows this situation is nothing to fear; it’s not long before a guard is asking you for a backstory, portioning skill points, and constructing a character beyond a blank slate. What is even more apparent is that building such a character would serve no use between metal bars, so it’s hardly surprising when an answer to this predicament arrives in the form of a timely savior. As this mystery man helps you escape, your character, who has only just found a story, is quickly caught up in a spectacle more significant than any prison cell setting.
Seem familiar? In many ways, Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon, developed by Questline and published by Awaken Realms, is counting on that recognition. Much like the explosive appearance of the soulslike genre following From Software’s formula in recent years, Tainted Grail has no qualms existing in the shadow of its incredibly popular older sibling, The Elder Scrolls. By forgoing the evasive, self-conscious state of manipulation seen in many cases of mimicry, the title embraces the empty space of a series that hasn’t seen a new addition in over thirteen years. With so many fans left yearning, Tainted Grail’s predictability is far from a bad thing. Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon is their answer, a scrollslike, and a solid one at that.
While the emergence of a scrollslike genre may seem like a no-brainer given the stagnant state of its source series, the surprise release of this year’s The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remaster shifted the simplicity of Tainted Grail’s situation. With Oblivion fresh in gamers’ minds following a remarkable makeover, is the product of a smaller, unproven team capable of going toe-to-toe with its renovated relative? Thanks to self-aware design choices and an unexpected ambition in storytelling and style, Tainted Grail measures up to the competition. When the game isn’t crashing, that is.
Following in the Footsteps of a Giant
Tainted Grail’s world and narrative surprised me thanks to its efforts toward exploring Arthurian legend in a bold, stylized way. From the start, the influence of dark fantasy and H.R. Giger depict the title as a distinct retelling of a period otherwise rooted in a singular visual perspective. It wasn’t just artistic deviations that challenged and recontextualized my preconceived notions, however. The narrative’s creative liberties with Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table, and more construct a dense, morally complex state of affairs where a choice-based RPG can thrive. Because Tainted Grail’s lore draws on a board game of the same name, it contains confident, thought-out world-building that respected my time, a trait out of reach for many of the overbearing, context-heavy genre.
The best stories of open-world role-playing tend to stem from the person holding the controller stumbling across one-of-a-kind, unexpected, and unscripted moments. While this frequently held true within my playthrough of Tainted Grail, Questline’s ability to write great characters and dialogue challenged this notion. My favorite anecdotes and characters arrived with a noticeable intention to test the borders of taboo subject matter. Topics such as religion, gender, sexual temptations, and suicide weren’t just briefly mentioned but factored into conversation choices in noteworthy ways. That’s not to say the writing is always profound and pensive. Tainted Grail also surprised me with its strength in humor, surfacing just enough to strike a comfortable balance with the title’s more hefty moments.
Each character, faction, and force within the realm of Avalon, split across three regions, contain their own motivations, agendas, and personalities. The story moves forward with enough instantaneous motivation to make each quest rational, and the ability to skip dialogue never seemed attractive to me outside of occasionally rough voice acting. Thankfully, the narrative’s leading stars aren’t among those affected, and I genuinely wanted to hear what they had to say, even if straying off the beaten path would threaten my retention of story beats carried from conversation to conversation. While it is far from a genre staple, I consistently longed for a feature similar to Final Fantasy XVI’s Active Time Lore to exist, allowing me to easily recount the who, what, where, and why of Avalon’s dense worldbuilding.
Doing the Unstuck
Tainted Grail’s combat is impressive until it stumbles over the unequal attention given to its systems. The swing of a blunt weapon lands with a satisfying, bone-rattling impact. Summoning an explosive ball of poisonous magic sizzles and spews, polluting those unfortunate enough to exist where it lands. Dashing out of an enemy’s heavy-sword swing provides the rewarding feeling of calculated reaction time. The attention given to designing these individual mechanics is a step above the competition, which only makes it more frustrating when they matter so little in the grand scheme of how battles play out. Enemies are spongey and inconsistent in behavior, soaking up any reason to approach combat tactically. These exchanges instead force the player to spam weapon swings and spells, wait for their stamina and mana meters to recharge, and then spam some more. This unwieldy approach reduces the gratification inherent in each individual combat maneuver, exhibiting conflict as an unflattering representation of what could have been.
It’s easy to be angered by the missed potential of Tainted Grail’s fighting, but at least the ambition shines through on a mechanical level. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for the host of other problems Tainted Grail is stained by. For a game that so keenly understands what makes open-world RPGs work, oftentimes responding to and capitalizing on the genre’s elements, it dramatically misses this mark when it comes to having any response to technical issues. Across my twenty-five-hour playthrough, I encountered twelve crashes, a wildly inconsistent frame rate, and relied on the menu’s unstuck button more than one should.
Technical issues aside, Tainted Grail also contains a plethora of design issues I questioned throughout my time spent in Avalon. The lack of a mini-map, combined with the absence of any sort of map while within indoor spaces, hindered my progress more often than it encouraged me to explore. The campfire system, where you can access many resources necessary to your adventure, is only deployable under certain conditions, leading many dungeon expeditions to be short-lived just so I could leave, cook a few meals for health regeneration, and then return to my objective. The biggest of Tainted Grail’s issues, however, is in its unreasonable enemy scaling. Failing to meet the combat ability necessary for progression led to side quests acting as a mandatory means to gain experience. While I enjoyed my time spent with these secondary stories, it felt somewhat deceiving to angle optional experiences in such a way.
The Symptoms of Scale
While it may seem as though technical and design snags have trampled my former compliments towards Tainted Grail, that is far from the case. Even if the experience doesn’t measure up to its idolized peers in terms of pure content, presentation, or popularity, the game’s efforts in occupying a similar philosophy to all-time greats is an aspiration often avoided by smaller studios. Not only this, but the unique storytelling, tone, and writing of Tainted Grail invested me in ways that many RPG staples never have. Even if bugs bound me to a choppy, imperfect experience, I more often than not found myself lost in the world of Avalon and what it had to offer me. Above all else, rolling the credits left me excited to see what is next for Questline.
The Stylo Turntable from Majority Audio is a superb nod to retro tech. Though it appears old-school, looks are deceiving! This superb and stylish audio device is packed full of modern technology. Furthermore, the delicious crackle of vinyl and that raw but beautiful soundscape will make your skin tingle. In short, if you want a pure music experience, a turntable and your favourite vinyl are the way to go.
I looked at the Moto turntable in 2024, and I was thoroughly impressed. Accordingly, when Majority Audio offered me their latest and greatest premium device, I couldn’t turn it down. Every aspect of this product made me smile. The sleek wooden base blends retro imagery with contemporary lines. Additionally, the aluminium platter offers an upmarket edge. On top of this, the control arm is carbon, and the AT3600L cartridge delivers warm and clean audio.
What’s in the box of the Stylo turntable?
The packaging is large and filled with interesting information. Majority Audio care for the environment, and every element can be recycled.
The Stylo Turntable combines an array of materials for a premium finish. Furthermore, it has Bluetooth output, RCA, and Phono-Pre amp functionality.
The plastic lid can be detached for cleaning or storage.
A host of wires is provided for power and audio connection.
Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
This impressive turntable does not have speakers included. Unlike Majority Audio’s other products, the Stylo Turntable avoids this approach. Though this may seem an odd choice, I like the clean finish, and serious users will ignore the built-in speakers anyway. Instead, you can utilise the Bluetooth 5.3 out connectivity or the supplied RCA cables. I went with Bluetooth as I like the clean look, and it was surprisingly easy to set up.
The turntable automatically identifies which connection method you are using, and a simple button turns the Bluetooth function off. As such, you never worry about connectivity. The Phono preamp ensures your audio experience is nearly perfect. Though purists will prefer an external option, I liked this user-friendly design. What’s more, it was one less thing to think about as I sat back and enjoyed my favourite records.
Other key features to note are the counterweight and anti-skating adjustment tools. I didn’t have to play with either of these elements, but it was nice to have in case I needed to adjust the stylus or replace the needle. Making alterations to either was simple, and the user manual explains the process thoroughly. Furthermore, there is a pitch control if you wish to alter the audio speed. Talking of speeds, this is suitable for 45 and 33 RPM. Moreover, it supports between 7-12″ records.
Audio quality.
Audio quality isn’t going to be the easiest thing to discuss. After all, the AT3600L cartridge is only going to be as good as the speakers you use. During testing, I used an array of Bluetooth and wired speakers. Most are considered middle to high end, and the results were impressive as a consequence. The normal hiss, clack, and clicking of vinyl formed the backbone of every track. Additionally, the Phono preamp did its job perfectly.
The AT3600L cartridge delivers a pleasant and rounded tonal range. Moreover, the bass isn’t overpowering, and the general sound quality is impressive. Though it has some serious competitors, I believe that Majority Audio has made the right decision. The result is a warm and charming experience that offers a modern but nostalgia-fuelled soundscape.
Build quality.
I was blown away by the build quality. Everything about this stunning turntable is a head-turner. The solid wooden base is refined and clean. Furthermore, the aluminium platter is strong and visually pleasing. It combines perfectly with the soft felt pad, and the sublime carbon tonal arm is the cherry on top of the cake. Alongside this, the dials are well labelled and there is a nice tactile nature to each one.
Setting up the device is a breeze, and it took me under 5 minutes to unbox it and get the music playing. If you decide to take your time, you will be up and running in under 10 minutes. Each of the core components was robust. However, I wouldn’t want to be too rough with any of the moving parts. As such, this is a device that is suitable for older teenagers and above.
Is the Stylo Turntable worth it?
Streaming, MP3 players, iPads, and every other modern tool have their uses. However, there is no way to replicate that authentic retro feel of a turntable. The movement, aesthetic, and sound bring you out in goosebumps. Additionally, owning your favourite song on vinyl is something special. As such, the Stylo Turntable is the perfect product to bring energy and magic back into your life.
It is stylish, easy to use, and a pleasure to look at. Furthermore, the ability to combine dated and modern tech was a game-changer. As such, I believe this is a magical product, and I highly recommend purchasing it here!
(More information on Majority Audio can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
Here we take a closer look at A Remarkable Man – Dr. Shuntaro Hida from Hiroshima to Fukushima.
A poignant, eye-opening portrait of a witness to the atomic bomb who dedicated his life to treating and advocating for radiation survivors.
As a young doctor, Shuntaro Hida (1917–2017) played an essential role in the aftermath of the Hiroshima bombing, which he witnessed firsthand only six kilometers from ground zero. Tending to the overwhelming number of victims, he would spend more than sixty years developing an unparalleled understanding of the harmful effects of radiation and warning against the reckless use of nuclear power.
Through intimate, thoughtful interviews and compelling reportage, Marc Petitjean has created a worthy tribute to this determined, inspiring man who stood up to complicit governments and businesses. It testifies to the power of individuals to effect change as well as the importance of collective action, as demonstrated by organizations such as Nihon Hidankyo, a survivors’ group that would receive the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize.
An Excerpt from the book
A Meeting
The first time I met Dr. Shuntaro Hida was in April 2005 in a Shinto cemetery, lost in the countryside some two hundred kilometers south of Tokyo. He was eighty-eight years old at the time. A very dignified figure in a suit and tie, he’d come to pay his respects to his family tomb with his wife. A letter that I’d sent him a few months earlier had been enough to persuade him to contribute to the film project Atomic Wounds, which I wanted to make about the battles he’d fought. This survivor of the Hiroshima bomb, who’d been a few kilometers from the impact site at the time of the explosion, was one of the first doctors to record the sheer horror of the devastation. He was among the pioneers to suffer and catalog the appalling effects of radiation, which—in the absence of any rational explanation—was called the “Atomic Plague.” Thereafter, he spent his life treating victims of radiation; he struck me as the embodiment of an indisputable hero, someone who’d seen pure evil and stood up to it for long enough to remember what it looked like and to describe it. I hoped that meeting him would give me access to a spiritual dimension that I felt must go hand in hand with the wisdom and humanity of such a man. But now that I was with him in that intimate moment when he was praying by his ancestors’ vault, I felt out of place. He himself seemed amazed that I’d turned up in this far-flung spot with an interpreter and a camera. Even so, he came over to us with a slight smile, and said, “Rumor had it that the city of Hiroshima was completely destroyed and there were no survivors. My father went there four or five days after to find out what had happened to me, but he had no idea where I might be. He left thinking I was dead and arranged a funeral here in this village. There was no body. Imagine his emotion when I came home.” These few words about death, disappearance, and separation paradoxically established a close and lasting tie between us. A trip to Hiroshima together, several days spent in the hospital near Tokyo where he worked, and hours of interviews at his home over the next few years allowed us to build a respectful relationship. The day before I traveled home from that first visit, he concluded our interviews by saying “Because of nuclear technology, the era that lies ahead will be far more frightening and harder to live through, but I will keep fighting.” I wasn’t sure what he was envisioning, but given his experience I put my faith in this prophetic pronouncement by featuring it at the end of Blessures atomique, which I completed in 2006. In other words, five years before Fukushima.
On March 12, 2011, following a magnitude 9.1 earthquake and a tsunami that had devastated the northeast of Japan the day before, reactor number 1 at the Fukushima nuclear plant blew up, followed two days later by reactor number 3. This plunged Japan and the rest of the world into a state of high anxiety: Fukushima was now out of control. At the time of the explosion at the nuclear power plant, I was with friends in Kyoto, and we immediately called Dr. Hida. He wasn’t surprised by the incident, merely disgusted by human stupidity, which he thought had instigated the catastrophe in a tragic, stuttering repetition of history. “You’ll see,” he said, “it’ll be the same as Hiroshima and Chernobyl, we’ll never know the true extent of the damage.” I had come to view the Japanese as a conscientious people with a strong sense of duty, and therefore naively hoped the authorities would implement effective measures to protect and help the victims. But this didn’t really happen: many people were left to cope on their own and were unable to deal with the medical, economic, and human repercussions of the disaster. Following numerous demonstrations that rallied as many as sixty thousand people in Tokyo (unprecedented events in Japan, which doesn’t have the same tradition as many Western countries for public expressions of opinion), the government did commit to assessing the safety of the country’s fifty-four other reactors. This drew attention to the fact that some were in a state of disrepair and were in locations with a high risk of seismic activity. The state had initially stopped all reactors, but then started some up again, despite opposition from the public: the government was determined to relaunch the nuclear network. Immediately after the disaster, civil society mobilized its response, and mothers in the Fukushima region openly expressed their fears and anger. Survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombs, known as hibakusha, were valued for their firsthand experience, and were equipped to listen to these new victims, to understand them and to help them. Which is why Dr. Hida, then aged ninety-four, was in great demand to advise victims of contamination, give talks, explain the risks to the media, and secure scientific data from the authorities. I was glad to see that his reputation crossed frontiers: in January 2012, the Paris-based Courrier international newspaper published a three-page article about him. With a view to continuing the work I’d started in 2005, I visited him in Tokyo, hoping that his experience of Hiroshima might help us understand how the Fukushima accident was really being handled. I kept thinking about what he’d said to me on the phone a year earlier: “You’ll see, it’ll be the same as Hiroshima and Chernobyl…”
A Remarkable Man – Dr. Shuntaro Hida from Hiroshima to Fukushima will be published on 24th June 2025 from Otherpress and will be available in either hardback ($25) or ebook ($14.99).
Spirit Valor is another pixelated RPG that uses core mechanics from Alter Age. However, unlike its recently released peer, Spirit Valor doesn’t use form shifting as its Ace card. Instead, it focuses on spirits, magic, and other minor tricks to make it stand out from the crowd. This unusual approach works well as it beautifully intertwines the story, key characters, and combat mechanics.
This old-school RPG was developed by Exe Create and published by KEMCO. It is a single-player turn-based experience. Moreover, there are some nice traversal elements as you explore a large semi-open world. This freedom was welcome as the story and the never-ending fights were occasionally overwhelming.
An outlandish story and Spirit Valor go hand-in-hand.
A classic RPG has to have an outlandish and borderline insane plot. If there are colourful characters and a sense of tension, then that makes it even better. Thankfully, Spirit Valor uses each of these storytelling ingredients.
You play the role of a spirit who is bonded to Richard the Warrior. A fight with the dark overlord has failed, and you need the warrior to defeat the hulking monster and restore balance. If you fail, humanity and the spirit world will go into disarray. Accordingly, your mission is life and death.
It’s all about the magic.
Though the story is great and the 4 main characters bounce off one another, it is the magic elements that take centre stage. The protagonist has free rein to cast spells; after all, he has a spirit as a friend. The other 3 must learn magic or capture magical essence from the foes they face. This mechanic makes an interesting progression idea that adds tactical layers.
Alongside this, there is the basic equipment, levelling up, and magical items to contend with. These ideas are not as interesting, deep, or captivating as the combat-infused magical moments. However, they are easy to understand and have a nice, familiar edge.
Spirit Valor is gloriously old-school.
If you want a polished, modern game that uses the power of next-gen machines, Spirit Valor will disappoint. Yet, if you enjoy a walk down memory lane, you’ll smile from ear to ear. The vivid colours, simple settings, rudimentary animation, and crisp text are great to witness. Furthermore, each dungeon is unique, and this prevents repetition from kicking in.
The audio is a blend of upbeat music and loud noises. The soundtrack blends drama and melancholy moments to great effect. Furthermore, each battle is a cacophony of melee weapons and fantasy magic.
Plenty to learn.
Unlike Alter Age and other KEMCO titles, Spirit Valor has a harsher learning curve. This should have been a headache, but it wasn’t. As new elements are introduced, a handy tutorial talks you through each key idea. This was perfect as it prevents you from becoming frustrated.
If you wish to test your RPG abilities, there are plenty of difficulty settings to play with. The hardest mode is a ball breaker and will push genre veterans to their limit. However, the easy and normal setting was a walk in the park. Subsequently, there is some replay value and longevity if you wish to test your skills.
Spirit Valor is a great RPG.
I wish I had picked this up for my Steam Deck. The action would work well on a handheld device as it is more casual than other RPGs. Regardless, it is great when tackling it on Xbox. The story is captivating, and I love the characters and their witty ways. Furthermore, the quests are easy to follow, and the world is a joy to explore. Accordingly, I love it and recommend buying it here! Can you restore balance and save the day? Master your spells, explore a colourful world, and defeat the dark overlord.
If you love cycling, walking, or running, you’re likely familiar with bone-conducting technology. Safety is paramount, and the use of noise-cancelling devices is generally frowned upon. Thankfully, Shokz has been an innovator in this field for years. I have covered many of their products, and today I’m looking at the OpenFit 2 earphones. I covered the previous iteration in 2023, and I loved it. Consequently, I had high hopes when the postman delivered these.
Shokz have released 2 unique versions of this new product. There are the OpenFit 2 earphones and OpenFit 2+ earphones. The latter is slightly more expensive, but it offers some quality-of-life technology that will impress hardcore athletes. The full information and tech breakdown can be found on theSkokz page.
These earphones focus on comfort, battery life, and incredible audio performance. Furthermore, your safety is paramount. Accordingly, though other companies claim to deliver exceptional bone or air-conducting functionality and next-level safety measures, you must turn to the market leaders for the best and safest sports products.
What’s in the box of the OpenFit 2 earphones?
The packaging is simple and refined. A basic cardboard sleeve highlights key selling points.
The OpenFit 2 earphones are lightweight and easy to maintain. The earhooks have been redesigned to improve comfort for longer exercise sessions. Moreover, they are IP55 rated for increased protection.
A small charging cable is provided.
Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
A premium device must deliver exceptional next-gen tech. Thankfully, the OpenFit 2 earphones do that with ease. Incredible battery life, phenomenal audio, and pinpoint audio accuracy are just some of the features you can expect. Bluetooth 5.4 offers a stable and strong connection with a low power draw. This simple-to-navigate feature can be accessed from any compatible device. Moreover, you’ll enjoy a healthy connection range that penetrates internal walls and other structures.
Directpitch 2.0 is a vast improvement over its predecessor. This advanced sound frequency allocation technology blends bass, tonal range, and treble for an immense audio experience. Furthermore, it guarantees transmission accuracy without jeopardising privacy. This is amazing for the user and anyone within their kinesphere.
On top of this, you enjoy up to 11 hours of playtime from 1 charge. Additionally, the convenient charging case delivers a further 45+ hours of seamlessly never-ending power. If you do run out of juice, a 10-minute quick charge gets you up and running with 2 hours of battery power.
Audio quality.
Sports earphones are judged by their audio quality. Thankfully, the OpenFit 2 earphones excel in this department. The Directpitch 2.0 feature helps the user to enjoy their favourite songs. Whether you are walking, cycling, or running, this device does not let you down. Word of warning, high winds, cycling down hills, and loud vehicles impact audio clarity. This is to be expected as open-air technology creates a sense of freedom and situational awareness.
Though you may have to crank up the volume during excessive external moments, the audio does not crack! The accurate and impressive blend of tones, bass, and treble will please audiophiles. I had no problem with identifying each element of the tonal range. Furthermore, the position and shape of the earphones maximise your audio experience.
If you love to chat hands-free, the OpenFit 2 earphones have this covered. 4 AI-powered noise-cancelling microphones ensure every phone call goes off without a hitch. Unwanted ambient sounds are removed, and each conversation is smooth and clean. Moreover, I experienced no static or unwanted echoing. Consequently, these earphones are perfect if you need to take phone calls on the move.
Usability.
The OpenFit earphones have never let me down. However, the reliance on touch-only controls may annoy some users. Shokz have overcome this issue with a combination of tactile buttons and a touchscreen. This approach is ideal for changing settings, accepting phone calls, and fast-forwarding your music.
The new hook design guarantees comfort and speaker positioning. No matter how hard I worked these earphones, they never slipped, moved, or faltered. The gentle arch design feels great and can be worn with glasses. The result is a reassuring and reliable audio position during the most strenuous workouts.
Build quality.
Shokz isn’t considered a market leader for no reason. They use premium materials in every product they produce. Accordingly, users can expect a top-notch product whether they invest in the OpenFit 2 earphones or the 2+ model. The charging case doubles up as the perfect transportation tool. Keep your earphones safe and charged when they are not in use. Furthermore, they are the perfect size to slide into your pocket or backpack.
Keen athletes will exercise no matter the weather. Thankfully, the IP55 rating counters every poor weather front. Moreover, this rating guarantees protection from sweat and dust. Subsequently, you can abuse these earbuds a little without concern.
Are the OpenFit 2 earphones worth it?
If you are a keen athlete and you are a music lover, you shouldn’t look any further! Shokz offers some of the best tech in the industry, and their customer service and 2-year warranty will not disappoint. If you want the crème de la crème, I’d say invest a little more and push for the 2+ version. However, if you want to save some cash, you will not be upset with this product.
The OpenFit 2 earphones are incredible. The audio quality is second to none, and I adore the build quality. Furthermore, the ability to stay situationally aware while exercising is a must while training. Accordingly, I think they are fantastic and I recommend buying them here!
Nex Playground is a console I had the pleasure of reviewing recently. This special box of joy is the perfect gadget for gaming families. Moreover, if you love to get up and move while enjoying a video game, it has you covered. How to Train Your Dragon: Riders of the Skies is the latest addition to the Nex Play Pass. Accordingly, if you’ve signed up for the 3-month or 12-month option, you can jump straight in.
This family-friendly fantasy adventure was developed and published by Nex. It is a single-player or 2-player cooperative title that demands you get off your bum and move. Each player must select their favourite dragon as they soar through the air, tackling an array of enemies. Dodging, weaving, fighting, and more can be enjoyed in this safe and child-focused game.
How to Train Your Dragon: Riders of the Skies tells a fun tale.
If you follow the franchise, you know that DreamWorks and Universal Pictures rarely hold back. Thankfully, this approach has been taken with this fun adventure title. You control a dragon handler who must protect the Isle of Berk from its foes. Once you jump on your ride, you must explore 6 unique locations. This on a rail exploration game pushes you through winding valleys, mountainous arenas, and lush waterfront locations.
The railed design prevents younger gamers from becoming lost. Though this could feel restrictive, the immersive control system and vibrant setting keep you alert. Additionally, you are free to attack whichever foe you like. This sense of freedom overrides the linear progression and keeps things moving nicely.
How to Train Your Dragon: Riders of the Skies is clean but dated.
Though How to Train Your Dragon: Riders of the Skies has a dated appeal, it is attractive regardless. Furthermore, the animation of each dragon was smooth and great to look at. It didn’t matter if you were shooting fireballs, weaving through rocks, or barrel rolling; it all looked great. Alongside this, I like the varied backdrops and the unique beasts on offer.
The audio delivers an upbeat and exciting atmosphere. Moreover, the sound effects are simple but effective. There are pleasant ambient noises to generate energy and bring the world to life. Though it rarely delivers new ideas, the audio and sound effects were impressive for a child-friendly experience.
Excellent controls.
Nex Playground’s motion sensor camera is beyond impressive. Regardless of whether you play this alone or with others, it never gets confused. It’ll identify every moving body part and react with accurate on-screen movement. Raising your hands, leaning your body, and ducking ensure your rider and dragon move in perfect harmony.
Though How to Train Your Dragon: Riders of the Skies is short, there are challenges to complete to pad things out. Furthermore, the ability to watch your kids play or join them on this adventure increases replay value and longevity.
How to Train Your Dragon: Riders of the Skies is perfect for families.
Safe and fun family-friendly games are tough to come by. Thankfully, this one is brilliant for gamers of all ages. The action is the right side of challenging, and the levels are enjoyable. Furthermore, who doesn’t like to exercise while they play video games? If this has piqued your interest, I recommend clicking here for more information.
Star Wars: Bounty Hunter is a cult classic from the PlayStation 2 era that finally made its return in a cleaned-up form on modern consoles. It puts players in the boots of Jango Fett, the galaxy’s most fearsome bounty hunter (and the genetic blueprint for the Clone Army), in a gritty, cinematic prequel-era adventure. On PS5, the game benefits from some performance polish, but the core experience remains largely intact, blemishes and all.
What’s new?
The PS5 version is an upscaled port of the PS4/PS5 remaster, which means you’re getting sharper visuals, crisper UI, and a smoother frame rate (now locked at 60fps). Textures and geometry haven’t been modernised, so it’s very clearly a 2002 game under the hood. Lighting is a bit improved, and cutscenes look a little better, but don’t expect anything approaching a full remake.
Still, the stylised environments, grimy underworlds, industrial facilities, and populated commercial districts hold nostalgic charm. Along with the improved aiming and control of Jango, it makes for a great time to jump into this all-time classic.
The voice acting (featuring Temuera Morrison) is a major plus, lending authenticity and continuity to the game’s story. The sound design, laser fire, jetpack bursts, and alien languages are pure Star Wars, and the music blends original themes with new compositions effectively. This game feels like Star Wars, through and through. All with the enhancements received by the graphics.
Never played Bounty Hunter? Now’s a good time
At its core, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter is a third-person action-adventure game built around shooting, light exploration, and bounty collection. The player is armed with a deadly array of Mandalorian weaponry, starting with dual WESTAR blaster pistols, and unlocking more weapons/tools as the game progresses. Players will also be introduced to a jetpack very early on, which allows for brief bursts of flight. A key part of both platforming and combat. Though its fuel is limited and regenerates slowly, it adds a verticality that was uncommon for its era.
One of the game’s most unique systems is the bounty scanner, a first-person view mode where you can scan NPCs, identify bounties, and choose to capture them dead or alive. There are over 50 optional bounties scattered across the levels, and finding them adds a layer of side content that rewards careful exploration and attention to detail. Capturing bounties alive earns you more credits. However, it is riskier, as it often requires disarming the bounty in the middle of a firefight, with the potential for them to get caught in crossfire.
Level design is mostly linear, but each mission features sprawling, multi-tiered environments like Coruscant slums, prison ships, and spice mines. Objectives vary from assassinations and chases to arena-style boss fights and multi-part infiltration missions. However, checkpointing is inconsistent, and some longer missions can be punishing if you die near the end.
My conclusion
Star Wars: Bounty Hunter on PS4/PS5 is a loving time capsule. It’s not a modern game in structure or control feel, but for fans of Star Wars lore, especially the prequel trilogy and The Mandalorian-style bounty hunting fantasy, it offers a compelling ride. The upgraded performance makes it the best way to experience the game today, and the budget price makes it a fair pick-up for curious newcomers and nostalgic fans alike. manoeuvre.
