Review: South of Midnight

Cody May
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Review: South of Midnight

In 2018, Xbox acquired developer Complusion Games, makers of Contrast and We Happy Few. Now, seven years later, their first game (South of Midnight) released as part of Xbox Games Studio is here.

South of Midnight weaves beauty and chaos together to create an unforgettable journey.


Critters and Weavers

South of Midnight’s world is both beautiful and haunting. It pulls from the Deep South mythos, using the games setting to inspire its world and characters. From giant talking catfish to a big ole gator. You will meet all manner of friend and foe here and you’ll remember each and every one of them.

This world isn’t just there as a backdrop. Compulsion didn’t pick the south because they thought it would make for a pretty setting. They clearly were inspired and seen the potential of a part of the world we don’t see too often in gaming. You feel it with every inch you explore.

In terms of story, Compulsion nails the narrative in this game. Characters are the heart and soul of South of Midnight and the writing is so good that even side characters stories pack a punch. From notes you find in the world, to character sub-plots, and even cows trapped on top of barns floating in flood waters. The world, although mystical, feels real, adding weight and depth to everyone and thing you meet.

You play as Hazel, a young woman determined to do anything to save her Mom. Throughout her journey she uncovers more about herself, her families history, and what it means to be a weaver.

Hazel is a great main character, elevated by a strong performance from her voice actress Adriyan Rae. The catfish, voiced by Walt Roberts was another standout for me as well as Laurent voiced by Joel Steingold. All of the performances in this game are amazing, enough good things can’t be said about the voice acting.

Haint No Grave

It’s not all about story in South of Midnight. Gameplay is a big part of the experience here. It is by no means super complex but I found myself enjoying the combat more than I thought I would.

It’s a really fun system, one that can and should be expanded upon in a sequel. It has all of the basics of a modern combat system you’d expect. Attack with the X button, press B to dodge, and use those abilities as you battle the enemies known as “Haints”.

Combat never happens at random, you always know you’re about to enter battle when you see an arena of blight (stigma) ahead of you. You enter, kill the bad guys, and purge the blight. After the blight is gone, flowers bloom around, as if the earth itself is thanking you for cleansing the corruption.


I understand why they did this, however, I would much prefer enemies scattered throughout. It would make encounters more lively, fighting in open space as opposed to a condensed arena.


This also presents problems for the game. The most glaring is repetitiveness. Not only with combat but with the structure itself. The game shows you many of its ideas in the beginning chapters, and continues using them without much changing the rest of the way.

It is one of the major flaws of South of Midnight. Combat remains fun but encounters and enemy variety don’t change much later in the game.

The Ballad of Two-Toed-Tom

Perhaps the strongest aspects of South of Midnight is its aesthetic and sound. The art-style is one of the prettiest, most unique things I’ve seen in gaming. The way this world and its characters look, move, and feel encapsulates the beauty of art.

Combine that with one of the best and most unique soundtracks I’ve heard, and you’ve got a winner. Hearing rugged guitars and banjos used so eloquently is outstanding.

My favorite thing about the soundtrack is how they deliver it. When you are approaching a boss, you’ll hear bits and pieces of the theme, teasing you of its whereabouts.

As you approach that big ole gator Two-Toed-Tom you hear the words being sung to you “Two-Toed-Tom, Two-Toed-Tom” with a soft ominous instrumental arrangement in the background. Then, once you come face to face with Tom and his two toes, you hear the full song.


I can’t quite convey how well this is executed. To put it in the best words I can, South of Midnight is a spectacle of senses.

Conclusion

South of Midnight represents everything gaming is about. Gaming at its core is a true amalgamation of all major art-forms. Music, visuals, story, art-style. The ability to take all of those and make something that stands out is no easy feat.

South of Midnight not only accomplishes it, it excels at it. Compulsion poured their hearts into making something they were truly passionate about. You feel it every second of it you play.

From the stop motion intro when you load up the game, to the heart-wrenching stories of the people you meet. This world matters to the developers, which in turn makes it matter to you.

They have crafted a world ripe for adventure, characters, and future storytelling. There’s so much potential here, I hope Xbox continues to invest in this world and studio.

South of Midnight is a must play.

Top 10 Clutch Kings in CS Matches – Stats Don’t Lie

Andrew Edney
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Top 10 Clutch Kings in CS Matches – Stats Don’t Lie

In the high-pressure world of Counter-Strike 2, not all players are created equal. While some crumble under pressure, others transform into unstoppable forces when left alone against multiple opponents. These clutch situations define careers, create legendary highlights, and separate the good from the truly great players.

When analyzing cs matches from LAN tournaments over the past year, the statistical difference between average professionals and clutch specialists becomes strikingly apparent. While most players maintain a clutch success rate of around 20-25% in 1v2 situations and below 10% in 1v3+, the elite clutchers consistently perform at rates nearly double those averages. These numbers aren’t flukes – they represent a special combination of mechanical skill, game sense, psychological fortitude, and strategic brilliance.

1. Nicolai “device” Reedtz

Despite stepping away from the game for a period, device’s return to competitive CS2 has reminded everyone why he’s considered the most complete player in history. His clutch statistics remain exceptional, with a 36% success rate in 1v2s and a remarkable 17% in 1v3s. What makes device special isn’t flashy plays but his methodical approach to isolating duels and capitalizing on enemy mistakes. His mastery of post-plant positions and utility usage creates winnable scenarios where others would see none.

2. Aleksandr “s1mple” Kostyliev

While s1mple may be known for his aggressive AWPing and mechanical brilliance, his clutch statistics reveal his complete mastery of the game. With a 39% success rate in 1v2 situations, the highest among all tier-1 players, s1mple thrives in scenarios where his decision-making isn’t restricted by team strategies. His unpredictability makes him particularly dangerous – opponents can never be certain if he’ll take an aggressive peek or play patiently for the time advantage.

3. Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut

The French prodigy boasts clutch numbers that defy conventional wisdom. ZywOo’s 1v3 success rate of 19% leads all professionals in 2025, demonstrating remarkable consistency in the most difficult scenarios. What separates ZywOo is his exceptional trigger discipline and positioning, rarely revealing his location until absolutely necessary. His ability to remain calm under pressure translates to precise headshots even in the most chaotic retakes.

4. Nikola “NiKo” Kovač

Perhaps the most mechanically gifted rifler in CS2, NiKo’s clutch prowess comes from his ability to win duels that other players simply cannot. His 1v2 success rate of 34% is complemented by some of the highest headshot percentages in clutch scenarios. NiKo’s game sense allows him to predict enemy movements with uncanny accuracy, often pre-firing common positions for quick eliminations that create momentum in seemingly impossible situations.

5. Ilya “m0NESY” Osipov

The youngest player on this list, m0NESY has established himself as a clutch specialist with an aggressive AWPing style that creates unique advantages in late-round scenarios. His 1v2 success rate of 33% and 1v3 rate of 14% demonstrate maturity beyond his years. What’s most impressive is his clutch performance on T-side – traditionally more difficult than CT clutches – where he excels at creating space with minimal utility.

6. Håvard “rain” Nygaard

A veteran presence in the scene, rain’s clutch statistics have remarkably improved with age. Now boasting a 32% success rate in 1v2s, rain’s expertise comes from hundreds of clutch scenarios throughout his career. His spray control remains unmatched, allowing him to take fights against multiple opponents simultaneously – a high-risk approach that has become his signature in clutch rounds.

7. Russel “Twistzz” Van Dulken

The North American star combines precise aim with intelligent positioning to achieve a 33% success rate in 1v2 situations. Twistzz excels particularly in retake scenarios, where his methodical clearing of angles and exceptional crosshair placement maximize his chances. His clutches rarely look flashy but demonstrate textbook Counter-Strike fundamentals executed to perfection.

8. Dmitry “sh1ro” Sokolov

The quiet assassin of CS2, sh1ro’s clutch statistics reflect his patient and calculated playstyle. With a 31% success rate in 1v2s and 15% in 1v3s, he excels particularly with the AWP in post-plant situations. His ability to use sound cues to gain information while giving away minimal audio of his own movement creates information asymmetry that consistently favors him in clutch scenarios.

9. Denis “electroNic” Sharipov

Often overshadowed by flashier teammates, electroNic’s clutch statistics reveal his importance to any roster. His 30% success rate in 1v2s comes from exceptional utility usage that creates favorable duels. ElectroNic’s specialization in clutch situations is his fake defuse plays, consistently forcing opponents into disadvantageous peeks when time pressure mounts.

10. Casper “cadiaN” Møller

The in-game leader with the highest clutch success rates, cadiaN defies the conventional wisdom that tacticians can’t be mechanical stars. His 29% success rate in 1v2s and numerous highlight-reel 1v3+ clutches demonstrate his multifaceted skills. What separates cadiaN is his psychological approach – using voice comms even when alone to maintain his composure and frequently employing unconventional plays that catch opponents off-guard.

The statistics don’t lie – these ten players have consistently turned impossible situations into victory through a combination of skill, intelligence, and mental fortitude that separates them from even their professional peers. As CS2 continues to evolve, their clutch performances remain the gold standard by which all players are measured.

Review: Everhood 2

Saim Khurshid
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Review: Everhood 2

Developed by Chris Nordgren & Jordi Rica and published by Foreign Games, Everhood 2 is a 2d top-down RPG from the same family of games as Undertale.

Going on too long has many risks: boring the other guy, losing your point, or sounding like a self-absorbed lunatic. However, a game going on for too long just gets lost in the bland territory. Today, however, I want to talk about a game with a 5-star length but lacking variety, which made them shoot away till only 1 was left.

I am talking about Everhood, a 2d top-down RPG from the same family as Undertale, with a submersive combat system… that never changes and only gets longer and longer as the game goes on.

Everhood 2, the Forgotten Plot

You play as a character, I think I named myself, but can’t remember who falls into a rabbit hole and are isen away from their lovely white void home. After getting attacked by a giant hawk, they are told to go out into the world and save it from destruction or something…

As you can probably tell, I never really connected with the story, my frustration grew the more I played and, eventually any guidance just felt like the path to follow, kind of deal. I just know it had something to do with saving the world or something.

I mentioned Undertale earlier, but sadly, the animation style is as far as we go. There are very few characters per area to talk to, and most are just background fluff with two and, if you are lucky, three lines of dialogue. Barring the aforementioned giant hawk, every story’s progressing character feels quite binary and would only exist to usher you to the next scene.

The One Thing Everhood 2 Gets Right… Kind of

The real deal maker(and eventually, breaker) was the combat. Just like Undertale, combat begins by interacting with a hostile NPC. The game cuts away and brings you to the combat system stage. 

Imagine Guitar Hero or any similar rhythm game; that is the platform we see. A lane is split into five. As combat begins, different coloured rays would come down the splits at random speeds. 

To attack, you must consume a collection of the same coloured rays and shoot them back at your enemy. You can move left or right to collect or avoid rays. If you fail to absorb a ray and it hits you, you lose health. The more rays you collect, the stronger your attack will be. 

Two different coloured rays cannot be collected at the same time and would result in the collection returning to 1 for the latest coloured ray.

Sound Fun?

Well, it’s because it is. It was amazing to experience this gameplay in Everhood 2. 

Alas, the law of diminishing returns is as real as the smell of a dying dog’s farts. Combat after combat after combat after combat, the only difference ever being the size of the enemy’s health bar, made me end up hating this game with a passion.

The Final Verdict

Starting with a unique combat system that was fresh and engaging, until it wasn’t. The game is beautifully drawn, but it’s all a thin veneer over the pale and lacking characters and dialogue. The story that starts with an intrigue slowly feels like a lifeless backdrop to other ideas.

However, I want to reiterate, the gameplay is good. It is unique and has charm.

In short, Characters are forgettable, dialogue is sparse, the and world is lifeless. And the only good thing, the gameplay, is very repetitive. 

As far as my recommendation goes, I feel disappointed, but I cannot turn anyone away. So in these troubling times, I shall leave you with a scarlet 7.

Review: Morkull Ragast’s Rage

Daniel Waite
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Review: Morkull Ragast’s Rage

Morkull Ragast’s Rage is a game I was desperate to enjoy. On paper, it has everything I love: humour, hand-drawn graphics, a dark atmosphere, and challenging gameplay. However, once you scratch the surface, you realise that things aren’t quite as they seem. If you then chuck in corrupted saves, bugs, and a sense of unfair frustration, this game falls way short of expectations.

This action adventure title was developed by Disaster Games Studio and published by Selecta Play. Moreover, it is a single-player game with a Metroidvania edge. This edgy title should have stood out from the sea of average indie titles. Yet, its poor execution and dull gameplay left me wanting.

Morkull Ragast’s Rage tells a familiar plot.

Morkull is the God of Death and Destruction. He has been imprisoned in Ragast and wishes to break free. If he can complete his task, he hopes to rule the overworld and show everyone what he is made of. En route, he will tell some “hilarious” jokes, and he regularly breaks the fourth wall with his cutting dialogue. Sadly, though, the jokes fall flat, and I found myself skimming through the one-liners rather than laughing as intended.

The action follows familiar Metroidvania traits, and this will be a joy or a pain in the arse depending on if you like or dislike the genre. The constant back-and-forth becomes tiresome, and it isn’t helped that every enemy is a damage sponge. Fights take too long, and no matter how powerful you become, there is always the risk of death and failure. Death wouldn’t be so bad, but checkpoints are few and far between, and the in-game currency of souls is halved every time you perish. Consequently, death becomes a real pain in the behind, and frustration kicks in.

Interesting puzzles.

Though dying was my main gripe and the shout of “Get Gud” echoed around my brain, I enjoyed the interesting puzzles. Each area has switches to activate, lifts to ride, and items to find. Moreover, there is plenty of precision platforming to execute and loads of obstacles to avoid. This element of Morkull Ragast’s Rage was fantastic. I loved dashing through the air and clasping onto walls. Additionally, avoiding deadly spiders and projectiles was a rewarding challenge.

The exploration and puzzling elements were phenomenal, but the lack of checkpoints and the guarantee of death ensured that failure was always around the corner. What’s more, exploring the same area a hundred times because of death and mistakes quickly became tiresome. This issue could have been avoided had more checkpoints been included. I understand that the developers wanted to make a tough game, but this was borderline offensive.

Morkull Ragast’s Rage caught my eye.

Morkull Ragast’s Rage delivers an aesthetical mixed bag. The environments, atmosphere, and colour palette are a joy to experience. The developer clearly loves this project, and they’ve invested plenty of time and effort into the world and unique backdrops. However, the same cannot be said for the combat animation! The odd 2 or 3 frame movement looks rough as it doesn’t match the highly polished backdrop.

The music, unfortunately, follows suit. It feels like an afterthought, as the songs are repetitive and the sound effects are dull. It is as if the developers chucked every metaphorical egg into their overall appearance and forgot that lots of components deliver an aesthetically pleasing product.

Odd hitboxes.

Melee combat and parrying are not new ideas. However, Morkull Ragast’s Rage has a weird take on this rudimentary concept. The hero can unlock new combos when he has collected enough souls. New combos should be exciting, but every enemy absorbs his blows like they are nonexistent. This is extremely frustrating and made much worse by the odd hitboxes. Some creatures can be smashed with ease, and others are nearly impossible to take down. This cements the feelings of imbalance and increases the rage and frustration levels just a little higher.

I’ve read mixed reports on how long this takes to finish. I invested plenty of hours, but I had to restart the game 3 times as my data never saved. This was understandably annoying and the main reason I never finished a playthrough. Moreover, it is one of the reasons my review is so negative. Replaying the same hell multiple times was not good, to say the least. If you somehow get around this issue, you should be able to complete a run in around 6 hours.

Morkull Ragast’s Rage was a mess.

I would have loved Morkull Ragast’s Rage to be a raving success. However, it is plagued by issues and the game stutters and crumbles. I don’t mind a challenging experience, but this pushes things to the next level. Too many flaws undermine an already tough title, and the dialogue isn’t enough to bring a smile to your face. As such, unless you are a massive fan of the genre, I’d give this a miss. More information can be found here, though! Can you escape and fulfil your destiny? Learn new skills, overcome every obstacle, and become the deadly God you were destined to be.

Review: CarGo!

Cody May
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0
Review: CarGo!

CarGo! Is a chaotic couch co-op game in which up to four players work together to deliver packages. The game is developed by Memory Leak Games and Cleversan Games. It is published by Ultimate Games S.A. It was released on 03/25/2025 for Xbox.

Deliver The Goods in CarGo!

In CarGo! You must work together with friends to get packages delivered fast. You can also play the game solo as I did. Deliver fast, make money, and watch out for traffic.

If you’ve played games like Overcooked then you’ll know what to expect and have a good time. It’s built for play with friends and in my opinion it is crucial.

I played solo and it impacted my experience in a negative way. Games like this are most fun when you and your friends are working together, shouting at each other, and laughing.

The game is mechanically sound. Everything works as should, driving feels solid, and it’s nice to look at. Driving in particular in a game like this has to be nailed and they did a great job with it. The controls are good, and you’ll have obstacles in your way like roadwork and traffic to keep you on your toes.

For me the gameplay sort of got stale after awhile and there needed to be more to keep it engaging.

Conclusion

CarGo! Is mechanically sound, has a cute art-style, and fun soundtrack. Sadly, once I got past the thirty fun minutes of driving controls and wrecking into vehicles as I try to get packages delivered, I was rather bored.

Again, I believe this is a result of playing solo, but the game isn’t built for solo play. If you and your friends are looking for a party game to try, give it a shot. There just isn’t enough to keep solo players engaged.

Level Devil – Not a Troll Game

Daniel Waite
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0
Level Devil – Not a Troll Game

Level Devil – Not a Troll Game is most certainly a game about trolling and brutality. I swear the developer wasn’t hugged enough as a child, and now we are all paying the price. In all seriousness, this is a platforming experience where patience and resilience are tested throughout. Though the core ideas are simple, the constantly shifting world and the evil mindset of its maker will push you all of the way.

Unept developed and published this 2D side-scrolling platformer. It is a single-player game made up of nearly 200 hellish levels. Moreover, the developer plans to add more mayhem to the mix. Accordingly, if you love to be teased, pushed, and tested, this is the game for you.

Level Devil – Not a Troll Game tells no story.

Unlike some of its softer and more colourful peers, Level Devil – Not a Troll Game tells no plot. There is no princess to save and no antagonist to fight. Instead, it is a battle of mindset and patience. Unfortunately, it beat me several times, and I had to laugh or I would have cried. Yet, the cruelty is moreish, and I returned for more.

Each of the nearly 200 levels is grouped with 5 similarly challenging experiences. Buzzsaws, gravity, moving platforms, spikes, switches, and more stand in your way. Though some of these ideas will be a walk in the park, most will push you to your limits. Furthermore, the last group of levels mixes every element to test your memory and your abilities.

Die, die, and die again.

Trolling is all about the cruel banter. Level Devil – Not a Troll Game has this in painful abundance! Just when you think you have a stage nailed, the floor opens beneath you. The result is a free-falling hero who dies immediately. No matter, you note the trolling element and start again. As you avoid that obstacle, you run to the exit, and all hell breaks loose. Saws appear, the floor opens, and you fall to your death again.

These naughty shenanigans are the recurring theme for a testing but fair platforming indie title. You will force a wry smile as you die repeatedly. Additionally, you’ll laugh manically as you overcome every test and still fail to exit the stage. It is simplicity personified, but it’ll break your balls, soul, and gaming peripherals.

Level Devil – Not a Troll Game is an understated affair.

If you want a modern polish with ultra-realistic graphics, Level Devil – Not a Troll Game isn’t for you. This refined game is understated, vibrant, and easy to look at. The levels are single-field arenas, and you can mostly work out your path without concern. Yet, it is the shifting landscape that catches you out. Consequently, you must be on your toes if you wish to complete every stage.

The audio adds energy to an otherwise soul-sapping title. The upbeat tunes push you to parkour your way past every hurdle you face. However, the banging music plays second fiddle to your screams of despair. As such, you’ll probably want to soundproof your gaming corner before you give this a try.

Excellent controls.

Up, down, left, and right. That is the crux of the control system. Level Devil – Not a Troll Game asks you to master the layout in seconds. Yet, no matter how easy it is to understand, you will still struggle to avoid the spikes and the giant chasms that open before you.

If you love a bit of sadomasochism, this will keep you coming back for more. Playing a game and guaranteeing failure is a brutal experience. Though this tested me, it was oddly rewarding, and I struggled to put it down as a consequence. Furthermore, you can play this with a friend if you love to torture them as well.

Level Devil – Not a Troll Game loves to poke the bear.

Poking a bear is never wise. However, Level Devil – Not a Troll Game pokes, pokes, and pokes some more. The irony is that the bear is you, and you’ve paid to be poked repeatedly. It is traumatic, frustrating but absolutely brilliant. Every stage tested me, and I feel as if I’ve aged 200 years! Consequently, if you fancy grinding your teeth to stubs while enduring an incredible trolling time, I recommend buying it here! Getting to the exit is never easy. Avoid the obstacles, memorise your hazards, and hope that luck is on your side.

Review: Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days

Daniel Waite
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2
Review: Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days

Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days is a cold and callous gaming experience. There is no rest for the wicked, and every mistake is punished. However, once you get to grips with the fundamentals and you understand every survivor’s role, you can turn the zombie tide. This hellish survival game will kick you in the balls repeatedly. Furthermore, it’ll make you scream as you make mistake after mistake. Yet, it is truly rewarding, and this makes it moreish as hell.

This side-scrolling survival adventure title was developed by PikPok and published by PikPok and Boltray Games. It is a single-player game filled with lore, danger, and many twists and turns. You begin with 2 desperate survivors. Their skills complement one another, but outside influences ensure that things rarely go to plan. Consequently, you must think on your feet and be prepared to run if you wish to stay alive.

Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days tells a tale of woe.

It is the year 1980. Walton City has fallen to a zombie apocalypse, and pockets of survivors hide in houses and shops. Everyone is out for themselves, and crime and illegal trading thrive as a consequence. Your pair of survivors must learn to adapt to this new, harsh world or become one with the zombie horde!

The setting is fantastic, and I loved the nod to retro arcades and old-school diners. Furthermore, there are newspaper articles and other elements that help to cement your place in the timeline. However, under the veil of death and doom is an underground crime syndicate that wishes to thrive! Do you trust this group of menacing individuals, or do you trust your instincts and try to find your path out of the city?

Trial and error.

Death is permanent, and mistakes are costly. Yet, it is trial and error that sits at the fore. Every expedition requires you to avoid direct contact with the zombies. Sneaking around and stealth-killing them is a must. However, occasionally, you must tackle each brain muncher head-on. Alternatively, you can run for the hills and hope that nothing gets in your way.

Each day is split into a night and day element. Survivors may execute tasks around the base, such as cooking, crafting, repairing barriers, or sleeping. On top of this, they must manage their health, hunger, sanity, and exhaustion levels. This is easier said than done, however. You must find ingredients to make food and time to entertain each survivor. Moreover, resources must be scavenged to make weapons, ammo, and other important elements of the base. It is a constant juggling act and something that can feel overwhelming.

Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days looks amazing.

Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days focuses on a dark and grim aesthetic. The colour palette is sombre and gritty. Furthermore, there is blood, gore, and loss at every corner. The city is decimated, and zombies hide in the shadows. As you venture into each location, you must use the dark to your advantage. Additionally, handy hiding spots can be used to avoid confrontation and create a stealth attack.

The audio will make your skin crawl. The snarls and moans of each zombie were horrific. Additionally, the creaking of buildings and the scurrying of angry foes will fill you with dread. The soundscape is particularly grim, and this enhances the deadly nature of each expedition.

Fantastic controls.

Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days can be played with a mouse and keyboard or a gamepad. I tested it with both and was impressed. The simple layout and responsive inputs make this a dream to play. Moreover, little practice is required to understand the basics. Though you will make mistakes, a handy guide can be accessed if you lose your way.

Replay value is at an all-time high. Death is permanent, and moving from shelter to shelter is a must if you wish to survive. Furthermore, the constant shifting quests requires you to move from place to place if you wish to reach each goal. This fluid approach may annoy gamers who like to set down roots. Yet, all your upgrades move with you, so there is nothing to fear. Moreover, if you stay in one place too long, the zombie horde is overwhelming, and death is all but guaranteed.

Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days is a great indie title.

Although Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days is an Early Access experience, it is fantastic to play. The developer has done an amazing job with every aspect, and I loved every minute. Yes, there are graphical issues and some areas that require balancing, but these elements will be ironed out as the game evolves. Additionally, more scenarios will be added, and the game will flourish as a consequence. Accordingly, I think it’s amazing, and I recommend buying it here! Can you escape the city and survive? Sneak, steal, and fight your way to survival.

Review: Backbone One: Xbox Edition

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Backbone One: Xbox Edition

I love my Backbone controllers. I have tested practically every device in their range, and I’ve admired the build quality, usability, and portability. Consequently, when they announced the new Backbone One: Xbox Edition, I was a little excited, to say the least. I broke this news recently but kept my powder dry. After all, I didn’t know if the latest controller would live up to its previous standards. Spoiler alert: It does, and it excels in many areas.

This retro green controller has a translucent aesthetic. The glorious green shell is reminiscent of the early Xbox era. Moreover, the ability to see the internal components will fascinate many gamers. On top of this, it is designed with Xbox players in mind. The Xbox button lets you select gamers from your library or shortcut to video recording. This is perfect if you love to capture footage and show off to your friends.

This compact device is designed with marathon sessions in mind. It is lightweight and comfortable to use. Additionally, it has pass-through charging to ensure that you never run out of juice. Unlike some of its peers, you can use non-Bluetooth headphones via a 3.5mm jack. This increases versatility and reduces the draw on your mobile phone battery.

What’s in the box of the Backbone One: Xbox Edition?

  • The compact packaging is similar to other Backbone products. Furthermore, it is pleasant to look at and can be recycled.
  • The Backbone One: Xbox Edition is a fantastic gaming tool. Moreover, it is small enough to fit in your coat pocket or bag. As such, you needn’t worry about a bulky controller weighing you down.
  • Spare grips allow you to connect your phone in its case.
  • Download the Backbone app with the handy QR code.

Technical aspects.

The Backbone One: Xbox Edition is a USB-C 2nd-generation device. Accordingly, it is compatible with modern Android and Apple devices. This was a great move as gamers tend to roll with up-to-date phones, and Backbone is following this trend. Furthermore, the USB-C port is stronger and more reliable than the Lightning alternative. As such, durability is improved, and I experienced no connectivity issues.

Unlike other Cloud gaming controllers, this device has no battery. This may seem strange, but your mobile phone does all of the work. With minimal power draw and pass-through charging, gamers will not struggle during long sessions. 

Backbone App.

Purchasing yearly subscriptions for different gaming packages isn’t alien territory. However, many gamers may struggle to see the benefit of the Backbone service. I trialed the product and was impressed with the UI and the seamless transition between games. Additionally, it was easy to use, and it made the controller a more complete package.

If you don’t feel like investing around £40 for this service, you don’t have to. This approach was great and something that should be applauded. You are not penalised for circumnavigating the optional software. Instead, you are free to cloud game directly from Xbox or stream from your console if you are on the same network.

Build quality.

Where the Backbone One: Xbox Edition excels is its incredible build quality. The spring-loaded sliders expand the controller from 176.2mm to 257.6mm. This is large enough to fit in most modern phones without placing pressure on the USB-C male connection. If you haven’t used a Backbone product, you will need a little trial and error to connect your phone. However, once you are familiar with the quirks, you will execute the process in no time.

Each of the buttons feels like a smaller version of the official Xbox controller. The compact analogue sticks take some getting used to, but once you understand the range of movement and the lower stick height, you’ll play your Cloud games like a pro. Actuation distance is vitally important when playing fast-paced games. Thankfully, the Backbone One: Xbox Edition is ultra-responsive, and the actuation distance is comfortable. Furthermore, you do not need to jab the buttons to execute any action.

Finally, the old-school green translucent livery is incredible! This device screams Xbox and Halo, and I loved it as a consequence. As you hold it, you feel like you have a piece of gaming history. 

Is the Backbone One: Xbox Edition worth it?

Cloud gaming is coming on in leaps and bounds. Furthermore, fibre internet is making its way into more homes, and 5G connectivity is improving daily. Subsequently, the ability to stream and game on the move is improving. This huge movement requires tech and peripherals to support it. Thankfully, Backbone is at the fore, and gamers will improve their experience if they invest. The Backbone One: Xbox Edition is an amazing device designed with Cloud Gaming in mind. If you want the best product when you are out and about, I recommend buying it here!

(More information on Backbone can be found here!)

The Backbone One: Xbox Edition has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)

Review: Aerox 3 Wireless mouse

Daniel Waite
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Review: Aerox 3 Wireless mouse

The Aerox 3 Wireless mouse (Snow 2022) from SteelSeries is a stylish and lightweight gaming mouse. However, you may be wondering why I’m covering a mouse that has been out for nearly 3 years. Well, I’ve recently looked at the QCK Performance mouse pads, and I thought it was a match made in heaven.

With or without the SteelSeries mouse pads, the Aerox 3 Wireless mouse is an incredible gaming peripheral. It only weighs 68g, and this makes it one of the lightest gaming mice available. Alongside this, the shell has a low profile that is comfortable for marathon gaming sessions. If you love to play for hours, the battery life will make you gawp! 200 hours is the maximum wireless performance from this product. Accordingly, that battery life is incredible, and I was blown away.

If that isn’t enough, it has a 3-zone prism RGB and a clean, white, honeycombed shell. This design allows the lighting to pop and your setup to stand out from the crowd. Though the aforementioned mouse pads have no RGB, this mouse makes up for that shortcoming.

What’s in the box of the Aerox 3 Wireless mouse?

  • The compact packaging is eye-catching. Key selling points adorn the box, and the contents are well packaged.
  • The Aerox 3 Wireless mouse has a white honeycombed shell and 6 usable buttons. There is a female USB-C port on the front and a connectivity switch near the underside optical sensor.
  • A braided USB-C cable is provided to charge the device.
  • Play wirelessly with the USB-C dongle.
  • Learn the fundamentals with the user guide.

Technical aspects.

A gaming mouse has to be comfortable, durable, accurate, and responsive. Thankfully, the Aerox 3 Wireless mouse ticks every box and much more. The helpful DPI switch allows users to adjust the speed of the mouse with the touch of a button. Unique profiles can be selected up to 18k DPI. Moreover, a maximum speed of 400 IPS and 40 G of maximum acceleration can be enjoyed. This may be too quick for some gamers, so dial back the speeds and tap that DPI button until you find what works for you. The TrueMove air sensor is a 1-to-1 tracking sensor specifically designed for wireless gaming. Accordingly, you get a best-in-class product and some mind-bending speeds.

The 1000 Hz/1 ms polling rate via wired or USB-C dongle is perfect for elite gamers. Consequently, this fast response rate keeps you ahead of your competition. This blistering speed is why SteelSeries is adored by the eSports community. I couldn’t believe the difference the Aerox 3 Wireless mouse made when combined with the “Speed” QCK Performance mouse pad. The pace was off the charts, and I wiped the floor with anyone I came across. As such, if you love FPS or any sports titles, this combination must be on your radar.

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Build quality.

I’ve mentioned durability, and my word, is this mouse built to last! The Aerox 3 Wireless mouse has a switch rating of up to 80 million clicks. 80 million clicks is absolutely incredible! Alongside this, the next-gen golden micro IP54 switches are upgraded for dust and water resistance. Consequently, not only are they 3 times more durable than other switches, but you reduce the risk of double clicking.

The hardened honeycomb shell and stunning white livery allow the 3-zone prism RBG to pop. Moreover, the 100% virgin grade PTFE mouse skates reduce friction and increase comfort. The modern USB-C accessories were a welcome move away from dated tech. What’s more, each of the buttons and the ergonomic design reduce fatigue when attempting marathon gaming sessions.

Is the Aerox 3 Wireless mouse worth it?

PC Gamer awarded the Aerox 3 Wireless mouse the Best Lightweight Mouse award. I cannot dispute this award, as this mouse is unbelievably good. It is comfortable, and the build quality will ensure it lasts a lifetime. The RGB is vibrant, and I adore the responsive TrueMove air sensor. If you want a gaming mouse that gives you a match-winning edge, I recommend buying it here!

(More information on SteelSeries can be found here!)

The Aerox 3 Wireless mouse has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)

Review: Atomfall

Matt Cooper
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Review: Atomfall

Atomfall releases to mystery and much intrigue. Is this worth your time or are you left wandering the countryside thinking what could’ve been?

The Countryside Is Your Oyster

When I began the story, sitting in a bunker not knowing how or why I was there, I couldn’t help but think of Fallout. Whilst at first I thought this was another game trying to capture the magic of Fallout, I was so wonderfully wrong. Atomfall is truly its own living, breathing post apocalyptic wonder. Developed and published by veteran British team Rebellion, Atomfall is inspired by a real nuclear disaster; the Windscale disaster of 1957. The story takes place five years after the disaster in the Lake District where a fictionalised quarantine zone has been established, walled off and surrounded by a mysterious nuclear site and accompanying woodland and village areas. Thanks to the zone being cut off from the rest of the country, gangs and groups have formed outside the zone, making everywhere dangerous and violent places. As previously mentioned, you take on the role of a unnamed survivor who is suffering from amnesia. The amnesia trope has often been used in survival games but Atomfall succeeds wonderfully with this narrative, thanks to the game’s overall narrative structure.

Rebellion have crafted and structured the story to allow the player to create their own unique tale. From the very beginning, the emphasis is on you and your choices. Your first interaction is with a scientist, but how you interact is up to you: kill him and take his key card, communicate and gain his trust or ignore him altogether, it’s truly entirely up to you. Everything in this wonderful world is for you to discover and unravel, from a mysterious phone caller pestering you with riddles, to meeting traders and NPCs in villages; there is so so much to discover and understand in Atomfall. It’s unequivocally British, with its humour and dialogue. It’s a wonderful sight to see how Rebellion have blended the British countryside with a post-apocalyptic sci-fi horror environment.

This is the best example of environmental storytelling I have come across since Elden Ring; every room and building can unlock more pieces to the puzzle. It’s a truly fantastic story that has countless endings, dependent on which route you choose. It ultimately boils down to your choice and how you decide to escape the area but there is so much replay ability on offer and so much to discover through audio logs, documents and conversations with the superb cast of characters. It is staggering! The story is one of self-discovery, true mystery and intrigue from minute one until the credits roll, as it blends horror with sci-fi along with a hefty dose of alternate reality wonder. It is truly best experienced with as little knowledge of the game as possible. This is a story and exploration for the ages.

Craft, Attack, Dig, Survive

Gameplay is another brilliantly crafted experience in Atomfall. Played from a first person perspective and set in a semi open world environment, gameplay, like the story, is yours to mould and craft. The main gameplay consists of scavenging for items to craft equipment from recipes found throughout the world, but that is just the tip of the iceberg. Crafting is essential to survival as you band together every day items like glass bottles and cloths to create medicine and weapons. The use of a metal detector to uncover hidden stashes and treasures is a great addition that helps keep you engaged in exploring, as there is so much to uncover and find. The game actively encourages you to spend hours on end scavenging and this leads to great interactions with random NPC’s or enemies that often have very British humour attached to them. Everything in Atomfall is designed to be methodical and deliberate and nowhere is it more evident than in combat and stealth.

The opening of the game makes clear you are a novice in this apocalypse and this is shown superbly through melee and ranged combat. Every swing of an axe or hatchet feels deliberately laboured and desperate, making you feel like you are truly fighting for your life. Whether it’s hulking robots standing eight feet tall, bandits and druids who seek to hunt you down or the mysterious feral infected creatures, this game has a fantastic range of enemy types. Each encounter feels different and with the nature of the games non linear story, I truly felt I was altering the story with each swing or shot. Speaking of ranged combat, this is also deliberately methodical. It’s both thrilling and frustrating watching your character slowly load a bullet into the rusted chamber of a rifle or shotgun.

The gameplay is not without its minor flaws, however. The lack of a fast travel system can make exploring and traversing the countryside somewhat frustrating and tedious at times. The game’s perk system is very basic and underdeveloped as I felt most of the perks didn’t alter or propel my experience positively. Stealth can be wildly inconsistent and often I gave up on that aspect as enemies would spot me from miles away, with little to no sight of me. Thankfully, the main core gameplay loop in Atomfall is more than enough to see past these flaws.

Lake District Delight

The Lake District in Atomfall looks simply stunning. Lush green fields beam across the screen upon first exiting the bunker, letting you know you’re in for a beautiful adventure. Every building and environment is rich and dripping in detail; it truly looks like they have plucked buildings straight from the countryside. Rebellion have crafted a gorgeous game, so much so that you can’t help but stop and admire it. Lighting is superb in the daunting darkly lit areas inside abandoned facilities and labs. The art style and character design are similarly stunning. Characters look realistic and react uniquely to your character. Robots look mighty and powerful from afar, whilst feral creatures look nightmarish. This is a truly wonderful effort across the board in visual presentation.

Next, sound design and musical score yield mixed results. The sound design is solid and does enough not to stand out poorly, with the metal detector pinging loudly and emphatically to let you know when a stash or lunchbox is around. Robots clang and stomp their way across the countryside, violently letting you know the threat they pose. I found the sound design of the ranged combat inconsistent as guns just sound non existent at times and nowhere near as powerful as they should. However, one aspect of sound design that cannot be debated is the superb voice acting. Every character feels alive, thanks to the wonderful cast who create unique British voices, leading to hilarious moments and emotional ones too. On the other hand, the musical score in Atomfall disappointed me. It never makes enough of an impact to warrant memorable moments. Only in combat does it truly take precedent and it’s a damn shame the game didn’t utilize the music more in the exploration and story.

Verdict

Atomfall is a brilliant and fresh take on post-apocalyptic survival. It is a beautiful mix of Fallout and souls-like games, with wonderful exploration and mysteries to discover at every turn. Not many games have made me really feel like I am the master of the story and I craft it to how I see fit but this one does! The wonderful recreation of the beautiful Lake District, accompanied with a sci-fi horror twist, makes this game one of the best additions to the genre in recent memory. I implore anyone to go in with as little knowledge as possible to be wowed at each twist and turn of this thought-provoking narrative. Some minor flaws dampen the spirit slightly but this is still Rebellion’s finest work to date. Now I’m hankering for a Cornish pasty!

How to Set Up a Proxy on Your Router: A Step-by-Step Guide for Enhanced Network Control

Andrew Edney
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How to Set Up a Proxy on Your Router: A Step-by-Step Guide for Enhanced Network Control

Ever feel like your entire home network could benefit from a little more control, speed, or anonymity? That’s where configuring a proxy server directly on your router comes into play. Instead of setting it up on every single device—phones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs—you can apply the settings once and instantly improve the browsing experience for your entire household or office.

Picture it like installing a filter at the mouth of a river. Everything downstream (in this case, your devices) flows through that filter (the proxy), giving you consistent performance, centralised management, and more efficient traffic routing.

How Router-Level Proxy Setup Works

Unlike installing a proxy on a single device where only that gadget’s traffic is affected, a router-based proxy intercepts and reroutes all internet traffic passing through the router. This means any device connected to your Wi-Fi automatically uses the proxy settings. Pretty convenient, right?

You’re essentially programming your router to act as a traffic director, rerouting every request through a selected proxy server before it reaches the wider internet. It’s a smart move for businesses, shared households, and tech-savvy users who crave full-spectrum control.

Preparing for the Setup: What You Need Before You Begin

Before jumping into the configuration, there are a few things you’ll need in place:

  • A compatible router: Not all routers support proxy configurations directly through their interface. Routers with firmware like DD-WRT, OpenWRT, or Tomato tend to provide the most flexible proxy support.
  • Proxy server details: You’ll need the IP address and port number of the proxy server you want to use.
  • Router access: Make sure you have the admin login credentials for your router interface. Without these, no settings can be adjusted.
  • Stable internet connection: Always a must before poking around in the digital guts of your router.

Think of this as assembling your toolkit before fixing a car—each tool has a role, and missing just one can throw off the entire job.

Configuring the Proxy on a DD-WRT Router

DD-WRT is one of the most popular third-party router firmware options out there, largely due to its flexibility. If your router supports DD-WRT, the steps to configure a proxy are as follows:

  1. Login to your router’s admin panel via your browser (typically at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
  2. Navigate to the Administration tab, then go to the Commands section.

Paste the proxy setup script that redirects traffic through your proxy server. This usually looks like:


iptables -t nat -A PREROUTING -i br0 -p tcp –dport 80 -j DNAT –to-destination PROXY_IP:PORT

  2. Replace PROXY_IP and PORT with the actual IP address and port of your proxy.
  3. Click Save Startup, then reboot your router.

If all goes well, your connected devices will now access the internet through the proxy—no manual configuration required on individual gadgets.

Troubleshooting Common Proxy-Router Issues

If your internet suddenly stops working after setup, don’t panic. Most issues boil down to:

  • Incorrect proxy IP or port.
  • Proxy server being down or overloaded.
  • Conflicts with firewall or DNS settings.
  • Router firmware limitations.

Try double-checking the details you entered or testing the proxy on a separate device first to make sure it’s active. If that doesn’t solve it, revert your router to default settings and try again step-by-step. Sometimes tech setup feels like building IKEA furniture—you just need to follow each instruction carefully, and yes, sometimes redo it.

Why Using a Proxy Through Your Router Is a Game-Changer

Setting up a proxy on your router isn’t just a neat trick for techies—it’s a serious performance and control boost. Whether you’re managing access for children, distributing load across networked devices, or simply fine-tuning your browsing experience, the benefits are hard to ignore.

You get one-point control over your entire network, reduce redundancy from per-device configurations, and make sure everything from gaming consoles to IoT devices routes traffic the smart way. It’s like upgrading your entire internet ecosystem without buying a single new gadget.

If you’re looking for high-quality, fast, and reliable proxy services to use with your router, you can click here to explore a wide selection tailored for every kind of user—whether you’re a casual browser or a professional power user.

Final Thoughts: Take Charge of Your Network Like a Pro

When it comes to digital infrastructure, small tweaks can make a big impact. Configuring a proxy on your router might sound intimidating at first, but with the right tools and guidance, it’s a smooth ride that opens the door to smarter, more efficient networking.

No more per-device setup nightmares. No more wondering if a specific gadget is routing traffic correctly. Just centralised, seamless control—and who wouldn’t want that?

Review: Accolade Sports Collection (QUByte Classics)

Cody May
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Review: Accolade Sports Collection (QUByte Classics)

Play ball! Accolade Sports Collection (QUByte Classics) is a collection of sports titles originally released in the late 80’s and early 90’s. These titles include: Hardball!, Hardball 2!, Hoops Shut Up and Jam!, Winter Challenge, and Summer Challenge.

Thanks to QUByte Interactive & Atari these games were re-released for modern consoles on 01/30/2025.

Batter Up!

Nostalgia affects us all. I love re-visiting games from my childhood, or games I never played that released when I was a kid. Many gamers who grew up in the late 80’s and early 90’s will probably be interested in this collection for that reason.

Whether you played these games growing up or just want to remember what it was like playing sports games that released back then, these collections will always have a market.

But, nostalgia can also have a flip side, where that thing you loved growing up, isn’t as good as you remember. As a baseball and basketball fan, I was eager to jump into this collection and see what they had to offer. Sadly, these games have not aged well. In fact, they are quite bad.

Take Me Away From The Ballgame.

As a huge Dodgers & baseball fan, Hardball was naturally the first game I jumped into. Games from this era can sometimes have a barrier to entry, but I immediately had no idea what I was doing. Nothing is explained to you on screen.

After reading 14 pages of the manual (which you can access in the menus) I finally understood how to play. It was… okay. Pitches all looked the same, swing timing was weird, it all just felt off.

Hardball 2 was somehow worse. Moving onto the other sports titles proved to be the same. Hoops Shut Up and Jam was the one I had the most fun with, but I think mostly because it’s the simplest. Even it wasn’t much fun and I got bored after about 20 minutes.

There also isn’t a great variety of games in the collection. I understand you can only re-release what games were developed, but I find it hard to believe that a football, hockey, or soccer game was never produced.

This obviously limits those interested in this collection, as if you want any of these sports, they aren’t here. Two baseball games, a 2v2 street basketball game, and summer and winter games doesn’t exactly scream variety.

Conclusion

Accolade Sports Collection (QUByte Classics) was unfortunately a lackluster experience. I appreciate QUByte Interactive and Atari for keeping games like this alive. For people who grew up playing them, I’m sure it’s nice getting to walk down memory lane.

Obviously reviews are subjective, and I didn’t grow up when these games were being released. Other gamers could have a completely different experience with this collection.

Sadly, I just don’t feel the games hold up, nor are they fun to play.

Review: The Renovator: Origins

Daniel Waite
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Review: The Renovator: Origins

The Renovator: Origins is an occasionally cliched experience filled with chilling moments and a twisted approach. The first-person perspective drags you into a scary and claustrophobic world. Moreover, the authentic Russian dialogue enhances the atmosphere. Though it isn’t the most polished title, and progress can be confusing, it gets most aspects right, and it is a joy to play.

This indie horror game was developed by Peace Studio and published by Axyos Games. It is a single-player horror title with plenty of puzzles to solve. The dark is a scary place, and the developer has delivered the right blend of jump scares and genuinely scary moments.

The Renovator: Origins leaves you guessing.

The Renovator: Origins uses some tried and tested mechanics to create a familiar horror foundation. However, many of the puzzles leave you guessing, and you must search each small location for clues and a way to proceed. Though this slow, methodical approach may annoy some gamers, fans of the genre will love piecing together the information and solving the problems they face. 

You play the role of a museum restorers son. His passing is sudden, and the protagonist needs to visit his father’s estate to come to peace with his loss. As he begins his journey, things take a turn for the worse. The art becomes his new realm, and paranormal activities are his new norm.

Slow burner.

This psychological horror plays with your mind and pushes you into dark places. The use of shadow, light, and blind corners keeps you guessing throughout. Moreover, ghostly figures and sudden changes to already navigated arenas make you jump and gasp.

Searching each location for valuable items such as matches and kerosene is key. The darkness is not your friend, and candles and your handy lamp will keep you in the light. Alongside the sinister ambience are plenty of handwritten clues. These give you an insight into your father’s mindset and help you to understand the key elements of this strange plot.

The puzzles are less abstract, however. Most of the challenges involve you finding or moving a specific item. Thankfully, this is padded out nicely with some interesting cutscenes and plenty of jump scares along the way.

The Renovator: Origins looks great.

The Renovator: Origins is creepy. The earthy colour palette enhances the oppressive nature of the Eastern European setting. The grey buildings and muted colours work perfectly with the uncomfortable plot and weird goings-on. Alongside this, each small location is a joy to explore. Each of the classic horror moments was well-executed, and the seamless transition from creepy to normal was a pleasure to witness.

The audio blends calm music with a chilling vibe. These juxtaposing ideas create a sense of normality amongst the paranormal elements. Furthermore, the excellent ambient sounds show that life goes on outside the protagonist’s plight. This incredible soundscape delivers a truly atmospheric indie gaming experience.

Clumsy controls.

I’m not a fan of clumsy controls. They hold a game back and create unnecessary frustration. Unfortunately, The Renovator: Origins is guilty as charged. Though the navigation elements are good, using items to solve problems is annoying. I became stuck multiple times because the game doesn’t automatically use the item you have in your backpack. This makes you explore unnecessarily and wastes so much time.

This is a linear experience. As such, once you’ve completed every stage, there will be limited reasons to return. Thankfully, the 6-8-hour playtime was good, and though it lacks replay value and longevity, I think it is great value for money.

The Renovator: Origins is good despite my complaints.

The Renovator: Origins is a good indie horror game. Yes, it is occasionally cliched, and there are some controller issues, but these do not hold it back. The story is great, and the puzzles are a joy to solve. What’s more, the atmosphere is horrible, and the jump scares are well-timed. Accordingly, this is a good game, and I recommend buying it here! Can you break away from your father’s work? Explore every room, solve every puzzle, and stay away from the dark.

Review: Under Defeat

Cody May
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Review: Under Defeat

Under Defeat is a shoot-em-up on rails game which was originally released in Japan arcades in 2005. It would then go on to be released for the Sega Dreamcast, PS3, Xbox 360, and so forth. It was developed by G.rev.

Now, in 2025 thanks to publisher Clear River Games and Developer City Connection, Under Defeat was released on modern consoles 02/06/2025!

War Never Changes

Under Defeat takes place in an alternate history world war 2 where two factions, the empire and the union are clashing. A simple premise that doesn’t get elaborated on too much. After all, war never changes; fight for your side and try to come out victorious.

Story isn’t the focal point in Under Defeat. It’s drip fed through a brief intro cinematic and snippets of dialogue in the middle of gameplay.

In a game like this, it’s all about the gameplay, so if you are expecting story with Under Defeat just remember, it was originally an arcade game. The goal isn’t to entice you with a deep story that makes you question your humanity. The goal instead is to make a game that is both fun and challenging so you keep putting money into the machine to get to the end.

Under Distress

The gameplay in Under Defeat is both fun and chaotic. If you’ve played on rails vertical shooters like this then you’ll already know what to expect. Simple controls, keep moving forward, and fire at everything you see.

Not complex, but engaging. I was a bit shocked when I found myself having as much fun as I did. I’ve played many games like Under Defeat before. Some of them good, most of them not.

It’s hard to get a game like this right. The player doesn’t have much freedom. You don’t control where you go, your choices while surrounded by enemies are slim, but yet when it’s done well as it is here, it’s just so enjoyable.

Gameplay, Continued

Three things this game nails that makes it so fun; challenge, soundtrack, aesthetic. This game is hard, and sure, I’m not great at these types of games anyway so maybe it’s just me, but I struggled a lot. I’ll even admit that I had to crank the difficulty down to easy and give myself extra lives just to complete it (don’t laugh).

While I’m suffering with the challenge, the soundtrack and aesthetic fills me with so much joy. The look of the game gives me so much nostalgia back to how games looked when I was growing up. It also gives me a lot of Metal Gear Solid 3 vibes in the way it looks. A nostalgic sign of the times.


Graphics combined with the stellar soundtrack really bump this game up. You can listen to the original soundtrack composed by Shinji Hosoe, or listen to the new soundtrack which is included in this HD version composed by Yousuke Yasui. Both are fantastic and I highly recommend listening to each.

Conclusion

Under Defeat is a game I immediately fell in love with. It’s simple but challenging gameplay combined with amazing soundtrack and graphics come together perfectly like peanut butter & jelly.

At a very reasonable price point you get the above plus a lot of replay value. You can go for high scores, play the original arcade version or the new version which widens the screen to today’s standards. There’s many other gameplay options as well, like changing which soundtrack plays, difficulty options, how many lives you get.

This is a true hidden gem, and it’s a game I can’t recommend enough.

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