Review: Killing Time: Resurrected

Daniel Waite
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Review: Killing Time: Resurrected

Killing Time: Resurrected is a great remaster of the failed 3DO machine title. Gamers from this era fondly remember the original and this modern take captures many of those great elements whilst adding a generous layer of polish. However, this Boomer-Shooter delivers some fantastic FMV overlays and a whole host of ghastly creatures as you shoot and explore the vast levels.

This first-person horror adventure was developed and published by Nightdive Studios. Moreover, it is a single-player title that shows off its 1990s roots perfectly. Though the gameplay is rudimentary by modern standards, I loved the Doom-inspired action and the mindless mechanics. Shooting your way through waves of zombies, ducks, and 2 headed devil hounds made me smile. What’s more, the relatively short playtime prevents this from outstaying its welcome.

Killing Time: Resurrected tells a cursed story.

Playing with ancient Egyptian artefacts is bound to end badly. Unfortunately, Tess Conway, the wealthy heiress discovers this to her detriment. As she tries to unlock the power of immortality, things go awry. The ritual goes wrong and Ms Conway and her staff disappear without a trace. Consequently, you must explore her vast estate to recover the artefact and reverse the curse.

This sounds like an easy job, but every cursed creature is out to get you. The screams of ducks and the howl of demonic monsters make your skin crawl. Furthermore, don’t get me started about the zombie gardeners and the army of deadly chefs. In short, this is one weird ass game that throws plenty of surprises your way.

Standard gameplay.

I wasn’t blown away by Killing Time: Resurrected’s rudimentary gameplay. Other Boomer-Shooters deliver a more refined and enjoyable shooting experience. Yet, I liked the incredible FMV overlay and the wonderful storytelling. As you explore the incredible mansion, you encounter a range of spectral beings who break up the pixelated visuals. These cinematic treats have a beautiful blue hue to deliver a modern edge.

The map is a pleasure to explore. Guns, buildings, puzzles, and traps await you. Alongside this, there are waves of creepy foes waiting to smash you into a million pieces. Thankfully, guns and ammo are not in short supply and this makes dealing with the seamlessly never-ending foes an enjoyable task. My only complaint was the clowns! No one likes clowns. Not even clowns like clowns.

Killing Time: Resurrected is a fine visual trip down memory lane.

The 3DO was a machine that faltered and flopped. However, the memory of one of its much-loved titles lives on. Killing Time: Resurrected looks fantastic on a modern machine. Though it is pixelated and the colour palette isn’t as vivid as I’d have liked, it is still great to look at. The aforementioned FMV was a treat in the 90s, and the blue hue prevents the resolution and clarity from being an underwhelming mess.

The audio is a strange blend of ambient sounds, harsh firepower, and 1930s-inspired music. Though this shouldn’t work, it does. I adored the moments of silence and the eerie wind. Moreover, the demonic monsters have OTT sound effects that enhance the horror edge. Some of the acting is a little corny, but I didn’t care. The story is well-delivered and I enjoyed each snippet of cinematic.

Excellent controls.

The control system has been given a glorious overhaul. This was perfect as I’m not sure I’d have enjoyed the clunky, albeit retro nature of the original approach. Flipping through weapons and dodging incoming monsters was a cinch. Furthermore, I loved exploring the vast map and the various buildings you encounter.

Killing Time: Resurrected is sadly lacking replay value. I finished it in around 5 hours and addicted gamers could get through this in one sitting. This was a shame as you are left wanting. However, I liked the added extras that enhance the depth whilst giving clarity to some of the development decisions. Additionally, you can explore unused assets and witness the cinematic in one place.

Killing Time: Resurrected is a great remaster.

I’m not always a fan of remastered games. However, Killing Time: Resurrected is an exception. The tweaks have improved an already much-loved experience. What’s more, it rarely outstays its welcome and that is ideal if you have limited time. The difficulty isn’t too challenging and the variety of weapons and monsters was great. Accordingly, I like this shooter and I recommend buying it here! Can you find the artefact and remove the curse? Pick your weapon, explore the estate, and save the day.

Review: GreedFall II: The Dying World (Early Access)

Josh Blackburn
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Review: GreedFall II: The Dying World (Early Access)

GreedFall II raised two points of confusion for me. Firstly, despite that two in the name, GreedFall II is a prequel. Now, admittedly, this saved me the hassle of looking up plot recaps for the original, but having a two take place before a one just didn’t sit right with me. Call it GreedFall zero or something. Secondly, there’s the practice of putting a story-driven game through Early Access. Ultimately, the people that buy in early are likely going to experience the same story, but in a worse way. The means of presenting the story is key.

I bring up this point because, in many ways, GreedFall II is extremely rough. In fact, it raises the question of what exactly is too ‘early’ for ‘early access’? Where do you draw the line between dialing in the key parts of your game, to just straight up making people pay to be your QA department? Still, despite the vitriol that this review will inevitably spew, I don’t hate GreedFall II. There’s promise here, but it’s buried so far under bugs and unsatisfying mechanics. This game is absolutely not ready to be pushed out onto the world stage.

GreedFall II

The Sun Never Sets

Let’s start with the positives before we drive the knife home. I really like the grounded nature of GreedFall II’s plot. Modern fantasy has a tendancy to get hung up on world-shattering events. Giant portals opening and demons taking over the world, that sort of thing. Instead, GreedFall II‘s plot revolves around a more realistic evil: colonialism. As a Brit, this is where I tug my collar nervously. Our protagonist is an islander on the island of Teer Fradee, whose homeland is ‘sharing’ space with newcomers, the Bridge Alliance. As the plot progresses, it becomes clear that this alliance is proferring gifts with one hand while tearing apart the island with the other.

The plot quests progress in a nice way too. The first main quest is to undergo a ritual to become a ‘sage’, which requires two grand tasks to be completed. These tasks relate to issues on the island and are nice and branching. Once you find the source of the issue, for instance, you can resolve it through clever thinking or just barge it and slaughter everyone, with the understanding that you’re giving ammunition to those who paint you as savages. It’s a refreshing approach to the questing and organically pushes you to explore the map, so as to exhaust your options for each quest.

The characters wrapped up in GreedFall II‘s quests are quite nicely written, too. You’re accompanied by another islander, Nilan, for example. A character who rages against all things foreign. Someone engineered to make you dislike them at first, then perhaps sympathise more as you delve into what’s going on. You’re then joined by a dashing rogue (or bored noblewoman if you prefer), a smuggler who’s helping the islanders, and a sailor trying to redeem herself. They all feel distinct, with believable motivations, and I enjoyed talking to them. Other than occasionally getting people’s genders muddled, the dialogue is quite nice too.

GreedFall II

Putting The Boot In

That’s enough praise of GreedFall II, I’m afraid. Let’s instead go to my biggest bugbear: the combat. It’s a hybrid system. You move in real-time but you can pause the action and stack up skills. I find it a fairly bland system. It’s okay when combat requires tactical thinking, but most of the time it’s just idly trading blows until one side falls down. What doesn’t help is the fact that so much of it is broken. Allies are meant to auto-attack, which is crucial for building up action points, but they frequently don’t bother. At one point, all three of my allies just stood there, taking axe blades to the face, waiting for me to come sort it out.

Just using a skill can be a pain, too. You have to move an imprecise reticule over the enemy of choice, then pray it doesn’t bug out. In every other fight, the reticle would fly to the edge of the screen and refuse to move. You even have to use it for the basic attack (when you’re not paused), rather than it just targeting the nearest enemy. A lot of GreedFall II is broken, as it happens. The sheer amount of visual bugs is quite impressive. A violently vibrating NPC is a common sight, for one, and my protagonist had a strange habit of shaving all his hair off after important cutscenes.

There are less funny bugs, though. At one point, fast travel disabled itself, making me continually trudge back and forth across a mostly empty map. Optimisation could use some work, too. It has high requirements for the best graphics, but even when I’d dropped the graphics down, it would often drop frames in random areas. It does look fairly nice, I’ll grant it that. On top of that are some generally wonky mechanics. Stealth was very frequent in the main story, for instance, but was fairly dull. In areas where it’s necessary, NPCs walk in very obvious patterns, so the main effect is just walking slower to your destination.

GreedFall II

GreedFall II – Not Yet Ready

The question I keep coming back to is ‘why Early Access’? Only about a third of the story is finished at this point, and the next update has been delayed without a new date. So you’re experiencing only a few chapters, but in a rough, frustrating state. Like reading the first three chapters of a novel, written on sandpaper. At the moment, the open world is rather bare, with a handful of sidequests dotted around. I slipped through the second region without even meaning to, as there were only about two main quests there. Inevitably, these areas will be fleshed out in future releases, so you’d have to replay it anyway. Why cash in now?

I suppose if you’re a big fan of the original GreedFall, and want to support the sequel, then watching it evolve and being able to give feedback is a nice perk. For everyone else, though, it’s a big risk. If I wasn’t obliged to write this review, I’m not sure if I’d have stuck it out. The sheer amount of bugs was frustrating, and the dull-at-best combat wasn’t gripping me. The writing, however, did have a hold on me. But, ultimately, a piece of writing is only as good as the medium that conveys it. By that metric, GreedFall II is not, yet, worth your time.

(GreedFall II’s Steam Page)

Review: OWS01 air-conducting headphones

Daniel Waite
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Review: OWS01 air-conducting headphones

The OWS01 air-conducting headphones from iClever are perfect for active children. Moreover, they are lightweight and easy to handle. Consequently, your child will not feel them on their head and they can use them with ease. This was fantastic as they felt they controlled every aspect of this portable listening device.

Alongside this, they have fantastic audio quality and a high degree of safety. As the ears are not covered and there is no ANC to block out external sounds, users are aware of surrounding noises and dangers. This is particularly useful if your child likes to exercise in busy parks or along main roads. Though they can lose themselves in their music, they are always aware of what is happening around them.

What’s in the box of the OWS01 air-conducting headphones?

  • The box is compact and understated. It won’t catch your eye, but it is robust and can be recycled. 
  • The OWS01 air-conducting headphones are pleasant to the eye and nice to handle. They come in an array of colours and I’m reviewing the teal and lilac option.
  • A small USB-C charging cable is provided. 
  • Learn the basics with the user manual. 

Technical aspects. 

The OWS01 air-conducting headphones use Bluetooth 5.4. This stable connection has a large range and I had no issue with connecting to the headphones. Additionally, there were no latency issues or uncomfortable cracking and popping. Though the battery life isn’t huge, I enjoyed around 12 hours of playtime for every 2-hour charge. This was suitable for my daughter’s workout routine and we never worried about running out of juice.

These headphones sit away from the eardrums. However, I still worry about excessive volume and the damage it can cause. Thankfully, there is an audio limiter to prevent children from blasting out their tunes. The volume is limited to 85 dBA and this was more than suitable. The combination of a 14.2mm driver and the air conducting technology helps to deliver great audio without jeopardising safety and usability.

Audio quality. 

I’ve used some amazing bone-conducting and air-conducting headphones. Though the OWS01 air conducting headphones don’t compare, they are much cheaper and better suited to a younger audience. Furthermore, the audio quality is good enough for younger ears. The volume limiter may frustrate your child at first, but they’ll quickly get used to it.

I was impressed by the clear tones and the generous bass line. What’s more, I didn’t struggle to hear my music when surrounding noises increased in volume. iClever has done an amazing job of delivering clarity and safety. My daughter could run and listen to her music whilst holding a conversation with me. This was a pleasant change from the challenges that over-ear headphones pose.

The high-amplitude dynamic 14.2 mm drivers use DRC technology to deliver enhanced bass and rich, detailed sound. This was perfect as your child can enjoy their favourite songs without compromising on the quality. 

Build quality. 

These headphones use a memory steel wired frame for flexibility. Moreover, they are unbelievably robust. iClever claims that you can twist and turn the frame without deformation. I tested this a bit, but I wasn’t brave enough to push it too far. During my tests, the headphones sprang back to their original shape no matter how hard I twisted them.

If your child likes to exercise in all weathers, then worry not. The IPX4 waterproof rating is reassuring. Additionally, the handy port cover prevents dirt and debris from damaging the charging area. Alongside this, the buttons are tactile and easy to locate. As such, each user can adjust their settings without removing the headphones.

Are the OWS01 air-conducting headphones worth it?

Air and bone-conducting headphones are fantastic. However, the audience is relatively niche and this restricts the appeal. Consequently, unless your child loves to exercise or they don’t like over-ear headphones, the OWS01 air-conducting headphones may not be for you. Yet, if you want a well-built and wonderfully safe alternative that is ideal for sports-loving youngsters, then I recommend buying these here!

(More information on iClever can be found here!)

The OWS01 air-conducting headphones have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Orange Season

Daniel Waite
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Review: Orange Season

Orange Season is a game that showed plenty of promise. It’s instantly pleasant to the eye and I liked the calm audio. However, it is tarnished with bugs and none of the gameplay feels original. Moreover, many of its peers are better in practically every aspect. Therefore, I can’t see how this indie farming experience will appeal to would-be virtual farmers.

This simulation title was developed by Innerfire Studios and published by SOEDESCO. What’s more, it is a single-player game that is reasonably time-consuming. If you have the patience of a saint and the hours to waste, you could complete every NPC-based quest. Yet, this is unlikely as you’ll become frustrated by the clunky controls and the game-breaking bugs.

Orange Season tells a familiar story.

Every farming sim focuses on the newbie coming to town and reviving the broken farmstead. Disappointingly, Orange Season doesn’t break this mould and you yawn as the inevitable story unfolds. Once you break the back of the tedious intro, you are left to your own devices. This is where the game should have excelled, but it doesn’t. Farming, mining, fishing, and rearing animals demand your attention and eye for detail.

In theory, each of these core mechanics should have been enjoyable. However, the financial element is out of balance and you become bored with sorting out your farm and watering your crops. Additionally, it is quicker and easier to forage for valuable items as you explore the vast map. This is where Orange Season excels. The town is bloody huge! Furthermore, there are loads of NPCs to interact with. This should have been the piece de resistance, but it wasn’t. Finding each person to accept quests was tiresome and the map was as useful as a chocolate teapot.

Too many bugs.

This is laced with countless bugs. I’m aware that the developers are trying to rectify the issues, but it currently makes the game a challenge to play. You become stuck in rocks or hit invisible walls. This causes you so many problems that you feel like quitting within minutes. On top of this, the map occasionally doesn’t work and this makes finding any of the NPCs a tough ask.

The map is extremely vague as well. Navigating the world should have been interesting and fun. However, finding where each person was located was an uphill struggle. This constant issue made quest hunting a bore and everything felt like a chore. I accept that sim games should have a sense of realism, but I don’t want to play a game that makes me want to scream with frustration every 3 minutes.

Orange Season shows that you can polish a turd.

Orange Season has managed to polish a turd! Visually, it is a cute and wholesome experience that is pleasant to look at. Moreover, I loved the vast world and the varied backdrops. Yet, this beautiful setting hides the mess that stares you in the face. I despise the invisible walls and the poor UI. Furthermore, the glitches undermined the final polish and that was disappointing.

The audio is great. I adore calm farming sim soundtracks and this didn’t let me down. As the time ticks away, you’ll enjoy a blend of upbeat and calm music. This is complemented by the sound effects and some nice ambient noises.

Awful controls.

I found the controls to be clumsy and poorly considered. Everything felt like a chore and this was annoying. Though you are told what to do and the thorough tutorial sets you up well, everything lacks a sharp edge and this makes the simplest of tasks annoyingly challenging.

Orange Season could be addictive if the developer sorts out the issues. Yet, I can’t see this happening and many people will have buyers regret almost immediately. If I hadn’t reviewed it, it would have been uninstalled pretty quickly.

Orange Season is a rubbish farming game.

There is no way to say this nicely, but this is a rubbish farming game. Completing each quest was a ridiculous and arduous task that will piss off the most patient of gamers. Furthermore, it is far too buggy to enjoy. Accordingly, I don’t recommend buying it, but more information can be found here! Do you want to become a farmer? If the answer is yes, buy one of its peers.

Review: Loco Motive

Saim Khurshid
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Review: Loco Motive

Developed by Robust Games and Published by Chucklefish, Loco Motive is a Comedy point-and-click Adventure game that follows amateur detectives as they try to solve a case on a train.

Adventure games, or clicky thingy games, have dived since the early years of PC gaming. What used to be a somewhat comedic attempt at testing one’s problem-solving skills has been reduced to an interactive comedy film.

Loco Motive is no different with easy puzzles and large portions of walking around, however, everything is forgiven when you give me a story that is absorbing, uproarious, and filled with quality voice acting.

An Easy Task to Play

You can’t blame the STUDIO for the lack of puzzles in this game. In the end, it’s the money you need to make over the actual effort behind the making of the game. Despite the niche beauty of something Loco Moco, it is, in the end, just that, a niche. 

Once the nostalgia crowd have had their fill, you have to leave a game for the younger and dumber target audience to enjoy.

In short, If you are looking for a challenge then Loco Moco will not suffice. However, if you want a good laugh and enjoy some nicely written story, then it has your back. 

Point and Laugh

After Multi Billionaire businesswoman heiress Lady Unterwald gets stabbed to death in the dark, Detective Herman Merman takes the case. Only to get scared and go hide inside a cupboard.

This leaves Paperwork-loving Lawyer Arthur Ackerman to find the motive and reveal any clues regarding the murder of Lady Unterwald. In his journey, he takes the help and often plays second-fiddle to, Diana Ostman and Detective Herman Merman.

So yes, it’s funny and it’s no joke.

The game has you walking through a hotel train hybrid, talking to people and finishing many little tasks. Always on the search of clues and answers. 

Every single character you meet has many lines of changing dialogue depending on progression. Carefully crafted, each interaction is both knee-slap funny and intriguing to listen to. This comes down to the brilliant voice acting at play from many talented voice actors. 

The game is split into parts that change every time the current objectives are met. Each part acts as a time jump and will allow all the characters to move around on the train. This gives the game a feeling of life that would have otherwise been lost.

Despite my issues with the game being too easy, I managed to stay invested due to the many characters this game has. From the bickering twins, angry cooks to the terrified doctor and frustrated Finance Manager, there is always someone to talk to and have a good laugh.

An Enjoyment all-Oval

Here’s what I will say to end it all. A game is not always what it should be. Sometimes, if not most of the time, it is the lack of what is envisioned that makes a game worth your while.

Of course, this does not excuse Loco Motive to have nothing more than easy, if not lazy, puzzles but it does paint a picture. Would better puzzles make this a better game? 100% But does the lack make it a worse game to play? No!

The story, the jokes and ear massaging voice acting, make LocoMotive something worth a recommendation.

And it is not clear yet, I enjoyed my time playing this game, regardless of the flaws that it had.

Review: BTH20 headphones

Daniel Waite
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Review: BTH20 headphones

I haven’t covered an iClever product for a while. However, I’m always impressed by the audio, build quality and built-in volume limiter. I have 3 girls and I hate the thought of them damaging their hearing. Thankfully, this brand is renowned for its child-friendly products. The BTH20 headphones are no different. They offer exceptional build quality and iClever’s latest technological advances.

These stunning headphones are perfect for children aged 3 years or older. Furthermore, if your child is rough with their possessions, you needn’t worry. The combined plastic materials offer double the durability. Additionally, iClever tested this product within an inch of its life and it still survived. See the video below as the durability is tested.

What’s in the box of the BTH20 headphones?

  • The compact box is relatively understated. However, it is robust and the contents are well packaged. 
  • The BTH20 headphones have a pleasant dual green/blue livery. What’s more, there is a large button, a 3.5mm port and an adjustable headband.
  • A 3.5mm audio cable is provided.
  • Use the USB-C cable to quick charge the device.
  • Learn the basics with the user manual. 

Technical aspects.

Child-friendly headphones focus on audio-limiting technology and comfort. The BTH20 headphones are limited to 80 dBA for a safer experience. Alongside this, they have unique listening modes. As you flick between each option, you create immersive audio that combines active and passive noise cancellation. The result is clear music, dialogue, or gaming. Moreover, your child doesn’t need to ratchet up the volume when traversing loud locations. Consequently, it is a win-win.

If you love wireless technology, then these headphones will be right up your street. The 5.4 Bluetooth technology has a good range and a strong and stable connection. Alternatively, you can use the provided audio cable and forget about the battery life. The battery is impressive! If you use the ANC tech, you’ll enjoy up to 35 hours of playtime. Yet, with the ANC turned off, this jumps to a whopping 60 hours. If you happen to run short of juice, you can enjoy 5 hours of music with a 10-minute charge.

Audio quality. 

I tested these headphones alongside my oldest daughter. We were both impressed by the range of tones and the clear bass line. Additionally, the noise limiter prevented the audio from cracking and distorting. This was fantastic as it meant we could enjoy our favourite songs and TV series without worrying about poor audio quality. 

If you need a microphone, this headset has you covered. Though it wasn’t important for me or my children, the built-in device is useful for gaming on a tablet and talking to your friends. The microphone delivers reasonable pick-up and is ideal for group chats or small voice notes. If you want high-quality voice recording, this won’t tick that box. 

Build quality.

Where these headphones excel is the robust build quality. I was amazed by the flexibility of the headband. They can be twisted and tugged and they don’t break a sweat. This is impressive if you have heavy-handed kids. Furthermore, they can take some drops and tumbles as clumsy kids throw them around. I liked the lay flat design and the handy eco-friendly carry bag. The strong hinges flex and move with ease and I had no concerns about breakages. 

Alongside this, the headband is flexible. Therefore, they are great for different head shapes and sizes. Moreover, they are ideal if you have younger or older children. The plush earcups sit over your ears and they never feel too hot. Additionally, my daughter felt no pressure on her temples whenever she used the BTH20 headphones. Finally, the large buttons were great for a user-friendly experience.

Are the BTH20 headphones worth it?

These wireless or wired headphones are perfect for younger users. The sound quality is fantastic and the audio limiter prevents developing eardrums from becoming damaged. Moreover, the build quality is impressive and I loved the vibrant colour palette. On top of this, the battery life is great and we experienced no issues connecting these headphones to compatible devices. Accordingly, I love them and I recommend buying them here!

(More information on iClever can be found here!)

The BTH20 headphones have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Jackbox Naughty Pack

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Jackbox Naughty Pack

Jackbox Naughty Pack bucks the franchise tradition. This latest iteration only includes 3 games and 2 of them are a rehash of previous experiences. This may seem like I’m complaining, but I’m not. Instead, I was a little confused as to why the developer broke with tradition. 

This party game was developed and published by Jackbox Games, Inc. Moreover, it is a 2 to 10-player title that blossoms with a larger group. Yet, I cannot stress this enough, choose your audience wisely. This kinky and occasionally seedy game isn’t appropriate for everyone. What’s more, I’m not sure I want to know what inspires my mother-in-law in a dirty and sexual way.

Jackbox Naughty Pack treads new ground. 

This franchise has always been manic, fast-paced, and in your face. Yet, it hasn’t pushed sex and dirty talk quite like this. Jackbox Naughty Pack risks alienating plenty of people with its cutting nature and occasionally uncomfortable antics. However, if this is your thing, you will enjoy the immature questions and the silly tasks. 

The 3 games are Fakin’ It All Night Long, Dirty Drawful, and Let Me Finish. The names tell you everything you need to know! It is fun with a filthy edge. What’s more, with the right group, it is bloody hilarious. Yet, if you team up with random individuals, I’d hate to think of what would come to light. Accordingly, this is best tackled with your inner circle of friends.

What’s this all about?

Fakin’ It All Night Long is a sleuthing game of finding the odd one out. Naturally, the bigger the group, the more fun this is. Each player except 1 has an instruction sent to their device. This individual must try to blend in and trick the rest of the group. The aim of the game is to pick the odd one out. If the faker avoids detection, they win and the rest of the group loses. This simple concept was amusing and easy to understand. Moreover, tricking your friends was naughty.

Dirty Drawful is a dirty version of Guess What It Is. The imagery is rotten at best and certainly not suitable for younger audience members. Yet, if you keep it reasonably clean but risqué, it can make you laugh repeatedly. The only issue with this mode is the quality of your drawing. It can be difficult to work out what is going on and this makes it equally amusing and frustrating.

Let Me Finish is argumentative and bizarre. Trying to convince your opponent that your point of view is correct is spectacularly weird. Furthermore, it is reliant on the ability to argue a non-existent point about utter rubbish. Consequently, this relies heavily on the ability to improvise and that is off-putting.

Jackbox Naughty Pack has a basic appeal. 

The visuals are unusually basic. Though everything is clean and interesting to look at, it doesn’t blow you away. However, I liked the animation and how each game was structured. Jackbox Naughty Pack does enough to keep you focused without confusing the situation. 

The audio follows suit. There is enough music and sound effects to create a fun atmosphere. What’s more, it has a classic quiz game feel even though the content is somewhat naughty. If you’ve played other games in the franchise, you’ll know exactly what to expect. 

Simple controls. 

The use of a mobile device makes this a simple game to play. However, the drawing element is cumbersome and this is as unfortunate. I liked the ability to drop in and out of games and the collective nature of everyone playing together in one room or online.

Replay value and longevity are restricted because of the adult nature. Unlike other franchise titles, this one isn’t suitable for everyone. Yet, if you want a drinking game or something to add energy to a get-together, this offers enough depth to keep you going. 

Jackbox Naughty Pack is fun to play. 

I like it when a game tries to push the boundaries. Jackbox Naughty Pack has done just that with its adult theme and silly tasks. Though I’d have preferred more content, I enjoyed playing this with my friends. Moreover, it was great to see some classic game modes again. Accordingly, though the appeal is limited, I recommend buying it here! Will you succeed in this adult-themed game? Pick your game mode and put your mind in the gutter.

A Closer Look at the BYO Christmas Eve Box

Andrew Edney
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A Closer Look at the BYO Christmas Eve Box

With Christmas only a week away now, we take a closer look at the BYO Christmas Eve Box.

Keep little ones entertained before the big day with Build Your Own’s new Christmas Eve Box. Bursting with seasonal fun, it’s the perfect gift for children to enjoy the Christmas build up and magical memories that it brings.

With more than 18 festive activities included, kids will have hours of fun as excitement for Santa’s arrival grows.

There’s a brilliant 64-page activity booklet packed with puzzling fun, a cool reindeer mask, and Penguin bowling game. Colour the inside of the box to create a festive scene for your slot-together cardboard reindeer, then add the cute accessories – Christmas tree, gift, plate, glass of milk, cookies and carrots. 

When it’s bedtime, there’s a double-sided ‘Santa Stop Here’ doorhanger for excited children to hang up. You can personalise your door hanger for that added special touch.

There’s even a little extra space in the Christmas Eve Box for you to pop in a gift or two of your own. Favourite sweets, a Christmassy book, a pair of festive pyjamas – you can make your gift truly unique for the most magical Christmas Eve.

  • A fun way to build the Christmas excitement 
  • Made from 100% sustainable cardboard and paper. Fully recyclable.
  • Activity set suitable for children 4 years+, best enjoyed as a family experience
  • Mess-free, slot together cardboard construction  
  • Skill level rating: 1 star out of 5 
  • 50 press-out parts 
  • Over 60 minutes of fun
  • Full instructions included 

The BYO Christmas Eve Box is available now priced around £14.99 and is a lot of fun.

You can learn more about it from the Build Your Own website.

Review: Kong: Survivor Instinct

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Kong: Survivor Instinct

Kong: Survivor Instinct is a repetitive game that could have been spectacular. However, many of its mechanics are overshadowed by its peers. Furthermore, a lack of originality, weaponry, or new tricks, prevents the best moments from excelling. This was a shame as there were some amazing ideas. Yet, they were starved of food and water and withered and died as a consequence.

This 2.5D side-scrolling adventure was developed and published by 7Levels. Moreover, it is a single-player game with a hint of Metroidvania action. This hearty combination should have been a surefire winner. But sadly, it was not. Unlike its big-hitting peers, the key elements lack a wow factor. Additionally, they play it safe and this prevents it from really capturing your attention.

Kong: Survivor Instinct has a yawn-worthy story. 

Disaster, loss, fear, and hopelessness are great ingredients for a captivating adventure. However, if they are poorly presented and badly mixed, they will send you to sleep. Disappointingly, Kong: Survivor Instinct blends its core story layers badly. The story is unfortunately bland and the acting and one-liners are worse. This was a shame as it could have been amazing.

The Titans have attacked and a sudden evacuation is called. David Martin is stuck in the middle as he wants to escape, but his only daughter is missing. Accordingly, he does what any good parent would do, and places himself in the danger zone. As he explores a newly felled world, he must avoid obstacles, and summon Kong to help flatten buildings and remove trains and busses. Whilst he explores each ruined area, he will help trapped survivors and battle goons to save the day.

Basic ideas. 

The core gameplay loop comprises some rudimentary combat of melee weapons, pushing and shoving, and pistols at dawn. None of these encounters are testing and you’ll dodge, parry, and weave until you are victorious. If you die, and that is likely, fear not. You simply respawn and try again. This was ridiculous but handy as I wouldn’t want to visit every parkour or combat encounter again. 

Many of the puzzles require you to push crates, shoot locks, or smash walls. Things are mixed up when a grappling hook can be used for preordained locations. However, many of these moments are basic at best and require little mental prowess. This was a shame as the developer could have included some weird and wonderful tech. Instead, they kept it straightforward and the game suffered as a consequence.

Where Kong: Survivor Instinct excels is the occasional Titan chase section and the parkour moments. Leaping across rooftops and avoiding falling concrete was great. Moreover, escaping the grasp of an annoyed Titan was enthralling. Though there was a sense of trial and error, and mistakes were commonplace, I enjoyed the sense of urgency and the excitement.

Kong: Survivor Instinct delivers a delicious apocalyptic scene.

Though the core gameplay mechanics left me wanting, the visuals are great. The sense of depth and despair was captivating. Additionally, I loved observing the Titans as they decimated the city. Though the design was occasionally simple, the use of earthy colours created a sense of loss and destruction.

The audio complements the idea of complete bedlam. The dramatic soundtrack flits from aggressive and uncomfortable tones to some lush sombre moments. These juxtaposing ideas create depth and help to sell the familiar story.

Basic controls. 

There are some great platforming moments. However, the clumsy controls make things a little tricky. I fell from great heights and mistimed attacks more than I’d like to admit. Yet, the rudimentary control setup was pleasant to master. I never felt out of my depth and I got on with the action in no time at all. 

The Metroidvania elements help to pad out the gameplay. However, there is only 6 hours of story to absorb. This was a shame as it could have easily been larger and more engrossing. Had the developer explored more advanced ideas or created side quests, this could have hit the 10-15 hour mark with ease.

Kong: Survivor Instinct should have been much better. 

There are some flashes of genius, but these moments are fleeting. This was a shame as the foundations were set for an amazing gaming experience. Had the developers unleashed the shackles and taken a gamble, they’d have delivered a game worthy of its hulking protagonists. Sadly, it lacks the punch I was expecting and this prevents me from recommending it. More information can be found here if you wish! Can you become a hero? Explore the ruins, overcome every obstacle, and tame Kong.

Review: Mario vs. Donkey Kong

Khloe Turner
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Review: Mario vs. Donkey Kong
Mario vs. Donkey Kong Nintendo Switch 2024

When you think of your favorite Super Mario Bros. or Donkey Kong games . . . the Mario vs. Donkey Kong series probably doesn’t come to mind. But, if you were a Gameboy Advanced kid, you have likely played the first installment: a light-hearted crossover between two beloved Shigeru Miyamoto franchises, with an atmospheric semblance of old-school Jumpman, staring everyone’s favorite Italian plumber knocking down a necktie-d ape a peg or two.

Twenty years since 2004, the original Mario vs. Donkey Kong gets a highly polished remake with quality-of-life improvements and stellar visuals for the Nintendo Switch. If you have never played the original, or have puzzle-loving children or younger siblings, the 2024 version is worth a shot.

Mario vs. Donkey Kong came out in January of 2024 and is available on the Nintendo Switch.

Oooh, shiny!

Nintendo titles are not always known for their plotlines: Mario vs. Donkey Kong opens with a cutscene of Donkey Kong just chilling and watching television. He sifts through Shy Guy news broadcasts, an “mmm, banana!” channel, and ultimately a commercial about this new and shiny Mario windup toy. This ignites the childlike, oooh shiny appeal in DK’s eyes. So, he attempts to purchase one of the toys but it’s all sold out. In a bit of a fury, DK breaks into the toy factory itself and robs the place clean of all the windups, scaring a handful of toads. While running away, Mario makes an appearance and chases after him.

Donkey Kong watching the Mario windup toy commercial

There are several aspects of the remake that are different from the original. For one, a lot of little things are strangely removed, mostly voice lines. DK’s notably hilarious scream from 2004 is absent, as well as most of Mario’s dialogue. Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2024 used some of the pre-recorded vocal lines, as the game came out following Charles Martinet’s transition to being the “Mario Ambassador.” It is unclear as to why these changes exist.

While the overall story and ending(s) remain the same, there are slight changes in Mario’s and the toads’ demeanor. The protagonists are more friendly and sympathetic towards the selfish Donkey Kong, whereas in the original there are short scenes of the gang poking fun at him. These modern changes give off a more lighthearted tone, but again, the differences are rather pointless.

As light as a dumbbell

Is Mario vs. Donkey Kong remarkable in the gameplay department? No – it edges between a simple platformer and an easy puzzle game, and the mechanics are somewhat stiff. However, there are neat ideas incorporated into the 2024 version, such as the addition of a co-op mode where the second player is a toad. I found this co-op mode to be most appealing since it allowed me to play with my little sister, who had a blast. Players can also toggle between “casual” and “classic” difficulties, with the latter being supposedly harder, but there are not any radical differences. Mario vs. Donkey Kong is almost too simple, yet enjoyably goofy and family-friendly.

Mario doing a handstand in puzzle platformer Mario vs. Donkey Kong

The game appears to be light and bouncy like your typical Super Mario, but it is absolutely not. The controls are fine, yet rigid and heavy-feeling. Mario moves too slow in my opinion, and his jumps feel like I am trying to leap off of Jupiter. Occasionally, the control scheme feels imprecise, with questionable hitboxes and undeterminable gaps. On the other hand, there are a fair amount of cool character mechanics. Mario can jump, perform handstands to block falling objects (kind of impractical), equip hammers, do a backflip, throw objects, and more.

Most levels, at least in the main game, are unsurprisingly easy. For a puzzle platformer, it takes very little time to jump through stages. However, there are occasional difficulty spikes that come out of nowhere. Honestly, the first boss fight against Donkey Kong was kind of difficult due to his semi-erratic movements and the onslaught of falling debris.

In it for the long haul

There are over 130 levels to play, so while the stages themselves are short and straightforward, players will still get a solid 8-10 hours of main game playtime. There are 8 worlds with 8 levels per world, ranging from the classic DK Jungle to Merry Mini-Land to the Twilight City.

level select in Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2024

The Nintendo Switch version also includes extra “plus” levels and “expert” levels, which will certainly double your playtime. The plus stages add 8 new refreshing challenges per world, and then there are 16 expert stages, which players can only unlock by collecting at least 128 gold stars.

Finally, there is also a time attack mode. Players must get through stages under a specified time limit, of course. So . . . yes, the game offers loads of extra content. If you thought the main game was too easy, then the new and improved Mario vs. Donkey Kong made sure to throw in optional challenges!

Cartoon come to life

The remake looks super polished and absolutely amazing. It felt as if I were in Nintendo World just looking at it, with all the fine details and bright colors that pop. Donkey Kong has never looked so good!

Donkey Kong stealing Mario wind-up toys

In the Gameboy Advanced original, the cutscenes operated more like a slideshow; in 2024, players get to see incredibly crisp and fluid animations. I personally still feel the charm with all the updates. Again, the only downside is while the visuals have improved, most of the audio design has been removed. Still, the game’s soundtrack as per Nintendo is always whimsically charming.

Final thoughts

Ultimately, Mario vs. Donkey Kong is exactly what you would expect. Worth the full price? Maybe not, but still worth a try if you have never played the original, are incredibly fond of the series, or have little kids or siblings you want to play co-op with. Luckily, there are a lot of extra levels to explore – otherwise, if it were only an 8-hour game, a $50 price point is not worth it.

puzzle platformer level Mario vs. Donkey Kong

Mario vs. Donkey Kong is gorgeous, silly, and simple with some scattered challenges, and I suppose a remake never hurt anybody regarding a title that came out decades ago . . .

Review: Jackbox Survey Scramble

Daniel Waite
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Review: Jackbox Survey Scramble

Christmas is a time of giving. Furthermore, it is a time to meet friends and family and spend quality time together. Whether it is a film, a board game, or a video game, it matters not. The important thing is the time you spend together. If time is limited, you’ll want something addictive and easy to master. Moreover, it needs to be quick to complete—step forward Jackbox Survey Scramble.

This family-friendly quiz game was developed and published by Jackbox Games, Inc. What’s more, it is a 2-10-player experience that can be enjoyed with a TV and any mobile device. This flexibility was impressive and I enjoyed its straightforward nature. Additionally, you can drop in and out of games if something comes up.

Jackbox Survey Scramble has a classic quiz show approach. 

Usually, no story = no depth. However, this isn’t the case when you play Jackbox Survey Scramble. Instead, it is the simple action that makes it incredibly moreish. Furthermore, anyone can pick this up and give it a go. I loved this inclusive design as my kids felt like they were involved. Though some of the categories were beyond them, they laughed regardless.

The action revolves around 4 game modes. The developer has promised additional categories in the future. My understanding is this will be free to download, so this small title will evolve with time. Each of the modes uses the same survey-based concept. Moreover, there are popular and unpopular answers to find. Consequently, you’ll have to scratch your head and activate that grey matter.

Good old-fashioned gameplay. 

The 4 modes are Hilo, Speed, Squares, and Bounce. The first 2 are practically identical. However, the Speed mode tests your pace and knowledge against every other player. This is hilarious and it caused no end of arguments. Squares was an enjoyable tactical game of noughts and crosses. Effectively you must pick your category and prevent your opponent from completing a 3 grid line. This sounds easy but every minor mistake is crucial. If you cannot pick the highest value number, you’ll lose the round and any advantage. 

The split between finding the most popular and the least popular answers was slightly skewed. Most people are wired to think of the positives and thinking of something that may or may not exist was challenging. Yet, I liked the twist on the gameplay and the layers of depth that it added. Additionally, my kids were surprisingly good at thinking outside of the box, so they enjoyed this unusual element.

Can you guess the answers in Jackbox Survey Scramble?

Jackbox Survey Scramble looks pleasant. 

The developer hasn’t gone over the top aesthetically. Instead, everything is clean and vibrant, and pleasant to look at. Furthermore, the room code is always visible, so players can drop in as and when they like. The screen is easy to read and I liked the contrasting colours and the clear text.

The audio has an exciting edge that adds drama and pressure to each round. There are obnoxious sound effects and OTT announcements. Moreover, you’ll hear a ticking clock and high-energy music. Though it didn’t monopolise the experience, it worked perfectly with the core mechanics and the short rounds.

Excellent controls. 

The ability to play this using mobile devices was key. Simply scanning the QR code or entering the password was a cinch. What’s more, every element was responsive. The only issue you may encounter is a poor phone signal. This could delay things so just be mindful of this minor downside. 

4 game modes may seem too little. Yet, it is the variety of questions and the ever-evolving answers that keep this alive. The promise of new content and versatility make this appealing as well. As such, there is plenty of replay value and longevity if you have a good group of friends.

Jackbox Survey Scramble is great fun. 

I’m a sucker for quiz games. The competitive action and easy-to-master gameplay keep me coming back for more. Additionally, I love gaming with my family and friends. Though Jackbox Survey Scramble is refined, it has plenty of depth and loads of questions. Accordingly, I love it and I recommend buying it here! Can you top every leaderboard? Guess the answers, pick your tactics, and win every game.

Marvel Studios’ Infinity Saga Concert Experience

Andrew Edney
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Marvel Studios’ Infinity Saga Concert Experience

Join the Novello Orchestra for Marvel Studios’ Infinity Saga Concert Experience – a new Marvel Studios film concert that takes fans on an epic cinematic journey covering twenty-three films in one momentous concert experience, taking place at London’s Royal Festival Hall on the 4th March 2025 at 7:30pm.

Embark on a thrilling and unprecedented live concert journey through the Infinity Saga – from the
Tesseract’s concealment on Earth by the Asgardians, across time and space to Tony Stark’s ultimate sacrifice. Revisit the earliest days of Iron Man, Captain America, and Thor as they discover their place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe – each accompanied by their own unforgettable heroic music. Recapture the excitement as Earth’s mightiest heroes join forces for the first time and open the door to the next wave of Avengers.

This unique Marvel Studios adventure connects events, themes and characters from the MCU and celebrates “The Avengers,” “Iron Man,” “Black Panther,” “Black Widow,” “Thor,” “Captain America,” “Captain Marvel,” “The Hulk,” “Ant Man” and many more. The Guardians of the Galaxy don’t miss this party either, dropping in to deliver a taste of their iconic mixtape backed by the Novello Orchestra.

Marvel Studios’ Infinity Saga Concert Experience showcases scores by acclaimed composers, including Alan Silvestri, Christophe Beck, Danny Elfman, Henry Jackman, Lorne Balfe, Ludwig Göransson, Mark Mothersbaugh, Michael Giacchino, Patrick Doyle, Pinar Toprak, Ramin Djawadi, and Tyler Bates.  In addition, this custom-curated live-to-film experience features iconic songs from AC/DC (“Back in Black”), Blue Swede and Björn Skifs(“Hooked on a Feeling”), beloved songwriters Alan Menken and David Zippel (“Star Spangled Man”), and James Gunn and Tyler Bates (“Guardians Inferno”).

Marvel Studios’ Infinity Saga Concert Experience debuted in August 2024 at the world-famous Hollywood Bowl and was conducted by the Los Angeles Philharmonic Music & Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel. This concert event is a can’t-miss celebration for legions of Marvel Studios fans and lovers of cine-concerts across the globe.

The presentation is licensed by Disney Concerts.

Tickets on-sale Thursday 19th December, 10am

disneytickets.co.uk / ticketmaster.co.uk

Review: Uncle Chop’s Rocket Shop

Dawid Wisniewski
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Review: Uncle Chop’s Rocket Shop

Uncle Chop’s Rocket Shop is a unique indie roguelike set in a whimsical yet challenging universe. Developed by Beard Envy, this game puts players in the shoes of Wilbur, a mechanic stuck in a time loop, who repairs spaceships to pay his rent—or risk being obliterated by his tyrannical boss. This concept blends humour, creativity, and intense decision-making, making for a highly engaging yet polarizing experience.

At its core, the game revolves around repairing increasingly complex ships while navigating an ever-present pressure to meet financial quotas. It offers two modes of play: the methodical Focused Fixing and the chaotic Frantic Fixing. The former allows players to tackle three jobs per day without the constraint of time limits, ideal for learning the mechanics. The latter ramps up the intensity by introducing timers, rewarding efficiency but punishing mistakes harshly. This dual approach to gameplay caters to varying playstyles and ensures replay-ability for both casual and hardcore audiences.

The art and humour are a treat

The most striking aspect of the game is its immersive repair mechanics. Using a manual called the Grimoire, players diagnose and resolve issues ranging from cleaning spaceship toilets to repairing VR headsets and recalibrating reactors. The manual itself is a delightful piece of design, blending humour with detailed, intuitive instructions. However, as the tasks grow more intricate, the challenge escalates sharply. Mastering the manual becomes crucial, as any mistake—like missing a screw or misinterpreting instructions—can derail progress and lead to significant penalties.

Visually, Uncle Chop’s Rocket Shop is a treat. Its art style has drawn comparisons to Adventure Time and Rick & Morty, with its quirky, colourful aesthetic complemented by dry humour and amusing character designs. The supporting cast of alien clients adds personality, with each presenting unique challenges and interactions. These elements make the gameplay loop feel less like grinding and more like a comedic space sitcom.

Definitely worth the steep learning curve

The game is not without its flaws. The steep difficulty curve, particularly on the third day of each cycle, has been a common point of critique. Players must often purchase expensive workshop upgrades or machinery early on to prepare for these mandatory challenges—actions that are not always intuitive. Without prior knowledge or a stroke of luck, it’s easy to fall into a trap of financial ruin or failed runs, which some players find frustrating rather than motivating. Furthermore, timed objectives in Frantic Mode add an extra layer of stress that may not appeal to everyone, especially those looking for a more relaxed experience.

I have also noted issues with balancing and progression. For instance, certain upgrades feel underwhelming, offering minimal impact despite their high costs. Beyond its core gameplay, the game weaves in narrative layers with its time loop mechanic and intriguing side characters. Choices made during the day can lead to different outcomes at night, introducing branching storylines and the opportunity to join factions that alter the flow of the game. This depth, combined with procedurally generated challenges, ensures no two playthroughs feel the same.

The verdict

In summary, Uncle Chop’s Rocket Shop is a brilliantly imaginative game with a solid foundation of engaging gameplay, eccentric humour, and stylish presentation. However, its unforgiving difficulty and steep learning curve may alienate players seeking a more accessible experience. For those willing to invest time in mastering its mechanics, it offers a rewarding and memorable journey. It’s a must-play for fans of roguelikes and offbeat indie titles but may require some patience to fully appreciate its depth and quirks.

If you’re in the market for a game that combines spaceship repair with existential crises and absurd humour, Uncle Chop’s Rocket Shop is well worth checking out

News: Funko Fusion DLC

Daniel Waite
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News: Funko Fusion DLC

Funko Fusion was a game I covered in September (Here is my review). I looked forward to playing it and had mixed feelings about my experience. I scored it a 7/10 and concluded my thoughts accordingly. “Unfortunately, I feel that Funko Fusion was a little rushed. Moreover, the volume of bugs and the lack of cooperative action support this claim. However, this will be a great adventure title once the issues are ironed out. Yes, it is repetitive, but I’m not sure that matters. It will be the perfect family game that can be enjoyed casually.”

It has now had plenty of time for the bugs to be ironed out and more content to be added. In fact, that’s why we are here today! 10:10 Games proudly announces its latest DLC for Funko Fusion. The Office Cameo Pack and The Mega Man DLC. These are the latest and greatest additions to a game full of potential.

Meet the team for the Funko Fusion DLC
I loved the Easter Eggs in Funko Fusion DLC.

What’s included in the Funko Fusion The Office Cameo Pack?

The Office Cameo Pack DLC adds four new playable characters. Consequently, you can play as Michael, Dwight, Jim and Pam, each complete with their own unique weapons and skills—to the multiplatform franchise crossover game. 

In addition, this DLC features a unique mini bonus Cameo level that lets fans explore a recreation of Dunder Mifflin’s Scranton Branch in-game. The level features beloved elements of the celebrated TV series and has plenty of easter eggs for longtime fans to discover.

What characters will I see in the Mega Man DLC?

  • Dr. Wily – The infamous mastermind and rival of Mega Man, bringing his larger-than-life persona and unique flair to the game.
  • Proto Man – Mega Man’s enigmatic ally, offering players a chance to dive into his storied legacy while exploring his unique in-game abilities.

The Mega Man Pack DLC celebrates the franchise’s nostalgic charm while adding fresh and exciting gameplay elements to Funko Fusion. Whether you’re a diehard Mega Man fan or new to the universe, this crossover brings the best of both worlds.

Both DLCs are available for $9.99 on Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PC, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. Nintendo Switch owners can get their copy in early 2025.

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