With Christmas not that far away, we take a look at the Slimelicious Slimepresso Machine from Canal Toys.
Make delicious looking creations with the Slime ‘Presso Machine. Using the DIY powder, pour water from the machine, start the battery operated mixer and create colourful slime. Add the pre-made slime and decorations.
BATTERY POWERED MIXER: Use the battery powered mixer to create and mix your slimes!
SO COLOURFUL: Use the mix machine to make amazing slime!
STRETCH & SQUISH: Our slimes are super streachy and fun to squish!
ALL IN ONE: DIY and readymade slime included!
3 x AA (not includeded)
The box contains:
1 Electronic Mixer
10 Slime powders
5 Slimes Premade
8 Decoration bags
3 Cups
3 Straws
1 Recipes Card
This is a lot of fun, and will keep your child happy for hours!
The Slimelicious Slimepresso Machine from Canal Toys is available now priced around £24.99 and is aimed at children 6 years and up.
TRANSFORMERS: Galactic Trials is a refined racing game designed to enthral lovers of the franchise. Furthermore, it returns to a classic racing experience as arcade mechanics sit front and centre. Though this may not appeal to racing purists, it is great if you want an outlandish fantasy game.
This arcade racer was developed by 3DClouds and published by Outright Games. Furthermore, it is a single-player or couch multiplayer title. As such, there is a competitive edge if you have a good group of friends. Alternatively, the computer players offer a challenging layer as you work through the ranks and compete at the highest levels.
TRANSFORMERS: Galactic Trials tells a tale of woe.
The AUTOBOTS and DECEPTICONS always find something to fight about. Unfortunately, the evil dudes are always up to no good, and humanity and the universe rely heavily on the protection of the good guys. This classic mindset will never get old and I love the clichéd good vs evil approach.
TRANSFORMERS: Galactic Trials ups the ante with its tale of destruction and doom! Evil NEMESIS PRIME has stolen the Prime Relics. These ancient artefacts bestow incredible powers to those in their possession. Yet, the AUTOBOTS can not allow this atrocious act to pass and they destroy Evil PRIME’s ship as he makes his escape. The Prime Relics are scattered across the universe and the race to rescue them has begun.
Not a tale for a racing game.
Though the story is dramatic, it doesn’t match the racing genre. This strange approach doesn’t impact the gameplay but it felt more action-adventure than high adrenaline racer. The Galactic Trials comprise a handful of races of varying difficulty. During each event, you are given unique tasks to complete for an XP boost. Luckily, you can avoid the additional quests, but you must tick off the main mission or you’ll fail that race.
At the beginning of each event, you must pick a relic and weapon. The relics increase your stats and change the way you race. As the game unfolds, you unlock new and more powerful relics that give you a match-winning edge. Each event has 2 distinct gameplay elements. The racing is self-explanatory and you must drift and race across boost pads to take the lead. As you compete, you may shunt your opponents to take them down. This mechanic is often unfair and gamers will get frustrated as they are smashed into walls and lose their lead.
The second mechanic is a run-and-gun gauntlet. During this section, you must destroy guards, turrets, drones, and much more. This felt more like the game I was expecting and it was a welcome and challenging element that broke up the rudimentary racing. Though I enjoyed the run-and-gun idea, purists will wonder what is going on.
TRANSFORMERS: Galactic Trials isn’t a next-gen game.
Unfortunately, TRANSFORMERS: Galactic Trials lacks a wow factor. Visually it isn’t as impressive as I hoped and the level design is somewhat understated. Moreover, the character models lack detail and everything blurs into one colourful mess. This was a shame as I wanted the fantasy edge to create some truly magnificent racing memories.
The audio is loud and energetic, but equally unsurprising. If you closed your eyes, the sound effects and soundtrack could be from any recent racing title. The only elements that were distinctly TRANSFORMERS by design were the sound bites. The one-liners were good and my kids recognised each character.
Simple controls.
Thankfully, the control system is easy to understand and quick to master. The controller layout is basic and you’ll be up and running in no time. Drifting and high-speed curves take some practice on the tighter courses. Accordingly, some advanced driving elements must be tackled.
TRANSFORMERS: Galactic Trials has a basic character upgrade system and plenty of robots to unlock. Each of these unlockable characters is hidden behind challenges and race progression. Consequently, you must be invested if you wish to unlock everyone. This approach increases replay value and will make its intended youthful audience return for more.
TRANSFORMERS: Galactic Trials doesn’t break the mould.
Though I enjoyed TRANSFORMERS: Galactic Trials, it doesn’t break the mould. It’s a familiar racing game with an interesting adventure twist. Sadly, neither of these layers excels and this was a shame. However, it does enough to keep you interested as you test your driving skills. Accordingly, though it wasn’t spectacular, I recommend buying it here! Can you gather every Prime Relic? Pick your racer, choose your perks, and win every race.
Nick Jr Party Adventure is a wholesome experience that is perfect for primary school children. The familiar characters, short levels, and high-energy aesthetic are enough to keep them entertained. However, the simple puzzles will not test older children and this creates an unfortunate niche. Despite the limited appeal, I believe that younger children will fall for its charms.
This puzzle adventure title was developed by Melbot Studios and published by Outright Games. Furthermore, it is a single-player and couch cooperative title. Therefore, if your children need help, you can jump in and give them a hand. Alternatively, they can go it alone and complete every puzzle they encounter.
Nick Jr Party Adventure tells a simple tale.
The action is divided into 6 unique worlds. Each area has 12 levels and 3 collectables per stage. On top of this, some familiar antagonists wish to spoil the fiesta. These villains can be stopped easily and this is a key element in the more advanced stages. As you explore each world, you collect cosmetic items to customise your character. Though this has no impact on the gameplay, it was fun nonetheless.
Dora is throwing a fiesta and she wants her friends to come. Unfortunately, though, they are stuck in their worlds and need a hand to escape. This is where you come in! You’ll navigate each puzzle and help the guests get to the party. Each area is small and completing the tasks was simple for an adult. However, young children will have to use their brains to complete every objective.
Easy mechanics.
Each world has a unique backdrop and objectives to complete. You’ll have to control gates and power springs. Furthermore, you must move platforms and adjust pathways. As you progress, you’ll be expected to leap chasms, avoid obstacles, and thwart each antagonist. Thankfully, you can speed up or slow down the action.
This was perfect as the gameplay is pretty slow. Accordingly, once the puzzle is solved, you don’t want to hang around as each team member walks across the stage. What I love about Nick Jr Party Adventure is the lack of violence or a fear of failure. If you make a mistake, the game reverts you to a safe location and you try again. This approach was ideal for younger minds as they can experiment without concern.
Nick Jr Party Adventure is colourful but rough.
I had low visual expectations when installing this. Most child-friendly titles focus on the gameplay rather than the graphics. Unsurprisingly, Nick Jr Party Adventure is colourful but rough around the edges. The low-key graphics will not wow you. However, its vibrant colour palette and fun characters were pleasant to look at. Moreover, the stage design was interesting and my kids enjoyed each varied backdrop.
The audio is a little annoying. The repetitive soundtrack outstays its welcome pretty quickly. Yet, my daughters loved the sound bites and the fun sound effects. Consequently, it is a mixed bag and will drive adults mad.
Simple controls.
Like the puzzles, the controls are simple and easy to follow. The basic controller layout and clean UI ensure that youngsters require little assistance. However, if they need help, there are helpful prompts and voice notes to keep them on track.
Replay value and longevity are unfortunately limited. Once you hammer through every stage, there is no reason to return. This was unfortunate as the 72 levels come and go in a flash. Yet, the bite-size levels are perfect for short attention spans.
Nick Jr Party Adventure is nice but flawed.
I tested a pre-release build that unfortunately has some flaws. Visual glitches and an issue with save files undermine the current status. I’m assured that these issues will be ironed out before release and my opinions are based on this promise. Subsequently, despite its problems, it is a fun game for youngsters. Additionally, the puzzles are well-balanced and will test primary school kids. Accordingly, I like it and I recommend buying it here! Can you rescue every guest and make it to the fiesta? Design your hero, explore every world, and avoid the villains.
A problem, brought up by Gimmick 2, is how you approach difficulty as a reviewer. You don’t want to slam a game for being unfairly difficult, only for everyone else to breeze through. It’s a bit of an embarassing moment, that. Reviewers aren’t known for being skilled players, after all. My measure of difficulty is to take a look at a selection of deaths and apportion blame: did I screw up or did the game screw me over? I’d say Gimmick 2 falls in the first camp, though it’s a close-run thing.
That’d be because Gimmick 2‘s biggest gimmi- uh, gameplay mechanic is both a blessing and a curse. It’s gameplay based around physics, which means that you can pull off trick shots. You can also screw up and be left desperately trying to figure out what’s going on. Still, Gimmick 2 is a sequel to a game from the early nineties and the chaos fits in well with that era. Fortunately, it’s been given modern touches, and controls wonderfully. Gimmick 2 feels like a NES-era game given a beautiful coat of paint.
Star Power
Gimmick 2 features the return of Yumetaro, a green blob-like little fella. He’s peacefully asleep alongside the girl he lives with, when a strange wizard teleports in and kidnaps her. Night having been thoroughly ruined, Yumetaro sets off to rescue her. He’s armed only with his plucky courage and the ability to conjure a star from nothing, which admittedly is pretty powerful. The twist is that the star has physics, so you need to predict its bouncing and momentum in order to hit enemies and flip switches. When paired up with some precision platforming, it brings in quite a significant amount of challenge. I rather like it.
It’s a deviation from the usual platformer mechanics of just jumping on enemies, or dispatching them by mashing a button. Hitting enemies before they get to you requires actual thought. Levels make good use of it, too. You start with simple jumping puzzles, and simple switch puzzles. Towards the end, you’re doing a mad dash through a tough platforming section, when it’ll sudden require you to summon a star and throw it at the right time. Completing a section really tests your abilities well. It helps that Gimmick 2 is butter-smooth to control, with jumping feeling great.
Beautiful Chaos
That said, the chaos that a physics based weapon brings in tends to cause issues when the pace slows down. A lot of the boss fights just spawn in waves of enemies, for one thing. That already feels like a cop-out, but trying to calculate your star’s trajectory at the same time as dodging hordes of bouncing enemies just feels irritating. The solo boss fights, however, don’t seem to know how to counter your star and crumble easily. The star is also the only real string to Gimmick 2‘s bow, too, so some of the levels in the middle feel a touch one-note. Bounce a star while sliding down one slope, bounced them all.
Still, there are a generous amount of collectibles to find, which all dress Yumetaro in cute outfits. They’re usually off the beaten track, so there’s a decent amount of replay value here. Speaking of cute, the whole thing is adorable. The checkpoints are little presents that open to reveal a balloon in the shape of Yumetaro’s face. You can’t be grumpy looking at something like that. Plus, it has a really pleasant artstyle and soundtrack. The world of Gimmick 2 is just a nice place to be. There’s a good variety of levels, too, though I’m a little sad we don’t get more enemies that aren’t just black blobs in different hats.
Gimmick 2 – A Thoroughly Pleasant Modernisation
As a last note, when you start up Gimmick 2, you’ll get a choice of difficulty – gimmick or assisted. I bring it up for two reasons. Firstly, turning on gimmick mode requires you to get to grips with the platforming – a nice idea. Secondly, I recommend you take the plunge and go with gimmick mode. It’s not too difficult – you still get three hits before you die. But I feel like Gimmick 2 is at its best when it’s challenging you. I died frequently – and almost rage quit some of the later levels – but I always came back. It’s the perfect formula of challenge, quick respawn and tight controls.
The pleasant atmosphere is just the icing on the cake. In many aspects, Gimmick 2 feels like a NES-era platformer dragged through the ages until it’s modern. It has the simplicity and cuteness of design of NES-era platformers. Then it has the pinpoint platforming, akin to something like Super Meat Boy, before being draped in the most pleasant graphics that modern technology can allow. The end result is a challenging, if sometimes one-note, platformer, which will always make you smile.
I’m of an age where retro gaming is cool and filled with nostalgia. Being a 40-something-year-old gamer, I’ve seen some incredible evolution throughout the years. However, no matter how realistic and remarkable modern games are, I always love to revisit old-school classics. This is where SUNSOFT is Back Retro Game Selection comes to the fore. This trilogy collection of games has never been released in the West. Accordingly, I was excited to get my hands on a copy and see what I had missed.
This retro arcade experience was developed by SUNSOFT and published by Red Art Games. Furthermore, it is both single-player and locally cooperative. As such, you can enjoy this with a like-minded friend. The Japanese 8-bit games took some getting used to. But once I got my head around the blocky graphics and cumbersome controls, I fell for their dated charms.
SUNSOFT is Back Retro Game Selection delivers 3 cracking titles.
I’ll admit that I had never heard of the following titles until I installed this game. The Wing of Madoola, Firework Thrower Kantaro’s 53 Stations of the Tokaido, and Ripple Island are the 3 cracking games that need to be defeated. Each one retains its original story and core concepts, but they have been reworked for a modern audience.
This reworking ensures that SUNSOFT is Back Retro Game Selection is more fun and palatable. The challenging action would have been horrible without this genius touch. Yet, though I enjoyed these particularly dated games, they will only appeal to a niche audience. The clunky gameplay, basic stories, and simple imagery won’t wow you. But if you can look past this, you’ll enjoy every ounce of the dated 8-bit magic.
Reworked magic.
The inclusion of a CRT filter, multiple aspect ratios and borders, and some quality-life features helps to enhance the dated titles. Moreover, the action is more forgiving because of the rewind and save state features. Consequently, you can be more aggressive without worrying about losing your progress.
These features worked well with the platforming titles. However, it wasn’t so essential when I played the RPG. This classic title was captivating but the rudimentary design took some getting used to. Once I undid my modern brain and reset it to my childhood SEGA mindset, I adored the simple approach. The same can be said for the platform titles. The clunky hitboxes should have been more accurate, but it mattered not. With a little practice, I could work my way through the stages and enjoy the vivid colour palette.
SUNSOFT is Back Retro Game Selection is brilliantly pixelated.
It didn’t matter which game I picked, the level of detail was grim. This isn’t a complaint, just an observation. After all, how much detail can you expect from a decades-old computer game? Alongside this, the level designs are straightforward and you shouldn’t expect any surprises. The simplicity of this trio of games won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but I loved the trip down memory lane.
The audio is just as rough. Shrill soundtracks and crass sound effects dominate the soundscape. The basic and chunky thuds will make you laugh. Yet, it works surprisingly well, especially when you play the RPG. The sense of drama was impressive and it was easy to lose yourself in the atmosphere.
Clumsy controls.
Unsurprisingly, the controls aren’t great. The 4 directional D-Pad is clumsy and it feels alien whenever you use an analogue stick. This was to be expected but modern gamers may struggle to undo years of muscle memory. Other than this, the UI is great and rewinding the action or saving the game is a piece of cake.
If you love retro gaming, SUNSOFT is Back Retro Game Selection will keep you coming back for more. The never-before-released games will make fans of Japanese titles salivate. There is something special about the gameplay and the artistry. However, they haven’t aged particularly well and it takes a forgiving mindset to overlook the clunky nature of each core element.
SUNSOFT is Back Retro Game Selection will make a niche audience happy.
Though this won’t fly off the shelves, SUNSOFT is Back Retro Game Selection will make a niche audience happy. The blend of genres and the faithful recreation of the Japanese games is great. Yet, I can’t help but think that it’s a little late to bring these back to life. Accordingly, I hesitantly recommend buying it here! Will you master each of these titles? Pick your favourite, learn the fundamentals, and enjoy every dated moment.
re you ready to fight for your immortal soul? You’d better be, as Far Far Games and Fulqrum Publishing are getting ready to whisk you away to a world of Slavic myths and folktales in their brand-new action RPG title Bylina, coming to PC, Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 next year!
Embark on an epic journey to the Far Far Kingdom and challenge Koschei the Deathless to save your immortal soul and become a true hero in Bylina, an action RPG rooted in Slavic folklore and myths.Take on the role of Falconet, a young bogatyr born without hero’s powers, shunned and underestimated by almost everyone around him. Conquer numerous ordeals, overcome insurmountable odds, and become a legendary hero whose tales will be told for ages to come.
Falconet dreams of following in the footsteps of his father, a fabled bogatyr – but during what seems like a simple task, he finds himself in the dark and mysterious Far Far Kingdom where he meets his demise. To his surprise, the young hero is revived by a mysterious spirit with whom he must now share his body. Falconet faces three daunting tasks: reclaim control over his soul, uncover an ancient mystery surrounding his new companion, and save the world from imminent doom.
About Bylina
Discover a vibrant and extraordinary world based on Slavic myths and legends. Journey through the Land of Cities, boasting diverse locales – from sunlit forests to gloomy dungeons and imposing castles, each with its own unique features and atmosphere. As soon as you open new areas, prepare to encounter strange local inhabitants, as well as countless challenges, treasures, and puzzles waiting to be solved.
Improve your skills by mastering unique techniques and spells, and engage in fierce battles with common bandits, terrifying legendary creatures, and brutal bosses in which every mistake could be your last.
Expand your arsenal, embracing mysterious magical powers as well as a variety of armaments, from swords and shields to spears and bows. Level up, increase your strength, create new items, find and experiment with rare types of armour, and fight back against an ancient evil.
The eternal struggle between good and evil is not as obvious and clear-cut as it seems at first glance in the world of Bylina; its inhabitants experience complex inner lives filled with their fears, anxieties, hatred, and scars left by past trials that have shaped them into who they are today. Falconet will have to face not only legions of powerful foes in combat; but also the emotions, feelings and struggles that make a true human soul.
Bylina will be launching on PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S in 2025.
Here is our review of the recently released diskAshur PRO 3 SSD encrypted drive from iStorage.
In a world where safeguarding your valuable data is a priority, the iStorage diskAshur PRO3 is the ultimate choice for ensuring top-of-the-line data security.
Introducing the iStorage diskAshur PRO3 – a state-of-the-art portable HDD/SSD that sets a new benchmark in effortless data security. With its sleek design and user-friendly interface, this brand-new device ensures unparalleled protection for your data.
The diskAshur PRO3 HDD/SSD is pending the new FIPS 140-3 Level 3 validation standard. The recent successful evaluation and issuance of the CAVP certificates demonstrates compliance with the latest U.S. government computer security standards for cryptographic modules.
Specifications
Features
Incorporates a Common Criteria EAL 5+ certified secure microprocessor
FIPS 140-3 Level 3 Validated (pending)
FIPS PUB 197 validated encryption algorithm
Encryption keys are always encrypted whilst at rest
Brute force hack defence mechanism
Tamper proof and evident design
IP56 Certified – Dust and water resistant
Immune to BadUSB – diskAshur PRO3 HDDs/SSDs are not vulnerable to malicious attacks
iStorage is the trusted global leader of PIN authenticated, hardware encrypted data storage devices, that include: USB Flash Drives, Hard Disk Drives, and Solid State Drive formats. We deliver the most innovative products to securely store and protect data to Military specified encryption levels, safeguarding your valuable business information whilst ensuring compliance to regulations and directives.
The iStorage range of products are accredited across the range, include FIPS 197 (Advanced Encryption Standard, Computer Security Standard, Cryptography), FIPS 140-2 Level 2 (Tamper Evident, and seals), FIPS 140-2 Level 3 (Responding to attempts of a Physical attack), IP57 (Protected from limited dust ingress and water immersion up to 1M), CESG (National Technical Authority for Information Assurance), CCTM (Claims Tested Mark).
What’s in the box?
The box contains the diskAshur PRO3, instructions, two cables and a carry case.
A Closer Look
Final Thoughts
The diskAsur3 PRO is bigger than some of the previous iStorage USB drives we have reviewed. It’s still fairly lightweight though so you can carry it around without feeling like you are dragging a brick around!
Including a carry case is also a great idea – it not only keeps the drive clean but it keeps it safe too!
Using the drive is very simple – just enter your code and the drive is ready to use. When you have finished with the drive just remove it and it locks automatically.
One nice feature is the ability to have an Admin code on the drive, so if you forget your code you can use that one to gain access.
You may be wondering why the drive has a keypad and why you wouldn’t just use the keyboard on your computer to unlock the drive. It’s to stop keyloggers and brute force attacks from gaining access to the drive.
If you enter your code incorrectly 15 times in a row (for example if someone else is trying to guess your code) the user code is deleted. The only way to access the drive is to use the Admin code and reset the user code. If the Admin code is then entered incorrectly 15 times in a row that too is deleted and this time all the data on the drive is also deleted thus protecting whatever you stored on it, so you should feel safe in the knowledge that whatever happens your data is safe and secure.
The drive is recharged when it is plugged into a powered USB port, so don’t worry too much about it losing charge.
Using the drive is simple – once you have entered the PIN you use it just like any other drive, only everything stored on the drive is encrypted.
You can set your own unique Self Destruct PIN which can instantly delete the encryption key, all PINs, all data and then creates a new encryption key so that the drive is blank.
There is also an auto-lock feature which you can set. This will automatically lock the drive after a set period of time.
The keypad is even coated with a wear resistant epoxy so that you can’t tell which keys have been pressed more than others. When it comes to security, every little bit helps!
You also get a lifetime licence to Nero BackItUp software and a 1 year licence iStorage DriveSecurity free!
This is hands-down the best encrypted drive I’ve ever used and I can highly recommend it!
The diskAshur PRO 3 SSD encrypted drive from iStorage is available now in a range from sizes started at 512GB and going up to a whopping 16TB. The drive reviewed here is the 2TB version which retails for around £660. There are also HDD versions too if you prefer those to SSDs.
After its initial PC release a year ago, WitchSpring R hits consoles. Is this JRPG worth checking out? Or should it be banished for crimes of terrible witchcraft?
It’s A Wonderful Day For Pie
Developed by Kiwiwalks, (A three-person development team from South Korea), WitchSpring R is a remake of a mobile game of the same name. Released in 2020, the mobile version had its charms but now with its full console release, the developers have attempted to go bigger and better, with mixed results. The story centres around a ten year old witch named Pieberry, who lives alone in a small cottage in a secluded forest. Cut off from the world itself, the only life she has ever known is in the forest. This is because she is protected from it by her guardian who just happens to be a massive stone golem by the name of Balt. He has protected her from the villains of the game for years, the knights of the holy church who coincidentally hunt witches. This beginning helped me understand Pieberry’s feeling of loneliness, isolation and longing to explore, which all set up the main themes of the game. On a fateful day she discovers a black bird in her forest named Black Joe which propels Pieberry and the story away through the forest and beyond.
The aesthetic and charming nature of WitchSpring R fools you at first, but this story is unexpectedly mature and complex which I found fascinating. The theme I most resonated with in this tale is the reality of humanity itself. Its depiction of humanity as a power hungry force which will stop at nothing is far too similar to real life and thus it’s uncomfortable. The focus on the holy church is also excellently presented as the game touches on the theme of religion and how it can be all encompassing. The church views witches and other beings of magical power as demons and because the church says this, the knights blindly follow this. It’s a sobering tale of a world under a religious zealotry reign and one that has twists and turns along its roughly fifteen hour campaign. It is deep, thoughtful and impactful as Pieberry’s conversation and thoughts are displayed for the player to see. The story reaches a satisfactory conclusion to her tale and it’s a credit to the development team that they have successfully managed to alter my initial expectations of the game. They have created a strong mature tale wrapped inside a Disney like charm. Very impressive.
Turn-Based Tension
Gameplay in WitchSpring R is best described as deep and rewarding but not without its frustrations. The very first few moments of the game, when you can control Pieberry help show off the core gameplay loop. As you scour for items to craft, learn new spells to ward off enemies and train to gain attribute points, this game is a true old fashioned RPG. The crafting system is varied and complex, allowing you to create a variety of items from healing salves to magic buffs and even bombs! But it’s the training system that really caught my eye. The system allows you to focus on specific training modules to boost stats such as stamina, health and magic power. What makes this system so good is the mini games tied to each activity that are just a fun distraction to the main game. You can’t help but go back and do more. The system pairs well with the overall levelling structure and the battle system. I loved training so I could hone my skills and make Pieberry more and more powerful. And that’s a common theme in the gameplay- the rising power of Pieberry throughout the story.
The battle system gives and it takes away. I mean this in the sense that the experience points you earn through combat are scarce to say the least. This means every point you gain and where you place said point is impactful and stops the player feeling overpowered early on. The battle system becomes fleshed out the more you level up with abilities, unlocking summoning pets, more spells to cast and new abilities to master. Coupled with the battle system are weapon skill trees which allow you to cater your weapons’ abilities and stats to how you want to play.. As I mentioned, it has its frustrations as the sheer amount of menus and options in the game can be overwhelming for newcomers to JRPGs like myself. It’s daunting at first but I felt fulfilled and rewarded come games’ end.
These systems and functions all funnel into the combat which is a turn-based system. If you have played games like this before, the combat is pretty rudimentary and nothing that will stand out to you, but it does the job. You can use boosts, items, status effects and more. The usual suspects for turn-based combat are all here. Some abilities allow you to cast on multiple enemies which were my favourite moments. Other times, there were so many separate groups of enemies in one area, it felt like a true slog and slowed down the pacing of the story. If you are not into turn-based games this is very much not for you, but the system is serviceable and veterans of this gameplay style will feel right at home. Thankfully, no pets can be harmed in the combat!
A Mixed Bag Beyond The Forest
WitchSpring R is both beautiful and ugly at times in its presentation. You can certainly tell this game was once a mobile game as some environments look blocky and jagged. But that’s not the case all the time. Pieberry’s house looks wonderful and the majority of the areas hold up pretty well in this revamped version. There are different biomes on display from the beautiful forest, dark caves to soaring mountains and glistening oceans. The game has this subtle beauty to it but just small aspects such as trees and bushes look bad, making it hard to focus on the beauty. This is nit-picking as the majority of the game does look brilliant and should be commended due to the small size of the development team.
Pieberry herself looks wonderful and all the characters have been animated and created with care and love, all looking unique. Enemies look fantastic and the bigger creatures in the game become huge spectacles when they appear on screen. The animations for all the spells and combat moves also look impressive and you can see every hit, block and miss burst onto the screen during fights. With the game being told in Japanese or Korean through voiceover, there is a need for subtitles and thankfully these are wonderful with some minor hiccups through typos and grammatical errors. One of the worst parts of the game itself is its UI which can be utterly chaotic and can be a sheer eyesore. However, the presentation overall stays at a fairly consistent level.
What is unquestionably incredible are the music and sound design. When you are in your cottage or scouring for items, the soundtrack has this Disney-like feel to it. It is a charming and soothing theme that you can’t help but smile at whilst you wander the areas. Once combat begins, the tone of the score then shifts to a daunting brooding theme that creates tension whilst you plot your next turn. During the climatic boss battles, the score reminded me of classic Monster Hunter games mixed with a hint of Kingdom Hearts and I loved every second of this OST. Sound design is also particularly strong with every menu click pinging off the screen whilst popping potions or using fire and lightning spells sound powerful and impactful. Whilst presentation is a mixed bag, the sound design and score across the board are absolutely phenomenal.
Verdict
WitchSpring R is a thoughtful, deep and meaningful story which tells a tale of discovering oneself along with the perils of religion and bigotry. Pieberry is an engaging, thought-provoking protagonist who by journey’s end I had come to care for. Solid combat and great RPG mechanics and levelling systems helped keep me invested. It’s a shame that some areas felt too much of a slog at times and the sheer level of menus on offer can feel overwhelming. Visuals are mostly great and an absolutely stunning soundtrack and design help the game really feel unique. Charming is the word that just keeps coming to my mind when I think of this game. See you in the forest!
PowerA is the most popular controller brand in the USA and Canada. Accordingly, whenever I see a new product release, I want to get my hands on it. Whether it is for PC, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch, I’ve adored every item I’ve reviewed. Therefore, I couldn’t wait to get started when I was given the FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller for Xbox Series X.
This wired controller retails for under $70, which is incredible when you consider the amount of tech it contains. Gamers want the best bang for their buck and elite-level peripherals. Thankfully, this ticks both of those boxes. Hall Effect analogue sticks reduce stick drift while improving accuracy and fluidity. Alongside this, there are mappable buttons, a free-to-download app, and an ergonomic design to enjoy. Consequently, this controller has an elite edge without the price tag.
What’s in the box of the FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller?
The box is eye-catching, robust, and compact. It has a sleek finish and plenty of interesting images.
The FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller is lightweight and comfortable to hold. The black shell is understated and the textured grips prevent accidents from occurring.
A 10 ft long USB-C cable is provided.
Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
If you are like me, you’ll flit between genres. Accordingly, you want a controller that is suitable for fast-paced FPS or something accurate enough for a strategy title. Fortunately, the free-to-download app lets you adjust the rumble settings, audio, dead zones, and much more. This app is easy to navigate and you’ll love the sense of freedom as you personalise your gamepad.
Alongside this, there are 4 mappable buttons at the rear. These can be altered on the fly and you can map them to whatever input you like. Though I’m not a massive fan of additional buttons, I found them useful. Furthermore, they are well placed as they sit where your fingers naturally rest. These rear buttons were responsive and easy to master with a little practice.
Finally, there is a 3-way trigger lock system to reduce travel distance for your shoulder buttons. Though this doesn’t work with every genre, it can make FPS games much easier to play. My advice is to play with each trigger point and find your happy place.
Analogue sticks.
I rarely focus on one key element. However, the FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller has incredible analogue stick technology. Unlike other customisable pads, this one has a unique analogue stick twist system. Subsequently, you may adjust the height of each stick without taking the controller apart. The simple twist-and-go method was great as you can change your settings as you play. Not only is this convenient, but it reduces the risk of you losing key parts.
The unique twist system is paired with Hall Effect modules. These contact-free magnetic sensors are usually reserved for elite gamepads. As such, when I realised they were a key component of this controller, I was blown away. The fluid movement was fantastic and the accuracy is second to none. Moreover, it enhances durability and reduces stick drift.
Captivating and immersive.
The dual rumble motors and impulse triggers suck you in. The responsive feedback from every action was fantastic. Accordingly, if you want to be immersed in your game, you need this controller. I was impressed by the lifelike feel of the trigger actuation points. Yet, not every title is designed with this feature in mind. As such, it was disappointing whenever the controller feedback lacked this amazing feature.
Build quality.
Affordable controllers can feel cheap. This is not what you want when you are gaming for hours. Luckily, the FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller has a premium finish and an ergonomic design. The sleek black livery matches the Series X colour palette. Furthermore, the classic input shape and button position feel familiar. The rear mappable buttons have a light travel distance and are large enough to use with ease. The top-mounted USB-C port and the lower 3.5mm audio port prevent unnecessary wire issues. This approach helps retain balance for a pleasant gaming experience.
This controller is officially licenced by Xbox, so you know the build quality is good. However, I didn’t expect the textured grips to be so comfortable. Additionally, the trigger lock switches and audio dial are tactile and simple to use. Consequently, though a user manual is provided, this controller is pretty easy to tweak to your preference.
Is the FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller worth it?
PowerA sells some amazing controllers. The FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller was released alongside a wireless version. However, if you wish to invest in the wireless option, you’ll need to increase your budget considerably. Therefore, this wired product offers top-level tech at an affordable price. If you want a gamepad that is comfortable to use and ridiculously responsive, then this is the accessory for you. Moreover, it is built to last and it has some amazing elite status features. Therefore, I love it and I recommend buying it here!
Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator is a classic gaming experience. This preview demo is available as part of the October 14th to 21stSteam Next Fest. As such, I recommend clicking here to give it a go. The 2.5D world is a joy to explore. It was reminiscent of the best 90s and 00s platforming games and I loved the simplicity and the puzzling elements. Alongside this, the action blends slow methodical layers with fast-paced and easy-to-fail moments. The result is a joyful and nostalgic game that is perfect for older and modern games.
This puzzle platformer was published and developed by Adventure Works L.L.C. Furthermore, it is a single-player 2.5D colourful affair. The demo takes place in ancient Egypt and is filled with drama and hilarious dialogue. Moreover, the cutscenes are nicely polished and the developer has a unique style that is pleasant to the eye.
Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator tells a silly story.
Time travel and all the plot loopholes aren’t a new idea. Yet, Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator does a great job of rehashing this idea. The protagonists are a whacky pair who bounce off each other perfectly. Professor Raventhorpe has a hunger for science and a secret agenda. Whereas Ari is a fun-loving lad who stumbles across his physics teacher’s mad plans. Once the pair travel into the past, their fates are intrinsically linked. If Ari wishes to return to the present and make it to his date, he must help the professor complete his mad plan.
This silly plot was hilarious. The tongue-in-cheek dialogue and the silly cutscenes generate energy and drama. Furthermore, Ari picks up new skills along the way and this expands your exploration tools. Consequently, no ledge is too high and you must look high and low for each solution. This was great as it opened up each stage and kept you looking beyond the obvious.
Fun gameplay.
Though Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator treads familiar ground, it is fun nonetheless. The classic mechanics of double jumping, wall climbing, rope swinging, and more punctuate the action. Alongside this, there are basic puzzles to complete as you remove debris or push and pull crates to activate switches.
None of the problems are too challenging and this adds to the appeal. However, I would like to see the developer up the ante as the game expands. Failure wasn’t a problem and this lack of concern removes a key gaming element. It would be nice if there was an enhanced difficulty setting where failure returned you to the beginning. If this was included, you’d be more mindful of the progress you were making.
Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator looks great.
There is a retro feel to the gameplay. Yet, Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator has a modern aesthetic. The crisp lines and vivid colour were pleasant to look at. Moreover, the Egyptian theme was interesting and I loved the level design. Each cutscene fills the void between each level and this ensures that the action flows nicely.
The audio is well-considered. The upbeat music has a zany edge and the sound effects are loud but not annoying. I liked the stereotypical noises and I hope that this continues if the game visits different locations. Another excellent element was the amusing and interesting acting. The dialogue will make you laugh as the protagonists wind each other up.
Tight controls.
Tight controls are a platforming essential. Thankfully, this has fantastic controller support. The responsive inputs are a joy and clambering across platforms or swinging like Tarzan was a pleasant experience. Subsequently, it will be interesting to see if the developer maintains this standard as the action evolves.
This short demo doesn’t highlight the overall potential. Consequently, I can’t say whether it will ooze replay value and longevity. Hopefully, there will be enough unique elements to make this a thrilling and captivating platform title.
Ari Buktu and the Anytime Elevator was a joy to play.
This short taster has left me wanting. Accordingly, I can’t wait to see how the developer expands the gameplay and the interesting direction they choose to take. It embodies every great ingredient of platforming classics and I have high hopes for its full release.
No matter what era, any gamer knows the competitive drive that comes from a nicely balanced Competitive sports experience. In events like Evo and Esports World Cup, you can see the drive up front.
However, we know that it exists, but do we know the degrees of height this 1.72 billion USD industry reaches?
A recent research from the Game news site, soulbound.gg, wanted to answer this exact question. Let’s check out what they found.
The Gaming Industry
It does need to be explained exactly how big gaming is these days. A whopping 347 Billion USD in circulation from a 2021 survey shows that there is no competition for this piece of Media. For comparison, The movie industry currently sits at 97.47 billion USD. That difference speaks volumes.
If you want to be a pedantic strickler of rules, saying the mobile gaming market should not count because it’s not ‘real gaming’ (whatever that means) you will be surprised to know that even after removing the 248 billion USD share of the Mobile Gaming Market, you are still left with a 99 billion USD industry on your hands.
The Esports Scene
We all know gaming is huge, but the numbers behind esports are straight-up mind-blowing. In 2024, the top 100 esports games have dished out an incredible $1.72 billion in prize money across 52,451 tournaments, with 131,543 players in the mix. That’s right—$1.72 billion! And this isn’t some niche hobby anymore; the global audience is expected to hit over 640 million by 2025. Esports is officially rivalling traditional sports.
The Top Games Running the Show
No surprise here, but the heavy hitters like Dota 2, Fortnite, CS, League of Legends, and Arena of Valor are leading the pack, raking in $896.8 million in prize money (that’s 52% of the total pot!). Dota 2 alone dropped a whopping $349.7 million in prize pools—thanks to events like The International, which are known for being insanely stacked.
We speak of USD here but that should not make it seem even for the second that this is a US thing. In fact, the hold of Esports is much stronger outside the Red and Blue.
The Big Bucks
Many countries have invested heavily in esports, focusing on player development, tournament organisation, and infrastructure, and are seeing huge financial returns. As the industry continues to grow, their investments are paying off in the form of prize money, sponsorships, and global recognition.
China, for one, is absolutely crushing it in esports, taking home $289.1 million, mostly from Dota 2. The U.S. is right behind with $268.3 million, fueled by Fortnite. And South Korea, the birthplace of esports legends, scooped up $141.4 million, largely from League of Legends.
Here’s the rest:
2. United States
The U.S. has invested in a wide range of games, especially Fortnite. With over 27,000 players participating in 21,365 tournaments, the U.S. sees great returns, especially from major events like the Fortnite World Cup.
Total Earnings: $268.3M
Number of Players: 27,049
Top Game: Fortnite ($47.7M)
3. South Korea
South Korea has long been the esports capital of the world, investing heavily in training players and creating esports leagues. The returns on League of Legends alone show how deeply the country is embedded in the esports world.
Total Earnings: $141.4M
Number of Players: 5,732
Top Game: League of Legends ($36.6M)
4. Russia
Russia has carved out a strong presence, particularly in Dota 2 and CS. Investments in local tournaments and player development have helped drive these impressive returns.
Total Earnings: $81.7M
Number of Players: 5,264
Top Game: Dota 2 ($36.7M)
5. Brazil
Brazil’s investment in CS and Rainbow Six Siege has paid off, with a growing player base and strong showings in global competitions. The country’s esports scene is on the rise, thanks to government support and corporate sponsorships.
Total Earnings: $59.9M
Number of Players: 5,179
Top Game: CS($11.9M)
6. Denmark
Denmark, despite its small size, has invested significantly in esports, especially in CS. Their returns per player are among the highest in the world, thanks to top-tier teams and standout players like Johan- “N0tail” Sundstein.
Total Earnings: $58.3M
Number of Players: 2,078
Top Game: CS ($23.1M)
7. Sweden
Sweden has a rich esports history and continues to invest in its players, particularly in Dota 2 and Fortnite. Their esports infrastructure is well-developed, leading to consistent returns in tournaments worldwide.
Total Earnings: $53.4M
Number of Players: 3,191
Top Game: Dota 2 ($17.2M)
8. France
France’s esports investments have focused on CS and Fortnite, with a growing number of players and events. The country’s esports returns continue to climb as it supports the development of local leagues.
Total Earnings: $53.2M
Number of Players: 6,035
Top Game: CS($9.8M)
9. Germany
Germany is a major player in the esports world, particularly in Dota 2 and CS. Their strong investments in infrastructure and sponsorships are yielding solid returns across multiple titles.
Total Earnings: $47.8M
Number of Players: 6,404
Top Game: Dota 2 ($11M)
10. Canada
Canada’s growing esports scene, particularly in Fortnite and CS, shows strong returns on its investments. With government support and an expanding player base, Canada’s esports future looks promising.
Total Earnings: $46.6M
Number of Players: 4,041
Top Game: Fortnite ($8.5M)
Insane Prize Pools
In 2024, the esports landscape is dominated by several key games that contribute massively to the industry’s prize pools. Leading the pack is Dota 2, with a staggering $349.7 million in prize money awarded to nearly 4,900 players across 1,903 tournaments. This game alone accounts for over 20% of all prize money in esports.
Fortnite follows with $182.1 million in winnings, spread among over 9,300 players and 2,210 tournaments, contributing 10.56% to the total prize pool. Meanwhile, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS) has made a significant impact as well, awarding $162.4 million to a vast pool of 16,441 players through almost 7,000 tournaments, making up 9.42% of the overall prize money.
League of Legends stands strong, contributing $109.9 million from 2,959 tournaments and attracting nearly 9,500 players, while Arena of Valor has carved out a niche with $92.8 million awarded in just 175 tournaments, representing 5.38% of the total esports prize pool.
Mobile gaming is also making waves, with PUBG Mobile awarding $83.6 million through 331 tournaments. When combined with its PC counterpart, PUBG, which has distributed $61.8 million, the two versions collectively show the growing appeal of the battle royale genre.
Other notable games include Rainbow Six Siege, which has awarded $46.1 million to over 3,000 players, StarCraft II with $41.4 million in prize money, and Rocket League, contributing $38.4 million from 4,164 tournaments. Together, these top 10 games highlight the scale and excitement of the global esports phenomenon.
The Hold is Real
Esports is no longer just a niche hobby, it’s a global phenomenon with countries across the world investing millions and seeing incredible returns. As the industry continues to grow, the potential for players, investors, and fans alike is limitless. From the dominance of Dota 2 in China to the rise of Fortnite in the U.S., it’s clear that esports has solidified its place on the world stage.
Want to dive deeper into the data and see the full impact of esports? Check out the full research over at soulbound.gg and explore how this industry is shaping the future of competitive gaming.
Taskmaster the Board Game is madness personified! This Ginger Fox Games product captures the essence of the TV show whilst creating some amusing and interesting fights between friends. I have looked at other Ginger Fox Games previously and I loved The Traitors. Accordingly, when I was offered another quality product to look at, I couldn’t resist.
Though you don’t have to be aware of the spectacular TV show to enjoy this board game, it certainly helps. The tongue-in-cheek nature will be lost on anyone who doesn’t understand the almost juvenile mindset of the TV series. Additionally, you can be as silly or as straight-laced as you like when you tackle the long list of tasks at hand. Either way, the outcome is the same and the points and the Taskmaster’s opinion are final.
What’s in the box of Taskmaster the Board Game?
The packaging is compact and alluring. Its red finish looks great on a shelf and the box is built to last.
The board looks like a mini Cluedo map. Furthermore, it is easy to follow and looks great as well.
Portrait holders are provided for each character.
Easy-to-wipe clean pens can be used.
Question cards for every task are supplied.
Learn the basics with the rules.
How do you play Taskmaster the Board Game?
Playing Taskmaster the Board Game is easier than explaining the rules. Effectively, you can have up to 5 active players or you can have more if one person wishes to be the Taskmaster permanently. If not, each player must assume the role of the head honcho at least once. However, 2 attempts at this role make for a longer and more enjoyable game.
At the start of the game, each player is provided a secret task to complete. If you can execute this job and not get spotted, you’ll earn bonus points at the end. This can be essential if you are competitive or the scores are particularly tight. As the game unfolds, the Taskmaster selects a room for each task. The non-Taskmaster players must execute each objective and the player who wins is awarded the most points. This merry-go-round of madness continues until the final round. During the last stage, a video message plays via a QR code and everyone must compete to complete the final task. The winner is the person with the highest score after the dust has settled.
How easy is it?
Now that the explanation is out of the way, I can happily say that Taskmaster the Board Game was easy to play. The tasks are silly and though each one is loosely connected to its room, there is some flexibility. This was great as no one wishes to feel awkward as they are completing their tasks in a friend’s house.
The best part of the action is the Taskmaster’s responsibilities. No matter how heated things become, you must obey the person in the hot seat. However, as this role fits between each player, revenge and additional points can be dished out freely. This meant that there is a cruel edge to each round and players who do well will always be punished to level the playing field.
The hardest part of the action is trying to complete your secret task. This caused much amusement and many sideways glances as you wondered what your friends were doing. Many a red herring was chucked in for comedy value. Subsequently, the waters were muddied and it was tough to identify whether someone was being serious or pulling your leg.
Build quality.
Ginger Fox Games always makes high-quality products. Accordingly, I wasn’t surprised to see the thickness of the board and the robust nature of the packaging. Additionally, the cards are strong and the font is easy to read. The only element that may become warn or need replacing is the dry wipe pen. As such, you’ll need a deft touch if you wish to keep the pen in perfect working order.
Is Taskmaster the Board Game worth it?
This board game will appeal to fans of the TV series and those with a naughty attitude. The silly action is funny but I wouldn’t want younger players to get involved. Things do get heated and immature mindsets do take over. Consequently, younger players may hear or see things that aren’t appropriate. Yet, if you have an older group of friends who wish to try their hand at some silly tasks, then Taskmaster the Board Game is perfect. Subsequently, I recommend buying it here!
(More information on Ginger Fox Games can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
Dead Season is a cruel, challenging, and often unfair experience. However, it is its chastising nature that makes it unbelievably moreish. I died more times than I’d like to mention, but I couldn’t put it down. Each failure generates a new tactical approach. Furthermore, this harsh learning curve keeps you on your toes as you try to avoid the zombie hordes.
Zombie games have been done to death. Everywhere you look, there is a brain-munching asshat influencing one genre or another. The theme may be overdone, but I still adore it nonetheless. Accordingly, when I was offered the chance to tackle this ball-breaking title, I couldn’t resist.
This turn-based survival game was developed by Snail Bite and published by Iceberg Interactive. Furthermore, it is a single-player title that has a minor customisation edge. The small skill tree offers an additional tactical layer that can change the way you progress. Alongside this, there are elements of luck and plenty of trial and error to play with. Though this won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, I enjoyed the relentless difficulty.
Dead Season feels familiar.
The thought of surviving a zombie horde fills me with dread. Brain munchers hiding around every corner and a lack of resources is petrifying! However, this forms the backbone of Dead Season’s plot. The 4 survivors must work together as they explore an apocalyptic world. No matter where they turn, they are confronted by danger and death. Consequently, they must unite and overcome every obstacle if they wish to survive.
The plot lacks originality, but this matters not. I liked the protagonists’ personalities and the blend of bickering and support. Alongside this, there are plenty of other survivors to assist. This element leads to many moral choices along the way. With so much variety, you enjoy a unique experience during each playthrough. This was impressive, especially when you consider the tried and tested foundations.
Shhhhhh.
The core mechanics are genre-typical. Each hero has action points to spend. These points can be exchanged for movement, fighting, or looting. If the hero runs out of AP, their turn is over. Subsequently, each protagonist must complete their tasks and move to a position of safety or risk getting hurt. This sense of desperation and danger was fascinating. Do you gamble and try to kill every surrounding zombie, or do you run away and allow the horde to strengthen?
Alongside the turn-based mechanics are challenging volume levels. If you break barricades, shoot guns, or turn on a chainsaw, you’ll generate noise. Furthermore, alarms are your worst nightmare as they piss the zombies off. If you fill your noise meter, the zombies become enraged. This is bad news as the horde expands and they move a lot quicker. Accordingly, stealth and melee weapons are your friends during each mission.
Decisions, decisions.
As you move through the overworld map, you have to choose your mission. Dead Season makes this element engrossing and secretive. I loved the sense of risk and the unknown layers. Thankfully, you are told how difficult each stage will be, so you can decide whether you want to challenge yourself or take an easy path.
During each mission, you can loot cars, buildings, and bodies. However, this can divide your attention and spread your team out too much. As such, you must decide whether it is essential to grab extra resources or push towards the end goal. Either strategy works, but when death ends your run, it is sometimes better to escape and fight another day.
Dead Season looks grisly and dark.
An apocalyptic world shouldn’t be bright and alluring. Thankfully, Dead Season is aesthetically accurate. The grim world is horrible to look at. Burnt out cars, broken buildings, and rotten bodies can be seen throughout. Alongside this, the zombies have a classic but scary appearance. This was great as it matches the well-trodden story whilst enhancing the horror nature.
On top of this, I liked the small but interesting stage design. Each map is compact but perfectly formed. Moreover, there are different buildings to explore and every interactive item is well highlighted. This was a great approach as it made playing it much easier.
The audio is fantastic. There is a blend of sombre and dramatic music and chilling sound effects. The screams of desperate people and the echo of each gunshot were phenomenal. This was complemented by the grunts and groans of every zombie you face.
Excellent controls.
The mouse and keyboard layout was great. Furthermore, the opening level acts as a tutorial and this helps to get you up and running. The well-considered control system was complemented by a clean but useful UI. Though it wasn’t anything spectacular, it worked well and was easy to master.
Dead Season is a tough game. Yet, once you get to grips with its quirks and you master the tactical layers, you’ll be hooked. The action is addictive and there are plenty of unique tactical approaches. On top of this, there are usable items and an array of zombies to overcome. Furthermore, there are branching pathways to explore and the risk of death around every corner. Consequently, it is challenging and it draws you back in for more.
Dead Season is a good indie title.
The sense of risk vs reward and failure emanates from every layer of this harsh game. You will make mistakes and you’ll lose key equipment on the way. However, loss and failure make you stronger and a few setbacks will not stop you from completing your goals. Accordingly, though it is tough, it is a good indie title. As such, I like it and I recommend buying it here! Can you survive the zombie horde? Work together, scavenge resources, and hope that luck is on your side.
A World of Haunting Beauty The standout feature of Sylvio: Black Waters is its immersive, haunting world. Players are thrust into an eerie, alien landscape that feels both familiar and otherworldly. The dimly lit, mist-covered environments are filled with strange Earth-like remnants—statues, machinery, and furniture—that seem out of place. The world feels like a dream you can’t wake from, where gravity warps and twists, making navigation both intriguing and disorienting. Every corner of the game has been designed to convey a sense of isolation and unease, with haunting silhouettes and ominous shadows always in the background. The visual design, coupled with the desolate atmosphere, keeps you engaged despite the game’s slower pace, offering moments of quiet horror that creep under your skin.
Sounds That Echo in the Dark In Sylvio: Black Waters, sound isn’t just an accessory—it’s essential to the experience. The game’s ambient soundtrack plays a crucial role in building tension, alternating between calming, almost hypnotic tunes and eerie, unsettling tones. The standout feature here is the use of EVP recordings. As you explore, you’ll capture fragmented audio messages left by previous explorers, and deciphering these snippets is key to unraveling the game’s story. The sound design immerses you in the world, amplifying the feeling of isolation and dread. Wearing headphones while playing elevates this experience even further, allowing the subtle shifts in sound to fully envelop you. The game’s music and audio cues make the world feel alive, even when there’s little action happening on screen.
Where the Gameplay Falters While Sylvio: Black Waters excels in atmosphere and storytelling, its gameplay leaves room for improvement. The main mechanic—finding and decoding audio fragments—starts off engaging but eventually becomes repetitive. Players may find themselves doing the same tasks over and over, which can lead to frustration, especially during the later parts of the game. Combat is present, but it feels underdeveloped. Although you are equipped with air-powered weapons to fend off ghostly apparitions, the lack of distinction between these weapons diminishes the excitement. The combat mechanics aren’t as satisfying as the world they exist in, which may disappoint players looking for more dynamic interaction.
A Puzzle of Clues and Secrets The narrative of Sylvio: Black Waters unfolds in mysterious, fragmented ways. As Juliette, you piece together the history of the strange world through audio recordings and cryptic conversations with a fellow survivor, Lee. The narrative is delivered slowly, through puzzles and exploration, which will appeal to players who enjoy taking their time and piecing together clues. However, the final payoff might not satisfy everyone. The ending, while intriguing, doesn’t quite match the intensity of the journey, leaving some players wanting more closure after the buildup.
Final Thoughts Sylvio: Black Waters is a unique experience that thrives on atmosphere, making it perfect for players who enjoy slow-burn, psychological horror. Its haunting visuals and masterful sound design create an experience that stays with you long after playing. However, its repetitive gameplay and underwhelming combat mechanics may detract from the overall experience for some. Despite these flaws, the game’s story and world-building make it a compelling choice for fans of unsettling, atmospheric horror.
