Red Flags to Look Out for When Buying Cryptocurrency

Christopher John
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Red Flags to Look Out for When Buying Cryptocurrency

CNBC report shows that there are 19,000 crypto coins present on plenty of blockchain networks. Unlike typical financial institutions, cryptocurrencies are not government-insured. Thousands of them disappeared like TerraUSD and Luna. Outright scams are common with badly conceived, received, or managed cryptocurrencies. With such a large number mentioned above, even specialists can make mistakes with these enormous options.

So spotting crypto scams is vital. Don’t overlook early warnings. Read more about the list of ten warning signs that your crypto investment might be a fraud.

1. Unrealistic assertions

Crypto scams often make exaggerated claims. If a crypto sales website promises the moon, run. Never trust a deal that makes a lot of empty promises. Advertisements guaranteeing tenfold returns on investments quickly are a red flag. Be wary of any investment that promises guaranteed returns. 

Another case is a venture pledge to revolutionize blockchain with its “new and advanced” system. Invest cautiously till the project team can prove its claims.

2. Without a listing on a trusted exchange

Before buying cryptocurrency, check its presence on trusted exchanges like Coinbase and Gemini. You may want to rethink your investment if cryptocurrencies are not present and traded on reliable platforms, they are likely fraud. Scammers rarely fill out the paperwork to join an exchange.

3. Shortcomings in the ICO white paper

If the white paper for an ICO is inadequate, you should reconsider investing. The whitepaper should explicitly describe the project, staff, and cryptocurrency. When details are missing, an ICO is probably not worth investing in. Do your research before investing in an ICO. Investing time and effort in a project takes trust.

4. Incomplete or no ICO white paper

When an ICO lacks a whitepaper, it’s a warning: the project hasn’t been given enough attention, the team is incompetent, or it could be a fraud. Before investing, read the ICO’s whitepaper..

5. Taking the money and running

Pump-and-dump ICOs should be avoided. These techniques boost cryptocurrency’s value. If the price rises and attracts more buyers, current owners may sell, leaving new buyers with lower cryptocurrency value. If you want to know if a cryptocurrency is a hoax, you should look into who is marketing it and how much it is worth.

6. Controversial celebrity support

Celebrity endorsements can be dishonest. DJ Khaled and Floyd Mayweather were paid to spread the word about Centra Tech in 2017 without revealing their financial ties. Say a renowned individual pushed a coin and you want to acquire some. Look for these:

Step 1: Check if they have sponsored frauds or dubious charities.

Step 2: Identify project problems if they have any warning signs.

Step 3: To get a second view, talk to a financial advisor.

Celebrity endorsements can help you identify intriguing new investing possibilities, but they shouldn’t be your only consideration.

7. A small, dormant community

Before investing, consider the size and activities of a cryptocurrency community. A tiny group, lack of support, or belief could kill the project. A large, active community indicates significant involvement. Success is implied for those projects. Due diligence must consider the area’s community and activity level.

8. There is little to nothing available about the company’s history or its founders

A website should introduce the project’s creators. If online information is scarce, act with caution. Secretive teams may have something to hide. You shouldn’t invest in projects whose authors are unknown.

9. Team members that are disorganized or lack experience

If the team is disorderly or inept, that’s a red flag. The company’s leaders must have expertise and skill. Look online for investor reviews to augment your research. The social media pages of the team show how they communicate with fans, investors or other stakeholders.

10. The source code is not publicly available.

Anyone is free to read, download, and modify the source code for open-source projects. For the project’s credibility, this openness is mandatory. However, in a closed-source one, the source code is not made available to the public.

It’s hard to tell if the project’s legitimacy is threatened by the lack of information provided. Fraud is unfortunately ubiquitous in the technological sphere, and scammers frequently try to obfuscate their methods.

Because of this, you should exercise caution before committing to a closed-source endeavor. When in doubt about a project’s reliability, it’s best to go with an open-source option out of an abundance of caution.

Conclusion

Perhaps you might avoid becoming a victim of a crypto scammer by keeping an eye out for any of these warning signs. Never put in more money than you are willing to lose without first doing some research.

Keep these considerations in mind when you evaluate potential crypto investments. There are more trustworthy ways to increase your wealth, so if an opportunity seems to be exaggerated with high profit or improbable, it generally is a scam.

News: Nacon Xbox Pro Compact Controller

Daniel Waite
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News: Nacon Xbox Pro Compact Controller

Back in May 2021, we covered a review for the excellent Nacon Xbox Pro Compact Controller. Accordingly, Andrew was impressed by its design, comfort, and usability. Furthermore, he highlighted the smaller build size and the inclusion of Dolby Atmos for headphones. Roll on nearly 18 months, and Nacon is at it again. This time, they have released a range of colourful controllers just in time for Christmas.

Now, you may discount non-Microsoft branded accessories, but I beg you to reconsider. Nacon has long been considered a phenomenal producer of high-end gaming peripherals. Thankfully, this new batch of gamepads is no different. With 4 new colours to choose from, and the original black and white controllers still available, you are spoilt for choice. Subsequently, you can pick from a red, blue, pastel blue, or a vivid colourlight version with six integrated LEDs that are fully customisable. Therefore, this bright controller can be as unique as the gamer that it is gifted. What’s more, each pad can be used on both Xbox or PC and boasts advanced customisation options. Consequently, you can adjust the stick and trigger sensitivity and there are programmable buttons.

Alongside this, the ergonomic design is perfect for long gaming sessions, and the stick travel and responsive buttons ensure you are always ahead of your competition. Moreover, this controller is 15% small than its rivals and this makes it perfect for younger gamers or those that don’t want a cumbersome and bulky accessory.

Technical aspects for the Nacon Xbox Pro Compact Controller.

  • Officially licensed “Designed for Xbox” wired controller
  • Ergonomic, compact and lightweight structure and shape
  • Textured surface for superior comfort and maximum grip
  • Programmable buttons, sticks and triggers
  • Pro Compact app* available from the Microsoft Store
  • 3.5mm jack for audio and chat
  • 3m braided USB cable

The Nacon Xbox Pro Compact Controller has two modes:

  • Standard Mode, for gaming with the classic features of Xbox Wireless Controllers
  • Advanced Mode, for gaming with a customised profile created with the Pro Compact app* available from the Microsoft Store.

The pastel blue, red and blue Designed for Xbox Pro Compact controllers are available in Europe from 11th November 2022. The Pro Compact Colourlight will be available from 25th November 2022.

(More information on Nacon can be found here!)

Review: Garfield Lasagna Party

Daniel Waite
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Review: Garfield Lasagna Party

Growing up, I loved Garfield. This grumpy yet loveable ginger puss made me chuckle repeatedly. Whether it was a comic strip, annual, cartoon, or film, I loved them equally. Roll on to 2022 and I’m much older, wiser, and definitely more tired. However, my love for that Tomcat has never waned. Consequently, when I saw Garfield Lasagna Party advertised I had to give it a go.

Developed by Vetasoft and Balio Studio and published by Microids, this is a timeless party experience. Furthermore, it reminded me of the early iterations of the Mario Party franchise. Moreover, it is filled with classic locations, 4 familiar characters, and plenty of enjoyable mini-games. Therefore, surely, it will be an amazing family title for this festive period.

Garfield Lasagna Party is full of crazy party games.
Mmmm toast time.

Garfield Lasagna Party is all about the Lasagne, unsurprisingly!

Unsurprisingly, Garfield Lasagna Party revolves around his favourite dish. No matter what game mode you try, the winner is always the person with the most lasagne. Furthermore, most of the games require you to pick up, move, or fight over this Italian staple. As such, you may worry that it’ll become tedious. Yet, the maddening action, colourful environments, and competitive tasks distract you from the simple and repetitive goal.

The gameplay focuses on 3 key modes. There is the Lasagna Race, the Lasagna Challenge, and finally, The Lasagna World Tour. Each uses the same characters, core mechanics, and mini-games. However, the Race option is the main body of this title. Here, you’ll compete solo or with friends in a traditional board game experience. By rolling a die, you’ll move around the board and land on special tiles. Each one has a unique power that impacts your go. Whether it moves you back 2 places, gives you coins, or an item, or penalises you for the next turn, is all down to luck. As such, this enhances the traditional tabletop element of this title and makes the action competitive.

At the end of each turn, the 4 characters must face off in one of the 32 mini-games. You’ll be asked to complete an array of tasks and each will test your reactions, patience, strength, dexterity, and more. I loved the simplicity of each game, and so did my children. Consequently, there is enough difficulty to test older and younger gamers without alienating anyone. 

Accuracy and speed are a must in this quick drawing game.
Can you keep it between the line?

What else is there to do?

Alongside the main board game elements are the standalone mini-games and a custom tournament. Each of these modes retains the fun and competitive element of the main option, but they are quicker and easier to manage. What’s more, the Lasagna Challenge allows you to pick any game you so wish. Subsequently, if you have a favourite, or you want to try something new, then this is the place to go.

So, we know what makes Garfield Lasagna Party tick. But how does it compare with Mario Party? In short, it doesn’t! Unfortunately, where this game is lacking, is its depth. Unlike its competitor, this title only has one map to explore. What’s more, every mini-game is an all-out war. Accordingly, you don’t team up with a partner or bully another player in 3v1. As such, it removes that tactical element that many gamers love.

On top of this, there are only 4 characters to choose from. Garfield, Odie, Arlene, and Nermal make up the ranks. However, there are many pivotal players that are missing. Moreover, there is no custom option and no character progression. Consequently, once a game is completed, that it is. This decision makes the end product a little underwhelming. Now, my kids didn’t care, but I would have loved more depth.

Garfield Lasagna Party looks awesome. 

Though I’ve bemoaned a lack of depth, I adored the visuals. Every element of the stage design and the character models are perfect. Furthermore, they represent everything that is great about comics and cartoons. With classic locations forming the gaming arenas, and a stunning but simple board to explore, it was nice to look at. Yet, I can’t help but feel sad. I would have loved there to be more maps, a larger roster of characters, and even more familiar images. If this had been incorporated, the game would have been excellent.

Unsurprisingly, the audio was cheeky, fun, and upbeat. What’s more, the sound effects are immature, loud, and in your face. The often OTT approach worked wonderfully with the competitive gameplay and the music retains much of the original charm.

4 mean dogs and 4 scared friends.
No one likes to be chased.

My kids loved the simplicity. 

A family-focused title needs simple controls and an excellent UI. Thankfully Garfield Lasagna Party delivers this no matter the game mode. What’s more, the fantastic tutorial and helpful hints ensure every player knows what they are doing. As a parent, this made playing the game so much more enjoyable. Not only was it a great family experience, but the kids loved mastering the controls with little guidance. 

Where this title is seriously lacking is its longevity. Yes, you could happily play each of the 32 mini-games repeatedly, but this soon becomes tiresome. Furthermore, a lack of different areas and goals taints the final product. As an adult, I expect much more depth. Fortunately, though, my children didn’t mind, and they adored the straightforward and familiar concept.

Garfield Lasagna Party should have been excellent. 

Every ounce of my being wants to give this game a mighty high score. Yet, I must stay professional. There is plenty to love about this colourful and fun title. However, I can’t ignore its shortcomings! With a few simple tweaks and some additional content, this would excel and would compete with Mario Party. But sadly, at the moment, Garfield Lasagna Party will leave adults wanting. All things considered, I still liked it and I recommend it, despite the shortcomings. Can you win the most lasagne? Roll the dice, pick your route, and win every mini-game. 

Online or Offline: How Table Games Stack Up

Christopher John
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Online or Offline: How Table Games Stack Up

Card games and board games have been keeping family and friends busy for generations. Gathering around to play a hand or two of poker, meeting up with a friend at the park and playing a game of chess, they’re all brilliant pastimes that keep your mind busy and help you to connect with people socially. 

Of course, since the dawn of computers and the internet, it’s been possible to play all these games online. In some respects, this has made them better. Online games are more accessible, which means it’s always easy to find someone to play with. Yet, some say that because of digitalization, the charm of the games has been lost.

We’re going to look at all the pros and cons of playing table games online, or in person.

Poker

Poker is one of the first games that was adapted for the online sphere. It became hugely popular in the early noughties thanks to various late night television shows and the accessibility of poker on the internet. Nowadays its popularity has only grown with hundreds of sites offering all kinds of varieties of poker. 

There are some big benefits to playing online. People who struggle with the bluffing element of poker don’t have to worry about their tells giving them away, as they’re safe behind a screen. There are also plenty of opponents that are always ready to play online, whereas in person it can be difficult to arrange a group of that many friends. 

Besides, a lot of resources have been spent on replicating the authentic poker experience in the digital realm. This has granted users a chance to access the game from the comfort of their home. Live dealer casinos, particularly, make the poker experience especially realistic, and you can learn more details on how to try it out yourself. 

However, there is something to be said for playing poker in real life too. It’s great getting to meet people local to you if you’re lucky enough to have a local club. Also, the majority of the biggest tournaments take place in person rather than online, so practising your bluffing will stand you in good stead for those. For us, it’s a tie; online poker and offline poker both have their own unique place.

Pictionary

One of the true classics, especially around this festive time of year is Pictionary. This board game was invented back in 1987 and is a hilarious game for people of all ages. For those who haven’t played before, you play in pairs, where one of you draws a prompt from a card and the other guesses it as quickly as they can. 

You get a point for each drawing that you correctly identify. Understandably, chaos often ensues, which can be brilliant fun. 

There’s a certain charm to the pencil and paper version of the game and many people will remember it fondly from years gone by. However, recently there have been a slew of apps and online versions that aim to recreate that fun. These apps are brilliant for connecting friends and family who might live far away. They also mean that you can play with strangers from around the world, just in case you can’t get a couple of teams together in person. 

Some of the apps definitely succeed in emulating the fun of the original Pictionary, whilst others fall a bit short. On this one, we’ve got to say that the original board game clinches it.

Chess

Chess is one of the oldest games around, with evidence of it being played more than 1500 years ago. For this reason, chess in the offline sphere will always exist and be enjoyed by many. However, there is something to be said for online chess, too. 

Firstly, there are always players who match your level that are available to play. You can be much more specific in the calibre of player you’re looking for, giving your ELO rating in order to find someone who poses a challenge, but won’t be impossible to beat. 

If you’re a little strapped for time, then you can rattle through a few chess puzzles or play a quickfire game. It’s easy to enter tournaments online and although you can’t become a grandmaster online, your online tournament successes are recognised. 

Of course, the downside to online chess is that there’s less of a social element. Heading down to the outdoor chess boards in the park is a wonderful way to spend a summer evening and you get to meet and play with people who you know you already have one thing in common with, a love of chess. 

While online chess definitely wins for convenience, there’s a charm to playing on a physical board and meeting people in person too means that for us, offline chess wins this one.

Scrabble

Finally, those who consider themselves talented linguists tend to love a game of scrabble. Like Pictionary, this board game has been around for decades and some of the original games are still in circulation. Since its invention, there have been a few additional versions made, including Scrabble for children and even giant Scrabble boards of four times the size. These might seem like novelties, but they make great presents for Scrabble fans and definitely win offline Scrabble a point.

On the other hand, online Scrabble has plenty of cool features going for it. Like chess, it’s possible to be matched people of your skill level, making every game a challenge. You can also change the layout of the board, enabling you to curate the difficulty somewhat. For us, the customization options of online Scrabble win the point.

Review: Missile Command: Recharged

Daniel Waite
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Review: Missile Command: Recharged

I’ve read many complaints that this generation of gaming is being held back. People bemoan the Xbox Series S and the indie market. Furthermore, they hate the remastered titles and the reliance on arcade classics. However, I couldn’t disagree more. I adore the current state of play and appreciate the nod to old-school games. Accordingly, when Missile Command: Recharged hit my desk, I loved it.

Developed by AdamVision Studios and SneakyBox and published by Atari, this is an arcade shooter. What’s more, this modern classic looks amazing and is filled with new challenges and complements the other titles in the Recharged range. Alongside this, it can be enjoyed solo or with another as you shoot aliens and compete for the top score.

Missile Command: Recharged is simple and addictive.
Defend your base as best you can.

Missile Command: Recharged is too addictive.

This series of games from Atari is getting better and better. I have to say that I’ve loved everyone that I’ve reviewed, but this is one of the best. With tough missions to complete, a fantastic arcade mode, upgradable stats, and leaderboards to top, it ticks many boxes. However, what it’s missing is a hard-hitting story. Effectively, you control three turrets that must protect each silo. Bombs, tanks, aliens, and more try to flatten your guns and your buildings. If this happens, it is game over and you must start again.

Disappointingly, you never find out why the attacks happen. Moreover, there is no validation for your retaliation. Instead, it is survival of the fittest and may the best man/woman win. This is somewhat shallow, and this remake could have easily introduced an overarching story, or at least a minor plot to follow. Thankfully, though, you get snippets of information during each mission. These bullet points act as a form of instruction, as well as issuing minor layers of depth. Yet, if you simply want mindless violence, then none of my concerns will bother you. Accordingly, you’ll enjoy the shallow, but fast-paced action as you get hooked on saving your base.

The Gatling gun is a helpful power-up.
It is Gatling gun time.

Power-ups, upgrades, and failures. 

Like the rest of the Recharged series, Missile Command: Recharged ramps things up with its power-up system. Instead of focusing on boring rockets and the occasional machine gun, you get bombs, Gatling guns, shields, chain shots, and much more. This updated approach enhances the fun and makes a hectic game a little crazier.

As you complete each arcade session, you are awarded points that can be spent on key upgrades. You can improve your power, shields, reload time, and rebuild time. These minor elements are necessary to increase your survival. Consequently, the more you improve your defences, the longer you last, and the more fun you’ll have.

Sadly, your improvements don’t migrate to the mission mode. Accordingly, failure is all but assured during each tough mission. However, with the help of another player, you’ll be able to destroy each bomb and annihilate each plane, alien and destructive threat.

Missile Command: Recharged looks great. 

Though this has retained much of the original charm, it has been given a modern polish. This striking neon-infused finish looks great and enhances the sci-fi theme. What’s more, the crisp lines and interesting enemies ensure that it never looks boring.

On top of this, the upbeat and aggressive soundtrack has plenty of variety. Furthermore, the sound effects are amazing as you hear bombs crashing and bullets ricocheting. Alongside this, there are piercing lasers and explosions that bring the action to life. Luckily, the cacophony of sounds wasn’t too intense as the developers got the balance just right. 

The missiles never stop.
It looks like you’re in trouble here.

Excellent controls. 

With so much going on, it was hard to keep track. Fortunately, the easy-to-manage controls and the excellent button layout mitigate this issue. Thanks to the handy crosshairs and clear UI, you knew exactly where you were shooting and what was happening. Moreover, the inputs are responsive and this helps when things get tough. My only complaint, however, is the lack of a tutorial. Accordingly, the opening moments are unnecessarily confusing. Had the developers incorporated a basic guide, this issue would be resolved.

Whenever a leaderboard is incorporated into the action, you know it’ll be addictive. What’s more, playing against family and friends increases that competitive edge. On top of this, the fun but tough missions and challenging achievement list keep you going. As such, this is one arcade title that oozes longevity and replay value. 

Missile Command: Recharged is a great arcade game. 

If you adore arcade gaming, then look no further. Missile Command: Recharged does a great job of modernising an already much-loved experience. Consequently, I adored its updated finish, its neon palette, and the aggressive soundtrack. Moreover, the power-ups and never-ending enemies make this an explosive, yet tough nut to crack. Accordingly, I loved every minute, and I recommend you buy it here! Can you save the day? Improve your defences, shoot the bombs, and keep going. 

Review: Apico

Alex Chessun
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Review: Apico

If you are a TL;DR reader and make a bee-line straight to the bottom of the page, let me make the journey easier – truth be told, while you won’t find a player who would berate or belittle this title, you also won’t find many waxing poetic about the hum drum gameplay that fails to generate much of a plan……B.

Sorry about that – I’ll try and bee-hive and tone it down from now on…. 

Apico is a beekeeper’s dream, with the goal of breeding, collecting and conserving bees you start off with nothing and must build the right equipment, and sweeten the pot for the winged cupids to get all hot and sticky and create the liquid heaven known as honey. 

Select two bees to be combined into your queen, who will then fill your apiary.

It’s as unique a video game concept as I’ve ever come across, but sadly the buzz it generates on paper doesn’t quite translate to the game, with a gameplay loop that ultimately wants you to create Egyptian plagues of insects through mind-numbingly bland menus and systems, and not for any real reason, other than well, making bay-bees. 

I should preface all of this by saying that Apico is not bad at doing what it sets out to, and I am probably not the main target audience for a simulation game of this nature, as I need constant stimulus to enjoy a game, rather than me providing all the energy, but my goodness the queen must have eaten the fun before the developers could program it in, as it feels like I’m tasked with making something fun for someone else – and I was never very good at programming. 

The design has potential to be as cute as Animal Crossing, but apart from the few NPCS, only the birds and bees really animate.

I’m not sure if I was expecting a cross between the cute, additive and intuitive Animal Crossing with a Minecraft bee system, but with a PC game menu system that transitions poorly to a controller and highly basic graphics somehow managing to overload the PS4 with jerky movements all over the map it’s hard within the opening moments to try and disassociate my initial expectations with the poor interface and the lack of a story/personality.

Bumbling about with bees of all types and many different characteristics, cross-breeding to make new types and exploiting them like underpaid workers in an Amazon warehouse where workers aren’t even allowed bee-breaks, you start to wonder if there is a reason for why you are turning into a honey baron, and Apico doesn’t really provide it beyond following its witty instructions in the manual sections. 

Stubborn bees, man, they are so stubborn.

There is an overarching goal to uncover the remainder of the map and conserve the second letter of the alphabet, but there is so little incentive and satisfaction in that feedback loop to match the effort to do so.

For some simulation fans, the fun might be found in the tedium, but sadly there are also game-based bugs (the one time I try and avoid a pun!) that corrupt game files – my save file needed completely wiping from within the system storage menu before I could even open the game again – as well as items that refuse to spawn, in addition to the stuttering frame rates.

A simulation without much stimulation, Apico is the b-movie without personality, asking you to be the worker drones for little payoff. If you were hoping to breed a bunch of stubborn bees however, this might be right up your Apiary, but bee-ware, the console port isn’t silky smooth – stick with the PC version instead.

Review: Fallen Legion: Revenants

Daniel Waite
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Review: Fallen Legion: Revenants

I have recently looked at Fallen Legion: Rise to Glory and I was impressed with its storytelling, JRPG gameplay, and slick combat mechanics. However, I bemoaned its repetitive nature and how it felt more voyeuristic than inclusive. Consequently, when I was handed its sequel, Fallen Legion: Revenants, to review, I was a little hesitant. Would it evolve past its basic foundations, or was I in for more of the same?

Developed by YummyYummyTummy and published by NIS America, this is another story-rich JRPG with political undertones. Furthermore, it relies on buttery smooth combat, a crazy party system, and many much-improved mechanics. As such, I enjoyed the development of core ideas, and this sequel feels more mature and intense than its predecessor. What’s more, if you haven’t tried the first instalment, it matters not. Thankfully, no prior knowledge is required to enjoy the noticeably improved sequel.

In Fallen Legion: Revenants, a mother’s love never dies.

The great thing about JRPGs is that nothing is off the table. No matter how strange the concept, developers of this genre will consider anything. This is noted immediately when you find out that the lead protagonist is a spectre who is trying to save her son. Yep, you read that right, it’s a tale of a mother’s love from beyond the grave. However, bear with me as it’s not as insane or as terrible as you may think. No, instead, you quickly become accustomed to its weird plot and the odd political landscape that unfolds.

You control Rowena, a mother who will stop at nothing to save her imprisoned son. He is captured in a castle that is floating in the sky. Yet, she is not alone, as she enlists the help of the charismatic and often unreliable Lucien. This would-be go-getter must convince his peers that he is made of the right stuff to climb the ranks and control the surrounding area. By doing this, Rowena hopes to free her son and put right the wrongs of the past.

Fallen Legion: Revenants demands teamwork.
Work together and defeat your foes.

Teamwork, strategy, and slick combat.

Rowena acts as a commander-in-chief. Consequently, she commands an army of 3 fighters known as Exemplars. These ghostly figures have strengths and weaknesses and can be armed with equipment that is won during every battle. Furthermore, depending on their class, they will have different attacks and unique finishing moves. Alongside this, each of your warriors can be moved in formation to protect one another. Moreover, Rowena is utilised as a mage that can heal her party, or attack her foes at will.

This approach is very similar to its predecessor, but the developers have included a nice layer of tactical nuance thanks to a grid-based system. In this iteration, zonal combat is applicable, as are buffs and debuffs from spells. This was a brilliant idea that brought the action to life. No longer do you simply focus on blocking and attacking your foes. No, now you must dodge attacks while manipulating your team and your enemy’s positions.

This idea enhanced the already slick real-time combat mechanics and took the gameplay to a whole new level. Previously, you were only interested in parrying blows and combining attacks with your limited, but ever-refilling action points (AP). Now, you must be aware of your surroundings and the combat efficiency of each monster you face. This was quite a daunting task, as the fighting elements were quick and occasionally tough to master.

The enormous bosses are ominous and scary.
What the heck is that thing?

A new way to tell the story.

Previously, the story was told through an overworld node-based system. Now, this was serviceable, but I prefer the direction that Fallen Legion: Revenants has taken. Instead of this linear overworld view, you control Lucien as he worms his way up the ranks. Here, he finds out information that helps Rowena in her task to save her son. What’s more, this central hub is used to improve your party, choose your fighters, and set up formations before you enter each battle.

What was also great about this new and improved element was the QTEs that often punctuated the story. These moments were pressurised, fun, and often essential in improving your chances during each of the chapters. However, if you failed any of these events, it mattered not. Thankfully, it wouldn’t set you back, nor would it undermine those fights. Instead, it made you address each situation differently, and this kept you thinking throughout.

Another change that impressed me was the consequence-based interactions. Previously, you’d receive bonuses based upon strange and often unusual pivotal decisions. Now, the moments spent with the castle residents impact the surrounding world and your place in it. As such, you question your approach and every encounter you experience. Subsequently, this was a vast improvement over the last game, as this made you contemplate the advantages and disadvantages of everything you said and did.

Fallen Legion: Revenants has a familiar style.

If you are a fan of the genre, then you’ll adore Fallen Legion: Revenants style. The clean lines, contrasting images, and excellent sprites have a dated style that’s combined with a modern finish. What’s more, the excellent settings and smooth combat elements were fantastic to look at. If you then consider the easy-to-use UI, you get a simple-to-play game that is pleasant to look at.

Where this title falls short is its lack of voiceover work. Whenever the developers incorporated acting, the story was brought to life. However, when it was missing, and that was for large portions of the game, it wasn’t as immersive. This did disappoint me, as the soundtrack and sound effects were fantastic. Yet, with most of the story told through text-based dialogue, I was unfortunately left wanting.

Lucien controls the narrative of Fallen Legion: Revenants.
What decisions will you make?

Excellent controls.

Where Fallen Legion: Revenants excels is its excellent control system. Thanks to its thorough tutorial and superb button layout, this is an easy game to pick up and play. Furthermore, the responsive inputs and well-labelled UI make the rapid combat a cinch to understand.

As you progress through each chapter, you are awarded a score based on your overall performance and your ability to attack and defend. This scoring system increases longevity, especially if you are a perfectionist. On top of this, there are plenty of alternative endings that increase both longevity and replay value.

Fallen Legion: Revenants is a vast improvement.

I keep mentioning how much the game has improved. However, this doesn’t mean that its predecessor Fallen Legion: Rise to Glory was terrible. No, quite the opposite, in fact, as I enjoyed my time with it. Yet, there were many minor elements that needed tweaking to improve the overall experience. Thankfully, Fallen Legion: Revenants has done just that! As such, every area of this new instalment is much improved and consequently, I recommend you buy it here! Can you become a hero? Enjoy 2 intrinsically balanced stories that deliver drama and energy at every turn.

Which sports betting apps are the best to use in Virginia

Christopher John
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Which sports betting apps are the best to use in Virginia

There are plenty of things to look at when it comes to sports betting. But if you’re looking for the best sports betting apps to use in Virginia, here are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure the app is legal in Virginia. Second, look for an app that offers good odds and lines. Third, find an app that has a user-friendly interface. Fourth, look for an app that provides good customer service. 

Overview of the Virginia sports betting apps

While there are many different sports betting apps available in Virginia, not all of them are created equal. It is important to do your research and choose an app that best suits your needs. Be sure to read reviews, compare odds, and find an app that offers the best value for your money. Virginia became the 20th state to legalize sports betting when Governor Ralph Northam signed legislation in April 2021. The Virginia Lottery will oversee the industry and there will be a 10% tax on sports wagering revenue. Operators can apply for both online and retail sports betting licenses.

Since the legalization of sports betting in Virginia, there has been a surge in the number of sports betting apps available to residents. While there are many different options to choose from, we have compiled a list of the best Virginia sports betting apps currently available.

BetMGM sportsbook 

BetMGM sportsbook is one of the best sports betting apps to use in Virginia. The app offers a wide variety of betting options, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and more. The app also provides users with live odds, so you can make the most informed decisions when placing your bets. BetMGM s app is available for both iOS and Android devices. BetMGM Sportsbook has been a leader in the online gambling industry for years, and their sportsbook continues to offer some of the top betting options online.

While it may not have the same name recognition as some of the other sports betting apps, it is quickly becoming a favorite among Virginians. One of the things that makes BetMGM stand out is its user-friendly interface. Placing a bet is quick and easy, and there are plenty of options to choose from. 

In addition to its ease of use, BetMGM also offers some of the most competitive odds in Virginia. This means that you’re more likely to win big when you place a bet with BetMGM. If you’re looking for a new sports betting app to try, BetMGM is definitely worth checking out.  

FanDuel sportsbook

For those looking to place a bet on their favorite team, FanDuel Sportsbook is one of the best options in Virginia. The app offers a wide variety of betting options, from point spreads to money lines, and even props. What makes FanDuel Sportsbook stand out from the rest is the live betting feature. This allows users to place bets on games that are already in progress. For example, if you think a team is going to make a comeback, you can bet on them to do just that. The user interface is also extremely user-friendly and easy to navigate.

PointsBet sportsbook 

PointsBet Sportsbook is one of the leading sports betting apps in Virginia. The app offers a wide range of betting markets for all major sporting events, as well as a host of other features that make it a top choice for sports bettors. The app offers competitive odds on all major sporting events. This means that bettors can get great value for their bets. PointsBet has a user-friendly layout and interface that makes placing bets so easy. There is also a handy live chat function if you need any help while using the app. PointsBet sportsbook offers a wide range of betting options. You can bet on major sporting events such as football and basketball, as well as many other sports. You can also place bets on social and entertainment events if you want to spice things up a bit. 

DraftKings sportsbook 

DraftKings Sportsbook is one of the best options out there, thanks to its user-friendly interface and wide range of betting options. If you’re looking for a comprehensive sports betting experience in Virginia, DraftKings Sportsbook is the app for you. With an easy-to-use interface and a wide range of betting options, it’s the perfect choice for anyone from beginner to experienced bettors. Whether you’re looking to bet on your favorite team or try your hand at something new, DraftKings Sportsbook has you covered. With its user-friendly interface and wide range of betting options, it’s the perfect choice for anyone who wants to get into sports betting in Virginia. 

Caesars Sportsbook 

One of the best sports betting apps available in Virginia is Caesars Sportsbook. This app offers a wide range of features, including live betting, mobile wagering, and a large selection of markets. Plus, Caesars Sportsbook has excellent customer reviews and is known for providing a great user experience. 

Caesars is one of the most well-known and trusted names in gambling, and their sportsbook app is one of the best in the business. With a user-friendly interface and a wide range of betting markets available, Caesars is a great option for both experienced bettors and newcomers to sports betting.

Sports Illustrated (SI) Sportsbook

This app is available for both iOS and Android devices, and it offers a wide range of features for its users. Some of the key features of SI Sportsbook include live betting, mobile deposits, and a large selection of markets. The app also offers a variety of promotions and bonuses, which makes it an attractive option for many sports bettors. While SI Sportsbook is a great option for many sports bettors in Virginia, there are some other options worth considering. No matter which app you choose to use, make sure you do your research before placing any bets.

For players looking to explore online casinos, https://casinovanger.com/en/payment-methods/wero-casino/ provides information on platforms that accept Wero as a payment method.

Review: No More Heroes III

Daniel Waite
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Review: No More Heroes III

We’ve all had that gaming experience where we feel completely lost. Normally, it happens when you jump into a sequel and the story is insane, and the world is crazy. This is exactly how I feel about No More Heroes III! This bright, fast-paced and Manga/Anime-inspired beast is weird, amusing, and oddly compelling. Furthermore, it is by far the greatest game in the franchise. Thanks to its wicked sense of humour, slick combat, and open-world setting, you experience an acid trip of a game.

Developed by Grasshopper Manufacture Inc. and published by Marvellous Inc., this is an open-world adventure title. What’s more, it looks incredible, has some of the best swordplay I’ve experienced, and is undeniably odd. Further to this, the script is excellent; the gameplay is balanced, and you use a toilet to save your progress. In short, it throws in many curveballs to keep you on your toes.

The swordplay in No More Heroes III is incredible.
No one will mess with this Katana.

No More Heroes III is a story of triumph. 

The series follows Travis Touchdown, an Otaku assassin who is badass, witty, and obsessed with Asian culture. In this iteration, Travis has spent his last penny on a beam Katana. Consequently, he must get to work to refill his coffers. After meeting Sylvia, Travis does what Travis does best, and he slices, dices, and finishes his target’s life. However, you are quickly advised that there are 10 better, stronger, and more impressive contracts to complete. Yet, that is not all. No, because there is also a hit on your head, and you’re quite a valuable asset.

This is No More Heroes III in a nutshell. The action flows around an open and seamlessly brilliant world. Yet, the focus of attention is on each of the 10 boss battles you must complete. These fantastic encounters are punctuated by phenomenal cutscenes, unique mechanics, and eye-wateringly difficult tests. As such, you’ll desperately grind for XP as you hopelessly try to upgrade Travis’s base skills and stats. This is probably the low point of the action, as it feels grindy, drawn out, and possibly repetitive. However, the range of side missions is interesting, and thankfully, they retain the same charm as the main story.

Even the vehicles are ridiculous.
This machine is overpowered and over the top.

Side quests, and slick swordplay. 

I’ve alluded to the open world. However, in reality, it is more of a micro hub, comprising very little action. This may seem dull, but it wasn’t so bad, as each of the 6 areas has a unique style. These amusing nods to other gaming franchises are tongue-in-cheek and will make you chuckle. What’s more, the never-ending supply of side quests, collectables, and clothing options keeps things interesting.

The additional jobs are split into 2 categories; volunteer work for the community, and defence missions. Both tasks reward you with money to put towards ranked battles, but the requirements vary greatly. If you tackle the volunteer missions, you’ll cut grass for your neighbours, clean toilets, or pick up garbage. Now, this may seem tedious and boring, but it was oddly captivating. However, if you take on the defence battles, you’ll hone your combat skills, earn cash, and work towards each glorious boss encounter.

Whichever fight you undertake, you’ll be amazed by the incredibly slick swordplay. Furthermore, the attention to detail and energy system prevent it from being another mindless hack ‘n’ slash game. Instead, you must time your strikes, plan your defence, and recharge your beam Katana. If you fail to do so, you’ll be pounded into next week by every opponent you face. Accordingly, planning, patience, and sushi are a must if you wish to succeed.

No More Heroes III feels the next-gen power. 

Originally released for Switch in 2019, No More Heroes III was laced with problems. However, the 2022 update has ironed out the creases, and it performs admirably. With native 4k visuals and smooth 60 FPS action, it looks incredible. Furthermore, the cutscenes, backdrops, and animation are brilliant. I adored the clean-cut Manga/Anime influence, the insane comic book touches, and the tongue-in-cheek nods to pop culture. Subsequently, it is a colour overload, but one that isn’t overwhelming or OTT.

The brilliance continues in the audio. The zany and loud soundtrack is matched by the excellent acting. Consequently, the story is full of energy and timeless humour. What’s more, the futuristic sound effects work perfectly with the Matrix-like combat. It was easy to fall for its unusual charms, even if it was confusing most of the time.

Practise your combos and defeat every foe in style.
Hack, slash, and be victorious.

Clever controls. 

Though the maddening story and excellent aesthetics will steal the show, we mustn’t forget the clever controls. Thanks to a well-considered UI, and simple approach, the combat is incredibly smooth and enjoyable to experience. On top of this, using sushi to replenish health or energy is a simple task. With standard combat mechanics and some unusual special moves, it offers both familiarity and originality.

I’m theory, the semi-linear story and hub-like world should reduce the game’s appeal. However, in reality, the vast amount of collectables and non-stop side quests will keep you playing. Alongside this, there are many custom options for Travis if you wish to get creative. 

No More Heroes III is wonderfully unique. 

Whether you are a veteran or new to the franchise, it matters not. Everybody will be confused as hell, as they tackle this insane and deliberately exuberant title. Accordingly, you may be put off playing it. Yet, I urge you to rethink your decision. Consequently, once you understand its madness, you’ll fall for its crazy charms and silly story. As such, I can easily recommend you buy it here! Will you eliminate your targets and become the number one assassin? Slice, dice, and annihilate every foe you face. 

News: Dawn Apart

Daniel Waite
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News: Dawn Apart

Let’s be honest for one moment. A building simulation title gets announced more often than the news of Katie Price starting a new relationship. Consequently, you never know if you are on to a good thing. As such, I usually wait until others have reviewed the game to get a lay of the land. However, the announcement of Dawn Apart caught my attention. This space colony base builder ticks all the right boxes from the off.

With a scheduled release date of spring 2024, we have some time to wait to play it. Yet, I couldn’t hold off any longer. I instantly fell for its Factorio automation and the dystopian Rimworld setting. Accordingly, this game has some big influences that should create a deep and fulfilling experience.

Dawn Apart demands a focus on automation.
Plan your city and automate every task.

What is the story behind Dawn Apart?

Set on the distant planet of Aurora, you must control a colony of fortune hunters as you appease a corporate overlord. Furthermore, you are expected to protect your assets from angry and aggressive natives. Subsequently, things rarely go to plan as you try to fulfil the relentless orders. The horrendous contractor will stop at nothing to make a quick buck. As such, you’ll either work tirelessly to complete each quota, or you’ll rebel and do your own thing. Either way, you’ll enjoy a rich and challenging experience filled with twists and turns.

Set in a gloriously destructive voxel world, you are free to blow up everything you see. However, you won’t waste what you find. No, instead, you’ll use it to complete each contract or increase your structures. After all, you won’t want to lose your business to a bunch of ill-educated locals with a grudge. Dawn Apart attempts to break the mould. Therefore, it boasts such features as. 

  • Automate: Build vertically and erect sky-high factory complexes with assembly lines stretching over multiple floors.
  • Colonise: Manage a growing number of engineers, mercenaries, and civilians who have left their homes behind to start over in a lush but hostile world.
  • Destroy: Everything you build and encounter can be pulverised down to the last voxel.

One for the future. 

A year is a long time to be patient. Yet, I can’t wait to see this in early access. With an interesting theme, some phenomenal influences, and a few unique ideas, this is bound to pique many gamer’s interests. If you are sold on the idea, why not click here to wishlist it?

How Technology Can Help Reshape Your Business Today

Christopher John
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How Technology Can Help Reshape Your Business Today

There is no question that technology has had one of the biggest influences on the world of business in the past 20 years, and there is little doubt that your business has been impacted by technology in many ways. Embracing technology is a key factor in reshaping your business, including in the administrative process. For instance, if you’re in Georgia and looking to restructure your business as a limited liability company, there are online resources that can simplify the process. Don’t miss this user-friendly guide on apply for an llc in georgia to help make your business transformation smoother. If you want to run a successful modern business, it is almost impossible to do so without having your finger on the pulse of the latest technological developments. This is something that plays a huge role in allowing your company to be successful, as well as making everything easier and more efficient to do as a modern brand. There are loads of great ideas that you need to think about when it comes to improving your company through the use of technology, and one of the best parts of this process is to think about how technology influences your company.

There are loads of things that you can do to help utilise and embrace modern and emerging technologies, and use them to improve your business in the process. You probably rely on technology as a company more than you think you do, and this is why it’s important to understand the key role modern technology plays in any kind of business success or evolution. So let’s take a look at some of the most important ways in which modern technology has a huge impact on your business, and the degree of success you are able to achieve through the use of it. 

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-woman-writing-on-tablet-computer-while-using-laptop-4348401/

Security

One of the biggest ways in which technology has improved in benefit of modern businesses is through the use of security measures. Protecting your company has never been more important these days, and the good news is that technology has made it possible to make our businesses even more safe and secure than they have been in the past. There are loads of amazing ways of being able to do this, and focusing on some of the best can make a huge difference for your business. Whether it’s data protection, spyware, CCTV security systems, or keycards there are countless ways of being able to improve security in your business through the use of technology. You can do so much to look after your modern brand through the use of technology, and making security a key priority for your business is essential for longevity and continued success. Try to make sure you implement technological security procedures within your company as much as possible, and you can reap the benefits of this.

Increased efficiency

There are loads of key steps that your business can take in order to operate better, and one of the key ones is to focus on improving efficiency. There are plenty of great benefits to running a more efficient business, and it could increase morale, productivity, and sales in the process. Coming up with some of the best ways of being able to keep your company more efficient is really important, and there are a lot of factors that play a role in this. Technology is one of the best things that you can use to improve and increase the efficiency of your business, and this is going to have an enormous impact on how your company has run, and the levels of success that you are able to enjoy has a result. For example, things like digitising the business and making use of software in order to carry out projects and complete tasks is really great for improving the efficiency of the brand. This is why it is super important to make sure that you implement technology into the company wherever possible. There are loads of wonderful ways of achieving this, and it’s something that can have a positive impact on the brand moving forward. 

A global audience

One of the biggest changes the technology has brought about for modern businesses is that it has given them access to a global audience. The reach of things like social media has been on an unprecedented scale to what businesses have previously been able to benefit from, and this has meant that any business in the world has a potential global audience at their fingertips. This is one of the most decisive factors that has played a role in reshaping modern companies, and businesses are needing to get wise to the power and reach of social media, as well as coming up with ways of making it work for you. Try to make sure that your brand has a strong social media presence, and that you are using sites like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook in order to increase your reach and boost brand visibility. A global audience has completely transformed business marketing and allowed brands to target people all across the world as opposed to simply their local area. The wide reaching ramifications of this are being seen every year, and more and more businesses are being formed with the appeal of new customers at their fingertips. 

Diverse marketing

Marketing is the essence of success in business, and as the saying goes, you are only as strong as your marketing strategy. You could have the best product in the world, but if nobody knows about it, you’re not going to make any sales. As such, it is imperative to be able to develop the strongest possible marketing strategy to elevate your business. In modern times, with a more competitive business marketplace, it has become even more important to develop a strong and diverse marketing strategy that will allow you to stand out again on edge on your rivals. For this reason, technology takes on additional prominence for so many companies, as it even is the playing field somewhat and allows businesses of all sizes to market themselves on a global scale, sometimes for little to no cost. Digital marketing experts can have the single biggest impact on your company, and this is why you need to hire them, and utilise their expertise in technology to benefit you. 

Better communication

One of the biggest factors that technology has been able to offer modern businesses is the ability to improve the way they communicate. As a company, communication is one of the most important and sought-after traits you can have. In order to run a business in the best and most effective way possible, it is essential to make sure that your company is communicating effectively, both with employees and with customers. There are tons of ways in which technology can help improve your communication as a business, and things like integrating chatbot into your website is the best place to start with this. Being able to communicate better with your employees and customers is so important, and something like a chat bot allows you to improve customer service via the online chat function and deal with any issues or queries customers may have in a swift and efficient manner. This is a really important part of improving your companies reputation, as well as allowing you to deal with any customer queries, and improve your focus on customer service long-term.

Prototypes 

One of the greatest advantages of modern technology is that it allows businesses to improve the way they approach product design. There are countless options for companies these days, and being able to improve the design and conception phase can be a game-changer. 3D printing is a huge part of this, and it has really helped to enhance and boost the way in which modern companies develop new products. There are also opportunities to develop prototypes digitally, and get renderings for how a product might look in advance. This is a really great way of being able to improve your company and what it can offer its customers. You need to try to come up with some of the best ideas that will help you to utilise technology when helping design your products and prototypes, and this can make a huge difference to long-term business success.

Protect Intellectual Property

As well as making it easier for you to develop your product ideas, technology can also help to protect them. Copyright and trademark infringements aren’t always easy to detect. There may be competitors copying your product ideas or counterfeits of your products being sold without you even knowing about them. Software such as SnapDragon brand protection can help you detect intellectual property infringements quickly and get them resolved fast.  This helps ensure your intellectual property is protected and your brand’s reputation is safeguarded.

Launching a business is easier than ever 

One of the great things the technology has brought about in recent times is the ability to create an online business from scratch with nothing but an idea and a laptop full. Technology is the great equaliser, providing everyone with the opportunity to succeed when it comes to planning and launching a brand-new business. There are loads of excellent ideas need to make the most of when it comes to improving your business, setting yourself up for success when it comes to launching a new company is vital. Opening an online business is easier than ever, and one of the key reasons for this is due to the emergence of technology, and how it is shaping and influencing the business well. Whether it’s an e-commerce business, or tech upstart, there are more opportunities than ever to successfully launch and run a brand-new modern business, and one of the best ways of achieving this is through the use of modern tech. 

There are loads of things to consider when you are trying to improve your professional future, and launching a brand-new start-up is an option that is growing in popularity for many people. One of the biggest reasons why new start-ups are growing in popularity is due to the rise and influence of technology. You can use this to your advantage by coming up with some awesome ideas to help you harness technology in a way that will benefit your business long-term, and help you hit the ground running when you launch a new company.

Review: Pathfinder Wrath of the Righteous

Daniel Waite
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Review: Pathfinder Wrath of the Righteous

Back in February 2021, I was fortunate enough to look at Pathfinder: Kingmaker. This classic D&D-inspired RPG kept me interested for hours and reminded me of Baldur’s Gate. Furthermore, I loved its lore, excellent storytelling, and its custom options. Accordingly, I gave it a 7 out of 10 as there were bugs and the action was far too difficult. Roll on nearly 18 months, and I get to look at Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous. Will this newer iteration be more of the same, or will it evolve from its predecessor?

Developed by Owlcat Games and published by META publishing, this is a CRPG with a rich investment in D&D mechanics. Furthermore, it oozes fantasy tropes, has masses of characters to interact with, and there are many evil overlords and crazy creatures to encounter. In short, it takes on the classic OTT RPG story and ups the ante by about 30%. Therefore, if you are planning to tackle this 80+ hour monster, you better get yourself prepared for an epic trip.

Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous feels familiar.

Though no prior knowledge is needed, it certainly helps during the opening stages. However, if you haven’t touched this franchise, you’ll enjoy a thorough tutorial that talks you through the masses of fundamentals that need to be mastered. Sadly, though, if you are a fan, every element feels familiar, and there is a distinct element of Déjà vu. Now, this isn’t a bad thing per se, but having invested many hours in its predecessor, I was hoping for a fresh style and look. Instead, you get more of the same, but with a modern polish.

The game revolves around a hero who is the commander of the Fifth Crusade against the Worldwound. This dark place is a rift between reality and a demonic abyss filled with ungodly creatures. In these depths, there are unmentionable creatures that love to inflict pain on anyone or anything that dares to trespass. However, your band of heroes must cross that void if they are to complete whatever mission they undertake.

As you can see, it is a hearty story that instantly screams drama, danger, and death. Consequently, it grabs you from the off, and you’ll enjoy the meaty data dump, text-heavy story, and the constant flux and change of your characters as the story progresses. Furthermore, there are some excellent combat mechanics, plenty of weird creatures, and so many custom options that I lost count.

Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous has many incredible fantasy monsters.
Probably not best to mess with a dragon.

So many choices.

In standard CRPG practice, Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous treats you to an eye-opening level of custom options. Subsequently, as the game opens, you are treated to no more than 25 classes and 12 races. This mind-boggling amount of information leaves you feeling dizzy, but once you clamber through the mountains of stats, information, and character models, you are chucked into a pretty standard-looking fantasy world.

Fans of the genre will feel right at home with the isometric viewpoint, easy-to-navigate UI, and party management screens. Furthermore, the choice of turn-based combat or an out-of-control real-time affair won’t feel too dissimilar to its peers. Regarding combat, I loved how each option can be changed on the fly. This was particularly key when battles got out of hand. Now, no matter how much experience you have, Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous has the ability to keep you on the back foot. Accordingly, you’re going to want to slow things down now and then.

An ever-evolving story.

Another great element of this title is its consequential decision mechanics. Every choice has a positive and negative outcome. Sometimes, you even get something in between. As such, you never quite know where the game is going to go, or if you are doing the right thing. Therefore, will your actions be the catalyst for something great and life-changing, or will you curse yourself and alienate your party from a particular race or group of people?

Alongside the branching storyline is your ability to command a vast army. This portion of the gameplay moves away from the classic isometric viewpoint to a more traditional overworld map. Here, you can choose to expand your territories, establish new outposts, or help the crusade. Each of your armies will march along set paths where they will fight your enemies, capture new buildings, and push back the demonic hordes.

In theory, this area of the game should have been great, but in reality, it is a bit of a time sink that never pushes you. Unlike Total War, Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous isn’t refined enough, nor does it have that eye-catching detail. Instead, it does an average job of delivering a war simulation without the tasty and addictive moments. Consequently, you’ll enjoy what you experience, but you’ll be begging for so much more.

Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous has some incredible settings.
You’ll adore the amazing settings.

Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous looks great.

Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous is reported to be full of bugs and issues. However, I rarely ran into anything serious or game-breaking. Instead, in my experience, the issues were silly, and often humorous. I discovered enemies that would levitate or clip the scenery, spells that were a damp squib, and the occasional rip and tear with the backdrop. Thankfully, though, this was the extent of my problems. Furthermore, the developers are pretty hot on rectifying any problems, so expect regular updates as things are sorted out.

Visually, this is a dark and seedy title that has a classic CRPG style. I adored the blend of the overworld and isometric viewpoints, and I loved the character models as well. On top of this, the spark of magic, the excellent monsters, and the animation were all enjoyable and better than its predecessor.

The audio delivers a deep and rich sound that enhances the fantasy setting. With partial voice acting and some great sound effects, this does a great job of holding your attention. Furthermore, the soundtrack encompasses each dramatic moment with ease. Whether it was an upbeat and energetic battle cry or a sinister and dramatic song, it all worked perfectly.

If you could be a dragon, would you turn it down?
Life as a dragon is as fun as it sounds.

It plays well on console.

Having ported this from PC, I expected it to play horribly with a controller. However, I was wrong! Thanks to the excellent UI and radial menus, you can navigate much of the action with ease. Furthermore, the fantastic tutorial sets you up in no time at all. This is also helped by the two combat approaches and the free-to-move camera. With the ability to alter your viewpoint, you feel in control of the action and this helps when things get overwhelming.

Unsurprisingly, Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous is loaded with replay value. With oodles of subplots, loads of classes and races to choose from, and a monstrously large game to endure, you’ll be kept extremely busy. Moreover, to get the most out of this, you’ll need to invest upwards of 100 hours. As such, this isn’t a casual experience. Instead, it focuses on veterans of the D&D genre, and those that love the franchise.

Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous is definitely an improvement.

I’ve aired my complaints regarding its predecessor. However, thankfully, Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous is a vast improvement. Yes, it still has bugs, and at times, it is brutal as hell. Yet, I loved the detail, the gritty lore, and the excellent storytelling. What’s more, the customisation options are phenomenal, and the crusade battle elements are interesting at the beginning. The developers potentially spread themselves too thin, and this is seen during those army mechanics. Consequently, this was probably the weakest part of this game. But I wouldn’t let that put you off. No, instead I’ll happily recommend that you buy it here! Can you complete your mission and help the crusade? Control your party and your army as you push back the demonic forces and save humanity.

Review: Unusual Findings

Daniel Waite
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Review: Unusual Findings

I’m a sucker for 80s cult classics such as The Lost Boys and The Goonies. These incredible films make you laugh, cry, and take you on a fascinating journey. I believe it’s fair to say that modern entertainment has lost this touch. Therefore, when something returns to these roots, it instantly piques my interest. According, when I saw the trailer for Unusual Findings, I knew that I had to get in on the action.

Developed by Epic Llama Games and published by ESDigital Games, this is an 80s-inspired point-and-click adventure title. What’s more, it has some ball-breaking puzzles, and a wonderfully rich and enjoyable plot to experience. Furthermore, it is loaded with nods to some of the best films, music, and games the 80s had to offer. As such, it will fill you with nostalgia as you lose yourself in its completely unbelievable plot.

Unusual Findings is a classic tale of adventure and friendship.

Unusual Findings does a wonderful job of delivering a classic tale all about adventure and friendship. As such, the game twists and turns and takes you along for this hearty and unbelievable ride. Furthermore, you are invested in the characters and their plight from the off. Quickly, you understand that your decisions and actions influence the flow and direction of the game. Accordingly, there are 3 unique endings and plenty of puzzles en route that must be solved in order to progress. However, these problems are convoluted, and tough, and will test the smartest of individuals. Subsequently, it was occasionally maddening when you got stuck with no obvious solution.

The game revolves around 3 young boys and their adventures at Christmas time. Vinny, Nick, and Tony are mischievous, naughty, and above all else, rebellious. All they want in life is to have fun and watch free cable TV. After all, who doesn’t want to watch some classic 1980s adult movies? In order to achieve this dream, the boys make a descrambler. Yet, something goes wrong as instead of getting their dirty films, they intercept a strange alien signal. Following this, a mysterious object crashes into the neighbouring woods and all hell breaks loose. A ranger is killed by a giant robotic alien, and the boys run for their lives. However, they decide in classic 80s fashion that they would stand up to this evil alien overlord, and thus begin their strange adventure.

Unusual Findings is full of classic 80s imagery.
Classic 80s entertainment.

Simple mechanics but unbelievably tough puzzles.

Unusual Findings has an undeniably simple concept. Effectively, the 3 boys must explore their surroundings while conversing with the locals and solving mountains of problems. Yet, this is where the simplicity ends, unfortunately. Disappointingly, Epic Llama Games has created a monstrously difficult point-and-click game that is borderline infuriating. With many hidden items and objects that must be combined, cleaned, fixed, and inspected, you never quite know what to do. What’s more, investigating your surroundings isn’t as easy as it should have been. No, instead, the side-scrolling method can be tricky to navigate at the best of times.

Unfortunately, the point-and-click mechanics don’t work particularly well when navigating each stage. Sadly, you’ll interact with many unnecessary objects as you make your arduous journey across each tiny location. This is made worse when you have to complete several journeys to collect items and solve each puzzle you face. If the developers had allowed the protagonists to move freely, this problem would have been eliminated immediately.

Other than the exploration, puzzles, and side-scrolling navigation, Unusual Findings focuses on plenty of conversations. What was great about this was that every dialogue option was laid bare for you to see immediately. Subsequently, you can steer each interaction however you saw fit. This was an excellent decision by the developers as you feel in complete charge of how the story progresses. Furthermore, depending on your decisions, the relationship between the boys, and the solutions to the problems, alter.

The comic book store is the home of every geek.
3 geeks one comic book store.

Unusual Findings looks incredible.

You’ll either love or hate the aesthetics. Accordingly, I adored both the visual and audio elements of this brilliantly dated game. With a pixelated finish, OTT sprites, interesting landscapes, and much more, it was a treat to play. Furthermore, if you love the 80s, you’ll be tickled by the amusing Easter eggs. On top of this, the refined UI and easy-to-use pointer make exploring each location a little easier. However, if there was a way to explore each area without the need to side-scroll, it would have been much better.

With a distinctly retro soundtrack, and some fun and interesting acting, the audio didn’t disappoint. The excellent music adds drama and danger and is reminiscent of some of the best film soundtracks. Moreover, the simple sound effects bring the game to life without being annoying, shrill, or in your face.

Unusual Findings is wonderfully 80s by design.
Where it all begins.

Frustrating but serviceable.

I didn’t have high hopes regarding the control setup. This genre never works well on console, and unfortunately, Unusual Findings falls foul of the normal issues. However, even though I found it to be frustrating, it was still serviceable, and it didn’t detract from the otherwise incredible plot.

Thanks to the dialogue choices, and ever-changing story, there is plenty of replay value to be had. What’s more, with 3 endings to enjoy, and a colourful and interesting world to explore, you won’t tire of what you experience. But you will become annoyed at the unnecessarily tough and impossibly long puzzles en route.

Unusual Findings is great, but it has its problems.

If you love nostalgia and a retro plot, then you’ll adore Unusual Findings. It does a great job of capturing the 80s in every aspect. Yet, the poor navigation and ridiculously tough puzzles undo most of the fantastic work. However, I still adored its script, the setting, and the aesthetics. Subsequently, I recommend that you buy it here! Can you save the town and stop the aliens? Solve puzzles, work together, and prevent the extraterrestrials from completing their ghastly plan.

Review: Nitro Kid

Xavier Berry
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Review: Nitro Kid

Deck builders come in many different flavors and while each may start to blend together, Nitro Kid does a good job of standing out from the rest. Allowing players to take control of 3 different characters with unique abilities and different paths to take during the story missions, players will find themselves entertained over the course of the game.

Each character has a wide array of cards to chose from

Story

The story is very to the point and gives players a solid understanding of what their mission is right off the bat.  Players will control an agent of CINDER and must tackle a corporation that is responsible for a new narcotic named Nitro. Over the course of the game, players will uncover more information about the evil corporation and their test subjects which are called “Kids”. Since the game expects players to make multiple runs through the story, it is nice to have these story bits given to players in smaller segments.

Gameplay

Players will start each run by picking a different character that pulls inspiration from different pop culture icons with the first being a Bruce lee inspired character named L33. As players progress through the game, they will unlock J4X and K31.

Each run will have players selecting a set amount of cards for their chosen character before entering a room. Once players have gotten set up and enter the room, they will be given a set amount of enemies to take down while managing their cards and health. I found myself fully enjoying L33’s deck since I was setting up enemies to take extra damage when inflicted with burn. As players clear rooms, they will earn money that can be spent on different cards that can be utilized during each run.

Nitro Kid presents itself in a pixilated, 80’s inspired art style and this is a wonderful combination for the aesthetic. One of my complaints is a minimal one but the area players are bound to look like floating cubes in space. Since the story involves players rushing through 3 floors of the building, I would have appreciated it the floors seemed to flow a little better but this Is a minor gripe that many may overlook.

There will be occasions where players must make decisions in the story that will grant them different abilities, the opportunity to get more cards, or enable them to recover some health.

Another rough area that I found myself struggling with was the lack of information presented with each skill in combat. I had a hard time determining what “burn” was initially and ended up wasting a few turns just to figure out what the move was. Since players are encouraged to tackle each run as effectively as possible, it is a shame that there is this element of trial and error just to find out basic information. While this information is presented when selecting the cards initially, it would be nice to have the descriptions explained in the moment so that decisions can be made with full information.

Final Thoughts

Nitro kid does a wonderful job of standing out from other rouge-likes but some of the glaring issues prevent it from being a strong contender against other titles such as The darkest Dungeon and one of the more recent popular titles, Hades. It was a fun little adventure and could definitely hit the spot if players are looking for another game to add to their backlog but will certainly leave players looking for more after their initial run is finished.  

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