With Christmas only a few months away, we take a closer look at Treasure X Robots Gold.
Remove the Rust and Build Your Bot with Treasure X Robots Gold. Discover the future of Robots when you search for REAL Gold Dipped Treasure. Take on 15 levels of adventure as you discover and repair the most amazing Robots.
Reveal your Robot by pouring water into the chamber to remove its rust coating and bring back its “Bling”! Cut open the Container with your Tool to find the remaining parts and build your Bot! Then crack open the Container to release the Robo Dirt.
Search through the Robo Dirt to discover your Robot’s “Power Core”. Will you find a REAL Gold Dipped “Power Core” Treasure? There are 6 Robots to collect. Look out for Robots with awesome Metallic and Transparent Finishes. All the Treasure X Robots have interchangeable parts.
Mix and match all you Robots to create new, unique versions of the Bots! The more you collect the more unique Robots you can create. Kids will love this futuristic unboxing adventure toy as they reveal, repair and build while they search for Treasure!
Each Treasure X Robot comes with the robot, a stand, treasure and a tool to help you excavate the treasure.
My son is a big fan of the Treasure X series – over the last couple of years he has enjoyed playing with various Treasure X toys, including the Treasure Tomb, the bottles (his favourite so far), the Monsters and the Dinos. The Robots are this year’s Treasure X toy and he loved it. He also has the Mega Treasure Bot too! One of the things he really loves is not knowing which character you will get and then trying to complete the collection.
The Treasure X Robot is available now priced around £15.99.
Disclosure: This product was provided free of charge in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
Thunderful Group is a group of companies that develops, publishes and invests in games as well as distributes Nintendo products, games, game accessories and toys. Founded in 2017 Thunderful Games is one of the two business segments in Thunderful Group, the other being Thunderful Distribution. Over the last few years Thunderful Games has, organically and via acquisitions, grown into a global organization with eight development studios and over 300 employees. Besides the award-winning internal development pipeline, Thunderful Games also publishes a large number of third-party titles and invests in external game projects.
– Thunderful Games
Thunderful Games at EGX 2022
Astonishingly it’s been over a week ago now since EGX 2022. One of the biggest booths there was from Thunderful Games showcasing no less than six games! All the games provided were in different stages of development, but all were fantastic and offered something for everyone.
I got to spend time with the team from Thunderful Games and sample all the games they brought with them! So here’s my take on each one.
Planet of Lana
On a planet of undisturbed peace between humans, animals, and nature things are about to change for a young girl and her loyal animal companion. This is the epic sci-fi setting for Planet of Lana, the new game from Wishfully and published by Thunderful Games.
In this wonderfully cinematic puzzle adventure platformer, you play as both the young girl and through unique control mechanics, the loyal friend too. The pair set off on a rescue mission as the world’s harmony is coming undone from the arrival of machines.
Here the game begins. The stage I played was beautiful to look at, the hand-painted art style is both charming and mesmerising. I loved the art and the character models. Also, the animal companion is adorable, and I want one!
The companion does more than just look adorable though, as you progress, they learn new abilities that you can use to help you solve certain geographic navigation puzzles. The controls are as you would expect with a unique mechanism. You can direct your loyal companion to stay or follow as well as move to different locations. All these movements become vital for solving certain aspects, such as activating platform controls and more. How this works in practice is excellent and provides a new dimension to this genre of game.
I can’t stress enough how beautiful this game is, and how relaxing this game was to play. It wasn’t all combat and combined with the soundtrack made it a wonderful experience.
Planet of Lana is currently in development for a 2023 release. It should be available on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC. Find out more at the official website!
Togges
From Regular Studio comes their debut project, Togges. Published again by Thunderful Games. Togges was a great 3D platformer that features a vast number of new mechanics. In the game you are tasked by King President to dominate the universe… so you can save it, of course!
In the game, you play as a Roomba dropping and collecting blocks (Togges) that enable you to complete puzzles in the landscape and collect fruit and other tokens. You can traverse each world (which plays as the surfaces of globes so feels very 3D when traveling) to work out where you need to go, and to find the fruits you need to collect. It isn’t that simple though. You always need your Togges with you! Spreading, and stacking is the only way anything can be done in this collect-A-thon game as it’s the Togges that do the work. You have a limit of cubes you can lay so careful planning, and tactical thinking is key. You can hoover up these cubes and relay them as necessary if you go wrong – but it’s vital to take them with you!
What I found fascinating about this game was how complex this mechanic made the puzzles. From having to get over running rivers to open forcefield gates by stacking a certain number. In addition, different colour Togges have different powers. The ones I saw were the basic red cubes and then the yellow ones that had a higher stack limit. What’s more, you can only lay certain ones down depending on the Togge available.
The worlds I saw were varied and the fun cartoon art style made the game visually interesting and joyful to look at. The fun carried over into the soundtrack which was lively and catchy.
Togges is a game to lose hours in! Set for a 2022 multiplatform release Togges is one to watch if you want a unique platformer in your life. Don’t let King President down… you know you do. Find out more at the official website!
Wavetale
From Thunderful Games comes Wavetale. This is a game already released on, of all things, Google Stadia. I have never considered even looking at Stadia before I got hands-on with this game! If it isn’t enough that Wavetale is the game that made me look at Stadia, I’ll tell you more.
Now I should preface this by saying that don’t worry – although the news broke that Google is shutting down Stadia services in January 2023, Wavetale will be coming to PC and consoles soon. You can download the Steam demo currently.
Wavetale is a story-driven action-adventure game that stole my heart. So brilliantly charming, so visually beautiful, and wow was it fun. Exploring a vast open sea on the decaying world, you play as Sigrid, a young girl who befriends a shadow that gives her unique powers.
These powers form the main basis of travel and puzzle solving. Firstly, Sigrid can walk on water, and she uses this ability to surf the calm waters and bigger waves. I cannot stress how fun this was! You can speed up, perform jumps, and, spinning your net around, helicopter down from insane heights.
Playing part of the story I traveled through the waters to various areas to capture energy to restore power to the populated area. Each section felt unique with fluid combat, and environmental puzzles to solve. The pacing was fast, but the controls always felt responsive. What really stunned me was the camera work as it followed Sigrid performing a variety of jumps as she swung up to different levels. This felt like a tracking camera in an action movie.
Wavetale is a unique concept and is set to deliver a heart-warming story combined with beautiful graphics, great music and voiceover, and challenging puzzles. Find out more at the Thunderful Games website!
Tinkertown
What do you get if you cross classic Zelda and Minecraft? Well, that would be Tinkertown! From Headup and published by Thunderful Games this was an action-adventure/crafter that was initially released in 2020.
Tinkertown is pitched as a multiplayer sandbox (although there is a single-player mode too) where you must collect resources to build items, shelters, and more. Once you’ve crafted these items you can begin your adventure! You can go explore the procedurally generated worlds, collecting more exotic resources. As with most builders – you can eventually unlock recipes to craft better quality gear. Once this is done, it’s time to complete quests and, more importantly. Delve headfirst into dungeons to find treasure and beat bosses!
The top world is relatively danger-free comparatively, but this is by no means the case everywhere. You will come up across difficult foes right from the outset that you either need to fight or find a path around. Once you enter the dungeons though, it’s a very different story! Combat is challenging. Almost Soulsborne challenging, which I didn’t expect from this type of game but found refreshing and immensely enjoyed.
For me, I found controller play difficult, I attempted to kill a skeleton with a potato at one point, but over time you get used to the control layout. I think I would prefer a keyboard and mouse for this title though.
The art style reminds me of classic Zelda, and it made me smile. Tinkertown is an enjoyable experience for fans of classic action-adventure games who enjoy the survival/crafting experiences of games like Minecraft. It’s certainly one I can’t wait to jump back into!
Tinkertown is available now on PC in Early Access. Find out more at the official website!
Worldless
Next up was a stylised, turn-based, 2D adventure platformer developed by Noname Studios and published by Coatsink. With Ori and Hollow Knight vibes, I jumped right in! Worldless is set in an abstract reality full of entities with opposite goals. It is this dichotomy that is explored as you traverse the shapeless world.
As you progress in the game, you learn new abilities collected from the beings you fight, through the traumatic process of absorption. The puzzles were interesting and exploring this hauntingly beautiful world was a joy. I managed to catch a bit of the soundtrack amidst the buzz of the convention, and it fits perfectly. This is a platformer I can see myself shutting out the world for!
Combat in the game is very interesting. It’s turn-based and highly strategic. The movements are all very fluid and the animations of the monsters are fantastic. What I really enjoyed though was having to time my offensive and defensive capabilities to be victorious. Killing these monsters is crucial to get new abilities that allow you to explore further and do more in the world. Abilities include increasing jump capability, dashing and more. Honestly, it all felt great to experience and the controls were logical and responsive. Worldless is a game to get lost in, enjoy how it makes you feel and think, and ultimately, unlock destiny.
Playing the game, I quickly fell in love with the simplistic art style. It was atmospheric, haunting, yet strangely soothing. I also really enjoyed learning more about the progression tree which reminded me of a constellation and offers many abilities to develop and improve. All of which are key to progression!
Worldless is set for a 2023 release and will be available on Xbox and PC. For more information check out the official website!
The Last Hero of Nostalgaia
One of the funniest games I got to play at EGX 2022 must be The Last Hero of Nostalgaia. Developed by Over The Moon and published by Coatsink this is a Souls-like action-adventure like nothing you will have experienced before.
Nostalgaia is the world of videogames and it’s in trouble! Collapsing back from beautiful fidelity into a mysterious pixelated version of itself. Even the memories are going. Heroes are very much not welcome here, but one, unlikely hero, is stepping up to the challenge of saving everyone.
You play as the most pixelated hero ever to spawn, a stick man. The action-adventure is driven by story and features impressive combat mechanics and a variety of gear that can be improved along the way with full character customisation.
The Souls-like combat is certainly a challenge. If you’re familiar with the type of game and timing of defensive and offensive moves, you should be able to survive for a few seconds longer than most! What makes this game less frustrating, and more motivating is the narrator.
The most sarcastic narrator in a game I’ve ever heard basically hates your very existence and that makes for comedy. And motivation to succeed!
Jumping into the game, I picked my character class (an homage to the Dark Souls games) and set off on my adventure. The game looked fantastic with the blend of modern graphics and pixelation as the world decays. The controls felt good and combat, during the time I was alive, felt responsive.
Having had some time away from the game now I can say one thing… by the time it releases I will very determined to prove that narrator wrong!
The Last Hero of Nostalgia releases on October 19 on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One. For more information see the official game website!
Final Thoughts on the Thunderful Games Booth
What can I say, Thunderful Games really delivered at EGX 2022, and I can’t wait to spend more time with all these games when they release. I appreciate the time the team spent with me showing me around the booth and the wide variety of games on offer. For more information about Thunderful Games check out their website!
Here is our review of the SimpliSafe Home Security System.
Simple to choose, set-up and use. The DIY home security system is a self-installed and self-maintained alarm. Just stick the sensors in place, and pair them to the Wireless Keypad and Base Station. No drilling. No wiring. No tools. Secure your home in less than an hour.
Smart detection, faster emergency response. Sensors for every window and door. Indoor and outdoor HD security cameras. Hazard detectors to guard against fires, floods and burst pipes. All powered by 24/7 professional monitoring.
Base Station
The base station comes with the base station itself and a power supply.
Keypad
The keypad is ready to use with wall stickers already attached.
Motion Sensor
The motion sensor comes ready to use with wall stickers already attached.
Entry Sensor
The entry sensor comes ready to use with wall stickers already attached.
SimpliCam
The SimpliCam comes with the camera on a mount, a cable and a plug.
Wireless Outdoor Security Camera
The Wireless Outdoor Camera comes with the camera itself attached to a mount, a battery, cable and wall plugs and screws, along with some instructions. The outdoor camera retails for £179.99.
Configuring the System
Configuring the system involves downloading the SimpliSafe app and following the instructions to set up each component of the system.
Final Thoughts
Depending on what type of protection you want, you buy individual components, or kits. If you buy individual components you will need the base station and keypad as a minimum before getting the other components such as the cameras or sensors.
Once you have decided what you need and have purchased the components or kits, it’s time to set everything up. The first thing you need to do is plug in the base station and download the app. From there you follow each of the steps to set up the initial components, set a master code, connect to wifi, name the locations and update the firmware on the devices.
Once that has been done you can add any additional components from within the app.
Setting up the components was really easy – the app is very clear and tells you everything you need to do, it even gives you advice on where to place the components and on what surfaces you need to do different things with the mounting.
All the sensors and the keypad already come with wall sticker stuck to the bace of them so its really easy just to stick them to the wall without effort. The outdoor camera comes with screws and plugs to fit it to an external wall.
Everything you need to do in terms of monitoring the cameras or other components you can do from the app, including making any changes to the settings.
Part of the installation and configuration process is to decide if you want to subscribe to the additional services provided by SimpliSafe. For example, if you subscribe to the Pro or Pro Premium plan, when your alarm goes off a signal is sent through to their professional monitoring centre to determine what to do next. Obviously you have to pay for those services but it’s worth it for the additional peace of mind it brings.
The outdoor camera itself offers 1080p resolution with an 8x digital zoom and a 140º field of view. A built-in motion activated spotlight and HDR let you see all times of the day or night.
There is a rechargeable battery, that when fully charged lasts between 3 and 6 months, the app will advise you when the battery is running low. You just need to remove the battery and recharge it then pop it back in.
The camera also has 2 way audio so you can not only hear whats going on outside, you can also speak to whoever is there too!
It’s very easy to set up notifications in the app depending on what you want to be told about.
If you are looking for an easy to setup and use security system that you can easily add components to, and also be able to subscribe to professional monitoring then take a look at the various options from SimpiSafe, you wont be disappointed.
Caring for animals can be a thankless task. You must clean them, feed them, and offer them shelter. Occasionally, they’ll reward you with love and affection. However, they can be aloof and unsociable. Fortunately, Bunny Park takes away all the hassle of having animals, as all you must do is make their environment attractive, cute, and cosy.
Developed by Cozy Bee Games and published by SOEDESCO, this is a chilled-out park building title. Its laid-back approach lets players relax as time ticks away. Consequently, you’ll waste hours cleaning, renovating, and attracting each of the runaway rabbits. Thankfully, it requires little skill, and accordingly, it can be enjoyed by a whole range of players.
Bunny Park has no story.
Unlike other simulation/park-building games, Bunny Park has no story! As such, you are free to go about your business with few limitations. Now, this may seem pointless, but its lack of direction was refreshing. Instead of having to respond to multiple requests, you decide your own goals and when you wish to complete them.
Though no demands are made of you, there is a goal to aim towards. You are given a small piece of land that once housed 25 rabbits. Unfortunately, this place is now rundown, and the bunnies have fled. With a little care and a watchful eye, you can attract each creature back to its rightful home. To do this, all you must do is clean up, plant food, and place attractive structures.
Feed the rabbits and keep them happy.
Relax and watch the world go by.
The early game is a little frustrating. Money is hard to come by and your rabbits demand plenty of snacks. As such, this isn’t relaxing, and it feels a bit of a grind. Yet, once you overcome the early hurdles, the rest of the game is a breeze. You see, money is awarded by cleaning up debris, or collecting golden rings that are found by each resident. If you clean up enough junk or collect enough rings, you can expand the park, buy some decorations, or invest in butterflies.
The butterflies are a clever way to incorporate automation into this cute and simple title. If you don’t invest wisely, Bunny Park will become tedious and dull. However, if you utilise the butterflies correctly, they will clean your grounds and collect every ring going. This was phenomenal, as it allows you to focus on improving the cute and cosy levels.
By placing decorative items, food, trees, and more, you will make your park more desirable. In turn, this will attract more rabbits, and you’ll earn more cash. Subsequently, it’s a win-win, albeit a bit of a time-sink, nonetheless. If you so wish, you can leave your park running in the background. With no elements of risk or danger, the only rewards are masses of gold and the introduction of new bunnies to the fold.
Nice decor.
A disappointing glitch.
One of the key components of Bunny Park is its seasonal approach. As the game drags on, the seasons are supposed to change. Now, this may seem minor, but it isn’t. The developers created this mechanic to add more variety to the action. Furthermore, the decorative items reflect the season you are in. Accordingly, my game was stuck in Autumn, so my park was awash with season-specific decor.
It was disappointing that this issue ruined the gameplay. Without a larger variety of items to purchase, I lost interest very quickly. Consequently, my decorating skills look haphazard at best, and eye-wateringly bad at worse. I’m sure this is a simple fix and the developers will patch the problem out ASAP.
Bunny Park looks cute as a button.
Thanks to the soft pastel tones and simple sprites, Bunny Park is nice to look at. What’s more, the lack of danger, fire, or blood made for a refreshing change of pace. I adored the presentation as it was as cute as a button. However, the janky camera angle occasionally spoiled the moment. Unfortunately, it was difficult to view your entire park, and this led to jerky and nauseating moments.
If you can cope with the visuals, you’ll live to enjoy some wholesome music. Bunny Park creates a beautiful atmosphere with his rich and touching audio. Like Harvest Moon and Stardew Valley, you’ll enjoy a non-offensive soundtrack with a laid-back touch. This is then complemented by some excellent but unobtrusive sound effects.
Clean up this mess!
Slow and clumsy controls.
Bunny Park has been ported from PC and it shows. Sadly, the controls didn’t work particularly well with a controller, and this was annoying. The cursor is slow and arduous, collecting the rings is hit and miss, and the cursor is too big and lacks accuracy. In short, it is a pig to operate, but this matters not. Fortunately, the slow and laid-back gameplay enables you to take your time, and this was lucky. Subsequently, it won’t frustrate you too much, though it should have been better.
The early gaming moments are by far the most challenging. Once this is overcome, the action flows by itself with minor issues. As such, both the longevity and replay value are reduced. Furthermore, the lack of additional seasons impacts your design choices. As a consequence, once you finish the game, you won’t return for more.
Bunny Park is a relaxing time sink.
Bunny Park appeals to your creative side with its relaxing approach. Accordingly, the lack of decorations undermines its full potential. If the developers can patch this problem, the game will be vastly improved. In its current state, it is nice to play, but it lacks depth. However, I still enjoyed it and I recommend you buy it here! Can you improve your park and rescue the rabbits? Clean up, invest, and plant some tasty vegetables.
When Telltale games – the last real bastion of the point-and-click adventure genre – closed in 2018, I met it with a shrug and a wry smile – a few less TV/movie franchise video game adaptions would probably a good thing for the world, or so I thought.
It turns out I couldn’t have been more wrong, as they were also responsible for three games in the Sam and Max series, which – having only just discovered myself by receiving a review code for Sam and Max: Save The World – is like stumbling upon a gold mine that had me re-evaluating my life’s priorities – What kind of sorcery kept me from not knowing a game with humour that so perfectly suited me?
Such is the beauty of video games though; just when you think you’ve seen it all, you get offered a weasel on a stick.
Remastering the first two titles for current consoles is Skunkape games (a small collection of Telltale developers) and thank goodness they have, because these sociopathic crime-fighters – one 6ft fedora-wearing dog and one 3ft sadistic rabbit – and their irreverent self-conscious banter is patently genius, and so frequently tickled me pink that I would intentionally fail the game’s scenarios just to re-experience their hilariousness.
This guy is unbreakable…..unless you talk about his mother.
There is familiarity in a re-occurring main street with the same side characters and a developing story, but the absurdity of the scenario, of each conversation and every line aims to please, and as such exploring every item and every conversation choice is a must.
Sure, certain scenarios are better than others, but most, if not all, will have you grinning like a Cheshire cat and on the verge of laughing out loud, such as Sam and Max filling in as actors on a failing and scriptless sitcom where the plot requires two cowboys to convince their chicken landlord that they aren’t keeping a cow in their city apartment. Stringing along the scenario with a fowl primadonna co-star who doesn’t always take kindly to your unexpected quips is offbeat and amazing.
The delivery of this line is spectacular.
You also have run-ins with mafiosos that wear comically large dog heads, the president, and cosmic beings on your way to ‘saving’ the world, which is actually more like conquering it with the duo causing more collateral damage than a Marvel movie.
Sam and Max’s humour is right up my alley – an ironic parody of detectives, a stage comedy of sorts that hosts Sam and Max like dual deadpan stand ups, where the journey is as unpredictable as the next conversation.
Perhaps one of the reasons I never quite took to the older Lucasarts-esque point-and-click games were that the claustrophobic 2D visuals never quite made it seem like you were playing outside of one scene on your tiny computer monitor, but while you won’t be under any illusion about the type of game you are playing here, the vibrant 3D visuals feel far more expansive and are aided by varied gameplay such a driving section, a shooting arcade game and mock turn-based RPG battles.
Interestingly, the standard frustration with the point-and-click genre doesn’t really come into play here. Items you pick up in each of the chapters factor into the interactive puzzle elements for said chapter and, thankfully, the game’s off-the-wall humour manages not to confuse the process, remaining decipherable throughout.
The fact that it’s able to do this despite the outrageous plot is quite impressive, and even though I – admittedly – cheated far too often, but this was more due to me sharing similar brain capacity to the 3ft rabbit rather than the puzzles themselves being illogical.
Hmmm……how to froth?
While this side-splitting title is undoubtedly a comedy powerhouse, the remaster of the original five chapters doesn’t provide much in the way of value outside of the original content. There are some tweaked visuals as well as some script changes, but apart from that, there isn’t much of an incentive for those who have the game from its original release.
It would have been nice if there were some special features, artwork from Steve Purcell or some of the original comics, but as the saying goes, you should never look a gift horse in the mouth, because this effervescent and evergreen title is an ageless wine with a comically-large gun, and one can only hope that this leads to not only the remastering of the entire trilogy of games on consoles, but also something new. Sam and Max are back, baby.
Some of my fondest gaming memories come from early Street Fighter games. So, when the opportunity came to play the demo of the yet-to-be-released Street Fighter 6 at EGX 2022, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity!
Gameplay
Within the game, there are several modes to explore. Each one offers exciting gameplay opportunities. While I didn’t get to check them all out in the demo briefly the modes are:
World Tour – A new single-player story mode where you create your avatar and fight legends. Forge bonds, improve your abilities, and prove you have what it takes. What interests me about this mode is the promised level of customisation around your avatar. Fighting styles, powers, clothes, and even facial features can be edited to your style. Fights take place in the streets as you prove your worth, and you can learn moves and styles from the roster of Street Fighter legends. World Tour will start in Metro City and branch out worldwide from there.
Battle Hub – In the Battle Hub you can interact with other players, here you can fight other players, check out older Capcom classic arcade games, and much more. One Battle Hub is set to host around 100 players at any one time. You can also purchase cosmetic items to further change the look of your avatar.
Fighting Ground – Here the tradition of local 1v1 or 1vAI fights takes place. This mode also supports online, cross-platform play. In this mode, you can pick your fighter of choice, select what control mode you want and their outfit (as you would expect), and jump straight into the battle. This was where the demo took place. So, picking my favourite go-to since Street Fighter 2 (Chun-Li), I set about getting to grips with Street Fighter 6.
The ability list is extensive, and there was a good mix of classic moves I remember from previous iterations and some new ones too. The match was fast-paced, but the controls in both Classic and Modern modes were responsive. In this mode, additional features such as matches with unique rules and training arenas exist.
Characters in Street Fighter 6
New characters for the game include Jamie, inspired by Yun and Yang (Street Fighter 3). Jamie uses the Drunken Fist (Zui Quan) fighting style and is an expert breakdancer. The drink in his jug is a medicinal tea and not alcohol! Featuring flowing movements and epic combos, he was a lot of fun to play. Even if unfamiliar. It’s always great to see a fighter with a new style.
Kimberly is also a new character for Street Fighter 6. While I didn’t test playing her directly, I did fight her. As a lover of 80’s pop culture, you can see the references in her outfit. Her fighting style is Bushin-ryu Ninjutsu but with her own flare.
No doubt, there will be others before the development process is complete and it will be interesting to see who else gets added to the roster.
In addition to the new characters, there are also several returning veterans that you’d expect: Ryu, Chun-Li, Dhalsim, E. Honda, Guile, Juri, Ken, Luke, and more.
Visuals and Audio
Taking place more in the streets, complete with vibrant graffiti art and loud music, I have to say I was blown away by how the game looked. It was good, really good, and I can’t wait to see the final release. The abilities looked spectacular with unparalleled attention to SFX. It was loud, vibrant, and busy; everything you would want from a next-gen fighting game.
New Mechanics in Street Fighter 6
One of the most intriguing aspects of the latest iteration is the Drive Gauge. This is a meter that starts full as soon as the round begins. However, the more exotic the move you perform the more of the gauge is spent and if you go too hard, too quickly, this will get spent. Once spent, you’ll be at a major disadvantage in what is called a ‘burnout stage’. While the meter does replenish over time, management of this meter is crucial to victory. From playing a few rounds I quickly learned that battles are now far more tactical. Now the strategy is when to play cautiously and when to explode in a flurry of awesome-looking moves. I loved getting to grips with this system as it gave the bouts a whole new dimension!
Another new feature is the ability to switch between classic controls and modern controls. Modern controls allow you to enjoy the full flow of battle without necessarily having to remember all those button combos. I tried this feature out, and it certainly helped me remember who does what when I couldn’t necessarily remember the correct order of buttons for the perfect combo! This is great for those players who may be put off by remembering complex combos.
Linked to this system are a collection of new moves that can deliver astonishing damage or, if timed well, in the case of the Drive Parry, fantastic defensive capabilities.
Timing is key, strategy is key but when it works… it’s wonderful fun.
Final Thoughts and Release Information
Maybe it’s because I won two out of three rounds, but I really enjoyed my time with Street Fighter 6. Visually it looks great, and the controls seemed responsive. Switching between classic mode (full-on nostalgia with control combos) and modern controls is a nice touch. The Drive Gauge is going to make things interesting too! Now it’s time to re-learn all those combos and prepare for this new era of a legendary franchise!
Street Fighter 6 is slated for release in 2023 and will be available on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. Find out more at the official Street Fighter 6 website.
Big machines, loud noises, and a job well done get my juices flowing. As such, I probably should work in the construction field. However, I don’t, so I need to scratch these urges in a virtual world. Accordingly, when I saw Construction Simulator advertised, I jumped at the chance.
Developed by Weltenbauer and published by Astragon Entertainment GmbH, this is a realistic simulation title. What’s more, it utilises finance and business management mechanics and has a rich and rewarding story to explore. This version of Construction Simulator is much bigger than its predecessors and comprises a plethora of real-life brands.
Construction Simulator will take over your life.
Now, I love simulation games as they are absorbing and all-consuming beasts. However, I normally lose interest as they become too complicated, too quickly. Luckily, Construction Simulator doesn’t fall foul of this trap. Instead, its in-depth gameplay is always manageable, and interesting, but mighty time-consuming. Consequently, this isn’t a casual experience!
Thanks to its 2 unique locations that comprise 2 different stories, there is plenty to see and do. You can visit a German-inspired village or a stereotypical city in America. Both locations offer a wide range of jobs to complete, some fantastic landmarks to discover, and some interesting characters to help.
The aim of the game is simple; run your company, turn a profit, and help each town to flourish. En route, you’ll hire or buy new equipment, learn new skills, improve your hero, and create some amazing buildings.
Jump in the cab and drive to your next job.
A wonderful experience.
I had a feeling I’d enjoy Construction Simulator, but I wasn’t sure just how much I’d like it. Thanks to its straightforward gameplay, easy-to-master mechanics, and awesome machinery, I was hooked. Almost immediately, I was amazed by how realistic and balanced it was. Subsequently, at no point was I overwhelmed or frustrated. No, instead, I plodded away, completing every task while improving my business.
Your career revolves around the main contracts that must be completed. These jobs are often long-winded, and complex, and will test your ability. However, they are also extremely rewarding when you complete them. Doing so opens up further tasks while rewarding you with XP and cash to purchase goods and new machines.
It’s truly fascinating to get to grips with some of the best machines. However, what’s truly spectacular is that the developers don’t focus on time-consuming elements. Subsequently, you can choose how much time you choose to invest. If you wish, you can drive to every job site or simply fast-travel for a fee. This was phenomenal as you don’t have to waste time moving machinery. This is particularly important when undertaking complex jobs. Here, you’ll use masses of equipment, and it would soon become tiresome. Fortunately, the fast travel option keeps things moving and the action flowing.
The same approach applies to every building material. If you wanted, you can manually lift every item onto trailers and transport them to each construction site. However, if this doesn’t appeal to you, you can get the building yard to deliver every item to save time. This is how every simulation title should perform, as it maintains realism without unnecessary and tedious noise.
Construction Simulator looks good, but not great!
Unlike its peers, Construction Simulator lacks a high-class finish. This isn’t to say it’s horrible to look at, because it isn’t. However, it is a little rough around the edges, the cinematic lacks polish, and the background isn’t as realistic as I’d hoped. Yet, it’s pleasant on the eye, while being colourful and fun to explore. I particularly liked the stereotypical locations and the variation of building designs and backdrops.
Strangely, the audio has a high-energy and aggressive edge to it. Furthermore, it had undertones of danger and risk, and it didn’t work. I’d have much preferred a selection of basic songs on an in-cab radio. This would have been perfect, as it would have been more realistic. Talking of realism, the sound effects are fantastic. The roar of the engines, the scraping of metal on the soil, and the crunch of wheels on the tarmac was amazing. This part of the audio was incredible, and I never tired of it.
Drive your convoy to each building site.
Complex machines, but easy controls.
I expected Construction Simulator to be an absolute minefield. With so many machines to use, I doubted I’d master any of them. Yet, thankfully, an excellent tutorial talks you through the fundamentals. Moreover, the fantastic UI and well-labelled submenus ensure you never pick the wrong equipment.
Simulation games are renowned for their replay value. Luckily, this is no different. With 2 massive maps to explore, 90+ vehicles to try, 90 contracts to complete, and much, much more, this will absorb you into its virtual world. On top of this, there is a massive achievement list to devour, and you’ll enjoy multiplayer action for up to 4 players as well.
Construction Simulator is incredible.
If you adore the genre, this will tick every box. With masses of things to do, plenty of machines to master, and a deep management model to explore, it is incredible. I have few complaints, and therefore, I can easily recommend you to buy it here! Can you run a perfect construction business? Grab your tools, hire some machines, and make your surroundings shine.
A few years ago, gamers came together to crowdfund the Mega Man spiritual successor, Mighty No. 9. It was spearheaded by former Capcom veteran, Keiji Inafune, and obtained a whopping $4 million in pledges. Subsequently, the game released to horrendous reviews, and was aptly considered a critical failure. Six years on, Super Alloy Ranger, a solo developed title with next to no budget, has managed to fulfil everything Mighty No. 9 wanted to be, and more.
The singular developer in question goes under the pseudonym, alloy mushroom. Their passion and love for 2D platformers is incredibly apparent, and it showed throughout the course of my playthrough. While it certainly isn’t flawless, Super Alloy Ranger serves as a reminder as to why indie games can sometimes trump AAA titles.
Marooned bounty hunters.
Super Alloy Ranger tells the story of 2 bounty hunters, Kelly and Rambos. Their recent purchase of the high-tech spacecraft, Alloy Ranger, has placed them into considerable debt. Hoping to pay this off, they formulate a scheme to capture the notorious criminal Lamos, and cash in the reward.
On their way to Lamos’s last known location, they are intercepted and trapped by an unknown force. Consequently, this turns out to be the planet Tanwada’s protective fields, a long-abandoned world situated in the middle of the galaxy. Shortly thereafter, the Alloy Ranger is boarded by 2 sentient AI units called Combat Robot No.2 and No.3. Seemingly in a similar position, they request to team up. With no other options, Kelly and Rambos agree, and begin exploring the desolate Tanwada for answers.
To be completely transparent, the story doesn’t do much for me. It’s serviceable in getting us from point A to point B, and somewhat emulates the Mega Man aura, albeit inferiorly. However, to be frank about this, the narrative is downright boring.
I found myself desperately wanting to skip through the dialogue, primarily due to its pacing. Although I ultimately resisted the urge, the fact remains that the contents of plot is dull, uninteresting, and worst of all, forgettable. Fortunately, Super Alloy Ranger’s strengths lie within its gameplay, art and music. All of which are absolutely stellar.
Old school platforming action.
As you’ve probably come to expect, Super Alloy Ranger plays akin to Mega Man X. Much like in the later iterations of that series, you have the choice of playing between 2 different characters. The first, Marksman Kelly, plays a lot like X, in that he has ranged weapons at his disposal. On the other hand, Combat Robot No. 2 replicates Zero’s playstyle, with an up-front, melee themed skillset. Both setups are fun in their own right, and offer an independent perspective on the gameplay.
On top of this, both characters can unlock various special abilities to use. Effectively, these are their ultimate attacks which massively impact the current landscape of the battlefield. No. 2 also has the added benefit of receiving a new melee weapon depending on which ability she has primed.
You gain the special abilities by defeating the games formidable bosses. These are located at the end of each stage, and are a true test of your proficiency as a player. You have to navigate around an oncoming barrage of attacks and obstacles, all while finding narrow opportune moments to retaliate. On the highest difficulty, this can be tough to accomplish, but immensely fulfilling when pulled off correctly.
There is one caveat relating to Kelly you should be aware of. Omnidirectional shooting isn’t included in the game, meaning you’ll have to solely riley on cardinal directions. This makes killing some enemies more annoying than it honestly needs to be. Additionally, the analogue stick deadzone for changing where you want to shoot is poorly implemented. As such, I was forced into using the d-pad to make this easier to deal with.
Plenty of movement options and things to discover.
Outside of combat, the movement options remain the same between the two characters. You have the ability to jump, wall bounce, dash, air dodge, and run, all of which control exceedingly well. I did encounter a handful of minor bugs when wall jumping, but this has ostensibly been patched out.
The stages themselves are well balanced and intricately designed, rendering a nice mix between platforming-based sections and combat centric scenarios. You’ll also be able to discover a wide range of secrets if you look hard enough. These can reward you with character improvements such as increased life or mana, as well as key cards to unlock hidden challenge levels.
Awe inspiring art that gives Inafune a run for his money.
It’s hard to quantify just how beautiful Super Alloy Ranger actually is. The sprite work is utterly jaw dropping, with careful consideration having gone into every finite detail. This is most notable in the backgrounds and foregrounds, which are as immaculate as they are varied.
When it comes to the character designs, it’s very obvious where their influences originate from. Still, they manage to retain their own unique identity, and are undeniably memorable for what they are. Animation wise, the execution varies in quality. They never verge on being bad or mediocre, but they aren’t as smooth as their triple A counterparts. Thankfully, the UI is equal to something you might have seen in Mega Man X, meaning tracking resources is simple and easy.
It would also be remiss to not mention the VFX. Once again, these are heavily inspired by the likes of Metal Slug, and are the picture-perfect blend of realism and arcadey goodness. Altogether, alloy mushroom has given Capcom and SNK a run for their money in the visual department.
A surprisingly excellent soundtrack!
If I had to choose one element I love about the old school Mega Man games, it’d be the music. Because of this, I was a little apprehensive going into Super Alloy Ranger. I wasn’t quite sure whether it’d be able to live up to my, admittedly, unreasonable expectations. As luck would have it, my concerns would quickly be squashed.
Appropriately, Super Alloy Ranger utilises the chiptune genre, encompassing the games overall ambiance and aesthetic. What’s more, it imitates the SNES sound chip to further authenticate the retro vibe. All of the tracks are extremely energetic and catchy, which works in tandem to expertly match the pulse of the game.
To cap it all off, the SFX are the quintessential embodiment of the 90s style approach. Everything from the basic attacks to the special abilities are high-octane and impactful. Regardless if you prefer playing as Kelly or No. 2, you’re going to feel like total badass.
Conclusion
In summary, Super Alloy Ranger is a short, yet passionate love letter to the Mega Man series. The gameplay, remaining simplistic in its approach, is unbelievably engaging and accessible. Although the narrative direction is mostly forgettable and lacklustre, the visual and audio departments more than make up for it through their superb presentation. I can easily recommend Super Alloy Ranger to retro 2D platforming fans, especially those who enjoyed Mega Man X, or the Metal Slug series.
I don’t often pick up shooters on the basis that when it comes to bullet hell games, I usually get frustrated before too long. There are, of course, exceptions to that rule. One such exception I discovered at EGX 2022, CYGNI: All Guns Blazing. Developed by KeelWorks and published by Konami.
CYGNI: All Guns Blazing is a twin-stick, vertical shooter that brings epic visuals and more to the genre.
Background
The story sees you as a lone pilot (or you can team up in local co-op) to plunge into an all-out war and fight for survival. The official blurb for the game sets the scene: Encamped within the remains of a long-lost civilization on the planet CYGNI, the colony is decimated by a surprise attack from a powerful, biomechanical, alien race. As one of the last pilots on one of the very few remaining carriers in the fleet, you are the only line of defence against the unyielding alien bombardment.
CYGNI: All Guns BlazingGameplay
What I particularly loved about this game is that it’s more than just shooting – while you have unlimited ammo, and a variety of weapons, you need to employ some tactical thinking. You can route energy from defensive systems to offensive ones and must manage this closely to get past the onslaught. Featuring air-to-air combat and air-to-ground attacks CYGNI: All Guns Blazing is a shooter like none other. It’s a shooter for the modern era.
As well as flying your ship in a vertical scroller to dodge ships, attacks and more you also come up across gargantuan bosses in epic space battles.
Once you get used to the controls, the controls are straightforward, and I can’t help but hope that this game has controller and maybe even joystick support on PC. The game is also coming to console so this may be an option if you prefer sticks to mice.
I cannot stress enough how difficult this game is! However, no matter how many times I died in my brief gameplay session I wanted to respawn and try again. Try new maneuvers, weapon types, and tactics. Play with my energy output more and try and beat the alien onslaught. In that respect, CYGNI: All Guns Blazing is addictive.
CYGNI: All Guns Blazing Audio and Visuals
What this game promises, and from the experience I had delivered, is breathtaking visuals. The game is simply stunning and a complete visual and aural feast. To call it cinematic is almost an understatement. The ships are well designed, and the SFX for the weapons is bright and punchy and will come at you from every direction – giving you the sensation of being in the most insane dogfight of all time. The aliens themselves are also unique in design and at no point did the experience feel repetitive.
When you can catch your breath for a moment between onslaughts you can appreciate the equally epic soundtrack.
Final Thoughts and Release Information
This game changes my attitude to bullet hell shooters, maybe I should avoid less of them because CYGNI: All Guns Blazing is shaping up to be a complete next-gen gem. It’s fast, it’s loud, it’s visually stunning and it will test your hand-eye coordination to the next level. Wishlist on Steam now and be ready to lock and load. The invasion is coming!
CYGNI: All Guns Blazing is currently in development and set for release in 2023. The game will be released on PC (Steam), PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.
EGX 2022, a convention as lively as a bear on a rampage. The lights and sounds of games being played filled the air with a sense of excitement. It was like last night at the circus; standing in the middle of it, I felt like the circus master. I took my seat at an unassuming game, Shadows of Doubt, surrounded by vines that crept up the sides of the booth like… vines.
– Me (trying to be a film-noir PI)
Ok, now I’ve got the ‘PI monologue’ out of my system, I can say that one of the most jaw-droppingly detailed games I got my hands on was Shadows of Doubt. From ColePowered Games and published by Fireshine Games comes a detective stealth game like nothing I’ve played before.
In a sci-fi noir city that could be ripped from the pages of Frank Miller, you embark on an assignment to catch a serial killer. By any means necessary. The game is set in a fictional, hyper-industrialised 1980s city where the police outsource work. You take the role of one of these outsourced contractors in an assignment to catch a killer.
Shadows of Doubt Gameplay
What makes this game stand out is how much you can explore. It’s literally everything. Every building, every room, every NPC, pretty much every single item. It’s astonishing. The game has a main storyline and many side-quests that can earn you extra cash. This cash comes in handy for buying new gear, upgrading your office and apartment, and more. As I traversed through the city, which is totally free-roam, I found myself in shops, other people’s homes, and on the streets. I felt like a real noir private detective and almost broke into one of those ‘the rain beat down on the sidewalk’ monologues.
You can break into buildings, hack computers, and steal items all as part of your investigation. Just be sure to be stealthy and don’t get caught or you’ll find yourself under attack! As you find clues, and build up your investigation, notes and details are added to your journal as a ‘murder board’, and files of clues start to lead you to new areas, new paths of investigation, and new suspects to talk to.
If this wasn’t impressive enough, every single NPC has a life. They have apartments, jobs, routines, favourite things to do and places to go, and people to interact with. Their lives will continue without you, when you uncover this information, it will play into the secrets of this dark and stormy city. With a blend of procedural generation and hand-crafted design, I have never experienced a world so genuinely alive. Because of this, every game experience should feel unique, but not so totally random. This is open world simulation at the next level.
With elements of RPG, you can level up your skills and become more proficient in stealth techniques. The game played well when I got used to the controls and I was able to navigate the world, journal, and menus easily.
Shadows of Doubt has Atmosphere…
Graphically, the art style reminds me of older FPS and RPG games, and I didn’t have a problem with this. The atmosphere is really developed though in the sound effects and music. Blending a perfect film-noir soundtrack with sounds of a city, and rain, you could immerse yourself fully.
My gameplay session went well… until I accidentally stole something and ended up having to kill two citizens that retaliated. I’ll need to work on my stealth skills before jumping back in!
Release and Availability
With no firm release date, I hope it’s not a long wait for Shadows of Doubt. The game will be available on PC, and you can wishlist it on Steam now!
When I discovered Tiny Bookshop by Neoludic Games at EGX 2022 I fell in love with this game almost instantly. Partly because of my love of books and partly because it’s incredibly charming. I got hands-on with Tiny Bookshop, and it didn’t disappoint.
Tiny Bookshop was born out of the idea of being stressed and wanting to escape it all. In the game, you play someone who daydreams of a tiny utopia and leaves behind city stress to open a tiny bookshop and join a community selling used books.
Gameplay
Tiny Bookshop is a point-and-click book shop simulator where you must stock your shop and then watch and interact with the locals as they visit. Any books you sell will earn you your income that you can use to kit out your tiny book shop as well as restock it with different genres. The game develops as you spend more time in the community and can help the locals, solve mysteries, and become part of the community.
The mechanics are all straightforward to understand and the controls were very nice to use. Part of the strategy is working out what to stock on your limited shelf space. Different customers will want different genres. In the mode between days, you can buy stock, either specifically listed or clearance stock that is more of a gamble.
The book shop itself is completely customisable so you can make it look how you want it to which is a nice feature. Speaking to the team, they explained that there may be plans to expand your tiny bookshop, but it isn’t about becoming a bookselling giant, and honestly, I’m glad. The whole charm of this game is in the rustic and small nature of the shop and its place in the town.
In the simulation mode, town residents will come by your shop and may interact with you. As day turns to night your shop closes for the day and you can see how much you’ve made. As you progress you can move to different locations to try and make more profit and become part of the community.
Art and Music
While the art style is simplistic, there is a wonderful charm in the almost painted backdrops and characters. The colour palette is also perfect and invokes further relaxation.
The music is relaxing and honestly, the whole experience was relaxing. It’s the perfect game to play when you want to unwind and escape it all and one, which I will certainly be adding to my game library. The idea of running away to a seaside town to sell books is certainly appealing and thanks to Neoludic, you can now do just that.
Tiny Bookshop Conclusions and Release
Tiny Bookshop won the most charming game award in the Indie Cup 2022, and I can see why. I have never fallen so in love with such a relaxing game before and smiled the entire time while playing it. Roll on release, I have a bookshop to open!
Tiny Bookshop is still in development with no confirmed release date although a hopeful 2024 release. It will be available on PC, Mac, SteamOS, and iPad. You can wishlist it on Steam now!
If you had spoken to me before EGX 2022 about playing a game where you get addicted to having neat cable and pipe management, I would have raised an eyebrow that Sir Roger Moore would have been proud of. But here I am, totally addicted to one of my favourite indie titles of the show, The Last Starship.
The latest project from Introversion Software (Prison Architect), The Last Starship is best described as an engineering space simulator and strategy game.
Gameplay
You start the game picking your ship hull and having to use the limited resources you must construct its necessary systems – life support, engines, an FTL drive, and a power reactor. Once constructed, you need to manage your various fuels and ensure everything is connected properly. This part of the game is played in a top-down ‘construction mode’ and isn’t as mind-boggling as it sounds.
While the menu system is incredibly detailed and has a complex learning curve, I had no issues ensuring my first ship was ready to explore the vast unknowns of space. I must also admit that this is the point where I got addicted to making sure my cabling and pipework were neat and organised. Maybe this is pulled from real life where I spend an inordinate amount of time ensuring perfect cable management for my consoles and PC! Either way, I really enjoyed the construction side of things, working out what I needed, how I could hook everything up and testing it. It was my childhood Star Trek engineer dreams come true!
When it comes to details you know to expect a lot from Introversion Software – if you’ve ever played previous titles in their catalogue then the level of detail is what you’d expect while still being accessible.
The Last Starship is slow-paced, but as you build your ship, and eventually your armada, so much time will have passed you won’t even notice because you’ll be so engrossed in building the ultimate ships.
Now, The Last Starship isn’t all building – oh no. In fact, that’s only one small part of it. There’s plenty of resource management and upgrading to do. Once your ship is built you can engage that FTL drive with an impression of your favourite starship captain and set out in the galaxy to engage in a vast number of procedurally generated missions. This can be anything from combat (where you can switch to tactical mode) as well as constructing a mining operation, carrying out rescue missions or some good old-fashioned science and exploration.
The ships are varied in layout which means as the player you will be challenged to construct the systems properly to ensure the best capabilities possible. It also looked like there was the possibility to upgrade components as you got further into things such as larger fuel tanks. It’s important to remember that if you want your ship to have it… you need to construct it!
Visually, the cartoon style paired together with vibrant colours is a joy to look at. I particularly loved the animation for FTL travel and am looking forward to seeing how this game develops further.
Final Thoughts on The Last Starship
Honestly, the potential here for engaging content is limitless. I can’t wait to get stuck into the game when it releases and set out to explore, build, mine, rescue and fight my way to having an epic armada.
Release Information
The Last Starship is slated for release sometime in 2023 and will be available on PC. No word yet on other platforms. You can register interest and apply for early access on Steam now!
As mankind expands, space becomes more of a premium. Consequently, our homes become smaller and we must adjust. Fortunately, this doesn’t prevent technology from advancing. We now see all sorts of micro solutions that help battle tighter working areas. One such advancement can be seen in mini gaming keyboards. These minute devices pack a mighty punch while taking up approximately 60% of the space. One such keyboard is the Apex 9 Mini.
This tiny beast is jam-packed with features, is built to last, and looks incredible. However, if you are not used to such a minuscule accessory, it takes some getting used to. Yet, once you are familiar with its layout, you’ll enjoy some market-leading technology and a comfortable gaming experience.
I recently covered the Apex 9 TKLand drooled over its elite style and responsive nature. Unsurprisingly, its smaller brother was warmly welcomed to my bosom. Moreover, I enjoyed it competitively, and it delivered a comfortable and oddly familiar typing system.
The Apex 9 Mini allows you acres of room for your mouse.
What’s in the box of the Apex 9 Mini?
The compact and robust cardboard box screams professional and elite. With clean-cut images, striking colours, and key selling points, it hits the mark immediately. Furthermore, it is fully recyclable, and that’s a massive plus.
The Apex 9 Mini. This dwarf keyboard made me smile instantly. When compared to TKL or full-sized devices, this one looks tiny and cute. However, looks are deceiving as this packs an all-mighty punch. What’s more, it has fantastic build quality, a wonderful RGB light design, and works well in tight spaces.
USB-A to USB-C cable. This detachable cable is well made and will last the test of time. However, if it were to break, it can be replaced with a standard USB-C cable.
Keycap Puller. Located in a hidden compartment, this helps to remove each key.
User guide. There are some custom options, so reading this manual is advised.
The compact packaging.The Apex 9 Mini keyboard.Power the keyboard with this USB-C cable.A small and easy to read user manual.A simple keycap puller.Ooohhh so bright.The full package.
Technical aspects.
A mini keyboard must be user-friendly while packing in as much technology as possible. Fortunately, the Apex 9 Mini does just that. Like its bigger brother, I was amazed by its light touch and responsive nature. With a small 2-point actuation, you get the best of both worlds. When using it for daily business, it reacts to a deft touch and is easy to type with. However, when you relax and get your game face on, it steps up to the plate. With a phenomenal 1mm light press option, or an accuracy-focused 1.5mm mode, you are always in control.
Furthermore, this has a 33% faster actuation compared with leading optical keyboards. This is an elite figure that will make a difference when playing online. As seconds really matter, you want the best you can get. Consequently, this rapid input has a 0.2ms response time with zero debounce. This is particularly noticeable when you team it up with a pro gaming mouse. At the moment, I recommend the ROCCAT Kone XP Air, though SteelSeries are sure to question my choices.
Now, you may worry that a smaller keyboard is tough to use. Well, I was at first, but I shouldn’t have been. Thanks to the double shot PBT caps, the keys are engineered for accuracy and improved keystrokes. Alongside this, side-printed secondary actions give you the full functionality of a “normal” keyboard.
Pull the keys and change the feeling.
Incredible build quality.
I associate gaming accessories with incredible build quality. Fortunately, the Apex 9 Mini didn’t let me down. Thanks to its aircraft-grade aluminium alloy case, it feels fantastic. You’ll love the upmarket look and the durable finish. This is enhanced because of the stunning RGB display. With preset options, you can adjust the look at the touch of a button. Furthermore, you can shut it off altogether, if you so wish.
If the preset modes don’t take your fancy, just download the SteelSeries GG app. This simple and intuitive tool is your go-to software for all things SteelSeries. More specifically, this device enables you to customise each RGB zone. This was great if you wanted a specific style or something to stand out from the crowd.
Comfortable to use and custom keys.
Everything I’ve covered is key with any accessory. However, comfort has to be a priority. Fortunately, the Apex 9 Mini has 3 options to choose from. First, there is the horizontal position. Second, a small set of support feet gives you a minor lift. Finally, the highest position raises the device about an inch from your desk. Whichever option you select, the keyboard is comfortable to type with and will be suitable for extended gaming sessions.
The OptiPoint Optical Switches are an incredible piece of technology. However, I was more impressed by the swappable keys. If you don’t like the standard setup, you can invest in three options. Linear, clicky, and tactile change the feel of your inputs and make the device personal to you. However, these are an after-sales option and I stuck with the standard model.
The final but equally important area to note is the recordable macros. This is a key component of any gaming setup. Subsequently, the Apex 9 Mini is suitable for MMO titles, as well as excelling in FPS and racing games. Using the handy SteelSeries function button, you can record any macros you wish to use. These are then unleashed with a combination of keys, and this is a game-changer.
Customise your Apex 9 Mini however you wish.
Is the Apex 9 Mini worth it?
If you have the space, I’d recommend looking at the Apex 9 TKL. However, if your desk is tiny and you desire free movement for your mouse, then the Apex 9 Mini is a must. Not only is it 40% smaller than its competitors, but it is filled with much more impressive technology. With stunning RGB design, phenomenal build quality, responsive keystrokes, and easy-to-use shortcuts, it is as simple to master as its larger counterparts.
On top of this, it’ll make you stand out against your peers as you compete to be the best. Accordingly, it is a phenomenal device for pros and amateurs and should definitely be considered. I loved it, once I became familiar with it, and I recommend you to buy it here!
(More information on SteelSeries can be found here!)
In June 2022 Rogue Games announced The Last Case of Benedict Fox, a stunning, horror-based Metroidvania platformer that won an award at Gamescom this year. At EGX 2022, I got to get hands-on with this exciting new game from Plot Twist.
What started as an idea for a graphic novel, The Last Case of Benedict Fox is fully realised in stunning 4k at 60fps. The evolution from a graphic novel idea to a game is clear to see. The story, atmosphere, and art are so crucial to what makes this game so appealing. In the game, you play as Benedict Fox, a paranormal detective who must uncover the fate of a family in 1925 Boston while battling a demon trapped inside his own body. As you explore the mansion, you access Limbo, the decaying consciousness of the deceased. Full of arcane mystery, creepy occultist orders, and plenty of demons, The Last Case of Benedict Fox is an intriguing mystery right from the outset.
Gameplay
The Last Case of Benedict Fox plays as a 2D side-scrolling platformer. This, however, is an understatement as honestly, it’s so much more! Blending the classic feel of Metroidvania games with intriguing puzzles and ability progression. Integrated into this is free-form, Souls-like combat which promises to challenge the player as they delve deeper into the minds of the deceased.
While engaging in combat, I found the need to use the weapons I had along with the environment I was in to get a favourable outcome. Partway through, I could improve my skills, which certainly helped later in the demo.
Within the mansion, you can free-roam and search for clues about the family that will allow you to enter Limbo. It’s here that the platforming and combat happen as you traverse the mind looking for pieces to puzzles and trying to gain access to locked areas. The ability to inspect items for hidden clues gave the exploration side of things more depth which made me feel like I was the character experiencing this creepy quest. In addition, you can buy upgrades and items from a vendor that will help you in Limbo as well as visit the tattooist. This is a cool feature within the game that unlocks additional skills or enhancements while in Limbo – and what I learned quickly is that these are vital to succeed in traversing the world.
The Last Case of Benedict Fox takes classic elements from this style of game – like picking locks for example – and puts a unique Lovecraftian spin on it. In the case of lock picking, it’s picking the teeth of monsters sealing the doors! Everything felt fresh, felt well-developed within the in-game universe, and yet also felt comfortably familiar.
I was astonished by the depth this game offers, exploration, platforming, combat, puzzles, and character progression mechanics all into one package.
The Atmosphere of The Last Case of Benedict Fox
As well as gameplay being incredibly smooth and highly enjoyable with complex puzzles and challenging combat it is also achingly pretty to look at. The cartoon art style gives off Tim Burton vibes and is perfect for setting the scene of the game.
This is a game you will want to play with the sound on. With an atmospheric and creepy soundtrack paired with wonderfully acted voiceover work, the world of Benedict Fox comes alive in an eerie and fantastical way.
The atmosphere is also created with lighting states, for example when exploring Limbo, the colour palette changes quite dramatically and, in some places, even goes black and white. All these choices by the development team are for one purpose – to make the game creepy, yet still fun.
Final thoughts
The Last Case of Benedict Fox was a fun and immersive experience, and honestly, I wish the demo had been longer because I enjoyed it that much! The puzzles were fun, the combat was difficult yet enjoyable, and the exploration was exciting. The world and characters that have been developed have certainly piqued my interest and you find yourself wanting to know more about the family and more about the demon inside you.
This is a murder mystery with a difference, and if you like platformers that offer up a whole lot more all bundled in an eerie, atmospheric, and emotional paranormal story – this is one to watch out for. I know one thing, I can’t wait to solve the case and immerse myself in this dark, twisted world.
The Last Case of Benedict Fox is slated for release in 2023 on Xbox Series X|S and PC.
