Review: Snoopy & The Great Mystery Club

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: Snoopy & The Great Mystery Club

Snoopy & The Great Mystery Club is a perfect game for your children. Though mystery puzzle games are usually aimed at older audiences, this one is straightforward, enjoyable, and full of lovable characters. Furthermore, if you adore Charlie Brown and the gang, this will melt your heart.

This puzzle adventure title was developed by Cradle Games and published by GameMill Entertainment. It is a single-player experience that focuses on mini-games, fetch quests, and funny dialogue. Accordingly, it is witty, safe, and just the right side of challenging.

Snoopy & The Great Mystery Club tells plenty of silly tales. 

The story revolves around Snoopy and his ability to solve problems. This lovable dog teams up with the Peanuts Gang to overcome problems and help the community. As the story progresses, the ideas become more outlandish. Ghost stories, mythical creatures, and other cases must be solved. Thankfully, the gang work together to find the clues and solve the problems.

Each of the 4 chapters covers a unique tale. This was great as it adds fresh ideas to the game. However, the repetitive core mechanics were a little tedious. Luckily, my children didn’t mind as they enjoyed searching for clues, metal detecting, exploring prickly bushes, and much more. 

Snoopy unlocks new costumes to gain unique powers. A pirate outfit gives him a spade, and a scout costume allows the team to part prickly bushes. Each costume must be swapped on the fly as a combination of skills is required to solve each problem. 

Simple mechanics. 

Snoopy & The Great Mystery Club will not test older gamers. Unfortunately, the familiar action and repetitive approach made me grimace. Luckily, this isn’t aimed primarily at older or more skilled players. Instead, younger gamers will thrive because of the rudimentary approach and the small gaming environment.

Alongside the puzzles were an array of mini-games. These simple tasks require reasonable reactions and some finesse. Moreover, there are cars to drive, a plane to fly, music to master, and a memory test. Consequently, younger gamers may require some assistance to be successful.

Snoopy & The Great Mystery Club looks great. 

The graphics are nicely presented. The developer has captured the likeness of every character perfectly. Furthermore, the small world is well-designed and eye-catching. Unfortunately, there are a few frame rate issues during cutscenes. Though this isn’t game-breaking, it undermines the clean finish. 

The audio is fantastic. The music is safe, upbeat, and enjoyable to hear. Moreover, I like the sound effects and the fun nature of every activity. If you remember the cartoon, Snoopy & The Great Mystery Club will make you smile. The acting is great, and it has a nice layer of nostalgia. 

Simple controls. 

A refined UI and basic tutorial get you set up in no time. Though the puzzles may test younger children, the control system will not. Subsequently, this is a game that can be mastered in no time at all.

Replay value is limited. Though the developer has incorporated some collectables and fun mini-games, there is little reason to return. I raced through my playthrough in under 5 hours. However, younger gamers will take considerably longer.

Snoopy & The Great Mystery Club is perfect for youngsters.

If you love the Peanuts Gang or you adore simple puzzle games, this will be right up your street. Additionally, if you have kids with an intuitive mind, this will tick plenty of boxes. Though I found it repetitive, it is unbelievably cute, funny, and perfect for its intended audience. Accordingly, I love it and recommend buying it here! Can you solve the mystery? Build your team, find every clue, and prove your worth.

Review: Strange Antiquities

Josh Blackburn
-
0
Review: Strange Antiquities

I don’t know if there are any health and safety rules for dealing with cursed objects, but the protagonist of Strange Antiquities must blow past them all. Their master is barely out the front door before they’re picking up weird antiques with their bare hands and holding them against their ear. They’ll read about how a particular item causes severe paranoia or twists their intestines into a pretzel and they’ll still start shaking it to see if it rattles.

Despite the danger of a curse on me and all my progeny, Strange Antiquities turned out to be rather cosy. An antiques shop is a great setting for a game. It’s a fairly mundane location, being little more than a counter and a load of shelves, which keeps things manageable. But it’s also full of little slices of history and folklore and, in this case, a few spoonfuls of horror. Meanwhile, there’s something spooky going on in the plot. Still, I get the feeling that Strange Antiquities is caught between two worlds, never fully committing to either.

Strange Antiquities

Creepy Keepsakes

The core loop of Strange Antiquities is nice and simple. You’re an apprentice at an antique shop, which your master has left in your care. Customers will come in and request an item, and you need to give them the right one. Said items are a bunch of strange artefacts, ranging from normal to creepy. To identify them, you need to decipher the vague clues found in a series of books. This starts simple, and ramps up until you’re identifying gemstones and weird magnetic fields.

It’s a fun central mechanic and the descriptors are just vague enough that you feel smart guessing them. I especially like ones that require you to mess with the environment, like holding a candle against them. To get more artefacts, you need to explore the town by solving a series of riddles. These do range in difficulty somewhat, but are usually quite entertaining They also have the key factor of making you feel like a clever clogs. In fact, the only part that I don’t fully like about the gameplay is the punishment for getting too many things wrong. You have to play a fiddly little dice game to restart, which didn’t quite fit for me.

Strange Antiquities

Raucous Ravens

While you’re fiddling around with a monkey’s paw or whatever, there are some spooky happenings going on in Strange Antiquities. Customers will tell of ravens gathering around the town, and comatose people turning up with black eyes. It adds a little dose of context to the world, which is nice to see. At certain points you’ll need to a make a decision as to which item to give a pivotal character, which will impact the overall ending. There seem to be quite a few twists here, which is great.

Though an issue with that is that Strange Antiquities has limited replay value. A new game nets the same customers, asking for the same items, so there will be a degree of repetition before getting to the choices. I also feel that Strange Antiquities doesn’t take its gameplay or story as far as it could. Identifying items becomes strangely easy by the end, due to the diminishing number of possible items, and I was hoping for more in-depth mechanics, like taking shavings or conducting detailed experiments. Something that feels more involved than just picking a relevant word from a book.

Strange Antiquities

Strange Antiquities – Cosily Creepy

On the story front, the actual plot points are nice but it’s a little hampered by it all being told second-hand. Sometimes choosing which item to give is a straight-up guess. I would’ve liked the little text adventures found in the exploration to be fleshed out a bit, to give us a little more agency over things. As it is, I found myself dissolving into a stereotypical shopkeeper, barking ‘whaddya want?’ at people telling me their life stories before getting to the point. Probably not the vibe Strange Antiquities was going for.

That might have more to do with the fact that I’ve been fighting off a fever all week. Still, I enjoyed my time with Strange Antiquities. Despite the premise, and that weird antique that’s just a withered hand, it has a lot of cosy vibes. I stuck with it through the epilogue until I’d identified every item. There’s something really satisfying about a shop full of labels, where everything has its place. While I wish it had pushed itself a little further, Strange Antiquities is a short, pleasant experience with a nice dusting of horror.

(Strange Antiquities‘ Steam Page)

Review: Ghost of Yōtei

Mani Naghshbandi
-
1
Review: Ghost of Yōtei

Ghost of Tsushima is one of my favorite games ever and definitely my favorite Playstation new IP in the past nine years.

That art design, smooth gameplay, and that title card reveal scene will always be in my memory, and I will never forget them.

I don’t usually use photo mode too much in the games I play, but that game was special, and I have countless hours in its photo mode.

When they announced Ghost of Yōtei, I was first a bit sad that Jin wasn’t there and it’s not a direct sequel to GOT, but after playing GOY, I’m so happy they chose to create a “Ghost of” series instead of limiting it.

So the title card reveal scene in Ghost of Yōtei is amazing and lovely, but it isn’t at the same level of what Ghost of Tsushima did with that part, and I don’t blame them. That scene in GOT is really one of a kind, but still, GOY does an amazing job in that part.

STORY

Atsu is seeking revenge from the Yōtei six members, and she is clearly lost in her anger, which leads her to decisions that might end up bad for everyone. Yet, she chases death and seeks her revenge from Lord Saito, the leader of the Yotei six, and his men.

The story progresses in both past and present time to show you Atsu’s pain and what she has been through. It doesn’t just show you the whole backstory of Atsu at once, and that’s a great decision and makes the story more emotional.

The story contains some great plot twists, something that Ghost of Tsushima was really bad at. Atsu’s story is far more personal than Jin’s, and it’s way better than Jin’s story.

While better than GOT, the story still has some problems, like the Yotei six members’ lack of detail in character development. They don’t have any depth to their personalities. They could’ve added an extra hour or two to the story to both cover that part and make the story longer, as it takes about 16 hours to beat the main story.

There is one particular thing that GOT was better at, and that was Jin started as Lord Sakai and developed the name “Ghost,” while Atsu is being called The Onryo (vengeful spirit) from the very beginning.

GAMEPLAY

The gameplay is so satisfying. While borrowing a few things from Ghost of Tsushima, it is not the same at all, and it’s a whole new gameplay in Ghost of Yōtei.

You have five melee weapons which you carry at the same time. In comparison, GOT only has one melee weapon and four stances for it. In GOY, they use the stance wheel, but it replaces the stances with weapons. This leads to a very engaging gameplay.

You can feel the weight of your attacks, and the gameplay has depth which was absent in GOT. You can feel how hard the attack is that you are blocking, or the attack you did and your enemy blocked, and that is something beyond satisfying.

Fights are harder and need more focus and skill, and make you feel very proud when you win a battle.

Boss fights have way more variety in their moves and don’t get repetitive.

There are guns now in the game, which I don’t find them fun, and I prefer to use a bow or avoid ranged fights altogether.

The stealth part is the only weakness of both games that hasn’t really improved; it’s still so repetitive, and the AI isn’t smart enough to make it fun.

SIDE CONTENT

The side quests and side activities are way better too. Their story, their path, their rewards, everything is great, and they are not repetitive at all.

There is a fun mini-game called Zeni Hajiki that you play with coins, throwing them in a particular way to win a reward.

Also, there is a fun fire-making and cooking part in the game that is nice to have, and you can skip it if you don’t want to do them, but I really liked them, and they are a nice addition to have.

VISUALS

Visually, it’s a piece of art. Every time I look at the scenery in this game, I’m left speechless. While its art design is at the same level as Ghost of Tsushima, it has better textures, better lighting, better draw distance, and even RTGI in ray tracing mode.

I played the game on the PS5 Pro with the RT Pro mode, and it was amazing. I didn’t find anything that makes me want to try other modes. If you have a PS5 Pro, the RT Pro mode is the way to go.

SOUNDTRACKS

The soundtracks never fail; they play with your soul from the moment you enter the game all the way through the ending. I sometimes found myself lost, riding my horse slowly while playing music with my shamisen and enjoying the scenery around me, and that feels unbelievably good.

DUALSENSE

Sometimes I forget how good the DualSense is until I play a PlayStation first-party game and remember why I love this controller. Everything feels more real in your hands. I might say Ghost of Yotei uses the DualSense features as much as Astro Bot, if not more.

Something great that I noticed and felt so good was that the soundtracks in the background of the cutscenes use the DualSense too! You can feel the soundtracks in your hand while listening to the story, and that feels amazing.

CONCLUSION

Ghost of Yōtei is definitely a better game than Ghost of Tsushima, but I believe that it’s not just an improved GOT but rather a new game built on the foundations of Ghost of Tsushima. This game really lives up to the expectations and even goes higher, and the only thing that is keeping it from getting a perfect score is some minor issues with stealth and parts of the story.

Review: Otherwar

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: Otherwar

Otherwar is a game that didn’t initially appeal to me. It was slow, testing, and a little strange. However, its hybrid gameplay, tactical edge, and reasonably casual mindset grew on me. Moreover, I liked its pixelated style and the twists and turns I encountered.

This tower defence and bullet hell mash-up was developed and published by Take IT Studio. It is a single-player top-down game with a dated aesthetic. Furthermore, the action is linear in its design as monsters follow a set path, and your defences can only be placed in certain areas. This makes it differ slightly from its peers, as you can’t manipulate more powerful options in your favour.

Otherwar is all about survival.

Heaven vs Hell is an age-old tale. Though many do not believe, I like how it is used for entertainment purposes. Otherwar is a prime example of a solid idea being used sparingly. The concept of good vs evil is always at the fore, but it quickly becomes forgotten. This isn’t a complaint as you focus your energy on defeating waves of mental foes. 

You control a defender Angel who must prevent the hordes of hell from breaking down the gates. If they succeed, you’ll die and all hell will break loose. This isn’t ideal as you must dodge an array of horrific projectiles. As the game progresses, this becomes particularly difficult, and a solid tactical foundation is required if you wish to succeed.

Towers, coins, and luck. 

The aim of the game is simple. Kill every foe with your army of towers. If you survive, you’ll move on to the next wave and eventually the next level. However, this is easier said than done, as projectiles become nigh on impossible to dodge. This keeps you frosty throughout. 

Things are made a little easier as you unlock each of the 10 towers on offer. Moreover, each tower can be upgraded 3 times to improve your chances of survival. Yet, don’t think that’ll happen quickly, as you’ll need gold and plenty of grind to be victorious. 

Understanding the route of your foes is easy. They follow paths that are lined by your towers. Consequently, you can slow them down by selecting the correct defences for the job. This is restricted slightly as you can only buy 5 of each tower. This was annoying, but a good idea as it prevents cheating and “cheesing” victory. 

Finally, luck will be your new friend. As the bosses appear, these tanks run riot. They follow no set path, so it’s a bit of a pain to take them down. This is where lucky placement and the right blend of towers are important. Get it right, and the gates will remain intact. 

Otherwar is incredibly old-school. 

Pixelated games are my thing. Yes, I love modern realism, but I grew up with limited graphics and horrible colours. Thankful, Otherwar captures that perfectly. The sprites look rough, and the levels are basic and understated. Additionally, the animation is particularly smooth. These choices are deliberate and enhance the retro feel. 

The audio follows suit with an aggressive but dated soundtrack. The sound effects are simple, effective, and define a bygone era. Though the aesthetic will not appeal to everyone, I appreciated the nod to my gaming roots. 

Simple controls. 

Otherwar is bloody slow. The bullets are slow, the monsters move like snails, and the Angel doesn’t fly. However, it doesn’t matter. The controls are wonderfully refined, and the UI works well. The result is a rudimentary affair that is relatively simple to master. 

Dying was a familiar experience. Yet, I wanted to push on and try to win. This tough but rewarding design creates a basic and addictive gameplay loop. Subsequently, there is replay value and longevity if you fall for its charms. 

Otherwar is a slow burner. 

Slow-burning games don’t always strike a chord. I want to get on with things and plough through the content. Luckily, I gave Otherwar enough time to grow on me. If I hadn’t, I would have missed out on some retro and challenging tower defence action. 

Though this isn’t perfect and it won’t appeal to everyone, I like it. The graphics are old-school, the music is aggressive, and the controls are simple to master. Yes, there are a few bugs, and things are awkwardly slow, but I grew to ignore these shortcomings. Accordingly, I like it and recommend buying it here! Can you stop the hordes of hell? Choose your towers, avoid the projectiles, and protect the gates with your life.

Review: Folly Of The Wizards

Patrick Sullivan
-
0
Review: Folly Of The Wizards

Folly Of The Wizards is another entry in the roguelike genre. Developed by UpFox Labs, this 2D roguelike action video game follows a young wizard who must go out and save the world. Unfortunately, this game does the one thing I think every roguelike game should avoid: it becomes boring.

Die And Go Again… Not In This Game Please

Like I said above, Folly Of The Wizards becomes a boring game the more hours I put into it. But let’s get some positives out of the way first. The plot is simple and quite humorous: you play as a simple young wizard apprentice who must save the world. You can choose one from multiple wizards but the game tells you they are all terrible so just pick one. Nice little humor here just to let you know how unprepared you are. Even when you die, a message tells you it was expected that the wizard would die. Once you pick your wizard, you jump into the game.

The graphics and art style is also a highlight for the game. Everything looks beautiful, enemies look threatening. Hell was my favourite and most memorable with its Hellish design. The multiple levels you go through and clear are well-designed. Boss fights also look cool, well some of them at least.

Now into the gameplay. The gameplay is simple. Clear enemies in rooms and make it to the final boss fight to pass the level and move to the next area. Like all roguelikes, you die you go again. When you die you start again to try and level up and gain better gear. This is a fun mechanic in these games but in Folly Of The Wizards, it becomes tedious. Tedious is not something you want when playing roguelikes.

Folly Of the Wizards PS5 Gameplay

Is That It?

One of the most frustrating parts of Folly Of The Wizards is it doesn’t explain things very well. Sometimes when I died and went back again to unlock new items to do better in my next run, I found myself getting confused about what some items do. There are relics that you can pick up and they are never really explained. Does it modify my current weapon? Is it a weapon? What does it do? Sometimes I don’t know. The odd time I kind of understood what it does and changes, but this seemed rare.

Furthermore, after a few hours of play I became bored with the game. The combat in the game isn’t that interesting. You just press attack button and that’s it. Many of the weapons are not that different from one another. Although the ice-cream is favourite. Felt like it was the most powerful. Especially in boss fights. I would spam the boss with the ice-cream cones and they would melt the enemies health away. Truly amazing. After dying many times though, I found it difficult telling some of the levels apart because they are meant to be different in every run. It just becomes repetitive.

Friend Or Foe?

Another mechanic in the game is the ‘affinity system’. You can encounter other characters in the game when passing through the levels. Sometimes they are locked behind locked doors which need keys to access or clearing a room full of enemies. Doesn’t matter what their names are, they are forgettable like every other character. But when talking to them, you have dialogue options. One increases affinity bond with them while the other brings it down. It changes the items, weapons and even boss fights that you encounter in the levels.

While this sounds interesting, it is never fully explained. Even after hours of playtime and doing both ways when talking to them, I still don’t fully get it. Do you get harder boss fights if you decrease affinity? Better weapons when it goes up? No idea. Another unexplained mechanic in Folly Of The Wizards.

Verdict

Folly Of The Wizards is just a boring, repetitive game. Mechanics, relics and weapons are never fully explained. The affinity system is interesting but never becomes something good. Another confusing addition that is just confusing. All this makes the game frustrating. Graphics and the level design is good and some of the boss fights are cool and challenging. Unfortunately, this is one roguelike where you do not want to try again after dying. There are better options out there in this genre. Folly Of The Wizards isn’t one of them.

Review: Mortal Sin

Luke Hedingham
-
0
Review: Mortal Sin

The combat was addictive, bloody and brutal

If you ask gamers what they want from a combat-focused game they would most likely say one that’s addictive, enjoyable and interesting enough to want to put many hours into. Well, that fits the description perfectly of Mortal Sin, a blood-soaked and brutal dungeon crawler, with fast-paced and addictive combat.

Whilst there were a lot of good aspects about the game, to no surprise the combat was the main standout, I mean it is a hack and slash game, after all. What made it so addictive and fun was that it was fast-paced, bloody and brutal. Who doesn’t like a game where you can slice off limbs? Anyway, as fun as that is the variety of weapons and the different combos you can perform is what truly made the combat so enjoyable.

In terms of weapons, each character has a specific one apart from the struggler, who has access to all skills and weapons. In total, there are 28 weapons so there are quite a few, some are definitely a lot stronger and satisfying to use than others, which can massively impact the overall enjoyment you get from the combat. Weapons and armour can be found in chests and on corpses scattered around the areas, some with much higher stats than others, such as attack, defence and luck.

But the combos regardless of what weapon you used were the core aspect of the combat, they allowed for increased damage and bonuses such as invincibility and explosions. The more combos you perform the higher the chain which in turn resulted in more damage dealt to enemies. I’ll be honest, I didn’t actually focus on the combos and instead just kind of randomly kicked, thrusted and swung whenever I felt like it, it was a lot more enjoyable than trying to master and practice different combos, though if you really want to beat the game then I would suggest not doing what I did.f

If you do want to use combos but have trouble remembering them then luckily you have the option to have a specific one on the screen at all times, the auto-combo system is also very helpful for less skilled and newer players, allowing you to perform automatic combos just by clicking your mouse.

Lack of levels and areas left me quite bored after a while

Despite Mortal Sin having many positives such as a wide variety of characters, fun and addictive combat along with appealing graphics, one thing that it doesn’t exactly excel at is the few amount of levels and areas available.

Don’t get me wrong, the areas and randomly generated levels are designed very well along with the enemies that appear in them, but there just aren’t enough of them for me to not get bored of them after a while. I came across the same levels regularly which given I can’t criticize too much since I had several different playthroughs, so the odds of playing the same levels is quite high, but replaying the same three different areas along with that also contributed to the boredom and repetitiveness.

Mind you there are actually more than three areas, as a matter of fact there are six but the last three you can’t access until you beat the main ones, which are the cave, dungeon and forest. You play 15 levels across the three, five in each area and depending on what one you choose to play first will give you different generated levels for each area, this does make playthroughs slightly less boring by not playing the same areas in the exact order each time and coming across different variants of levels, but it only does so much until it becomes boring anyway. But hey, at least it postpones that feeling only if for a little while.

The maw of sin, trial of resolve and the vessel are the other areas available. The maw of sin involves fighting a few hordes of powerful enemies from the first three areas and you’re met with a massive durable boss in the end, if you defeat it well you’ve completed the game, so congratulations. The trial of resolve is optional, however upon beating it you gain strong passive skills and an achievement of course, who doesn’t want a rare achievement? Finally, the vessel is practically similar to the first three areas in the sense of facing occasional waves of enemies and fighting your way through five different points.

Those three areas do add more to the already limited and repetitive levels, but it’s still not really enough to eliminate the boredom completely, but with that said it’s pretty much impossible for a game to not feel boring after a while, though I think my point of the developer adding in more areas and levels is fair feedback.

The amount of classes however, was the opposite of boring

There were plenty of classes (characters) in Mortal Sin which made the overall experience a lot more enjoyable. Having a relatively big roster to choose from each playthrough was really fun and made each one different from the last despite the limited levels, especially since each class was different in many ways.

Each character had different starting stats, weapons and special abilities, and after playing as most of them it became clearly obvious that some are a lot stronger and more fun than others. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing because there are many games where certain characters are stronger or the smarter choice, but it does mean that the weaker classes such as monk are often left to rot, though I would suggest trying each character once just to get the experience of playing as all of them.

The list of classes are as follows:

. Berserker

. Duelist

. Enigma

. Gladiator

. Hoarder

. Hunter

. Mage

. Martyr

. Monk

. Paladin

. Pirate

. Reaper

. Stalker

. Struggler

. Vampire

. Warlock

I personally found mage to be the strongest, purely because of his time stop ability which was really helpful for getting out of sticky situations, especially when being overwhelmed by enemies. It also allowed me to charge my attack which wiped out several enemies and made clearing the areas so much easier. I also enjoyed playing as the pirate, his ability which allowed him to throw a bomb was very helpful, plus I enjoyed his duel weapon of a sword and gun, allowing to engage in close and long range combat.

So if you do give this game a go I would highly recommend going with the mage or another character with a very strong ability, beating the game is so much easier and makes for a more enjoyable experience.

Review: AULA F75 keyboard

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: AULA F75 keyboard

We live in an age of affordable but highly impressive mechanical keyboards. Wherever I look, there is a company offering amazing keyboards at a fraction of the cost. Mechlands has sent me one of their latest devices. The Epomaker AULA F75 keyboard is a versatile tri-mode 75% form factor device. Furthermore, it is durable, vibrant, and it comes in a range of unique colours.

I was sent the white and lilac option. This design looks fantastic with or without the stunning RGB layout. Additionally, the comfortable cherry profile keycaps are familiar and easy to use. If you love to customise your peripherals, you can adjust the settings using the Epomaker software. Furthermore, the handy media knob lets you adjust your audio settings with ease.

Finally, this mechanical device sounds fantastic. 5 layers of sound and shock-absorbing materials deliver a rich and solid audio profile. The familiar clacky typing sound is rich and loud without being obnoxious. Consequently, it has that reassuring noise without annoying your online friends and anyone within a 5-metre radius.

What’s in the box of the AULA F75 keyboard?

  • The packaging is simple but informative. Furthermore, it is robust and can be recycled.
  • The AULA F75 keyboard is great to look at. It has a simple structure, 3-way adjustable feet, a media knob, and full RGB. Moreover, it has tactile switches for connectivity and a place to store the USB dongle.
  • Power the device with the USB-C cable.
  • Connect wirelessly with the USB dongle.
  • A keycap puller, switches, and spare keycaps are provided.
  • Learn the basics with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

Though I play almost exclusively wired, I like the chance to use my keyboards when I commute. Thankfully, the AULA F75 keyboard has a massive 4000 mAh battery for extended battery life. This monster battery can be charged in no time because of the rapid charging facility. However, if you wish to check your remaining power level, the RGB lighting highlights the juice you have left.

Flitting between modes is as easy as flicking a switch. Whenever you play wirelessly or wired, you’ll enjoy 1000Hz polling rates. This blistering speed reduces latency issues and is perfect for fast-paced gaming. However, if you want to use Bluetooth, the rates drop considerably. Accordingly, I wouldn’t want to use the 125Hz polling rates for anything other than work, checking emails, or playing slow-paced offline games.

Usability.

The AULA F75 keyboard is one of the most user-friendly keyboards you can purchase. If you are a bit of a technophobe, you can enjoy a plug-and-play approach from the start. However, if you like to test new features, adjust RGB settings, or play with macros, this can be done with the free-to-download software.

Changing switches is the new norm. Luckily, this device has hot-swappable 3/5-pin switches. I didn’t play with the provided LEOBOG Reaper switches because the linear style and actuation distance were comfortable and suitable for my needs. However, if you have a preferred switch, you needn’t worry about soldering. Simply grab the keycap puller, remove every keycap and switch, and install your switch of choice.

Changing connectivity modes was just as easy. The rear-mounted tactile switch has clear labelling to ensure no mistakes are made. Once you’ve made your choice, the device automatically detects the nearest compatible option. Accordingly, no mistakes can be made. Whether you are connecting this to your PC, mobile phone, console, or tablet, you will not struggle.

Build quality.

The AULA F75 keyboard is built to last! The durable, hardened plastic case is reassuringly rugged. Moreover, the cherry profile double-shot PBT keycaps are oil and stain-resistant. This approach reduces the awful shiny finish that undermines cheaper products. The finely-calibrated stabilisers increase keystroke accuracy and reduce unwanted keycap wobble. This is important for gaming and will offer a comfortable edge during tough and fast-paced moments.

The 5 layers of acoustic sound and shock-absorbing materials enhance that feeling of stability. Each keystroke feels firm but smooth, and the actuation distance of the provided switch reduces fatigue during lengthy gaming sessions. Finally, the provided accessories are well-built, and the USB cable is durable and long enough for most gaming arrangements.

Is the AULA F75 keyboard worth it?

I use an Epomaker keyboard every day. The quality, style, typing position, and aesthetic are appealing. Thankfully, the AULA F75 keyboard is no different. Its versatile nature will appeal to a wide audience. Furthermore, the 75% form factor is perfect for smaller workstations or commuters. If you love to play wirelessly, the large battery and quick charging keep you in the game for longer. Accordingly, this affordable device is great and I recommend buying it here!

(More information on Mechlands can be found here!)

The AULA F75 keyboard from Epomaker has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Wander Stars

Rhys Speight
-
0
Review: Wander Stars

Apparently, actions speak louder than words. Though it may be hypocritical for me to say this as a writer; I completely agree. But what if there was a video game where your words were your actions ? And what if, cos why not, it was heavily inspired by old school 80s/90s anime’s that the developers obviously grew up watching reruns of? Y’know, the ones where characters spent a lot of time stood on open ground talking about fighting instead of actually fighting. Well then you’d have Paper Castle’s Wander Stars, and you should count yourself lucky, because this game is a delightful little gem.

Our hero Ringo (no, not the drummer) is a spunky 14 year old aspiring Kai fighter, with giant legs and an indomitable spirit (and temper). She’s essentially just young Goku, gender swapped and minus the monkey tail, and the art style only reminds you of this. Orphaned at a young age due to a flood on her island, she and her older brother were taken in by an incredibly muscular older woman they refer to as their grandma, who trains them in Kai Fighting, the combat of choice in this universe. However, the older brother leaves home (and the planet) upon turning 18 and is never seen again. Years later, a spaceship crash lands on their island, and Kai meets its pilot, an anthropomorphic wolf brilliantly named Wolfe. He is hunting down pieces of the Wonderstar map, one of which Ringo just happens to possess; likewise with her lost brother. Chased down by slightly inept space pirates (there’s a throwback), Ringo leaves the planet to join Wolfe in his quest for the map shards, in the hope of reuniting with her sibling.

Tropey of course, but I do love my tropes, especially when they’re played with the right amount of tongue in cheek, and this game perfectly manages to balance its wacky humour with genuine character moments. Ringo’s curiosity contrasts with her stubbornness in a way that never grates, an easy trap to fall in with talkative child characters. She plays well off of Wolfe, a canine Han Solo with a heavily implied romantic past with one of the pirates pursuing them. The NPC’s, varying species of the galaxy with outlandish designs, may not offer deep conversations or side quests, but they do offer opportunities for Ringo and Wolfe to argue; nice light entertainment. In episode 4 you meet Camela, a young witch in training, who dumps a bit of dorky optimism into the mix. It all falls into a story that isn’t particularly intense or unique, but has a strong emotional heart. Oh, and where does the Wanderstar map actually lead to? The characters don’t even know for most of the game.

As mentioned above, the game’s art style emulates the look of classic anime’s, mainly OG Dragonball, with some animated segments for key story moments absolutely nailing the look. There’s even an audio setting that muffles the sound and replaces the sound effects with the wooshes and heavy bass of the shows that inspired it; I highly recommend turning this on and I even wish there was a similar CRT visual filter. My only complaint about the presentation here is the lack of fully animated segments; dialogue is portrayed through a visual novel style mix of characters striking poses on a static background, and you’ll see a lot of these repeated, with some feeling out of place for the aesthetic they’re going for. There’s also zero voice acting, minus character grunts during combat, perhaps a shame but not entirely necessary; you can hear these characters well enough through the written word.

Speaking of the written word, the game’s turn based combat revolves around you selecting them to build up attacks. Starting with a central act command, you can then select modifiers to power it up and then top it off with an elemental effect if you feel like it. A simple kick can become an Extra Super Special Fire Kick (anyone remember that show?) and rank up your damage output alongside a negative status effect. It’s very typical turn based RPG stuff, but it also kinda begs the question; why use words when they’re all just the usual physical combat abilities? There’s no way of actually talking to characters in combat, using your words to convince, charm or negotiate. True, Undertale did this a decade ago almost pitch perfectly and yes, there is a mechanic where beaten up enemies will surrender and you can choose to end the encounter peacefully. Am I asking too much here and projecting my own expectations unfairly onto it? Perhaps yes, because at the end of the day, the combat is still engaging and surprisingly satisfying. 

You explore the land via a board game map screen, moving space to space and encountering your usual NPC’s, combat encounters and ships. It’s rudimentary but perfectly functional, and actually presents you with a fair amount of optional routes and rewards. A random encounter may be a wishing well, and you are given the choice to peer down and fall into, losing HP but finding some cash at the bottom. For my favourite thing about this game is the pacing, the game is broken into segments labelled as Episodes, and they follow the typical 3 Act structure of an anime episode, ending with a giant To Be Continued banner. If you breeze through the quickest routes, an episode can take less than an hour and there’s a nice round 10 here, subverting the anime and JRPG trope of going on and on.

Wander Stars is a lovely little JRPG that never overstays its welcome, with a cute, charming cast and a fun but basic combat system. Broken down into parts, it’s nothing special, but as a complete package it might just be one of my favourite gaming experiences of this year. And keep in mind; I am not an anime fan and have never seen an episode of Dragonball, so if you are then this is an even bigger no brainer, especially at just £21 on Steam. Like its own protagonist, Wander Stars is short, punchy and sweet.

Review: Mars First Logistics 

Saim Khurshid
-
0
Review: Mars First Logistics 

Physics games like Mars First Logistics are usually made for a laugh or a chin scratch. This game was anything but. Mars First Logistics had me coming back over and over again to see what else the game had under its belt… I still have not reached half of it.

Developed by Shape Shop and published by Shape Shop and Outersloth, Mars First Logistics is a 3D Sandbox delivery game with brilliant vehicle design and driving simulation.

I was casually recovering from a sickness when I received a code for this game. The Title Sucks, the visuals look pretentious, and the vibes are down. But then I pressed play. 

GAME OF THE YEAR! 

Mars Lego

If you have seen those shorts on YouTube where some random schmuck tries to shred paper or cross a fridge with Lego, then you know exactly what to expect from Mars First Logistics.

Groundbreaking and easy to understand, building vehicles or tools attached to them is addictively fun. When you take something you just brainstormed and have it successfully finish the mission at hand, it feels like seeing your child take their first steps.

Speaking of missions, you are a rover tasked with building a colony on Mars. You drive around helping deliver objects from point A to point B, collecting points and unlocking new parts as you go.

These points are used to purchase extra pieces of a part if needed, and can be used to help build certain things.

Gravity of the Situation

The physics of Mars First Logistics puts modern triple-A games to shame.

They could spend another decade perfecting horse manure simulations until every turd has dynamic shadow mapping and smell-o-vision, but none of that would come close to the sheer joy and realism of how this game handles movement, weight, and terrain.

This isn’t just a drive and deliver game; it’s a true engineering sandbox. Every nut, hinge, and piston matters. You don’t just slap parts together; you design machines that obey physics. 

Build something too tall, and it’ll tip over when you turn. Make it too light, and it’ll bounce off rocks like a toy. Misjudge your centre of gravity, and your precious cargo will roll right out as you hit a crater ridge.

The vehicles you create must work, not just look cool. You’re constantly balancing torque, traction, and weight distribution, testing every angle of your design before it can even move an inch. When it finally does, the feeling is incredible. 

No other game this year has made me care this much about the shape of my wheels, the length of my arms, or the angle of my cargo ramp. Every successful delivery feels earned, not because of scripted missions or cinematic cutscenes, but because your own design survived Mars’ unforgiving terrain.

And this, in its entirety, is the funnest game I have played this year. 

Mars First Game

This is what happens when game design respects physics and the player. Every wobble, crash, and impossible hill teaches you something real. 

You don’t just drive; you engineer, you experiment, and eventually, you master the terrain.

Sure, the title’s odd and the visuals may not scream ‘blockbuster,’ but don’t let that fool you. This is creativity in motion, a sandbox that rewards problem-solvers and tinkerers alike.

Mars First Logistics isn’t just a quirky physics sim; it’s a rare kind of magic. It takes a pile of parts, a stretch of Martian dust, and your stubborn curiosity, then turns it all into something deeply satisfying.

There’s no hand-holding, no flashy cutscenes, just you, your machine. And when that machine finally works, when your delivery makes it across the ridge and lands clean, it’s a rush no scripted moment could match.

If every big studio chased gameplay like this instead of polish for polish’s sake, we’d be living in a golden age again. Mars may be empty, but this game? It’s bursting with soul.

Review: NBA Bounce

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: NBA Bounce

NBA Bounce is a fun and simple addition to a normally complex sports affair. Moreover, it is perfect for families and children who wish to enjoy something more lighthearted. Though it lacks the depth of other basketball games, I enjoyed the quick action, vibrant colours, and interesting quirks.

This family-friendly title was developed by Unfinished Pixel and published by Outright Games. It is a single-player or couch cooperative/competitive affair. Consequently, it creates arguments and builds team spirit in one fell swoop.

NBA Bounce lets the action do the talking. 

Unlike other sports titles, this has no career option. Instead, there are single-player, tournament, season, and party modes to enjoy. Furthermore, there is some customisation and plenty of things to unlock. Though the action is reasonably repetitive, this matters not. My kids adored the lack of complexity and the short, sharp games. 

Except for the party game mode, everything else followed the same process. Pick your team, select your roster of 3 players, and take to the court. You can play for either side, and the winner takes it all. If you are victorious, you’ll unlock characters, outfits, and other bits and pieces. None of these items changes the gameplay, but they add a layer of fun to each match. 

Party mode. 

Party mode was great fun! As each quarter begins, you are given a special ability to deal with. These powers change the way the action unfolds and can turn the tide of battle in your favour. Moving 3-point lines, additional points, a ball with a mind of its own, and much more await keen gamers.

This madness levelled up the playing field and amused my children no end. However, it can often lead to minor arguments and strops as twists and turns affect everyone who plays. Subsequently, you may get some temporary rage quitting if you are super competitive. 

NBA Bounce looks great. 

The developer has created an impressive arcade experience. The cartoon characters are nicely drawn, and I like the sharp lines and vibrant colours. Though the courts could be more interesting, the game is attractive enough to keep youngsters interested. 

The audio is loud and aggressive. The commentators scream stereotypical one-liners to add energy and drama to each match. Other than this, the audio treads no new ground. This wasn’t disappointing or surprising. 

Simple controls. 

NBA Bounce requires some finesse. You must time your shots if you want to score 3-pointers. Thankfully, dunking and 2-point shots are easy to achieve. Therefore, young players can go on a scoring streak without missing the basket repeatedly. 

Replay value is enhanced because of the party mode. Additionally, the season option adds depth if you are competitive. Though it isn’t as intense as some of its peers, the casual nature will appeal to younger gamers. 

NBA Bounce is perfect for children. 

NBA Bounce is a great family-focused affair. The colourful graphics, easy to master controls, and fun party mode appeal to a younger audience. Moreover, the causal action prevents short attention spans from getting distracted. Accordingly, it is a good sports title and I recommend buying it here! Can you become a master of the court? Pick your team, top the conference, and become a basketball master.

Review: Tioga glasses

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: Tioga glasses

The Tioga glasses from GUNNAR are simply divine! Though they look amazing online, it doesn’t prepare you for the actual product. Every layer of the mythic level eyewear is spectacular. Moreover, they feel incredible as they ooze elegance and upmarket charm.

Available in 2 unique frames, I was sent the Grey Crystal Walnut. The alternative was a gorgeous Maroon Rosewood. Either choice is impressive as GUNNAR delivers top-end quality. Alongside the amazing frames are 2 lenses. The yellow amber tint offers 65% blue light protection. I was sent the clear pro version for ultimate clarity and unparalleled colour rendition.

No matter which setup you choose, you’ll enjoy a professional look. Furthermore, there are health benefits and increased reactions and productivity. Accordingly, these glasses are great for office workers, home workers, and gamers. 

What’s in the box of the Tioga glasses?

  • The external packaging isn’t eye-catching. However, it is durable and can be recycled. 
  • The Tioga glasses ooze charm. I love the frame construction and style. 
  • A hard and soft case is provided to protect your glasses. 
  • Clean the lenses with the soft microfiber cloth. 

Technical aspects. 

The Mythic range is reserved for GUNNAR’s most elegant glasses. Furthermore, the clear pro lenses are aimed towards high-end users who cannot alter the colours of their work. Think graphic designers, YouTubers, architects, and so forth. These lenses deliver 20% blue light protection and every other GUNNAR benefit. 

This mineral glass lens offers market-leading colour rendition and distortion-free and scratch-resistant material. This is a superb option when every detail matters. I’ve tested loads of GUNNAR products, and the yellow tint is comfortable. However, that minor colour palette change can be the difference between success and failure.

Health benefits. 

If you are looking at blue light protection products, you must spend a lot of time in front of a screen. This is modern life, but it comes with many drawbacks. The main downside is poor eye health, low concentration, headaches, and dry eyes. Each of these symptoms leads to time off work or reduced productivity. 

Thankfully, the Tioga glasses help to reduce these problems. The patented lens technology helps to keep your eyes moist while reducing strain. The result is fresher-feeling eyes and an increased desire to keep working. Moreover, headaches are reduced, and you no longer have tired or itchy eyes. 

Build quality. 

GUNNAR only delivers quality products. However, I was surprised by how good the Tioga glasses were. The flexible spring hinges are durable and reduce pressure on your temples. Consequently, these glasses fit various sizes and shapes of heads. On top of this, the modern round lenses create a professional and sleek finish.

The frame is a combination of high-quality Italian acetate and lightweight carbon-fibre-reinforced wood. The result is a truly stunning design that doesn’t disappoint. The tactile and breathtaking finish will last the test of time. Moreover, it will not look out of place at any high-end do or important meeting.

Are the Tioga glasses worth it?

I could sing the praises of the Tioga glasses forever. However, there is one negative: the price point. These glasses are more expensive compared to other GUNNAR products. This doesn’t surprise me because they offer much more than other glasses. The lenses are truly phenomenal, and the frame is the epitome of perfection. Accordingly, they are worth every penny, and I recommend buying them here!

(More information on GUNNAR can be found here!)

The Tioga glasses from GUNNAR have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: iClever BTH24 NC headphones

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: iClever BTH24 NC headphones

If you follow my reviews, you know I have a young family. Like every other parent with young kids, tablets, phones, and TV have taken over. Thankfully, my kids use most of these devices to listen to music. Accordingly, whenever I get a chance to look at child-focused headphones, I never turn the opportunity down. I’m a huge fan of iClever products, and I couldn’t resist the iClever BTH24 NC headphones.

These stylish headphones come in 2 colours. Effectively, the brand has pushed a male and female model. However, there would be nothing wrong with a boy using the pink and a girl using the red mechanical finish. This audio device is ideal for music and gaming-loving youngsters because of the modern tech, noise cancellation, vivid lights, and market-leading battery life.

What’s in the box of the iClever BTH24 NC headphones?

  • The packaging is small but colourful. Furthermore, the box is durable and it can be recycled.
  • The iClever BTH24 NC headphones have an over-ear design. Moreover, the device features tactile buttons and robust ports for audio and charging cables.
  • A 3.5mm audio jack is provided.
  • Charge the headphones with the USB-C cable.
  • Learn the basics with the user manual.

Technical aspects.

Getting the right headphones for delicate, young ears isn’t an easy feat. Luckily, the team behind the iClever BTH24 NC headphones have got things spot on! The iClever Sound Refiner technology reduces damaging frequencies to ensure that developing ears are not harmed. These headphones have a reduced frequency range to prevent unnecessary exposure. The result is safer audio without any drawbacks.

The 500 mAh battery delivers an incredible 70+ hours of playtime. Now, this is reduced when RGB lighting and noise cancellation are activated. However, you still enjoy over 28 hours if you switch on every setting. Alongside this, a quick 10-minute charge gives you a whopping 7 hours of music. Consequently, you are rarely out of juice.

Bluetooth 6.0 is a stable and low-power option that delivers almost instant connectivity. Moreover, if you own 2 pairs of iClever BTH24 NC headphones, you may share the audio from one device. This is a game-changer as one tablet can be used to stream movies or TV programs on long journeys.

Audio quality.

Most people think that child-friendly tech can get away with being a little poor. Well, I think this isn’t the case. Kids are becoming savvy to good quality items, and manufacturers have had to up their game. Luckily, the iClever BTH24 NC headphones deliver on this idea! The audio is impressive, and my girls loved the clarity and the rounded bass. Furthermore, there was no interference when they used the 3.5 audio cable.

Though the headphones are a little small for me, I was able to wear them for a sound test. I was impressed by the clear tones and the light but suitable bass. Though there is a reduction in frequencies, this doesn’t affect the end product. The sound quality is of a high standard, and fussy children will not be disappointed by what they experience.

I’m not normally a fan of noise cancellation in children’s products. I don’t like the idea of them shutting the world out, and I worry about a lack of situational awareness. Thankfully, these headphones deliver impressive noise-cancelling properties without undermining safety.

Build quality.

We all know that kids are clumsy and heavy-handed. Thankfully, the iClever BTH24 NC headphones have considered this. The highly durable material will resist some knocks and bangs. Furthermore, every adjustable part is robust and built to last.

The large ear cups reduce pressure on young ears. Moreover, the headband is soft and gives the feeling of weightlessness. This is ideal for children who do not like pressure on their skulls. Each of the key moving parts can be adjusted to make the headphones a near-perfect fit for any head size. Additionally, if your child likes to wear hats or needs to wear glasses, the ear cups can be adjusted, and the material adapts to the arms of your eyewear.

Are the iClever BTH24 NC headphones worth it?

I think these headphones are amazing. Not only do they offer impressive noise-cancelling properties, but they are robust and comfortable to wear. Additionally, the stable Bluetooth connection is impressive, and the battery life and quick charging are a game-changer. My kids adore them, and they were impressed with both colourways. Accordingly, I think they are amazing and I recommend buying them here!

(More information on iClever can be found here!)

The iClever BTH24 NC headphones have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Formula Legends

Aidan Cannon
-
0
Review: Formula Legends

Formula Legends exists in a bizarre middle-ground. Its desire to emulate the sport of Formula 1 requires realistic handling and physics, yet the game leans into cartoony aesthetics while lacking the depth you would want from a traditional sim racer. The result is a product that serves as an interesting tour through the sport’s history, even if genre enthusiasts are likely to prefer other experiences.

We don’t get a lot of games that serve as playable museums, so I admire what developer 3DClouds is trying to achieve. You’ll be given the opportunity to race in circuits and cars stretching all the way from the 1960s up to the current day. As technology progresses through the years, the cars become more advanced, with some additional mechanics sprinkled on top for good measure. It’s an interesting way to learn about the sport’s advances, and could certainly be used to educate newer fans on previous eras.

This ambition is massively undercut however by the inability to procure any licenses. Formula Legends is not officially endorsed by any teams, sponsors, or the FIA, meaning that while its contents can allude to the events of the past, they aren’t able to tell the stories of specific figures or brands in the sport’s history. Thus, while it’s able to demonstrate F1’s technological leaps, the game won’t be drawing you in with any of the human drama that often makes the contests more exciting.

Once on the tarmac, the racing is fun enough. You’ll need to brake frequently to round sharp corners, but the cars provide an excellent sense of speed during straightaways. Visiting the pit crew every few laps is essential; you have to monitor tire degradation, vehicle integrity, and fuel supply throughout each race. Additionally, you can select from a small handful of tires each stop, adjusting to the dynamic weather conditions of the track. Tuning up requires a QTE, and it’s a lot of fun trying to complete it as fast as possible to keep your lap time down.

I can’t help but feel that Legends’s aesthetics betray its intentions though. While I’d be hard-pressed to call this a racing sim, the game demands a level of driving proficiency from the player that exceeds the majority of titles on the market. However, the simplistic presentation would suggest that you’d be in for a more arcadey experience, with simple graphics, voxel spectators, and minimal mechanics to master. Perhaps this is a purely personal hangup, but I suspect the market has a very defined idea of what games with this type of graphics should play like, leaving members of the larger audience rather alienated if they choose to pick this up.

Should you find that the gameplay is to your taste, you’ll have a decent amount of content to enjoy. Every decade sports a variety of cups to complete. Participating in them will unlock more cars and tracks to use in the Custom mode, allowing you to race under whatever conditions you desire. If you’re intent on chasing the perfect lap, there’s also a Time Attack option as well as a Showroom, though those will likely only be frequented by the most committed racers.

Formula Legends neither caters to the casual fans enough with simple controls, nor offers a comprehensive history lesson that the hardcore might enjoy. Instead, it tries its best to satisfy both audiences, but its identity crisis (and lack of licenses) makes it difficult to please anyone. It may be an interesting option for those looking to experiment with a semi-realistic racing game, but it’s difficult to see why anyone would choose it over competing titles.

Review: Train Sim World 6

Daniel Waite
-
0
Review: Train Sim World 6

Finding time to tackle Train Sim World 6 alongside my job of actually driving trains hasn’t been easy. I love to invest time into my gaming, but playing a game that is effectively my day/night job isn’t entirely appealing. However, I do love the freedom that the TSW franchise affords. Moreover, every mistake I make in the virtual world acts as a valuable lesson I can take forward.

Train Sim World 6 is so realistic that I believe the average Joe could learn to make a train move with its instructions. Yet, don’t be deluded into thinking you could become a train driver. It takes years of learning, plenty of hoops to jump through, and let’s not forget the testing along the way. Accordingly, if you haven’t got what it takes to make it in the real world, TSW is the next best thing.

I reviewed this simulation title on PC using Steam. My normal go-to is Xbox, so all my previous data wasn’t available. This wasn’t a problem as I don’t care about my character level, the miles of driving I have completed, and the experience I have for any of the previous traction and routes. Instead, I focused on the 3 new lines and the brand new trains on offer.

Train Sim World 6 is Dovetail’s flagship title.

Dovetail is an expert in their field. Unfortunately, when you aim for perfection, you leave yourself open to harsh criticism. This year is no different, as people are complaining about asset issues, bugs, glitches, and other problems. Though I experienced some minor issues regarding my passengers, I wasn’t too concerned about minor frame rate drops or the occasional weird-looking individual.

Alongside this, I’m no train spotter, so I have no idea if the headlights on a Voyager were wrong or slightly out of place. Quite frankly, I don’t care, but I admire the passion of the people who shout and make the publisher/developer work harder year on year.

What’s new?

3 brand new routes are on offer to tease and impress newcomers and veterans alike. Though I enjoyed a trip to Germany and New York, it was my stomping ground of the GWR Riviera Line that drew me in and grabbed my attention. My word, Dovetail Games have got this route spot on! Signals, mileposts, gradients, and the surrounding area are pinpoint perfect. Additionally, the ambient sound and profiling of the train are eerily accurate.

Alongside the GWR trek, I enjoyed the beauty of Germany and the urban nature of New York. Each is captivating in its own right, and driving through them was a joy. Each of the 3 routes has unique traction to impress hardcore fans. I have to say the Hitachi IETS or 800/802 class trains were impressive. However, every engine running on every trip was far from realistic.

Expect the unexpected.

Dovetail Games makes a vague statement to expect the unexpected. Now, on paper, this is odd and doesn’t give you any clue about some of the key gameplay changes. Consequently, I want to highlight how the latest additions to Train Sim World 6 work. Passenger announcements are now an integral part of the soundscape. Though we all hate station and train announcements, “See it, Say it, Sorted!”, they are essential. Therefore, this minor improvement enhances realism tenfold.

Random events represent the real-life challenge of driving a train. Things go wrong daily, and being alert and prepared are essential tools for any train driver. Slow to change signalling and unexpected temporary or emergency speed restrictions cause bedlam. You may think the issue is minor, but delayed trains cause problems across the network that soon bite you in the arse.

Finally, trains break all the time. This is something that must be dealt with while reducing the impact on your passengers. Issues with headlights, doors, pantographs, wipers, and more must be rectified asap. If you then consider the weather, your passengers, and an ungodly number of stops, you have a lot to consider.

Train Sim World 6 looks fantastic.

I’ve skimmed across the visual issues because I believe they will be patched out. Moreover, I didn’t experience enough to make a song and dance about it. I know others have had problems, and that is disappointing. Yet, I’m hoping any problems will quickly be ironed out. Regarding the overall visual impact, Train Sim World 6 is spectacular. The trains look amazing, and the attention to detail is phenomenal. Moreover, the routes are accurate, and the use of lighting and the day/night cycle and weather enhances realism.

Train driving is a loud affair. Yes, modern rolling stock is quieter, but the rails make noises, and you cannot escape the power of nature. Subsequently, I think Dovetail Games has got this element just right. The introduction of announcements and the incredible ambient sounds make the game shine.

A fantastic tutorial.

If you are new to the franchise, you needn’t worry. Thankfully, this is an easy game to play. Though there is plenty of traction and loads of routes to master, a helpful training school talks you through the fundamentals. Moreover, some interesting tasks break down each key element to make everything manageable. However, if this isn’t your first rodeo, it is practically identical to previous instalments. Therefore, you can jump into your favourite train and get on with your job.

Sim games tend to be addictive as hell. Train Sim World 6 is no different, as its huge fan base will moan about and love every new element on offer. If you try to master every goal and traction, this will keep you busy for hours. Alternatively, you can undertake some other train-related jobs if you want to take a break from driving.

Train Sim World 6 keeps the franchise on the right tracks.

This isn’t perfect, but many modern games are not. Yes, there are some minor bugs and glitches, and there are the odd, weird visual issues. Yet, this isn’t enough to undermine the overall experience. Train Sim World 6 adds some great elements to its solid and addictive foundation. Accordingly, I think it is wonderful, and I recommend buying it here! Can you master every route and train on offer? Hit the training school, take in the advice, and become a champion train driver.

1...313233...1,616Page 32 of 1,616