Review: Under Defeat

Cody May
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Review: Under Defeat

Under Defeat is a shoot-em-up on rails game which was originally released in Japan arcades in 2005. It would then go on to be released for the Sega Dreamcast, PS3, Xbox 360, and so forth. It was developed by G.rev.

Now, in 2025 thanks to publisher Clear River Games and Developer City Connection, Under Defeat was released on modern consoles 02/06/2025!

War Never Changes

Under Defeat takes place in an alternate history world war 2 where two factions, the empire and the union are clashing. A simple premise that doesn’t get elaborated on too much. After all, war never changes; fight for your side and try to come out victorious.

Story isn’t the focal point in Under Defeat. It’s drip fed through a brief intro cinematic and snippets of dialogue in the middle of gameplay.

In a game like this, it’s all about the gameplay, so if you are expecting story with Under Defeat just remember, it was originally an arcade game. The goal isn’t to entice you with a deep story that makes you question your humanity. The goal instead is to make a game that is both fun and challenging so you keep putting money into the machine to get to the end.

Under Distress

The gameplay in Under Defeat is both fun and chaotic. If you’ve played on rails vertical shooters like this then you’ll already know what to expect. Simple controls, keep moving forward, and fire at everything you see.

Not complex, but engaging. I was a bit shocked when I found myself having as much fun as I did. I’ve played many games like Under Defeat before. Some of them good, most of them not.

It’s hard to get a game like this right. The player doesn’t have much freedom. You don’t control where you go, your choices while surrounded by enemies are slim, but yet when it’s done well as it is here, it’s just so enjoyable.

Gameplay, Continued

Three things this game nails that makes it so fun; challenge, soundtrack, aesthetic. This game is hard, and sure, I’m not great at these types of games anyway so maybe it’s just me, but I struggled a lot. I’ll even admit that I had to crank the difficulty down to easy and give myself extra lives just to complete it (don’t laugh).

While I’m suffering with the challenge, the soundtrack and aesthetic fills me with so much joy. The look of the game gives me so much nostalgia back to how games looked when I was growing up. It also gives me a lot of Metal Gear Solid 3 vibes in the way it looks. A nostalgic sign of the times.


Graphics combined with the stellar soundtrack really bump this game up. You can listen to the original soundtrack composed by Shinji Hosoe, or listen to the new soundtrack which is included in this HD version composed by Yousuke Yasui. Both are fantastic and I highly recommend listening to each.

Conclusion

Under Defeat is a game I immediately fell in love with. It’s simple but challenging gameplay combined with amazing soundtrack and graphics come together perfectly like peanut butter & jelly.

At a very reasonable price point you get the above plus a lot of replay value. You can go for high scores, play the original arcade version or the new version which widens the screen to today’s standards. There’s many other gameplay options as well, like changing which soundtrack plays, difficulty options, how many lives you get.

This is a true hidden gem, and it’s a game I can’t recommend enough.

Five Clever Games That Can Help You Improve Your Vocabulary

Andrew Edney
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Five Clever Games That Can Help You Improve Your Vocabulary

Speaking eloquently and with authority is an eclectic mix of many different skills, but at the core is a great vocabulary. 

The vocabulary often forms the basis of a truly great orator and communicator, and today, there’s a great deal you can do to improve – and not just by using flashcards and spelling books. 

In this article, you’ll learn about five clever games you can use to take your speaking and writing skills to the next level!

Image Credit: Pexels

1. Wordle

Wordle has become incredibly popular over the last few years, mostly owing to its addictive simplicity. The game offers players six chances to guess a five-letter word, and each time you make a guess, you get a small color-coded hint to let you know how close you were. 

It’s a truly addictive gameplay loop: it doesn’t take long to play, and you’ll learn a ton of new words in the process.

2. Ba Ba Dum

It might have a silly name, but Ba Ba Dum is actually incredibly clever. The platform comprises five separate mini-games that train the players’ visual and audio processing to learn new words. 

The games are simple matching challenges, but you’d be surprised at just how effective they are at getting new vocab to stick. 

3. Scrabble GO

Scrabble GO is essentially a more streamlined version of the original game. The goal is still to build the most interesting words with the letters you’re given, but this version provides the addition of special power-ups that can significantly alter the gameplay. 

It’s a faster game overall, and truly tests your vocabulary by having you think quickly on the spot. 

4. Typeshift

Typeshift blends many different types of puzzles into one game, mostly by combining the best elements of crosswords, word searches, and anagrams. You’re given a selection of letters that you must then arrange to make the best words possible in the center row by shifting lateral columns.

It taxes your ability to think about words in a more multidimensional way and requires a wider plethora of skills overall than Scrabble does – perfect if you’re looking for something a little different!

5. Knoword 

And finally, there’s Knoword, which is particularly unique in that the game gives you the definition first, and you have to then come up with the word. It’s a great way of challenging your mind to process vocabulary differently. 

It also goes pretty deep: you’ve got several different categories that cover a wide range of topics, each with its own library of words for you to learn from. Knoword has become a firm favorite with students for its ability to help them articulate themselves better. For those who want to take this a step further and apply their growing vocabulary to real-world context, the Nibble app is a fantastic companion. While word games help you find the right terms, Nibble’s 10-minute interactive lessons provide the background knowledge in art, science, and history to make sure you truly understand the subjects you’re discussing. 

Wrapping Up

Hopefully, this list has inspired you to start working on your vocabulary and improve your speaking and writing skills. It won’t happen overnight, but with consistent practice and the right methods, anyone can learn to speak with confidence. 

Try to practice just a little bit every day, perhaps 10 to 15 minutes or so, and you’re sure to see some great progress. Good luck!

Review: KARMA: The Dark World

Dawid Wisniewski
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Review: KARMA: The Dark World

What is KARMA

The game introduces players to Daniel McGovern, a ROAM agent assigned to infiltrate and uncover the secrets of suspects’ memories. This mechanic serves as the backbone of the gameplay, allowing for an introspective and layered storytelling approach. What begins as a seemingly straightforward mission soon spirals into a complex web of deceit, conspiracies, and existential horror.

From the moment players step into this world, the heavy influence of Orwellian themes is evident. Surveillance cameras loom over every street, posters of Leviathan’s slogans decorate the buildings, and the people move with an eerie sense of submission. The presence of Bluebottle, a performance-enhancing yet mind-altering drug, adds an unsettling dimension to the story, questioning the morality of control and freedom.

A great story, that relies on the player to uncover it

At the heart of KARMA: The Dark World is its masterfully woven narrative. The game follows Daniel as he begins his mission by investigating a missing researcher, only to uncover hidden truths about his own past and the nature of the society he serves. The storytelling is non-linear, and much of the lore is delivered through environmental storytelling, hidden documents, and cryptic dialogue with NPCs.

One of the most compelling aspects of the game is the way it manipulates reality. As Daniel dives into memories, players are constantly forced to question what is real and what is merely a projection of the mind. This theme is reminiscent of works like Inception and Silent Hill, where perception is unreliable, and every revelation only adds layers to the mystery.

Dialogues are well-written and carry a weight that makes every interaction meaningful. Unlike many games that simply use dialogue as a means to push the plot forward, KARMA uses conversations to deepen its world-building, giving insight into the struggles of those living under Leviathan’s rule.

Not just a walking sim

While the game is primarily a narrative-driven thriller, its gameplay mechanics play a significant role in immersion. Players engage in exploration, puzzle-solving, stealth, and light combat elements. However, it is not a fast-paced action game—every movement and decision feels deliberate, contributing to the tension.

Exploration is a key part of KARMA. The world is beautifully crafted using Unreal Engine 5, providing photorealistic environments that add to the oppressive atmosphere. The game encourages players to investigate every detail, as hidden clues and documents can drastically change the understanding of events.

The design of Leviathan’s headquarters and the surrounding city is filled with intricate details that make the world feel alive. Posters with propaganda, citizens whispering in fear, and small acts of defiance hint at the underlying resistance to the system.

stand-out mechanics

One of the standout gameplay features is the ability to enter and manipulate memories. As a ROAM agent, Daniel can extract and relive past events from suspects’ minds, often uncovering disturbing truths. These sequences are where the game fully embraces its psychological horror elements—distorted reality, shifting landscapes, and terrifying manifestations of suppressed guilt and trauma.

Memories are not static; players can interact with them, change perspectives, and even alter events to uncover deeper truths. This mechanic makes KARMA unique compared to other games in the genre, as it gives players a hands-on approach to detective work.

The game places heavy emphasis on puzzle-solving. Instead of simple fetch-quests or obvious solutions, KARMA demands players think critically. Clues are often hidden in dialogue, environmental details, or previous memory sequences, requiring players to connect pieces of the story themselves.

Incredible atmosphere

The game’s atmosphere is arguably one of its strongest aspects. The blend of realistic visuals, an unsettling soundtrack, and deeply unsettling set pieces makes every moment feel impactful.

Using Unreal Engine 5, the game boasts incredibly detailed environments. The lighting is particularly impressive, often shifting in unnatural ways to reflect Daniel’s mental state. The city is bleak and oppressive, filled with dark alleyways and towering corporate buildings that emphasize the weight of Leviathan’s control.

Memory sequences contrast sharply with reality, using surreal and dreamlike aesthetics to create a sense of unease. Shattered architecture, floating objects, and impossible geography all contribute to the horror elements of the game.

The soundtrack, composed by a mix of ambient and orchestral music, sets the tone perfectly. Quiet, eerie soundscapes punctuated by sudden distortions make even seemingly safe moments feel tense. Sound cues play a major role in stealth sections, forcing players to listen carefully to their surroundings.

Voice acting is also a highlight, with performances that convey the fear, exhaustion, and desperation of those living under Leviathan’s rule.

Final Verdict

KARMA: The Dark World is a bold and thought-provoking experience that excels in storytelling, atmosphere, and immersive world-building. While it may not appeal to those looking for fast-paced action, it is a must-play for fans of psychological thrillers and dystopian narratives.

Review: My Little Universe

Daniel Waite
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Review: My Little Universe

My Little Universe is a fun and simple resource-gathering adventure experience. However, it is also a grind-fest, and if you hate that sort of thing, you will want to give it a miss. With 9 mythical worlds to explore and over 65 dungeons to test you, there is plenty to see and do. Yet, the repetitive gameplay may put some people off.

This cute and fun adventure title was developed by Estoty and published by SayGames. It is a single and multiplayer experience that blends mythical ideas with outlandish sci-fi elements. This combination shouldn’t work, but it does. You don’t have to worry about what tools you use or smashing the action button on the controller. Thankfully, there is automation to take the heavy load. However, you can select your weapons and manually activate them if you so wish.

My Little Universe focuses on exploration.

My Little Universe doesn’t rely on a story to keep you hooked. Instead, it is the desire to rebuild each of the 9 worlds that makes you come back for more. As you waltz over each tile, you can smash rocks, cut down trees, and mine for valuable resources. This is essential if you wish to rebuild the world and move on to the next planet.

As you expand each level, you unlock vendors and areas to improve your axe, pick, and sword. Moreover, there are pieces of armour to increase your chances of survival. Each of these pieces of equipment must be improved with a host of unique resources. Accordingly, you must mine, cut, and smash each node like a man or woman possessed. This resource-heavy approach generates a whole world of grind. Consequently, I suggest grabbing some friends to share the workload.

A giant octopus attacks the hero in My Little Universe.

Exploration and fighting.

Expanding the world is the aim of the game. Yet, it is the never-ending fighting and the bosses of My Little Universe that test you. Skeletons, sharks, ghouls, ghosts, and more threaten to kill you at every turn. If you die, and you will, you needn’t worry. You respawn and lose one of your 10 bonus cards.

The bonus cards give you permanent buffs as long as you have them in your pocket. The moment you die, the game picks a random one, and you lose that perk. Subsequently, you’ll need to dodge, weave, and understand your enemies’ weaknesses if you wish to live.

As you annihilate each boss, you will discover stars, keys, and orbs for each portal. These items are essential if you wish to unlock every costume and escape each planet. Though most of these elements are easy to find, some tricky bits will make you pull your hair out. As such, you will need to keep your eyes peeled if you wish to complete every stage.

My Little Universe is a vivid affair.

A tile-based game shouldn’t look this good. Each world has a unique style that is vibrant and great to look at. Whether it is molten lava, desert, or an underwater cave, it is interesting and varied. Additionally, each of the monster were well-designed, and I liked the simple but effective animation.

The audio takes a relaxed approach. The chilled vibes don’t always match the danger that you face, but this wasn’t a problem. I loved the upbeat but mellow songs and the occasionally loud sound effects.

Avoid the lava in My Little Universe.

Excellent controls.

My Little Universe is ridiculously easy to play. I used the automated approach as I love to be lazy, but if you choose to manually use your weapons or execute your special boost power, you will not have an issue. This simple design is ideal for lazy gamers or those who wish to have a straightforward time.

This excels when you play it with at least 1 friend. The grindy action doesn’t feel so bad, and you can blame them when things go wrong. Additionally, the difficulty isn’t ramped up, so it is a win-win. If you want to complete it, you will need to invest plenty of hours to find every star and unlock every tile. Therefore, there is plenty of replay value if you enjoy mindless gameplay.

My Little Universe is a wonderful, relaxing indie game.

Though My Little Universe is repetitive, I liked its relaxing ways. You can waste hours collecting resources or trying to 100% a level. Furthermore, it is great when you tackle it with friends. The simplicity makes this a perfect title if you have young gamers who don’t want to stress about missions or controls. Accordingly, it is a wonderful indie game, and I recommend buying it here! Will you rebuild every planet? Grab your tools, collect some resources, and expand every tile.

How To Set Up An Online Sportsbook

Andrew Edney
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How To Set Up An Online Sportsbook

Pexels – CC0 License

For many people, setting up an online sportsbook is the ultimate business goal. Creating something that will generate cash from players worldwide will provide a source of online income and could even blow up and become something enormous and well-recognized. 

That’s where this post can help. It runs through some of the steps you need to take to set up your online sportsbook and get it off the ground so you can start making some real money. 

Here’s what you need to know:

Research The Legal Requirements

The first step is to look through the legal requirements. Even though the business is online, you’ll still need to register it somewhere, otherwise, players may not trust it, and it could be illegal. 

Interestingly, though, online sportsbooks are usually only set up in a limited number of places, including the Isle of Man, Gibraltar, Malta, or Curacao. These offer regulatory frameworks that you can tap into immediately, but they also tend to be less onerous than those in other countries, which is why these locations are so popular in the online betting entrepreneur community. 

How much it costs to get a license depends on where you apply. You’re usually looking at figures ranging anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000. Once you sign up, you’ll need to follow the laws and regulations in the country you’re registered in, including checking the age of people using your services. 

Develop A Business Plan

Once you’ve dealt with the legal issues, you’ll need to develop a business plan. Plenty of companies are already showing you what you need to do, but you should still try to cook up new ideas or consider how much liquidity you need to start your operation. Consider how much you will pay out in jackpots and whether you can afford large sign-up bonuses and payouts. 

Clearly, you’ll need to keep your betting odds competitive (or players will use other platforms). But you should also consider costs, like: 

  • Licensing
  • Marketing
  • Software

Usually, you’ll need to pay a royalty to developers if you plan to use third parties for your sportsbook. You may also need to use a digital marketing agency for managing gambling SEO as it could be challenging to get Google to recognize your site as legitimate. 

Usually, you’ll earn money through commission on bets. Here, you take a cut, sometimes called a “vig,” which is usually 5% to 10% of the total. 

Choose Your Software

Don’t underestimate the value of choosing appropriate software for your sports book. Getting this step right is critical if you want to attract players while providing them with systems they already know how to use. 

The good news is that there are plenty of pre-built sportsbook solutions out there, so you don’t have to build them from scratch. You simply host them on your site and earn a commission whenever a player places a bet. The designers put solutions in place to prevent you from losing money, ensuring that the commission is fair and what players expect. 

You could custom-build a platform, but that’s expensive. You’ll need to prepare for a massive investment if you want to offer unique features or add to the platform over time. 

Set Up Odds

Setting up odds and risk management is critical for sportsbooks. You want to ensure there aren’t any hacks users can use to deprive you of your funds. 

Again, you can use an odds provider. These companies have expert knowledge of probabilities and use huge quantities of data to arrive at their conclusions. 

In-house or outsourced options are also available. These may be able to provide more bespoke betting odds that reduce the risk of heavy losses and help you hedge your bets in some cases. 

Establish Payment Systems

Establishing payment systems is the next step. You’ll want to integrate these with your site to avoid manual work. 

These days, getting payments to and from your bank account is usually quite easy–numerous services like NETeller or even PayPal are available for these purposes. However, providing users with running cash totals and automating payouts is more complex and requires more development time. 

Build An App

Finally, you’ll need to build a mobile-first app for your store, something that a lot of casino entrepreneurs do. This provides links to all games and betting options. 

The most challenging aspect of this process is to integrate the app with the betting odds and payment systems. It can take time, but there are now numerous expert companies that provide this type of service. 

Review: The Backrooms 1998

Cody May
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Review: The Backrooms 1998

The Backrooms 1998 takes the old internet horror idea and twists it to create a short and scary indie game. In The Backrooms 1998, fear lurks around every corner…

Trapped in the Backrooms.

The Backrooms 1998 is told in a found-footage horror movie style. This means the entire game you are looking through the lens of an old vintage 1990s video recorder.

You begin as a teenage boy, skating with your friends videotaping the day, all seemingly going good. That is until a fall lands you trapped in a maze of those ominous yellow walls the internet has become so frightened by.

One Character in Search of an Exit

The gameplay in The Backrooms 1998 is fairly simple. Navigate the maze-like interiors, search for items and clues, and ultimately escape.

This isn’t an easy task however as all manner of horror will present itself. Including a deep and personal monster relating to the main characters past.

Make no mistake, The Backrooms 1998 will scare you. You will get jump scared, and if you already have a fear of the backrooms, this game will send chills down your spine.

It is a rather short game so you won’t be trapped in the back rooms for too long, however a minute inside those walls feels like a lifetime. Each room looking the same as the last, and horrors lurking near your every move.

Conclusion

The Backrooms 1998 is a rather short game so I recommend this game for those who like jump-scares and short spooky games. Also if you’re a backrooms enthusiast you should really enjoy it.

It’s not perfect, it’s very short, and outside of scares there’s not much else to offer here. Perfect for a play-through around Halloween, but overall it leaves a little to be desired.

Review: HE68 wired keyboard

Daniel Waite
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Review: HE68 wired keyboard

The HE68 wired keyboard from Epomaker could be overlooked. This wired-only device is compact, colourful, and impressively well-built. Moreover, the switches are responsive, and I adored the white and purple livery.

This small form factor keyboard has only 67 keys. The 65% form factor is perfect for compact workstations. Additionally, if you can do without a numpad and other inputs, you’ll love the streamlined approach and the glorious south-facing RGB.

What’s in the box of the HE68 wired keyboard?

  • The packaging is small but vibrant. Furthermore, the contents are well protected and it can be recycled. 
  • The HE68 wired keyboard comes in 2 colourways. I selected the white and purple. However, a dark livery is available as well. There is an unusual ribbon design to the left, and there are 3 height positions for ultimate comfort.
  • The long USB-C cable can be detached. This keeps your workstation tidy when the keyboard is not in use. 
  • Pull the keycaps with the tool.
  • Spare switches are provided.
  • Learn the fundamentals with the user manual. 

Technical aspects. 

Many gamers yearn for wireless connectivity. However, the HE68 wired keyboard has bucked this trend. The wired-only approach delivers a generous 8k polling rate. This lightning-fast speed ensures that you will not struggle against the best global players. 

On top of this, the Hall Effect switches have adjustable actuation distance. This is a phenomenal edge that gives the user ultimate control. Users can adjust the dead zone to match their chosen genre. Furthermore, this improves control and accuracy for typing and gaming. Unlike other keyboards, this delivers a blistering 0.125 ms latency. Accordingly, you’ll be ahead of your competitors and winning every game.

Finally, we’ve all made typing errors. However, when this is the difference between virtual life and death, mistakes are costly. Thankfully, the HE68 wired keyboard supports SOCD. This handy feature understands incorrect inputs and cancels out the unwelcome command. The result is fewer mistakes and more fun gaming.

Build quality. 

I’m a lover of heavy and premium keyboards. Yet, I admired the lighter and more agile feel of this device. The plastic case is durable, and I like the contrasting white and purple keys. The smaller form factor won’t be for everyone, but I like its compact style and usability.

This analogue keyboard has a distinct tactile nature, and the keys are much quieter than a mechanical counterpart. This was great for typing but may feel alien to many modern gamers. Another odd choice was the ribbon loop. I’m unsure if this was for carrying the device or decoration. Either way, it is strange but equally inoffensive.

Is the HE68 wired keyboard worth it?

The HE68 wired keyboard is an affordable and impressive tool. The Hall Effect switches are often found on more expensive devices. Furthermore, the inclusion of SOCD was impressive. Though it isn’t wireless, I like the high polling rate and the ultra-responsive switches. Moreover, the build quality was good, and I like the 2 colourways. Accordingly, it is a great peripheral, and I recommend buying it here!

(More information can be found on Epomaker here!)

The HE68 wired keyboard has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Review: Memory Adventure in the Jungle

Saim Khurshid
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Review: Memory Adventure in the Jungle

Developed and published by Les Jeux de Milen, Memory Adventure in the Jungle is a card-matching memory game designed for Children.

With the Nintendo Switch 2 just around the corner and many parents preparing to spend big on their children, you wonder why anyone would make a lower-grade flash game and throw it onto Steam. 

Memory Adventure in the Jungle functions, and if you’re bored and every game in your Steam library has stopped working, it can give a few minutes of stimulating experience. Just make sure you have some LSD on hand. 

Memory Test

Not much I can say, it is a memory game. You know the one. You have a table covered with cards, pairs of two shuffled around. Find the matches and remove them from the table till you are left with nothing, and you win.

As you progress through this slow and steady adventure, Memory Adventure in the Jungle gets harder. And by harder, I mean each round gets longer. The only thing getting tested is your patience.

But I digress, I am not the target audience for such a game. Memory Adventure in the Jungle is for children. So would children play it?

As a man with many nieces and nephews(And I mean, a lot!), I can safely say that none are so bored out of their minds to give even a second of their lives to such a mundane and tedious experience.

I’ll be honest, that is all I have to say about Memory Adventure in the Jungle. Wasn’t a lot to review.

Well, I have a word count to reach, so let’s just share some thoughts on the whole concept of children’s games as a whole.

The Reality of Children’s Games

Back in the mid-1900s, the concept of gaming started to spread. It did not take long for Arcades to become a common hangout spot. In this age and the following console age, the main target demographic was children. Around 70-80 years later, children being the main target is still very much true. 

While many titles, both in Indie and Triple A, are heavily geared towards the older demographic with their 16+ and 18+, the majority of the market still relies on kids and more so, their parents’ money.

With Nintendo Switch 2 on its way and the recent successes of Astro Bot, the bar is high.

We can say that the market for children’s attention is very crowded, and so, mediocrity shall not be accepted.

My point?

Well, it is simple…

When Mario, Spyro, Astro, Crash, Ray, Sonic, Link, Kirby, Donkey, Diddy, Spider-Man, and many more exist, why on earth would you release a bargain bin, Match the Card Memory game?

A Boring Memory Adventure in the Jungle

So, to summarise my thoughts:

It’s a stale, uninspired card-matching game that feels like it was thrown together as an afterthought. 

In a market where children have access to some of the most imaginative, fun, and polished games ever made, this game is a hard pass. The jungle theme feels tacked on, the gameplay is repetitive to the point of frustration, and there’s just nothing here that stands out as remotely exciting.

Sure, it works, but that’s about the highest praise I can give it. With games like Mario, Spyro, and Astro Bot out there, why on earth would anyone choose to play this?

This game doesn’t just fail to compete; it doesn’t even try. It’s an uninspired cash grab at best, offering nothing of value for either kids or parents. 

Memory Adventure in the Jungle is about as exciting as watching paint dry. It deserves to be left in the past where it belongs.

Review: Reignbreaker

Josh Blackburn
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Review: Reignbreaker

Come on now, Reignbreaker. Medievalpunk?! It was only last week that I was getting confused by -punk phrases, now we’re going back in time. I suppose it makes sense. We are, quite literally, fighting authority. Still, I have to wonder where it ends. Will we eventually reach Neanderthalpunk? Perhaps one day, we’ll play as a caveman, with a mohawk, hunting down a giant mechanical mammoth with a brightly painted bone club. Actually, that sounds pretty sweet. So carry on, I guess.

Anyway, strange fantasies aside, I found myself warming to Reignbreaker almost from the get-go. Games can make a variety of good first impressions. Some do it through gorgeous visuals, others through a story hook. Reignbreaker did it through gameplay. It just feels great. There’s nothing spectacularly revolutionary, but the movement, controls and general feel is tighter than a queen’s corset. The progression, however, is decidedly strange.

Reignbreaker

Short Live The Queen

The title, Reignbreaker, suggests what the plot might be about. There’s something reigning over the land, and it’s our job to shove its crown where the sun don’t shine. Specifically, we’re after the Queen of Keys, a mysterious figure broadcasting a strange signal that brings people under her influence. When that doesn’t work, there’s always cash. She’s also obsessed with keys, to the point of designing robots around them. Our hero, Clef, breaks free of this signal and proceeds to hunt down the queen. A nice little touch is that the game labels her the ‘antagonist’, ’cause that’s what she is to the brainwashed.

Reignbreaker‘s reign breaking takes the form of an isometric action-RPG roguelike. The standard trappings apply. We can punch, dodge and launch a long-ranged attack. Reignbreaker works hard to make each of these fun. Punching and dodging feel almost thought-controlled. Taking damage is almost always our fault. Then there’s the long-ranged attack, courtesy of a motorised javelin. There are a variety of different javelins, with different effects, keeping things interesting. I grew fond of one that stuck sticky bombs to enemies, so that I’d always be inflicting damage.

The core combat is modified by trinkets that we nick from vaults belonging to brainwashed figures. To unlock them, you need to fight in little gauntlets called ‘lockdowns’. These trinkets can drastically change things. For example, there’s one that allows you to pull in enemies with a slam move, so you can then blast them apart. There are four different types of vault, with different focuses, and they’re randomised run-by-run. That usually results in you needing to think on your feet, as you cobble together what upgrades you can get. It adds enough spice to help individual runs stand out.

Reignbreaker

Anti-Monarchy

Speaking of Reignbreaker‘s vaults, interacting with each one starts a chat with the owner. Each owner feels quite different. The queen’s surgeon, for instance, is desperate for her attention, even as he gets none. The writing is okay in the broad strokes, but it does descend into smug quipping a bit too often for my taste. Still, the visual design on the characters is great, and the reveal of the true nature of the queen is well done. Enemy design is solid too. I’m not usually too hot on robots as enemies, but there are constant new designs that unfold as you play.

The general look and feel of Reignbreaker is great. In true ‘-punk’ fashion, bright colours are splashed everywhere. Clef herself is one of the main sources of colour, which ties neatly into the themes of anti-authoritarianism. Soundtrack’s a hit too, with the music being appropriately fast paced to keep you in the mood for destruction. I do think the level design is a touch drab, though. It doesn’t really change as you progress, making everything feel very similar, which isn’t great for roguelikes.

Then there’s that progression. Reignbreaker does something very strange. Whenever you beat a boss for the first time, the run just ends. You need to start again from scratch and beat them – or their fellows – again. I’m honestly not sure why. It kills that ‘this run could go right to the end’ feel that’s integral to roguelikes. Whenever a really promising run got cut off, I felt cheated. Especially as not much changes between bosses. New enemy types creep in, true, but we’re still fighting in the same arenas. It feels strangely artificial. Like Reignbreaker doesn’t want me reading ahead, so it just snaps the book closed.

Reignbreaker

Reignbreaker – Stylish, Rebellious Fun

Still, it didn’t stop me coming back. For example, I usually aim to stop playing review games at about eight, so I can relax before bed. Well, eight came and went when playing Reignbreaker. I always needed to clear one more room. It’s due to the combat, I reckon. Chaining together a storm of attacks and dodges feels great. The boss fights make the most of it too. It’s just good, old-fashioned fun, helped along by a plethora of neat touches, like the solid music.

It’s not a particularly long game, mind. I beat it in about six and a half hours, which is pretty slim for a roguelike. It was about the right length, though. Any longer and I feel the progression gating and identical looking rooms would have begun to grate. As it is, Reignbreaker is a stylish and very enjoyable way of putting your boot up the backside of royalty.

(Reignbreaker‘s Steam Page)

Review: Potionomics

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Potionomics

Potionomics is a hectic game about balancing your time, flirting with the locals, and successfully running a shop. This may sound overbearing, but strangely, it isn’t. Everything runs smoothly and organising your life is much easier than you’d imagine. However, this doesn’t mean that it’ll all be plain sailing, as there are plenty of hurdles to overcome and weirdness in this fantasy game.

This magical shop simulator was developed by Voracious Games and published by XSEED Games. Moreover, it is a beautiful single-player game that has some incredible animations. If you love wacky characters and plenty of twists and turns, this is the game for you. Think of Harvest Moon, Stardew Valley, and your favourite puzzle and dating sim games and mix them all. The likely result would be Potionomics!

Potionomics is a game about a tainted start.

The passing of a loved one is a tough time. Yet, if you chuck in the odd curse and mountains of debt, things take a miserable turn for the worse. This is exactly what happens in Potionomics. The hero has inherited a shop from her potion-loving uncle. However, he has no heir and hands the reins to you. This sounds like a bargain, but his shop is laden with debt. Moreover, a witch holds all of the cards, and you must appease her or feel her wrath.

The story is a little absurd, and the financial pressure is somewhat unfair, but you quickly forget about these issues. Instead, you focus on the zany characters you meet and the potion-brewing competitions that unfold. Each of these events moves you closer to financial freedom and the accolades that come with it. As such, you must spin many plates as you search for new ingredients and master new potions.

A simple concept.

There is plenty going on and loads to keep you busy. However, Potionomics has a simple core concept. Each day is broken down into chunks of time. Every activity takes a small chunk of your day, and you must choose your tasks wisely. Do you spend time brewing potions or haggling with your customers? Alternatively, do you shmooze with the NPCs and improve your relationships? Either way, you mustn’t forget the end goal of winning the competition.

The shop element revolves around potions of different qualities and contents and a deck-building battle. You must way up your customer’s patience, defence, and desire to buy your product. As you interact with each NPC, you discover new cards to help you on your way. With limited AP to use, you must decide the best approach and cash out before it is too late.

Explore the world.

Though the shop element is key, there are plenty of ways to skin a cat. As such, you can get cosy with the heroes’ guild and be rewarded with plenty of rare and expensive resources. On the other hand, you can keep things simple and buy basic ingredients to keep your shop stocked up. Either way, you must balance your money and your goods if you wish to succeed.

Keeping each NPC happy was an enjoyable albeit challenging task. It was tricky to spend time with your favourite people, and time disappeared far too quickly. Consequently, you must decide whom you wish to impress and stick with a solid game plan.

Potionomics looks amazing.

Visually, “sim” games are somewhat lacking. Though Potionomics isn’t a simulation experience per se, the shop-keeping element is the core concept. Accordingly, I was blown away by the striking colours, exceptional character models, and impressive 3D animation. Additionally, the world is fun, unique, and interesting to explore.

The audio has a sense of mischief and naughtiness. This fantasy edge was great to listen to. What’s more, I loved the nonsense of the bartering system and the silly accompanying sound bites.

Excellent controls.

Potionomics does a great job of explaining its key ideas. The tutorial overcomes every hurdle with ease, and I loved how easy it was to play. Though it took a while to master the haggling and the potion-making, the effort was rewarding.

Replay value and longevity are reasonably limited. Yes, you can improve different relationships, and each haggling opportunity is unique, but the core concept is the same throughout. As such, it would take a lot for me to keep playing this repeatedly.

Potionomics is fun, interesting, and a little crazy.

I love it when a game surprises me. When I read about a deck-building shop sim, I screwed my nose up. However, I’m glad I gave this my full attention. The action is crazy, and the characters are fun and memorable. Moreover, the gameplay is interesting and balancing everything is just about challenging enough. Accordingly, this is unusual, but I recommend buying it here! Can you clear your debt? Fill the shelves, master new potions, and haggle for the best price.

Review: QCK Performance mouse pads

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: QCK Performance mouse pads

The QCK Performance mouse pads from SteelSeries are quality items. Whether you want speed, balance, or control, you have a mouse pad that will tick that box. Furthermore, there are 2 sizes to pick from, and this versatility ensures that small and large workspaces are catered for.

Each of the mouse pads is designed with gamers in mind. The high-quality materials deliver pinpoint accuracy and a game-changing edge. Moreover, you can pick a mouse pad to suit your needs. I’m not a competitive gamer, so I preferred the “Control” and “Balance” options. However, I can see elite gamers climbing over themselves to upgrade their setup with the rapid “Speed” option.

Choices, choices.

Finding the right option for your needs is easier said than done. Yet, SteelSeries has done its best with 3 amazing mouse pad designs. The QCK Performance mouse pads offer precision and a professional edge. Additionally, they lack RGB for a more understated finish. This may annoy loud and proud RGB lovers, but I liked the stealthy look and the impressive mouse performance.

Balance.

The “Balance” QCK Performance mouse pad is the sweet spot of the group. It delivers a comfortable pace without blowing your mind. Furthermore, accuracy and comfort are at the fore. This impressive tool is aimed at gamers who love every genre. You are a bit of a Jack of all trades, and you don’t need extreme speed or pinpoint accuracy. 

Control.

The “Control” QCK Performance mouse pad is perfect for lovers of strategy titles. Alternatively, maybe you are a designer who needs a layer of friction to guarantee accuracy. Either way, this mouse pad has your back. The micro-textured surface guarantees improved accuracy while sacrificing a layer of comfort. I’m not saying it is like sandpaper, but there is a distinctly rough surface that reduces mouse glide. This was strange at first, but I liked the added resistance, and my sniping skills improved as a consequence.

Speed.

The “Speed” QCK Performance mouse pad doesn’t hold back! Its sleek design generates ultra-smooth mouse movements and ultra-high reaction times. Subsequently, when every second counts, this is the mouse pad for you. The smooth surface has a more traditional SteelSeries finish. However, the impressive precision stitching makes this and the other mouse pads in this series stand out from their counterparts. The comfortable surface and the lighting speeds will appeal to elite gamers. Accordingly, when you combine this with the Aerox 3 Wireless mouse, you have a match made in heaven.

Build quality.

SteelSeries is renowned for its incredible build quality. As such, I wasn’t surprised when I opened the QCK Performance mouse pads. Whether it was the 490*420mm large pad or the 900*400mm X-Large pad, I was impressed. The product has a 3.5mm thick non-slip base to improve comfort and increase stability. No one wants to lose because their mouse pad is slipperier than an eel. 

The high-grade material and low-profile stitched edges create a durable product. Moreover, your wrists won’t endure unpleasant scraping as you move your mouse. The impressive stitching reduces the risk of fraying, ensuring that the mouse pad can be moved and mishandled without becoming damaged.

Are the QCK Performance mouse pads worth it?

I’m a fan of RGB and should have been disappointed at the stealth approach. However, I love the lack of wires and the simple design. Additionally, the benefit of a high-performance mouse pad outweighs the RGB niche. Furthermore, I love the 2 different sizes, and this will impress gamers from all walks of life. If you are in the market for a new mouse pad and you want a match-winning edge, I recommend clicking here and buying whichever of these products matches your gaming needs!

(More information on SteelSeries can be found here!)

The QCK Performance mouse pads has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

(Full disclosure! Free samples were provided for an unbiased and free review!)

Review: The first berserker: Khazan

Dawid Wisniewski
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2
Review: The first berserker: Khazan

The First Berserker: Khazan is a challenging action RPG developed by Neople, drawing heavy inspiration from the Soulslike genre. As a spin-off from the Dungeon Fighter series, it follows Khazan, a disgraced general on a path of vengeance after being wrongfully accused of treason. His journey is fuelled by the power of the Blade Phantom, a supernatural entity that grants him enhanced abilities. The game explores the origins of the Khazan Syndrome, a condition that significantly boosts strength but at the cost of the user’s sanity, providing a strong narrative foundation for the experience.

A souls-like that stands out

One of the most striking aspects of the game is its unique visual style. It uses cell-shaded graphics with an anime-inspired aesthetic. This art direction sets it apart from many other games in the genre, offering vibrant character designs and richly detailed environments. The mix of striking colours and bold character outlines helps establish a distinct identity while maintaining the bleak atmosphere typical of Soulslike games.

The story in The First Berserker: Khazan was nothing short of amazing. Every aspect of it—the writing, voice acting, and pacing—kept me fully engaged from start to finish. I was always excited to meet new NPCs, eager to hear their stories, and even more motivated to complete their side quests as soon as they became available. These quests weren’t just filler; they added real depth to the world, providing both lore-rich moments and meaningful upgrades to the hub area and the main character. Whether it was learning more about Khazan’s past, uncovering hidden truths about the world, or simply seeing an NPC’s arc reach a satisfying conclusion, every interaction felt rewarding and well-crafted.

Difficult? Yes. Satisfying? Very.

Combat is the core of the experience, requiring precise timing and mastery of mechanics such as parrying and dodging. Players can wield three distinct weapon types: Dual Blades, Greatsword, and Spear, each with its own playstyle and skill trees. Learning enemy attack patterns and executing well-timed counter attacks is crucial, as the game does not shy away from punishing mistakes. The parry system, in particular, I have to praise for its responsiveness, providing a satisfying sense of accomplishment when executed correctly.

Although I am not a highly skilled Soulsborne player, I found immense satisfaction in overcoming bosses and enemies throughout the game. While I had to attempt bosses more times than some players might, I usually ended up defeating them with a near-perfect run in the end. Learning each boss’s attack patterns and recognizing their different phases never felt frustrating. Instead, every attempt was a motivating experience that pushed me to improve. One boss in particular, which appeared fairly early in the game, gave me a tough challenge. After multiple attempts, I finally mastered the fight, parrying and dodging my way to victory—only to be caught off guard by a sudden second phase and immediately die, forcing me to start the process all over again. Rather than feeling disheartened, I took it as a lesson and went in even more determined, which made my eventual success all the more rewarding.

Engaging, all the way through

Level design follows the classic interconnected structure seen in many games of the genre. Environments are varied, ranging from dark caves filled with dangerous creatures to sprawling castles and eerie abandoned mansions. Shortcuts are integrated seamlessly, encouraging exploration and rewarding players who take the time to uncover hidden paths and secrets. Despite the complexity of these areas, navigation remains intuitive, avoiding the frustration of excessive backtracking. Areas are more inspired by the Nioh series, with Khazan traveling to areas from the hub instead of an inter connected world. This works great for the game as the player can clearly see which resources you may have missed in certain levels and replay Khazan’s memories in order to pick up whatever you might have missed first time round.

Progression is handled through the collection of Lacrima, a resource obtained from defeated enemies, which is used to enhance core stats like what you would expect from the souls series. The game also features a variety of gear sets with unique perks, allowing players to experiment with different loadouts.

From very early on armour sets have awesome visuals. Yes some may not look as great as the others but for the most part I loved the design of individual pieces and the entire sets. While players progress through the story and explore each level they will come across blueprints for craftable consumables, but also armour sets. Through side objectives, NPC stories and simply exploring, these blueprints will allow to easily craft and upgrade sets that suit each individual play style.

Highly recommend

The First Berserker: Khazan is a breath of fresh air in the Soulslike genre. While it carries the core elements that fans expect, it distinguishes itself with enough unique ideas to feel new and exciting. As I mentioned, I’m not amazing at these types of games, and I definitely struggled at times, but I never felt disheartened or that the game was unfairly difficult. In some cases, my own playstyle might have made things harder—I often prioritized fashion over optimal stats—but that only added to the personal challenge and enjoyment. Whether you’re drawn to the game for its rewarding combat, gripping story, or immersive world, it delivers a near-perfect combination of all three. It’s an experience well worth trying, no matter what aspect of the genre you love most.

If you are a fan of the soulslike genre and are looking for a new challenge with countless hours there is AI Limit that released at the same time. In my humble opinion Khazan is the better investment of your time and money.

Review: Train Sim World VR New York

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Train Sim World VR New York

I’ve recently got the bug for Train Sim World. However, I never considered VR a serious option. The console and PC versions allow enthusiasts to fulfil their train driving dreams. Yet, though it is ultra-realistic, it isn’t immersive. Thankfully, the VR gods have spoken and we can now sit in the virtual driving seat thanks to Train Sim World VR New York.

This VR driving simulation was developed by Just Add Water and published by Dovetail Games. Moreover, it is a single-player game with a smattering of online competitiveness. The online leaderboards allow players to compete amongst themselves to prove who is the greatest virtual driver of all time. This arcade edge may not impress TSW purists, but I liked the changing goals and the sense of reward.

Train Sim World VR New York is a pleasant change from the norm.

I’ve admired the franchise’s devout attention to detail. Every route and train are pinpoint accurate (queue the neds who are ready to correct that statement). However, Train Sim World VR New York focuses on its immersive approach while sacrificing layers of realism. I haven’t been to New York, so I cannot comment on the route accuracy. However, there are some visual issues with the MTA, M7A, and M3A trains.

Despite the shortcomings, I enjoyed every second. The ability to smash the horn, flick the master key, and judge my braking and speed was fantastic. Moreover, Permanent Way or P-Way staff are aplenty, and you have to acknowledge the train enthusiasts. The timing of your horn is essential if you wish to maximise your score. Moreover, these sneaky individuals hide around bends, in trees, and carparks. Accordingly, you must keep your eyes peeled while maintaining your focus. If this isn’t enough, there are speed gates to hit and the normal speed restrictions to abide by.

Take a seat in an iconic New York train in Train Sim World VR New York.

Short and sweet.

Unlike other TSW content, every ride is short and sweet. The career mode focuses on short bursts between major and minor hubs. Alternatively, you can take a journey across the Harlem line and do as you wish. I stuck to the career mode as I enjoyed the structure. Yet, lovers of this virtual experience will enjoy riding the rails freely.

Train Sim World VR New York runs extremely well.

Visually, Train Sim World VR New York doesn’t compete with its non-VR counterparts. Yet, it runs extremely well on the Meta Quest 3. I experienced no juddering or uncomfortable moments. Furthermore, the blend of colours and the cab layout are easy to look at. Though the simplicity may annoy hardcore fans, I liked the UI and the ability to concentrate on the job at hand.

The audio is a bit of a mixed bag. There is a sense of realism in the train noises. You hear the clunk of the doors and the roar of the engines. Additionally, the horns sound great. Unfortunately, the profiling sound is hollow and there is no sense of depth whenever you pass through tunnels. This was disappointing, but it doesn’t detract from the core gameplay or the overall quality.

Excellent controls.

Train Sim World VR New York is an absolute joy to play. The controls are easy to understand and you enjoy many of the core mechanics of the non-VR base game. Opening and closing the doors and powering and stopping the train was a cinch. No matter your level of VR experience, you will master this in no time.

There are plenty of career tasks to complete and a leaderboard to top. Additionally, there is the freedom of the journey mode. Consequently, if you fall for its immersive charms, you will return for more.

Train Sim World VR New York is a step in the right direction.

Train Sim World VR New York is the closest you’ll come to driving a train without having to qualify in real life. However, it will divide its audience. The lack of traction detail will frustrate enthusiasts, but the immersive feeling of driving a virtual train will impress. What’s more, the short but sharp trips and the arcade-style tasks will keep gamers on their toes and coming back for more. VR gaming is the future and Dovetail Games has put the cat amongst the pigeons with this great simulation experience. Subsequently, this is a step in the right direction and I recommend buying it here! Jump in your train and keep the virtual Harlem line running.

Review: Mullet Madjack

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Mullet Madjack

Mullet Madjack is a high-octane and seriously insane FPS. Unlike its traditional peers, this puts you under immense pressure from the first level. Death, gore, violence, shortcuts, and crazy level design await you in this 80s/90s experience.

This fast-paced FPS was developed by HAMMER95 and published by Epopeia Games. It is a single-player title with mind-blowing rapid rounds. Moreover, players must keep on killing if they wish to survive. This cruel twist is often uncomfortable, but it sharpens your wits and makes you work extra hard.

Mullet Madjack: a story like no other. 

It is the year 2095, and humanity has fallen! Robillionaires have taken over, and all hell has broken loose. A princess has been kidnapped, and the Peace Corp has hired hardy Jack Banhammer to rescue her. However, her skyscraper prison is loaded with robotic guards, and Jack has his work cut out for him.

This zany story plays second fiddle to the eye-watering gameplay. Poor old Jack has 10 seconds to live and 99 HP to work with. Every bullet, slap, and explosion damages Jack’s health. Moreover, every wasted second ensures you are closer to failure. Thankfully, every kill replenishes some time, and the drink machines fill your health. Accordingly, don’t panic and kill everything in sight if you wish to survive. 

Rogue-lite mechanics. 

Unlike other FPS games, Mullet Madjack focuses on short bursts and danger. This approach demands high accuracy and lightning-fast reactions. Miss your target, and your time ticks down. Hit acid, fire, or projectiles, and your health is affected. Subsequently, you must run, slide, and shoot your way to victory. 

Each short level lasts around 1 minute. En route, you’ll pick up melee weapons to finish one opponent. This was gruesome and rewarding. As you finish a stage, you are rewarded with a new weapon or a stat buff. Whether it is more speed, an extra second of life, slower bullets, or more, they change your chances of living. 

At the end of each 10 levels, you must tackle a boss. These encounters are fun, and some will test you. However, they were nothing compared to the cruel core gameplay. If you die en route, you must begin that set of 10 levels again. Furthermore, all buffs and weapons are wiped, and you’ll rue your luck. 

Mullet Madjack looks incredible!

The striking imagery, vivid colours, and exceptional level design were pleasing to look at. Giant ramps are designed for sliding upon, and vents can be kicked open to find a shortcut to the exit. On top of this, your foes look great, even though they are a little repetitive. This wasn’t a problem, but I’d have liked a big roster of robotic goons to slay. 

The audio is uncomfortable and bloody loud. Your weapons boom and squeel as you attack everything in sight. Explosions are ear-splitting, and the music pumps through your mind and your veins. The cacophony should be uncomfortable, but I loved the noise and the sense of danger. 

Excellent controls. 

The shadow of death heightened my accuracy and reactions. Shooting robot faces and slashing them with melee weapons were commonplace. Moreover, sliding across acid and booting open doors were all par for this heroic course. 

Replay value and longevity are at an all-time high. Though you may revisit floors repeatedly, this matters not. Once you’ve nailed the main game and exhausted every difficulty setting, you can tackle the endless mode or boss battle. Consequently, there is plenty to do in this aggressive shooting game. 

Mullet Madjack is insanely good. 

If you love a traditional FPS, you may find the change of pace difficult to work with. Yet, if you are flexible and can roll with the punches, you’ll love every aspect of Mullet Madjack’s insane action. Aesthetically, it is pleasing, and killing demented robots never gets old. Accordingly, this is phenomenal, and I recommend buying it here! Can you complete your mission and save the girl? Master your weapons, keep an eye on the clock, and climb that skyscraper.

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