How Storytelling in Films Mirrors Real-World Dating Behaviors

Andrew Edney
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How Storytelling in Films Mirrors Real-World Dating Behaviors

Movies love to set us up for failure in the dating department. But we eat it up anyway. We sit there watching two impossibly attractive people meet by bumping into each other at a coffee shop, spilling their overpriced lattes, and falling in love before the coffee stains even dry. Then we waltz out of the theater (or close out streaming apps) and wonder why nobody’s tripping over our chai latte in slow motion.  

So how exactly do these stories worm their way into the way we act, think, and swipe? Let’s break it down—Hollywood style.  

Romantic Myths vs. Real-World Realities

Movies and TV shows are slick at selling us fairytales about relationships. They thrive on unrealistic romantic ideals. “Love conquers all.” “Love at first sight.” These ideas pop up again and again. But here’s the catch: folks actually believe this stuff. Studies show that consuming these romantic media narratives cranks the volume on these lofty ideals, sometimes to the point of ridiculousness.  

People who binge rom-coms are more likely to buy into the idea of the perfect partner. Meanwhile, fans of marriage reality shows lean into things like instant, automatic connections (aka love at first sight). Those who watch sitcoms with relationship drama seem less convinced by these dreamy notions—you know, because sitcoms love highlighting the chaos. So, depending on what you stream, your view of relationships may look more like a Nicholas Sparks novel or a stand-up routine gone wrong.    

• Takeaway: The media we consume shapes how we picture romance…and that picture is often nothing like real life.  

Emotional Involvement and Unrealistic Expectations

Ever finish a movie so emotionally affected that you start rethinking that situationship you’ve been tolerating? You’re not alone. Deep emotional involvement with on-screen relationships can stir up dissatisfaction with real-life partners. It’s like, “Why hasn’t my boyfriend blasted ‘In Your Eyes’ outside my window? He has a car! And a Bluetooth speaker!”  

This isn’t a fluke. Research confirms that comparing your real-life boo to the idealized partners depicted in fiction can hype up unrealistic expectations. And here’s the kicker: even though these big-screen relationships are mostly fantasy, people actively use them as blueprints for their own romantic decisions.  

However, there’s a flip side. Some studies suggest that media exposure is educational. Viewers who consume content to learn (read: they’re analyzing, not obsessing) are often better equipped to navigate relational dynamics and emotions. They’re trying to figure out what to avoid…or what to copy.  

• Quote it: “Media preaches. And sometimes, the sermon is a whole mess.”

Storylines, Desires, and Dating Choices

Movies often explore a variety of relationship dynamics, showcasing everything from whirlwind romances to strategic unions. These stories highlight how people prioritize their needs and desires, much like real-world relationships. For instance, some characters seek stability, while others crave passion or adventure. Similarly, modern dating platforms cater to specific preferences, offering personalized ways to connect. For example, elite platforms that encourage seeking an arrangement focus on pairing people who value intention and shared goals in relationships.  

This reflects a broader movement toward relationships shaped by lifestyle preferences. Whether it’s building deep emotional bonds or aligning on long-term aspirations, stories on-screen and off remind us that connection is personal—and rarely one-size-fits-all.  

Dating Lessons Hidden in Subtext

Film storytelling loves a good subtext—the quiet space between the lines. Pay attention, and you’ll notice how characters communicate without speaking. A glance holds an entire monologue. A pause says what dialogue couldn’t. Watching these silent exchanges in movies can teach a thing or two about reading the unspoken in real relationships.  

Like movies, dating isn’t just about what’s said but what’s meant. People pick up on tone, gestures, and those side-eyed glances that scream louder than words. This is especially true in romantic relationships. Communication is understanding the nuance in silence, the weight of subtext, the things hiding between “fine” and “I’m actually done with you.”

• Bullet point life hack: Films don’t pamper you with subtitles for emotions. Real life won’t either. Practice paying attention.  

The Problem With “Perfect” Love

Movies paint love like it’s easy. A meet-cute, a montage, and boom—soulmates! Movies rarely show the boring, frustrating, or downright annoying parts that make real relationships work. And while some audiences are savvy enough to call nonsense, others buy in.  

This can lead to relationship trouble when reality doesn’t measure up. The guy you’re dating isn’t going to suddenly turn into Mr. Darcy because you wore a dress that looked right for dramatic piano music. And the girl you’re obsessing over isn’t going to do a slow-motion run into your overly open arms in the rain if neither of you bother having honest conversations.  

Meanwhile, romance movies also lean into tired gender roles: men as aloof rescuers, women as emotionally self-sacrificing nurturers. Real love doesn’t demand people fit in those tidy boxes. And yet, these portrayals are still messing with relationship norms to this day.  

Shared Passions, Mutual Goals

In so many films, what keeps characters together (besides plot convenience) is usually a shared goal, a mutual interest, or a sense of purpose that makes the love story feel inevitable. It’s built-in chemistry. Sound familiar? That’s also what keeps plenty of real-world relationships afloat.  

We’re seeing a trend, particularly among people who reject pointless “vibes-based” dating, where shared hobbies and long-term plans matter more than butterflies. 

Takeaway for the streamers and dreamers: Love ain’t what you watch in movies. The sooner you shake off the romance clichés, the sooner your dating life will feel less like a bad reboot.

Review: Lunacy: Saint Rhodes

Daniel Waite
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Review: Lunacy: Saint Rhodes

Lunacy: Saint Rhodes is an uncomfortable and dark endeavour. The game offers little guidance and you must use your grey matter to piece together clues and work through an array of problems. This shouldn’t be problematic, but deadly apparitions haunt you and this makes matters worse.

This first-person horror title was developed by Stormling Studios and published by Iceberg Interactive. Moreover, it is a single-player game that drives you up the wall. There is a sense of stealth and an unrelenting antagonist. Accordingly, you must be on your toes as you flit between dimensions.

Lunacy: Saint Rhodes tells a fantasy/horror tale. 

I prefer a more realistic horror plot. Yet, if it is done well, I become engrossed in fantastic and outlandish fantasy stories. Luckily, Lunacy: Saint Rhodes does a great job with its bizarre plot. The mountains of lore and the creepy but captivating setting were enough to keep me going. Additionally, the sense of despair and danger kept my heart rapidly beating. 

You return to Saint Rhodes and your ancestral home. Things aren’t as they seem and your mind begins playing tricks on you. A moving shadow, an unwelcome noise, and eerie notes turn your blood cold. However, the more you explore, the darker things become. An evil power surrounds the town and it is your job to explore the root causes and banish the demons.

Pretty linear gameplay.

Lunacy: Saint Rhodes pushes its agenda and gameplay through a relatively small world. However, things open up as you flit between dimensions. This well-considered idea adds depth and a sense of danger to proceedings. Moreover, it helps ease the feeling of linear action that could weigh it down.

As you explore the town and the mansion, you’ll discover clues and snippets of lore. Furthermore, you’ll encounter deadly shadow monsters and boss-like creatures. Each of these entities requires a special approach to destroy them. If you fail, death is your guarantee.

If you survive, you must work through different basic puzzles. Moreover, there are keys and clues to discover en route. None of these elements will test you as you are always pointed in the right direction. This was appreciated as Lunacy: Saint Rhodes could have been a mess to play. 

Lunacy: Saint Rhodes has a dated appeal. 

The developer has done a nice job with the claustrophobic setting. What’s more, the weather effects are great and you are always on edge. However, it is a little dated and rough around the edges. This doesn’t detract from the end product, but it isn’t as polished as A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead or The Casting of Frank Stone.

The audio is where this excels. The incredible ambient sounds are complemented by the eerie and haunting sound effects. Much of the soundscape is clichéd, but I didn’t care. Banging doors make you jump and the haunting noise of the antagonist makes your skin crawl.

Decent controls. 

Running from ghostly creatures is terrifying. Consequently, you want to dodge, run, and hurdle any obstacle. Thankfully, the controls are good enough to make this happen. Though the inventory system was a little clumsy, this doesn’t hold it back. Instead, Lunacy: Saint Rhodes is a pleasure to play and easy to master. 

Replay value and longevity are limited. There are 2 endings to witness and plenty of lore and collectables to find. If none of these things interest you, you’ll have limited reason to return. As such, only completionists will get the most bang for their buck. 

Lunacy: Saint Rhodes is an enjoyable horror game. 

I’ve played plenty of horror games recently. This isn’t the best of that group, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. I liked the fantasy edge and the multidimensional approach. Furthermore, the eerie creatures and uncomfortable atmosphere were great to witness. Accordingly, though it could have been better, I recommend buying it here! Can you uncover the mystery? Search the town, piece together the clues, and release the darkness from its curse.

Review: NBA2K25

Matt Cooper
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Review: NBA2K25
https://youtu.be/qx0A921z8mA?feature=shared

The NBA returns for its yearly dose of simulation with the release of NBA2K25. Is it a slam dunk? Or should it have been given a tech?

The True NBA Experience

I’ve had a long standing love of sports since childhood, being mesmerized with football, rugby and cricket from an early age. But it’s American sports where I have truly found my passion and deep appreciation. American football has long been my favourite sport but over recent years I have developed a fondness for the NBA and so, with the release of 2K25, my appetite for this sport has only grown. Developed by Visual Concepts, 2K25 is the latest attempt at evolving the franchise to new heights, with impressive results. This truly is the most in depth NBA experience yet and that is reflected in the sheer amount of modes on offer. On launch, 2K25 sports 4 main modes: MyCareer, MyTeam, MyNBA and The W, which are all integrated into the game’s online community hub known as The City.

MyCareer once again puts the player in the shoes of a young upcoming college basketball player who is on the precipice of NBA stardom. With the superb character creation tool returning, you create your superstar and begin the most robust in-depth sports career mode I have ever played. I truly felt like an NBA star with the vast amount of effort and detail that has been put into this mode, from dealing with your agent talking sponsorships; perfecting your game and craft in training; to stepping onto the hardwood and playing games and working your way to a championship in the NBA. It’s the most immersive sim to date and the level of detail and sheer amount on offer in MyCareer are truly spectacular and a culmination of the previous iterations of the franchise. The way in which your player character seamlessly ventures online into The City and interacts with other players is also extremely impressive and allows players to upgrade their player both online and offline and make both modes feel important to player development.

MyTeam and MyNBA act as your GM mode and your ultimate team mode in a similar way to the EAFC franchise. Both modes offer in-depth team management and I sunk countless hours into creating my ultimate dynasty in the league. These modes felt complementary to me with the obvious focus on the career and the online hub and they are well worth your time if you want to act as the general manager of a team or if you want to create your ultimate dream team and face other online players on the court. The final mode on offer in this year’s game is The W, which once again showcases the women’s game and the WNBA. The WNBA has exploded in popularity in recent years, thanks to emergence of stars like Caitlin Clark, so it’s refreshing to see the developers craft a mode which is a fully-fledged career mode for the women’s game. At the start of my time with NBA2K25, I felt overwhelmed with the sheer amount of content but I can now confidently say this is the most in-depth, immersive sports game I have ever played. Now of course it’s important gameplay holds up its end of the bargain.

Lace Up Them J’s

The best way to describe the gameplay in NBA2K25 is satisfying, yet frustrating. Visual Concepts have spent years attempting to craft games in which you can truly move and shoot like your favourite NBA players and this year I think it’s a vast improvement over last. The introduction of new mechanics, such as the Go-To movement, allows you to recreate your favourite player’s signature moves – whether it’s Steph Curry’s long range shooting game to Nikola Jokic’s sidestep jumper. This mechanic is great when the ball gets dislodged and the play breaks down as you can use these moves to great results but sometimes it feels overpowered. However, using the Go-To shot felt ridiculous, as often I felt like it was a guarantee I would score from it. Another addition to the tried and tested formula is the Rhythm Shooting. This promotes using the analogue sticks to shoot mid and long range jumpers but for someone who is used to holding and tapping square, I struggled to use this mechanic and often stayed true to my gameplay style.

A big emphasis in marketing the game this year has been the revamped dribbling and layup shooting with ProPlay. ProPlay is a system aimed to take authentic movements and translate them into gameplay. It feels fantastic to dribble and move around the court, every step feeling like a move an NBA player would make. I cannot tell you how satisfying draining a three from downtown or slamming a dunk in the face of an opponent is! What always strikes me about the 2K games is how well the gameplay translates to online modes seamlessly either playing in The City in 3 on 3 modes or playing online in Myteam. Defense also feels vastly improved compared to last year and I felt as though I really had a chance to force a turnover every possession this year.

Gameplay is king in sports games and I’m happy to say they have delivered with the most authentic NBA experience I could ask for, but as always, microtransactions rear their ugly head. At virtually every turn of playing the game, I was subjected to offers on the virtual currency to quickly level up my player instead of grinding out games to gain attributes. It feels gross that the developers are clearly instructed by the publisher to make sure the player knows they can pay to win and buy currency quickly. It shouldn’t be the first choice for players to spend real money in order to be able to compete online with other players. It’s becoming alarmingly evident that 2K do not care about the average consumer who cannot afford to buy this currency. It’s a virtual pandemic in sports’ games that I despise and at times, it really cheapened the enjoyment for me.

Ballin‘ Out Beauty

Let me be clear, this is the best looking sports game EVER. I cannot stress how good player models and animations look in this game. Superstars like Jayson Tatum and Kevin Durant look plucked straight out of the television broadcast and it’s stunning. Sweat dripping off the brows of players, clothing becoming stained and ragged as the game plays out are just some of the great visual elements on offer. Crowds and stadiums look great, whilst the superb pre, half and post game shows return, along with the Inside The NBA cast, making the game truly feel like you’re watching a live broadcast. Character creation once again offers the most detailed and advanced sports customisation in video games to date. The City is a beauty to behold as every environment and court looks gorgeous. I could wander around the different zones all day long. I am blown away by the level of detail in presentation.

Similarly, audio presentation and soundtrack are top notch. Each shot swooshes through the net and each dunk you slam down creates a roar from the crowd that can be spine tingling. Crowd reactions are amongst the best available. Great and in-depth analysis from your favourite commentators and pundits return, with the obvious highlight being EJ, Shaq and Kenny offering humorous takes at half time. The soundtrack to the game is brilliant, with a vast amount of genres and tracks from a range of artists. Just one minor downside to sound is the voice acting on display in the career mode. It’s goofy and awful at times and really takes you out of the immersion.

Verdict

NBA2K25 is in a class of its own in terms of sports simulation, presentation and immersion. No other game makes you truly feel you’re a superstar like this series. Great game modes, solid gameplay improvements and breath-taking visuals and animations help seal this version as a vast improvement over last year’s game. Whilst the awful microtransactions continue to infect this beloved franchise like a disease, and goofy voice acting can affect the immersion, there is still more than enough to recommend this to both veterans and newcomers to the franchise. See you on the court!

Review: Dume Computer Glasses

Daniel Waite
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Review: Dume Computer Glasses

The Dume Computer Glasses from GUNNAR are ideal for the fashion-conscious gamer/office worker. The classic aviator golden frame and the heavy dark lens accents are wonderful to look at. Moreover, they utilise GUNNAR’s patented lens technology. Accordingly, your eye health and productivity will improve. 

Alongside this, they are extremely well-built. The adjustable nose bridge ensures guaranteed comfort and the multi-barrel hinges deliver durability for the clumsiest users. Furthermore, you may purchase the classic amber tint, sun tint, or amber max lens. This versatility allows you to buy the best product without compromise. 

What’s in the box of the Dume Computer Glasses? 

  • The packaging is lightweight, robust, and discreet. Additionally, it can be recycled. 
  • The Dume Computer Glasses look and feel great. The classic style is attractive and I loved the stainless steel frame. 
  • The 4-way foldable case protects the glasses in transit. 
  • Alternatively, you may use the soft case and microfiber cloth. 

Technical aspects. 

GUNNAR is renowned for its health benefits and impressive design. The Dume Computer Glasses are no different. The classic amber tint offers 100% UV protection and 65% Blue Light protection. The result is less fatigue and a reduction in dry eyes and headaches. Additionally, if your gaming area is poorly lit, the lenses reduce the harsh nature of sharply contrasting colours. 

These glasses sit in the Epic category. This may mean nothing to you, but it is GUNNAR’s mid-tier offering. Consequently, you enjoy polycarbonate lenses and their patented G-SHIELD protection. This coating is hard-wearing and has anti-reflective properties. Therefore, they are ideal if you love to stream without distracting your audience. 

Build quality. 

I’ve tested many gaming glasses and I have not been disappointed. The Dume Computer Glasses feel great and they look amazing when placed next to RGB peripherals. The hard-wearing stainless steel muted gold frames wouldn’t be my first choice. However, they look great and if you like the colourway, you’ll adore the mix of gold and black accents. 

On top of this, the hinges are robust and the movement is smooth. Additionally, some nice modern details on the slim arms add a wow factor. If you struggle with other glasses and the width of your nose, these glasses could help. The adjustable nose bridge reduces uncomfortable pinching especially when you wear them for extended periods. 

Are the Dume Computer Glasses worth it? 

I’m a fan of aviator glasses. I liked the recent COD-themed product and I loved these glasses equally. Though the gold wouldn’t be my go-to choice, they have a pleasant classic finish. Moreover, I like the eye for detail and the lightweight frames. As such, I think they are great and I recommend buying them here! 

(More information on GUNNAR can be found here!)

The Dume Computer Glasses from GUNNAR have been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

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

Games that also have an online slot named after them

Andrew Edney
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Games that also have an online slot named after them

Video games and online slots fall under the same iGaming entertainment category these days, and as the biggest entertainment sector in the world, it is no surprise that there are some great crossover slots for you to play, including some of the most popular video games ever released. Transforming these online games into a slot version takes craft and dedication, but as you’ll see in our list below, they do justice to the originals.

Why do players love playing slots that are based on video games?

There are a few reasons why people love playing slots that are based on video games, especially if they have played those games themselves over the years. If you have a favourite video game and it has been turned into a slot, you’ll have the nostalgia and familiarity with the characters and the theme, drawing you in to play. Whereas a generic slot could be based on anything, you’ll instead be transported into a world that you already know and love, with elements from the original game making it an immersive experience for the player. This can include cutscenes and bonus sections that provide you with easter eggs from the original gameplay or movie adaptation of games.

Great storytelling, design, authentic soundtracks and visuals, help to make an online slot that is based on a game more engaging. Slots that are based on games and movies can take parts of the original content and add them as bonus features, as we’ll see in our list with the battle mode on Street Fighter II or the board game feature in Jumanji. It can add another textural layer of gameplay and enjoyment for players familiar with the original source. The main thing is though, people love to explore and play games that speak to them. If you love a game and have played it for years, it makes sense that you would take a look at an online slot based on that game!

Some of the best slots based on games

Below are some of the best examples of online UK bingo sites not on Gamstop that are based on video games or games within movie franchises. We’re sure you’ll find something that whets your appetite!

Street Fighter II: The World Warrior Slot

A classic fighting game that worked across multiple platforms and player types. It was just as exciting as an arcade game as it was on console, and as enjoyable for button bashers and those who played with a bit more nous and nuance. This is a NetEnt slot game, this is based on the iconic Capcom video games. You’ll find all the Street Fighter characters you know and love and fine bonus options that hark back to the gameplay features. The developers made a point of not relying on the nostalgia of fans of the game and ensured that the gameplay mechanics were as good as possible too. The battle mode gives a good balance between the original game and the slot, with exciting bonuses and simple gameplay, all within a familiar world for fans of the game.

Jumanji

This slot is based on the board game Jumanji (which is the central part of the original Jumanji movie – it became a video game for the newer movies with The Rock and Jack Black!). This slot utilises the board game feel with a feature that allows players to roll a dice to unlock and activate different types of bonuses throughout the play. The bonuses are very exciting in this game, with wilds offering four bonus variations such as scatters with free spins. You’ll work your way around the supernatural board game that’s full of hazards of the jungle, just like the 1995 movie. The sound and graphics are high quality, and you’ll have a lot of fun playing this slot.

Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare

One of the most popular first-person shooter franchises of all time, it makes a lot of sense that an online video slot would be created based on this game. It is a 5-reel, 25-paylines slot that is packed full of warfare, guns, action, and exciting bonuses. It’s one for the adrenaline junkies out there, with a thrill a minute as the reels spin. It is a sleek and dark design that takes you into the world of modern combat, with sound effects on point and exciting animations for winning symbols and combinations.

What’s your favourite game that you’ve seen on our list? Do you have a favourite video game from the past that you would love to see turned into an online slot? There are so many different themes for online slots, covering sport, fishing, mythical journeys, Ancient Egypt and Greece, that it makes sense that game designers would tap into another area of the entertainment business that is so popular, video games. There is a lot of crossover between games, online slots, and even movies, so we hope you’ve enjoyed a look at a few fine examples.

A Closer Look at the Style 4 Ever Unicorn DIY Lava Lamp

Andrew Edney
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A Closer Look at the Style 4 Ever Unicorn DIY Lava Lamp

Here we take a closer look at the Style 4 Ever Unicorn DIY Lava Lamp.

Create and decorate your own battery powered Lava Unicorn Lamp! Add beads, colour, decorations then add water to create your own personal lava lamp!

You can also decorate and personalise your Unicorn Lamp with the stickers provided.

Once you have added all your style components, just turn to activate and watch the water swirl and the colour changing lights create amazing effects!

Features

  • DIY LAVA LAMP: Create & decorate your own colourful, battery powered, light-up Lava Lamp!
  • CREATIVE FUN: Decorate, add water & turn to activate the battery powered Lava Lamp! Kit comes with beads, decorations, glitter, confetti, dioramas & colourant for you to add in step-by-step!
  • COOL EFFECTS: Colour changing lights & fun water swirl function
  • PERSONALISE: Add your own style to the Lava Lamp with the stickers provided!
  • Requires 3x AAA batteries

Contents

  • 1 Unicorn Lava lamp
  • 1 Bag of water beads
  • 1 Bag of decorations
  • 1 Bottle of colorant
  • 3 Decoration sheets
  • 1 Sticker sheet
  • 1 Instruction sheet

The Style 4 Ever Unicorn DIY Lava Lamp is available now priced around £16.99.

A Closer Look at Gomatic Compression Packing Cubes

Andrew Edney
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A Closer Look at Gomatic Compression Packing Cubes

Here we take a closer look at Gomatic’s Compression Packing Cubes.

Upgrade your travel game with Gomatic Compression Packing Cubes, the ultimate travel essential designed for efficiency, style, and convenience. Perfect for both business travelers and family adventurers, these compression travel cubes help you pack smarter and lighter, making your trips smoother from start to finish.

This product includes three versatile sizes—small, medium, and large—to fit all your packing needs. The small cube (19.7 x 19.7 cm) compresses from 4L down to a compact 1.5L, ideal for storing your toiletries and accessories. The medium cube (29.2 x 19.7 cm) holds up to 5.5L and compresses to 2.5L, perfect for shirts, pants, or other essentials. For bulkier items, the large cube (29.2 x 29.2 cm) offers 10L capacity, compressing neatly to 5L, freeing up space in your suitcase.

Made with premium nylon and polyester, these compression cubes for travel are built for durability, offering waterproof and water-resistant protection to keep your belongings safe from spills and weather. The zippered compression system works like magic to compress your clothes, minimizing wasted space and keeping everything securely in place. Plus, multiple closure options—zipper, magnetic, snap, buckle, and drawstring—add flexibility based on your preference.

Available in sleek colors like navy, black, and grey, these cubes blend effortlessly with any travel gear. Despite their sturdy build, they remain incredibly lightweight, ensuring they don’t add unnecessary bulk to your luggage. Whether you’re packing for a short work trip or a month-long getaway, these compressible packing cubes let you stay organized and prepared.

Buy the Gomatic Compression Packing Cubes today and revolutionize the way you travel! These versatile and durable cubes are a traveler’s best friend—shop now and experience the ease of efficient packing with a set designed to simplify every journey.

Gomatic’s Compression Packing Cubes are available now priced around £72.00 for the 3 pack and they come in either Gray or Navy. You can also buy the cubes individually.

You can learn more from the Gomatic website.

Review: Dynasty Warriors: Origins

Dawid Wisniewski
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Review: Dynasty Warriors: Origins

As someone whose experience with the Dynasty Warriors series is limited to a few titles from the PlayStation 2 era, I approached Dynasty Warriors: Origins with a mix of nostalgia and curiosity. The franchise’s signature “one versus thousands” combat was always intriguing, but I often found the gameplay repetitive and the narratives hard to follow. However, Origins has revitalized the series in a way that not only captivated me but also made me appreciate the evolution of the musou genre.

A Fresh Narrative Approach

Unlike previous instalments that featured a sprawling cast of characters, Origins centres its story around a single, amnesiac protagonist known as the Wanderer. This narrative choice provides a more focused and personal storyline, allowing newcomers like myself to engage deeply without feeling overwhelmed by the extensive lore. As the Wanderer allies with various factions during the tumultuous Three Kingdoms period, the game offers a cohesive and immersive experience that is both accessible and compelling.

Engaging Combat Mechanics

The core of Dynasty Warriors has always been its large-scale battles, and Origins elevates this with refined combat mechanics. The introduction of parrying and dodging adds a strategic layer, making encounters more dynamic and less of a button-mashing affair. Each weapon type offers unique combos and abilities, encouraging experimentation and keeping the combat fresh throughout the campaign. The satisfaction of decimating hordes of enemies while executing well-timed counters cannot be overstated.

Stunning Visuals and Performance

Leveraging the power of modern hardware, Origins delivers impressive visuals that bring ancient Chinese battlefields to life. The sheer number of on-screen enemies is staggering, yet the game maintains smooth performance, ensuring that the action remains fluid even during the most chaotic skirmishes. The character models and environments are richly detailed, enhancing the overall immersion.

Accessibility for Newcomers

For players like me, who are essentially newcomers to the series, Dynasty Warriors: Origins serves as an excellent entry point. The streamlined narrative, combined with tutorials and adjustable difficulty settings, ensures that even those unfamiliar with musou games can jump in and enjoy the experience. The game strikes a balance between honouring its legacy and welcoming new players, making it a standout title in the franchise.

Conclusion

Dynasty Warriors: Origins has successfully reinvigorated a series that I had previously struggled to connect with. Its focused storytelling, enhanced combat mechanics, and impressive presentation have transformed it into a must-play experience. As someone who had only dabbled in the earlier titles, I found myself thoroughly impressed and eagerly invested in the battles and characters. I would confidently rate this game an 8 out of 10, recognizing it as a triumphant return that appeals to both veterans and newcomers alike.

Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue to Open at Brand-New Venue Corner Corner

Andrew Edney
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Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue to Open at Brand-New Venue Corner Corner

For the first time ever in the United Kingdom & Europe, Minecraft fans will have their chance to experience a real-world, Minecraft immersive adventure. Experience MOD and Mojang Studios proudly present Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue, opening on 4th April 2025 at Corner Corner—London’s newest multi-use venue in Canada Water. Just a 10-minute journey on the Jubilee line from central London, this exciting experience invites longtime Minecrafters, new players and families of all ages to step into the world of Minecraft and become real-life heroes on an interactive quest like no other.

In this action-packed experience, visitors will enter seven Minecraft rooms and help rescue the village under siege from a zombie attack. Taking on the role of heroes, they must work to rescue the villagers—much like players collaborating on Indifferent Broccoli server hosting—and gather the essential ingredients to cure them before time runs out. Armed with only your wit and a handheld Orb, known as the Orb of Interaction, players will embark on an epic journey through breathtaking biomes in search of the resources needed to craft a life-saving potion. 

Minecraft is the best-selling game of all time with over 300 million copies sold, with players from around the world adventuring and creating together in their Minecraft worlds. Now, with Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue spawning in London, they can take part in this epic rescue mission and story-based experience where iconic places and mobs from the game are brought to life before their eyes. 

Visitors begin their 45-minute journey by entering the forest. Guided by two unique characters—Tobin and Dayo—they will learn to use the Orb of Interaction, a glowing interactive handheld device which guides the user from room to room. Moving into the village, they will receive their quest and embark on a rescue mission with a team of fellow Minecrafters. On this interactive scavenger hunt, adventurers will journey through multiple Minecraft biomes while collecting resources and interacting with iconic mobs – some more friendly than others. Minecrafters can gush over pandas and dolphins as well as face skeletons, spiders, and – of course – creepers. Once they complete their quest, they can celebrate their heroic feat at the Minecraft Experience Trading Post with a crafty memento from the adventure.

“After a successful debut in Dallas, TX this past autumn, we’re excited to bring our first-ever immersive touring Minecraft Experience to its next stop in London! We are thrilled to offer players and fans new ways to engage with the Minecraft brand starting this April,” says Kayleen Walters, Head of Franchise Development at Mojang Studios. “Finding ways for our community to express their love for Minecraft both in-game and out is always top of mind for us, and we can’t wait for more of our global community to attend the Minecraft Experience.”

Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue is designed to welcome families, parents, children, players and non-players alike and no prior knowledge of Minecraft is required to enjoy the experience. New players, creators and longtime Minecrafters will love the opportunity to connect and reconnect with the game together in an entirely new and unforgettable way. It is the ultimate fun and nostalgic day out!

“Minecraft Experience is an adventure unlike anything we have ever created. The collaboration between our creative and producing team and the teams at Mojang and Microsoft has created an entirely new form of in-person experience at the crossroads of game design, experiential storytelling, and high-tech multimedia,” says Supply + Demand’s Founder and CEO Olivier Goulet.

The creative and producing team from Supply + Demand is led by Goulet, who is also an executive producer for Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue. With decades of experience in live entertainment, theatre, live and broadcast productions, and multi-sensory multimedia experiences, they have developed and promoted successful exhibitions for international institutions, brands, and artists including Cirque Du Soleil, Universal Studios, Warner Bros., Justin Timberlake, Taylor Swift, Cher, and many more.

On 4th April 2025, Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue will open its doors and spawn into Corner Corner in London’s Canada Water. 

Minecraft fans who want to be first to attend can join the waitlist starting 5th February at www.minecraftexperience.com. The waitlist will offer access to the exclusive presale starting on 12th February, and tickets go on sale to the general public on 14th February, 10am.

Ticket prices start from £20 for children, and General Admission (16+) from £24.

For more information, including tickets, presale waitlist, and future tour city updates, please visit www.minecraftexperience.com and follow on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter); #minecraftexperience.

Review: Rescue the Beagles

Khloe Turner
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Review: Rescue the Beagles
Rescue the Beagles title

If you are looking for some old-school challenge and happen to have downtime, give Rescue: The Beagles a shot. Initially released in 2008 by Whining Girl and Croatian freelancer Nenad Jalšovec, the developers re-released this 8-bit action game in 2024. It is a short and sweet platformer filled with adorable beagle pups and unique parallax gameplay, and like most retro titles, the main goal is to beat your own high score.

Rescue: The Beagles can be played on the Nintendo Switch, the PlayStation 5, the Xbox Series X/S, PC, and Steam.

Cruel and unusual

Rescue: The Beagles does not outright explain its lore when you hit play, so players will need to click the “story” option in the main menu to get the context.

early levels in Rescue: The Beagle

A cargo airplane carrying a shipment of beagles crashes into the Amita mountain range Originally intended to be shipped off to CutLab animal testing facility, two animal rights activists named Nicole and Edwin set off to rescue the poor puppies. However, upset by the situation, CutLab deploys their biohazard division to “reclaim their property,” and in particular, salvage the healthy pups and exterminate the sick and injured.

The story is curt, and nothing further is added to it. Apparently, according to Nenad Jalšovec, the plot is loosely based on true events that happened near Zagreb, but it is definitely overexaggerated.

Game-wise, I do wonder . . . how did these activists know about the crash if CutLab was operating in secret? Why are they testing lip balm on beagles? Why is the biohazard division so vicious? Are the dogs now radioactive from that goopy, toxic balm?

Aim too high or falling short

What makes this title stand out is its parallax gameplay: within each level, there are 3-4 layered platforms players can walk on. You reach each layer by either climbing or falling down. Acquiring ropes will allow players to climb up greater heights quickly and safely, while parachutes will let players fall down further distances without dying. You do not want to fall too aggressively . . . and it is easy to do so. Players begin with 3 lives – and you can obtain more by leveling up – but most deaths will be due to fall damage in my experience.

falling because parallax gameplay

The ultimate goal of the game is to gather all the beagles within a run. At the beginning, you will need to rescue 8 or 11 puppies, and as levels progress the rescue requirement will increase. Players will also lose a life if they fail to rescue a dog. As challenging as this game might be, you cannot sacrifice a single pup. Get all of them quickly!

Rescue: The Beagles is a side-scrolling platformer, so each level will automatically scroll and move the player forward. This mechanic makes it much easier to accidentally miss a beagle walking by. If the beagle moves off-screen, you are closer to a game over. The CutLab team are considered “enemies” and are there to thwart you. They might grab healthy pups and run away, follow you too closely, or block you from grabbing the sick and healthy.

Dogs before doods

Another item players can obtain are . . . owls? You accumulate these owls and launch them at CutLab vivisectors and to kill them, rescuing the beagles they tried to make off with. You can also use the owls, or their waste, to kill other enemies like the “doods” and lab executives, which they all have varying hit points. Honestly, for the first 15 minutes of my playthrough, I totally forgot the owls could be used for anything. I just hoarded them until my finger slipped on the analog trigger, viciously launching my owls forward.

CutLab hit points and beagle points

To rescue the injured, players must acquire med kits, and they are available aplenty (at least initially). Most items are readily available at the beginning but slowly lessen in frequency the further you progress, so use your parachutes and med kits wisely.

Each level will begin to feature other types of hazards. For instance, some parts of the ground might be coated in this toxic cherry-flavored lip balm, which will instantly kill you (unless you upgrade your immunity). Other obstacles, like water, will slow you down unless you build up your character’s ability to swim. On the plus side, players might also run into goji berries. These grant the players temporary invincibility and instakill power, but they are a rare find.

Gotta go fast

With the increasing speed, rescue quota, obstacles and enemies, and having to platform across multiple layers, Rescue: The Beagles is definitely a brutal challenge. I am unsure of how many levels there actually are, or perhaps it is endless. I only made it to level 10 because I am atrociously horrible at the game. Complete user error on my part! Ultimately, this platformer will use 3-4 hours of your time, before either boredom or frustration fully sets in.

Nicole upgrading goji digestion

At the end of each level, players can choose an ability to upgrade: aerobics, owl recruiting, goji digestion, swimming, beagle magnetism, toxin resistance, and regeneration. I recommend choosing your own biggest weakness. Do you die a lot? Regenerate with more lives. Do you keep missing beagles? Upgrade your beagle magnetism. Do you have a problem with running into goop? Build up toxin resistance.

It takes two

Ultimately, the goal is to beat your own or another person’s high score. The game has a classic “high score” board available to see, and in order to rack up points, players must complete levels and perform certain skills. I am not quite sure how to do this or what they mean, but things like “placid flow,” “skyline flow” or “hoot flow” will grant extra points. I am assuming the first two regard how long players survive running straight a certain layer.

Rescue: The Beagles co-op mode

You do not have to play just solo. There is a couch co-op and versus mode, so find some friends or competitors and see how far you go. Each player has their own separate stock of lives, and playing with buddies is always more fun (or maybe not). These modes operate smoothly without bugs.

Green, green, and more green

Rescue: The Beagles features a blocky, 8-bit art style. Some people may adore this retro callback, but I am rather bored of it. Despite its charming color scheme, this game kind of looks like a two-dimensional Crossy Road.

Rescue: The Beagles dogs

Even though I enjoy the vivid blues and pinks and greens, there comes to be a struggle when each level only focuses on one color. For example, the “Rose Badlands” is fully pink, meaning each layer is a different tone or shade of this color. This makes it difficult to distinguish between layers, especially if you are someone with poor eyesight or colorblindness. There is a struggle with depth perception, in a 2D sense. It was hard to judge how violent my character’s falls would be especially if the middle layer is a forest green, and the bottom layer is, well, a more shaded forest green.

Players can toggle between two music styles: AESQE or DISASTERPEACE. The former sounds a bit more ominous, but both tracks are somewhat upbeat, retro-sounding; reminiscent of an arcade machine.

Final thoughts

Rescue: The Beagles is . . . fine. It is a slightly addictive platformer with a “twist,” which is fun for maybe an hour. There is not much else to the game beyond this point; the mechanics and visuals are rather dull.

gameover screen

Despite its influence from true events, it would have bene nice if there was a variety of dog breeds with different behaviors or something. Why just beagles? The game’s lore is okay, but I am filled with unanswered questions. To a certain degree, Rescue: The Beagles feels like a PETA-sponsored game on Bored.com.

I would not quite recommend this title, but it could be decent in short bursts, or if you are simply looking for an opportunity to drive yourself insane.

Review: A Game About Digging a Hole

Daniel Waite
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Review: A Game About Digging a Hole

A Game About Digging a Hole is a minimalist experience. Though this makes it straightforward to play and easy to understand, it is sadly lacking in depth. This reduces replay value and longevity and will annoy hardcore gamers. However, this could be right up your street if you want a casual and simple game. 

This digging simulation title was developed by Cyberwave and published by Drillhounds. Moreover, it is a single-player title that is perfectly refined. I hadn’t heard of this game before I reviewed it, but it instantly piqued my interest. The thought of exploring deep underground while finding hidden treasure was alluring. 

A Game About Digging a Hole has no plot. 

Maybe I should have had more reasonable expectations, but A Game About Digging a Hole has no plot. This lack of a story made it hard to lose myself in the action. Additionally, once you unlock every tool, it can be challenging to return for more. As such, though the developer wants their creation to be understated, I think they went too far. 

The action focuses on a newly sold house. Hidden under its back garden are gold and other treasures. Accordingly, the protagonist buys the house and starts to dig into the soil with their trusty spade. First, you will uncover stones and basic resources. Yet, the further you travel, the more valuable the resources on offer. But with greater reward comes greater danger. Consequently, you must weigh up each trip underground. 

Simple mechanics. 

The gameplay loop is simple. Recharge your battery (otherwise you’ll die), refill your health, and start digging in the soil. You’ll collect an array of valuable resources and you will find items and hidden mines deep beneath the surface. As you earn more money, you can upgrade your equipment. This makes it easier to explore further and deeper in search of more valuable treasures. 

Though this aspect was great, the upgrades are limited and you are restricted to your jetpack to navigate the world. I’d have loved the opportunity to build ladders and other key structures to traverse the depths. Alternatively, maybe more tools and some challenging hurdles would have made A Game About Digging a Hole more fun. 

A Game About Digging a Hole doesn’t shine. 

Indie games have come on leaps and bounds. However, A Game About Digging a Hole doesn’t follow this trend. Instead, it has some clunky graphics and a vibrant but sharp colour palette. This works well with the setting but it won’t blow you away. Moreover, navigating the world can be challenging as you catch the scenery and become stuck in the strangest of places. 

The audio is pretty refined. The ambient sounds are calm and non-offensive and the sound effects are suitable but not mind-blowing. Subsequently, it does its job without being memorable. 

Decent controls. 

I played this with a mouse and keyboard and it was easy to master. The layout was basic but I couldn’t find a way to crouch. This was annoying when traversing tight tunnels or avoiding loose rocks. 

Replay value and longevity are impacted by the lack of depth. A Game About Digging a Hole is great until you hit the platinum resource layer. Once you hit these depths, you risk running out of battery and dying. The balancing act between exploration and treasure hunting was too restrictive and this becomes frustrating. 

A Game About Digging a Hole is fun in short bursts. 

This is an addictive and fun indie title. However, you can only tackle it in short bursts. Moreover, the aforementioned issues hold it back. If the developer adds more content and balances the key mechanics, this will be an inexpensive and enjoyable casual game. Accordingly, despite its shortcomings, I recommend buying it here! Can you find the treasure? Grab your tools, dig a hole and hope to get rich.

Review: Dino-Duck Dash

Saim Khurshid
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Review: Dino-Duck Dash

Developed and Published by Duckosaurous Games, Dino-Duck Dash is a 2d- runner with ducks and a focus on fast-paced platforming.

A game does not need to have a lot on offer to be considered a good game. It just needs to be fun, good at least. That is what I get from Dino-Duck Dash: a fast-paced, somewhat challenging, good at least.

Good Quak

On the gameplay front, I don’t have many complaints. It is a simple yet enjoyable ride that keeps you engaged with its easy-to-understand mechanics.

You start by selecting the type of duck you want to play with. Each duck comes with its unique perk, allowing for a variety of playstyles (More on that in a bit). 

Once you’ve made your selection, you are placed on a constantly moving 2D plane. Your goal is to travel to the right while eliminating enemies that appear in your path, racking up points as you go. The enemies are not overly difficult, but the challenge lies in how quickly you can dispatch them while avoiding obstacles and staying alive. At a certain point, you will face off against a large boss that’s meant to add a bit of excitement and variety to the usual gameplay loop. Ultimately, you get to fight a large boss but that is rarely the focus of the game.

It’s simple, yes, but it’s also quite satisfying.

Every step you take equals 1 point, every enemy you kill gets anywhere between dozens to hundreds of points, and collectable items on the field give you extra points as well. After each round, you are shown your total points and a live leaderboard showing points of other people playing this game. 

It may seem simple but it is quite engaging. Especially with the types of characters and other pickups at your disposal.

Quack on

My biggest complaint with Dino-Duck Dash is more of a pet peeve. At the end of the character selection screen, it says more coming soon. Gives everything a very shovelware-android game feel and I don’t like it.

But I digress, let’s talk about what we do have and not dwell on what could be.

Each duck possesses a unique ability that can significantly impact your playstyle, such as faster running speed, double jump, super dash, and even the ability to dash in mid-air. While these abilities may seem simple, they offer a considerable influence on how you approach the game.

In addition to points, you can collect pickups throughout the game via the giant falling acorn, which grants you a weapon, such as an axe, saw, hammer, and more. Each weapon has its distinct function, providing you with a powerful way to plough through enemies and clear obstacles with ease.

Time to Quack Out!

Dino-Duck Dash. A game that’s… well, decent at best. Let’s be clear: it’s not a disaster, but it’s certainly not a standout title either. The core mechanics are simple and, admittedly, somewhat enjoyable. The gameplay is smooth, but there’s little here to captivate you beyond the first few rounds.

And then there’s the “more coming soon” message in the character selection menu, which doesn’t do the game any favours. It gives off the distinct impression of a rushed product, a hint that what you’re playing is unfinished and incomplete, which is hardly inspiring.

And with that, we wrap things up. Dino-Duck Dash may keep you entertained for a brief moment but don’t expect it to be a game you’ll be talking about next week. 

If you’re looking for something more than just a simple, point-grabbing experience, you might want to look elsewhere. But hey, if you’re into ducks, dashes, and collecting points just for the sake of it, then, by all means, have at it.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll go review the next game. QUACK!!!

Review: Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator

Daniel Waite
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Review: Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator

Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator didn’t live up to the hype. I have been following this for a while and couldn’t wait to get started. However, strange dialogue and repetitive encounters prevent this from excelling. On top of this, there are unusual bugs and the gameplay feels uncomfortably slow. Accordingly, though it was playable and occasionally fun, it felt a little tedious.

This life-saving simulation title was developed by Aesir Interactive and published by Nacon. It is a single-player title that uses a third-person perspective. This will annoy gamers who love to drive from a first-person viewpoint. Luckily, I don’t mind the external driving camera and I enjoyed racing around each of the 3 districts. 

Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator chucks you into the action.

In typical genre style, you are a rookie who must prove themselves to the world. You are teamed up with an experienced crewmate and left to your own devices. This is the best thing that can happen as accidents and emergencies come in thick and fast.

The lack of a story was disappointing, but I overlooked it as you never stop helping people. As the game evolves and you gain more experience, you get to handle different equipment and drugs and you get to deal with new disasters. This drip-fed approach was nice as the game never felt overwhelming. Additionally, the use of mini-games to complete most tasks was great.

An array of problems and solutions.

The action revolves around a simple gameplay loop. You jump into your ambulance and await the emergency call. As you approach the scene, you must work out where to stop and who to help. Each situation has plenty of patients to tend to, but you can only take one in the ambulance. Consequently, you must triage each person and decide who needs urgent care.

In theory, this should make a difference, but it rarely did. This was a strange choice as the developer wants you to make the right choices. However, like many of the mechanics, it lacks that final layer of polish. As you examine each person you must ask them an array of questions. Annoyingly, there were limited responses and you must be prepared for the same conversation repeatedly. Moreover, some of the answers make no sense at all. Subsequently, I skipped through that section as it rarely made a difference.

The first aid section is where Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator comes to life. Dealing with burns, cuts, breathing problems, anxiety, shot wounds, attempted suicides and more helps to keep things interesting. Yet, even this element becomes regrettably dull. This makes working through the levels and progressing the game a tedious task. As such, I’m not sure many people will make it to the third district or the end of the game.

Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator looks great and appalling at the same time.

The developer cares about their project. Some elements look great and I love the eye for detail. However, there are so many glitches and bugs, that it undermines the little wow moments. Many of my patients clipped walls or their clothes didn’t fit them properly. Additionally, pedestrians would do whatever they wished and cars had a mind of their own. As such, the world lacks a layer of realism and that is a shame.

The audio, on the other hand, is great. The ambient sounds are wonderful and I love the shrill sound of the siren. Moreover, the acting is pretty good even if the dialogue is awful. Had the visual component been as good as the audio, then Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator would have excelled as a game.

Decent controls.

This can be enjoyed with a mouse and keyboard or a gamepad. I chose the latter as it felt more intuitive and easier to play. Thankfully, the layout is easy to understand and mastering the basics takes little effort. Additionally, the UI is excellent and selecting the correct tool for the job was straightforward. Though the ambulance handles like a dog, it is realistic and you are forced to slow down and be mindful of your surroundings.

If I wasn’t reviewing Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator, I’d have probably stopped playing it. I liked the core ideas and each emergency in small amounts. Yet, you have to play this a lot to work through the basic moments. There are some catastrophic scenarios to play through, and this is where it shines. Consequently, there is some longevity if you can work through the grind.

Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator didn’t live up to the hype.

Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator left me wanting. The gameplay is slow, and too much of it doesn’t make sense. On top of this, there are loads of bugs, and it is too much of a grind to get to the interesting elements. I know the developers are working on the issues, so maybe this is a game that requires a little more surgery before it is ready. Accordingly, it isn’t great, but I recommend buying it here if you can look past the shortcomings. Can you help each patient? Race to the emergency, assess the situation and prove that you are worthy of wearing the uniform.

Review: Mark Of The Deep

Josh Blackburn
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Review: Mark Of The Deep

The one question I kept returning to when playing Mark of the Deep was this: how do you become a pirate when you’re unable to swim? Every time the protagonist, Rookie, falls into water, he does a pathetic little flail before sinking like a stone. Surely this is like a pilot going up without knowing how to work a parachute? An astronaut not knowing how to use any of the many things required to not die a horrible death in space? Getting tossed around in the ocean is one thing, but I’d expect a pirate to at least be able to doggy-paddle their way through the shallow end of a pool.

Still, this was far from the only recurring thought that popped up during Mark of the Deep. It’s a game of many parts, all floating around together. Some of these parts, like the movement mechanics and general feel of the world, are great. Others feel out of place, and make the whole experience feel somewhat disjointed. It all smacks of game that’s had too many things thrown into it. While it has a stable core, somewhere along the line there’s been some definite turbulence.

Mark of the Deep

Under The Sea

The stars of Mark of the Deep are the crew of the Angry Mermaid, a pirate vessel engaged in all sorts of pirate-y activities. The ocean, however, decides that it’s had enough of all that, and smashes it into driftwood. Things aren’t as simple as that, though, as a strange island rises from the waves and the crew finds themselves scattered around it. Worse still, they’re afflicted with a strange sickness that’s slowly changing them into mutant fish-people. Also, the island is full of angry skeletons, which never helps when you’re feeling a bit rough. Rookie, however, is not afflicted and sets off to rescue the crew, uncover the island’s history and send the affliction packing.

It’s an interesting premise. Unquestionably Lovecraftian, but where the fish people are more victims than crazed cultists. The setting in general is used rather well. There’s a big array of fish people, both sane and crazy, and all the sailors you meet are visibly afflicted. It flows nicely into the boss design too, where you learn about the heroics of past arrivals, before meeting their violent, fishy form. The writing is a bit of a light touch, though. Most sailors only talk in base exposition, blandly pointing out that they need to get off the island. They react to the fishy corruption the same way they might react to a stuffy nose heralding a cold.

Still, there’s a nice amount of backstory that keeps the world interesting. That’s good, as exploring is the number one pastime. It helps that movement feels rather good. Running and dodging around feels smooth, without any directional strangeness that sometimes accompanies isometric cameras. Being isometric, it can’t use the usual suite of metroidvania-esque movement upgrades, so instead we have things like a hookshot, and a range of different pirate pistols to help hit switches. A core part of the game is puzzles using these skills, which I quite enjoyed. Nothing that was a major headscratcher, but it helped get use out of all our skills.

Springing A Leak

The thing is, Mark of the Deep proudly lists two genres on its Steam blurb: metroidvania and soulslike. I take issue with both of these. The former stems from one big issue: there’s no map. Might not sound like a big issue, but remember: we spend the entire time looking at the floor. Outside of Wetherspoons, floors don’t really look unique. All the zones tend to blend together. One of the major quests is to rescue the entire Angry Mermaid crew, but trying to remember the location of every sailor I passed by was next to impossible. It doesn’t have to be a detailed map, but give us something we can put little marks on to aid us later.

As it stands, when I wanted to collect ores to upgrade my weapon, for instance, I was faced with just running back through the entire level. This was painful, largely thanks to the combat. Here we move on to Mark of the Deep‘s Soulslike label. On the surface, the combat isn’t too bad. We start with a big old hook as a weapon, and we can slash and dodge. Added to that, we get a suite of pistols. These work quite well together, as you can get in few quick slashes, fire a shot and roll away. It takes a little bit to get the hang of, as it definitely punishes recklessness.

Unfortunately, it’s plagued with a collection of small issues that bring it down. For one, I couldn’t cancel out of my attack animations half the time. This wasn’t too bad against melee enemies, who neatly telegraph their attacks, but a lot are ranged, splash-damage enemies. These are infuriating. Frequently we’ll be fighting a cluster of melee enemies, as an unreachable ranged enemy rains down splash damage. It’s repeated constantly, and is annoying every time. The combat never really evolves, either. I got through every single enemy, and boss, by hitting three times, blasting with blunderbuss, then rolling away.

Mark of the Deep

Mark of the Deep – Overstuffed With Genres

Mark of the Deep is not without good points, mind. The levels are designed smartly, for instance. Completing a difficult section will usually open a gate back to a save point, so if you die then you can still push forward. That said, it does commit a metroidvania sin, as there’s no real reason to go back to older areas, other than to comb through for collectibles. It’s quite a linear trek through. Still, there is quite a lot here. After beating the game, I was poking back through areas and was still finding interesting new boss fights. Shame they have much too much health.

I can’t help but think I would’ve like Mark of the Deep more if it had specialised a bit. Chuck the metroidvania in the bin, and tone down the combat. There’s an interesting world here full of interesting fish people, but I struggled to find many interesting conversations. Instead, what I did like was the stream of little puzzles that put the hookshot, dash and grenade items into focus. As it stands, Mark of the Deep is a hodge-podge of different genres, but it doesn’t really excel at any of them.

(Mark of the Deep’s Steam Page)

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