Flint: Treasure of Oblivion

Dawid Wisniewski
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Flint: Treasure of Oblivion

Flint: Treasure of Oblivion is a tactical role-playing game that whisks players away to a swashbuckling world of pirates, treasure, and betrayal. With its intriguing premise and narrative, the game aims to deliver an immersive experience for fans of both the genre and pirate lore. While its ambitions are clear, the execution leaves much to be desired in several areas.

Narrative and Presentation

The story follows the legendary pirate Captain James Flint on his quest for a fabled treasure, filled with danger, cunning rivals, and mysteries of the seas. The narrative unfolds through comic book-style panels, a unique and visually appealing choice that fits well with the adventurous theme. This presentation style sets a distinctive tone, blending traditional storytelling with modern artistic flair.

Amazon.com: Flint: Treasure of Oblivion - PlayStation 5 : Everything Else

Gameplay and Combat

At its core, Flint: Treasure of Oblivion combines real-time exploration with turn-based tactical combat. Players manage a crew of diverse characters, each with unique skills and abilities, adding a layer of depth to the gameplay. Combat introduces a mix of card-based abilities and dice rolls, offering variety and unpredictability.

However, these mechanics can feel overly complicated, especially for new players. The lack of comprehensive tutorials often forces players to figure things out through trial and error, which can be frustrating. Controls, particularly on consoles, tend to feel clunky, further hampering the flow of gameplay.

The turn-based combat system offers strategic possibilities, with features like combo effects triggered by positioning characters adjacent to their allies. While this adds a tactical dimension, the unforgiving difficulty curve and sparse guidance can make the experience daunting for many. Players seeking a more accessible or streamlined combat system may find the game’s mechanics overwhelming. But the developers made it very clear plenty of times that reading through the tutorials carefully will result in a better experience. I understand that may deter some players but for me the game is well worth giving the attention to.

FLINT Treasure of Oblivion [PS5] : Amazon.de: PC & Video Games

Visuals and Atmosphere

The game excels in its visual design, with vibrant colours and detailed environments that bring the pirate world to life. From bustling ports to mysterious islands, the settings are rich with atmosphere. However, performance can vary across platforms, with occasional frame rate drops and graphical glitches detracting from the otherwise immersive experience.

The soundtrack is a standout feature, featuring rousing pirate-themed tunes that enhance the game’s adventurous spirit. The sound effects, however, feel underwhelming and minimal, which reduces immersion during key moments. While the music sets the mood effectively, the lack of impactful sound effects is a missed opportunity to elevate the overall experience. The lack of voice acting is also a shame but is very understandable given the budget.

Flint: Treasure of Oblivion, the comic book at the heart of a tactical RPG adventure | Microids

Conclusion

Flint: Treasure of Oblivion is a game of contrasts. Its captivating narrative, unique art style, and atmospheric music show clear potential. However, the clunky mechanics, steep learning curve, and inconsistent performance hold it back from being a standout title in the tactical RPG genre. While dedicated fans of pirate adventures and tactical games may find enjoyment in its offerings, the game may struggle to appeal to a wider audience without further refinement.

Review: Uno Show ‘Em No Mercy

Andrew Edney
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Review: Uno Show ‘Em No Mercy

Few games in history can claim they wield enough power to threaten friendships and family relationships quite like the iconic Uno. Listed as the best-selling card game in history, with over 150 million units sold, the game is a staple in the games cupboard of almost every house.

Since the initial game was released in 1971, it has undergone several changes that have resulted in an estimated 718 different Uno variations. These range from themed games, such as Harry Potter, to games with completely new rules, such as Uno Flip. 

Image by andibanane from Pixabay

Video games have also brought the classic card game to life with Uno With Friends, offering thrills similar to those experienced by gamblers who access slots apps to play for real money. The game’s continuous evolution has struck again with another new version that is sure to wreck a few relationships: Show ‘Em No Mercy.

Uno: Show ‘Em No Mercy

Released on November 23, 2023, Uno: Show ‘Em No Mercy brings a new level of action and ruthlessness to the classic game. Offering new ways to bury the competition, the game is packed with new features and rules that make playing a nail-biting experience that you’ll want to do again and again. 

Since it is based on the classic game, many elements of the original Uno are present, including playing a card that matches the colour, number, or symbol currently at the top of the discard pile. Popular action cards like Skip, Reverse Direction, and Draw 2 also reappear, adding to the fun.

From here, however, things get a bit wild due to the newly added action cards and rules. These can help you bury the competition and cause you to go from riding high to the bottom of the pack quickly.

New Action Cards

Aside from new action cards, there are also significantly more cards in each Uno: Show ‘Em No Mercy deck. The game comes with 168 cards, which gives you an idea of how many cards you may need for each player. 

Skip Everyone

Skip Everyone cards, represented by an almost complete circle with an arrow at one end, allow you to make every other player miss a turn—effectively making it your turn again immediately. Although the traditional Skip cards are still present in the game, these offer a new way to enrage your opponents and can lead to oodles of mischievous fun.

Draw Four Card

Unlike the regular Wild Draw 4 card in Classic Uno, this Draw 4 card doesn’t act as a wild and is colour-coded like the infamous Draw 2 cards we all know and love. This card works as usual, causing the next player to pick up four cards or play a counter-card. However, it no longer allows you to choose your desired colour.

Wild Reverse Draw 4 Card

Aside from regular Draw 4 cards, this iteration of Uno also features Wild Reverse Draw 4 options. These combine the effects of multiple action cards: reverse the direction of play, choose what colour is now in effect, and make your opponent pick up four cards. 

Discard All Card

Another neat new card is the Discard All—represented by four cards with an arrow pointing at a discard pile. These cards, which come in one of the game’s four primary colours, let you take all cards of the corresponding colour, place them behind the Discard All card, and play them as a single card. This enables you to eliminate several cards in a single move and significantly boosts your chances of winning.

Wild Draw 6 Card

Replacing the regular Wild Draw 4 card is the new and intimidating Wild Draw 6. This card can be used at any moment to change the colour of play to one of your choices while making your opponent draw six new cards from the pickup pile. At the same time, the player drawing cards loses their turn.

Wild Draw 10 Card

If seeing a Wild Draw 6 card played against you would anger you, then the new Wild Draw 10 card will make you blow your top. This card causes your opponent to skip a turn, allows you to select the play colour moving forward, and forces the next player to pick up 10 new cards. 

Colour Roulette Card

Almost as savage as the Wild Draw 10 card is the new Colour Roulette Card. When playing this, the next player must select the colour of play. They must then draw from the pick-up pile until they pick up a card in that colour (wilds don’t count). Once they draw a card of the correct colour, their turn is over, and play continues.

The catch to this card is that, depending on what colour you select, you could draw many cards before finding one of the corresponding colours. Therefore, this card should be played with caution so as not to upset somebody who may have one to play against you later on. 

New Rules

Aside from the new action cards, which add unique twists to every round, several new rules also keep things interesting. 

Stacking

Stacking relates to what cards you can play on top of a Draw card. Therefore, if an opponent plays a Draw 4 card on you (causing you to pick up four cards), stacking determines how you can counter this attack. 

Unlike the classic Uno game, stacking can be done on any Draw card played in Uno: Show’ Em No Mercy. However, you can only play an equal or higher value. If you do so, what you play is added to the original card and moves to the next person. 

7’s Swap

Each time you play a 7 card, you must swap your hand of cards with any player you choose. This is non-negotiable. Once you’ve swapped hands, play continues in the direction it was.

0’s Swap

Like with 7’s Swap, 0’s Swap shakes things up by causing all players to pass their hands to the player on their right or left (depending on the direction of play) each time a 0 card is played. Again, this is non-negotiable, and all players must swap their hands. 

Mercy

Because of the likelihood of drawing many cards, Uno: Show ‘Em No Mercy comes with a new rule called Mercy. This rule stipulates that if, at any point, you have 25 or more cards in your hand, you are disqualified from the game.

Due to this rule, this new Uno iteration offers two possible ways to win. The first is the classic way: you discard all your cards and claim victory. The second is outlasting all the competition until everyone else has been eliminated due to the Mercy rule.

Review: Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders

Daniel Waite
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Review: Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders

Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders instantly piqued my interest. I love winter sports and I adored its predecessor. As such, I knew this would be a winner. I admit, though, I was pretty awful at the first game. I crashed and crashed and crashed, repeatedly. Therefore, I knew my chances of success in the sequel would be slim. Luckily, it didn’t disappoint as I hit the deck repeatedly.

Megagon Industries developed and published this indie sports sim game. Additionally, it comes with a cooperative and competitive online mode. Now, I didn’t test this as I couldn’t find anyone to play with. But I reckon the online action will be spectacular. The ability to work together or race each other will create endless arguments.

Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders lacks a story but thrills in other ways.

I didn’t expect a story and didn’t care that it never materialised. Instead, Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders thrills you in other ways. The gameplay is split across 2 core single-player modes and 2 distinct difficulty settings. Alongside this, there are objectives to complete if you wish to unlock the hardest black run difficulty.

I’m no sadomasochistic gamer and I rarely push the envelope. Yet, when I ticked each time goal and stayed on my skis, the result was euphoric. Moreover, unlocking new gear and earning points to purchase the in-game cosmetics was fantastic. The drip-fed items keep you pushing and finding ways to get to the end quicker. Yet, speed = risk and risk = failure. Therefore, you must crawl before you walk and walk before you run if you wish to be successful. 

Exploration is king. 

Every element is beautifully executed. The crisp untouched snow falls away for rutted tracks as you explore. Furthermore, you are free to move and glide wherever you like. Some routes cut corners and others lead to death. However, what’s life if it isn’t dangerous?

As you hound down the mountain, you are free to be as stylish or dull as you wish. Flips, grabs, and turns are at your disposal. Additionally, you may change your grabs to mix things up. These moves took time to master as any errors can undermine your run. Consequently, a little caution goes a long way.

Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders looks incredible!

Every visual layer is pleasing to the eye. The grand environments glimmer and sheen as the sun reflects wildly. Moreover, the ice is alluring and dangerous in equal measure. I couldn’t get over how alive the world feels. The ruts and marks from your skis create a guide for your previous errors. Additionally, it ensures the world is ever-evolving. I can imagine that this mechanic is spectacular when playing with others.

I expected the audio to be a gnarly hellish mess. Thrash metal tunes making your ears bleed as you die once more. Instead, there is silence and the crunch of skis on snow. This peaceful design is perfect. Only you and the environment as you move from point to point. I applaud the developer and their understanding of the graceful nature of the winter wilderness. 

Exceptional controls. 

Your character moves through the world with undeniable grace. Heavy snow slows you, whereas ice and precut tracks help you to move at speed. This evolving control system will catch you out, but this doesn’t matter. You learn to adapt to the world and scan your route. Moreover, new equipment changes your style and this can be the difference between victory or failure. 

Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders has to be one of my favourite indie games. I could and have played it for hours. The tough challenges and beautiful landscapes keep me coming back for more. Yet, it will be the multiplayer gameplay that gets me hooked. I cannot wait to play this with my friends and this will keep me playing long into the future. 

Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders is practically perfect. 

A massive round of applause for the developer. Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders is practically perfect in every way! It looks great and it handles even better. What’s more, there is loads of replay value and it is included as part of the Game Pass subscription. My only complaint is how difficult it is to complete. However, there will be people who love a challenge and will see this as a positive. Accordingly, it is amazing and a must-play game can that can be purchased here! Stay at home but hit the mountains in this near-perfect indie experience.

Review: THRESHOLD

Saim Khurshid
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0
Review: THRESHOLD

Developed by Julien Eveillé and Published by CRITICAL REFLEX, THRESHOLD is an unsettling Psychological horror game which is a satirical take on harsh work conditions.

There are many genres that games could be, and not every type of game has to be inherently fun. Sometimes we want to feel unforgettable, scared or even disgusted by our product. That is exactly what THRESHOLD tries to achieve.

Now, the question which arises is how do we judge this game. Well, I don’t think there is a fair way to assess THRESHOLD, especially when a point system is at play. 

I, for one, did not enjoy my time with this game and had to turn away from the screen a couple of times to avoid tossing my cookies. Let’s discuss.

A Holding Thread

In THRESHOLD, you are a worker with an oddly specific and dangerous job. You need to keep track of a train’s speed, giving it a signal to speed up if it ever gets too slow. More on that later. 

The area of your operations is a small, open factory-like location with limited oxygen. It creates a suffocating environment that forces you and your fellow worker to remain silent, communicating only through writing.

This reminds me, before the game starts, you’re asked to type a two-letter nickname for yourself and select your country. I was surprised to see Pakistan as one of the options, as you don’t often see the green and white flag in the media.

It was even more hilarious when the game began, and one of the first things you see is a white shirt with the words ‘I love Islamabad’ written boldly on it, completely out of nowhere.

In another playthrough, the selected country was Australia and it said ‘I love Canberra.’ I don’t know why I found this so funny.

Anyways, back to the gameplay.

The Placebo Nausea

Where the game takes its wings and flies into the sun for me is when the story takes the back seat and the gameplay takes hold. 

In THRESHOLD, your main task is to whistle through a large sound amplifier, which signals a train to speed up. Oxygen is in short supply, so you must refill it repeatedly, especially after each whistle. Each time you whistle, you receive a card from the opposite side of the map, which you then insert into an oxygen machine to replenish your supply.

This cycle of whistling, card collection, and oxygen refilling is the core gameplay loop. All while you attempt to piece together the story hidden within the game’s unsettling atmosphere and minimalistic environment.

Now, how does this get creepy?

For starters, it’s the whole vibe of low oxygen that really gets nailed down by the game. Quite upsetting but realistic.

But what really gets you, is the method of consuming the oxygen. At the top left of the screen, there is a picture of your character’s mouth and it changes depending on what you are doing. The oxygen you must consume is made of glass. I think you get the picture.

It is a harrowing and disturbing sight with all the blood and gore on display. However, I just cannot give THRESHOLD a negative score for it- for not being fun, because in the end, harrowing and disturbing is exactly what it was intended to be.

An Uncomfortable Experience

So, there you have it, a game that perfectly captures the essence of making you uncomfortable. It’s not fun, it’s not pleasant, and it’s beyond disturbing. 

Not for me but If you’re in the market for a game that’ll make you feel claustrophobic, nauseous, and perhaps a little bit disgusted, well, congratulations, you’ve found your match.

Review: The Unexpected Quest

Daniel Waite
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Review: The Unexpected Quest

The Unexpected Quest is a strange blend of strategy, auto-battling, and resource management. What’s more, it is a bit of a time sink and I think this lets it down. Yet, if you can suck up the time-consuming aspects and lose yourself in the fantasy gameplay, this could be a fun breakaway from harder and more fast-paced gaming. 

This fantasy strategy title was developed by Reonix and published by OverGamez. Furthermore, it is a single-player isometric game. The action revolves around problem-solving and resource management. What’s more, there is some fighting and troop/people management as you progress. The core gameplay rarely changes, so if you want a complex and challenging affair, this may not be the title for you.

The Unexpected Quest tells a quirky story. 

The action is split into 2 distinct modes. First, you have the core story, and second, you have an arena-based survival endeavour. I’d advise cutting your teeth on the story mode as this explains the basic mechanics and you encounter every horrific monster. Alternatively, the arena mode tests your ability to manage multiple issues in quick succession. 

The story option has a gentle learning curve. You must understand how different resources impact the course of the game. Whether it is your warriors, wizards, or archers, or the use of your workers and clerics, it is important to balance your approach. As the story unfolds, you witness cruel monsters and you help an array of helpless victims. The plot isn’t as captivating as it could be, but it works well with the theme.

It is all about the resources. 

The Unexpected Quest focuses on its resource management layer. If you have no resources, you can not build houses or open new pathways. Moreover, you cannot buy new troops or hire new workers. Accordingly, you must keep the food, gold, and wood trickling in. This is easier said than done and selling some of your goods is essential if you wish to speed things up. 

Alongside resource management, you must make potions and upgrade your troops and equipment. Additionally, there are special items to find that improve your chances. These trinkets improve each attacking character and make it easier to kill every foe. Apart from this, the game lacks depth. This was a shame as there was never a sense of urgency. 

The Unexpected Quest is a little rough. 

The developer has focused on an earthy and rustic approach. Though I liked the grim appeal, it is somewhat rough around the edges. This doesn’t impact the gameplay and I experienced no bugs, but it could have been better. Unfortunately, The Unexpected Quest isn’t memorable and will certainly be forgotten shortly. 

The audio is lacking as well. Though the soundtrack works, it didn’t amaze me. The chirpy tunes work with the theme, but nothing stands out. Thankfully, the sound effects were more impressive. I liked the screams of my workers and the noise of each weapon. Had there been more core content, the developer could have made this much more aesthetically interesting.

Slow controls. 

Moving between buildings was a slow affair. You can move the cursor or the screen. If you do the latter, it moves quickly but lacks accuracy. Moving the cursor creates accuracy, but it is slow as hell. Either way, you will become frustrated. Other than this, the controls were simple to understand and the UI is intuitive. 

If you can look past the issues, there are plenty of minor things to tackle. Each arena battle has a scoring system, which demands you return for more. Additionally, perfection is required during the story mode if you want to score the maximum points. Consequently, there is replay value and longevity. 

The Unexpected Quest should have been better. 

The Unexpected Quest didn’t blow me away. It doesn’t make the most of its opportunities, impacting the end product. Sadly, it is a time-sink and not exciting enough. Additionally, there is not enough depth. However, if you like this genre, you will forgive the shortcomings. Accordingly, I recommend buying it here! Can you manage your resources and complete each mission? Scan your surroundings, plan ahead, and maximise your score.

Review: Vibe99 Keyboard

Daniel Waite
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Review: Vibe99 Keyboard

The Vibe99 Keyboard is a stylish and futuristic peripheral. It has a compact 1800 layout without jeopardising usability. Thankfully 100 keys allow you to type, game, and work without an issue. It has 3 connectivity modes and can be connected to Windows or Mac devices. This versatility was fantastic and I didn’t expect it from its mid-price point.

On top of this, it has hot-swappable switches, a data screen incorporating a GIF animation, and wonderful south-facing RGB. If that isn’t enough, there are FN shortcut keys, a large 4000 mAh battery and low-latency inputs for the ultimate gaming experience. 

What’s in the box of the Vibe99 Keyboard?

  • The vibrant box gives off high-energy vibes. Furthermore, it is robust and the contents are well packaged. 
  • The Vibe99 Keyboard is available in 2 colours. I have the light pastel version and I love the simple design. To the rear are 2 switches and the USB dongle. 
  • Power the device with the USB-C cable. 
  • Pull the keycaps with the puller tool. 
  • Learn the basics with the user guide.

Technical aspects. 

This mechanical keyboard is responsive no matter your connection preference. Though the wired and dongle approach is quicker, the difference is minimal. Accordingly, you can connect this device however you wish and will not be disappointed. Alongside this, the Cream Mint Switches are responsive. The travel distance and actuation were impressive. Though the keys are slightly spongier than expected, the typing and gaming experience was phenomenal.

If you prefer wireless gaming, you can utilise 3 Bluetooth profiles for unique devices. The Vibe99 Keyboard uses its macros and TFT screen to flit between profiles and highlight your connections. This was great as it keeps things simple and mistakes rarely occur.

Battery life and wireless freedom go hand-in-hand. Luckily, the 4000 mAh battery and quick charge facility ensure you are rarely out of juice. Yet, if you run low on power, you can play wired while the device charges. 

Build quality. 

I’ve recently covered the Blade75 Keyboard from MechLands and adored its build quality. Though the Vibe99 Keyboard doesn’t have an aluminium case, it is equally well-built. The case contains 5 layers of internal padding for a satisfying typing experience. Moreover, the gasket-mounted structure delivers stable keystrokes. This is ideal if you work from home or you love fast-paced games. Either way, this keyboard ticks those boxes.

I was impressed with the familiar Cherry profile keycaps. The pleasant curve and responsive switches are great to use for marathon sessions. Yet, if you don’t like the provided parts, you can hot-swap for any compatible keycap or 3/5-pin switch. This versatility was great and newbie gamers will appreciate the user-friendly design.

Finally, the double-shot PBT keycaps are wear and shine resistant. If you’ve gamed for years, you know that keycaps take a beating. Luckily, the Vibe99 Keyboard is different. These keycaps resist wear and tear without breaking a sweat. 

Is the Vibe99 Keyboard worth it?

If you want a compact and upmarket device, the Blade75 Keyboard will turn your head. However, it doesn’t have a numpad and this could put some people off. Consequently, if you are in that boat, the Vibe99 Keyboard could be for you. I love the pastel colour palette and the vibrant RGB. Additionally, the keycaps are pleasant and it is extremely responsive. Add in the fun display screen, and you have yourself a winner. Accordingly, I love it and I recommend buying it here!

(More information on Mechlands can be found here!)

The Vibe99 Keyboard has been awarded the Movies Games and Tech Gold Award.

Review: SANYA

Review: Farming Simulator 25

Daniel Waite
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0
Review: Farming Simulator 25

I admit that I’m a little late to the Farming Simulator 25 party. I’ve been a big fan of the franchise for years, so I wanted to give this as much time as I could. However, it didn’t feel as natural as its predecessor, and that was a shame. Though I consider myself relatively experienced with the franchise, I found myself stabbing around in the dark a lot of the time. This led to unnecessary mistakes and plenty of frustration. Yet, there was always an upside that drew me back in. The gameplay is addictive and rewarding. Consequently, I forgave many of the tough and annoying shortcomings.

This simulation game was developed and published by GIANTS Software. Moreover, it is both single and multiplayer, but I focused on option 1. Sadly, I didn’t have time to test the online action, but I imagine it would be a success. Playing with friends as you sow crops, harvest fields, and care for animals must be thrilling. Instead, I relaxed as I tended to my fields and drove each of the authentic machines.

Farming Simulator 25 has new features but familiar action. 

If you have never played a Farming Sim game, you must be young or living under a rock. Either way, Farming Simulator 25 is a tough way to break that ice. Like its predecessors, it offers little hand-holding. Once you complete the tutorial, you must balance the books, select your crops, and buy suitable machines for each job. Additionally, you must understand the seasons, prepare for bad weather, and manage your farm hands. 

Theoretically, this should be a walk in the park. After all, once you get to grips with the fundamentals, everything should follow suit. Unfortunately, there is so much depth, that newbie farmers can often feel out of their depth. Alongside this, there are 3 unique maps to test out and plenty of impressive new features to explore. Accordingly, Farming Simulator 25 drowns you in content and this can be slightly disconcerting.

New life beyond my struggles.

Though it wasn’t plain sailing, Farming Simulator 25 sparks some interesting life into the franchise. The use of AI and conversation with NPCs was thrilling. Alongside this, there are new towns and construction projects. Additionally, you’ll discover new crops that require specialist knowledge and new animals to raise.

However, it is the new maps, weatherfronts, and big-name brands that bring energy to this title. Farming enthusiasts will love the chance to farm in North America, East Asia, and Central Europe. Furthermore, the ability to jump in your favourite machine and get to work is irresistible. I admit that I’m not a farming aficionado. Subsequently, I don’t know the fine details between each mammoth machine. Yet, I know that keen farmers will enjoy the detail and the vast roster of equipment on offer.

Farming Simulator 25 looks great, but it has its problems.

If you want a realistic simulation experience, Farming Simulator 25 has your back. The machines look incredible and the world is alive with creatures and NPC vehicles. Yet, the AI is occasionally wonky and I was involved in many RTCs. This wasn’t problematic, it simply tarnished the realism. Where this falls short, though, is the frame rate. The game stutters and this is off-putting. I had no rendering issues, but the low frame rates will annoy next-gen gamers. I believe the developer can iron this issue out, but it won’t impress newbies or hardcore fans.

From my limited expertise, I was impressed by the varied and realistic sound effects. Each vehicle is unique and I adored the brutish nature of each enormous machine. Additionally, there are plenty of radio stations to select if you want some music while you work. Farming Simulator 25 delivers a wonderful soundscape that creates a wholesome and fulfilling insight into country living. 

Exceptional controls.

The fundamentals may require some trial and error, but the controls are ridiculously smooth. Moreover, the exceptional UI makes every task easy to follow. If you are new to the franchise, your work will be cut out for you. Yet, once you work through the opening experiments, you will feel like an old hand in no time.

Time sink and simulation games go hand-in-hand. If you fall for its charms, you will lose hours of your life. What’s more, you are free to grow your business, develop your fields, and increase your fleet of vehicles. The freedom is rewarding and getting every element right will make you smile. Consequently, this has mountains of replay value and longevity. 

Farming Simulator 25 is flawed but still great. 

This isn’t perfect by any stretch, but it is the best game in the franchise. The expansive roster of vehicles, crops, and animals gives you ample opportunity to shine. Furthermore, I liked the AI and the large fresh maps. Frame rates are problematic and this needs improving. However, this will be a top-end simulation experience once this is improved. Accordingly, I recommend buying it here! Can you become a virtual farmer? Select your crops, raise animals, and become a country legend.

Review: Dragon Takers

Josh Blackburn
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Review: Dragon Takers

It seems the worst thing to be in Dragon Takers is ‘Skill-less’. Problem is, skills don’t seem that well defined. Sword techniques and magic are obviously skills, but there are farmers and merchants with skills too. I make a pretty decent cup of tea, does that give me enough of an edge to avoid being labelled? What about my ability to immediately lose any pen that I set down? If I were in this world, I’d be frantically gathering together everything I’m good at to try and avoid being ostracised because I can’t conjure fire out of my hands.

Still, the world of Dragon Takers doesn’t seem a particularly pleasant place to be. Most of it is on fire from repeated dragon army attacks, after all. More than that though, it’s a world that feels rather cold and empty. Dragon Taker has a bit of an issue when it comes to the ‘Role Playing’ part of Role Playing Game. While it serves up a dramatic storyline, full of exciting music, the actual experience is brutally linear.

Dragon Takers

Take On Me

You may be looking at the title of Dragon Takers and wondering what a dragon taker actually is. Well, it harks back to that ‘skill’ thing I was blathering about earlier. See, most people hone skills by training or exposing natural talent. But there exists an ability, creatively named ‘Skill Taker’, that can take skills from people. This skill is possessed by Helio, a young chap from a nowhere village. He’s driven into action when an army of dragon warriors, commanded by the Drake Emperor Tiberius, steamrolls through his village.

Helio sets off on a quest to send Tiberius packing, and rescue his childhood friend, Liana, who’s been kidnapped. The key twist is that Helio’s skill taker makes him the perfect everyman. Having no skills from birth, he’s able to borrow other people’s skills, giving him an infinite set. It’s an interesting premise and, while the gameplay doesn’t quite put it to good use, it has a nice effect on the story. Dragon Takers is one of those big dramatic fantasy tales, where ancient spirits are rubbing shoulders with ancient dragons.

True, it does get a little hammy at times. A lot of it is men in giant suits of armour all patting each other on the back and talking about amazing legends, but the writing isn’t too bad. It makes the smart decision to keep the focus on a core group of characters. There are only five in our party, for one: Helio; Louise, a warrior princess; Monica, a noble healer; Milena, a skilled mage; and Liana, the childhood friend. They have some nice dialogue with each other and feel quite distinct. It does delve into soppy, ‘friendship beats all’ territory at times, but I enjoyed their banter.

Dragon Takers

Dungeons & Lots Of Dragons

Unfortunately, the gameplay lets it down on almost every account. Let’s run down the list of grievances, beginning with the combat. I have a rule of thumb, you see. If a game has an ‘auto-attack’ button, then it is tacitly admitting that its combat is boring. I was once again proven right. It’s your bog-standard turn-based combat, with no real twists. Characters level up, and gain skills, on their own, so it’s just a case of using spells that an enemy is weak to and healing each turn. I swept through every boss just repeating the same handful of skills each turn. There’s no challenge; no thought required.

Helio had the potential to change things up with his ‘Skill Taker’ ability, but to steal a skill you just attack. You can then slot in a full set of elemental skills and job done. It’s one of a few parts of Dragon Takers that feel quite shallow. There’s no economy, for instance. All items are grabbed from set chests and swapped out for your current gear. The menu for doing so is incredibly irritating, too. It takes about five or six button presses just to equip anything.

The biggest problem of all, though, is that Dragon Takers is aggressively linear. You’re just whisked on a sight-seeing tour from town to town. There are no sidequests at all. In fact, there’s no reason to talk to any NPCs beyond a few lines of flavour text. You might think the large world map might have something in it, but no. It’s completely empty. Devoid of anything except random battles. You can’t escape fights, by the way, to add to the annoyance. Dragon Takers feels like a visual novel that someone has inexpertly stitched RPG elements to.

Dragon Takers

Dragon Takers – Dramatic But Shallow

It’s frustrating because I did find myself getting into the story. Like I said, it keeps the focus on the core characters and even manages to have a nice ending. There’s also decent art here, if you don’t mind a bit of RPG Maker roughness here and there. Music’s nice too, being suitably over-the-top in the fights. It just feels much too empty to really feel like a satisfying experience. In fact, it feels like it doesn’t really want us there at all. We make no choices and do nothing to the characters beyond swapping out their gear.

These issues resulted in a strange moment right at the end. Dragon Takers pulled the old bait’n’switch to introduce the true villain and the dialogue and music got me pumped up. Then the battle started and the illusion completely shattered. All four of my guys just stacked up the same skills over and over until the fight was done. Dragon Takers was so intent on telling an epic fantasy tale, that it seemed to forget that it was trying to be a video game at the same time.

(Dragon Takers’ Steam Page)

Review: SANYA

Daniel Waite
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Review: SANYA

SANYA is a game dripping in nostalgia. I was born in the 1980s, so anything that focuses on my ’90s childhood brings back wonderful memories. Though this revolves around a post-Soviet landscape, I loved the wholesome message and the sense of childhood. Additionally, the storytelling was great, and the small puzzles and challenging moments kept me thinking throughout.

This adventure title was developed by helpnode and published by Samustai. It is a side-scrolling title with a fun 2.5D perspective. As you explore the neighbourhood, you realise that Sanya’s world is small and refined. Yet, the game feels massive. Running from point A to B can take forever, and there are things to see and people to talk to en route. This sense of discovery and exploration enhances the childhood message and the innocent nature of the protagonists. 

SANYA tells a story of growing up. 

The innocence of youth comes and goes in a flash. The world is a cruel place and there is little room for naive people. This sounds horrific, but that is the reality of modern living. However, when you live in this calm and fun bubble, the rest of the world can stay out. SANYA explores this idea of friendship, exploration, and innocence perfectly. 

You control Sanya, a young lad who is carefree and loves life. He is new to the block and wants to make friends. His mother gives him a key and tells him to do some chores and explore his surroundings. This is the green light for a summer like no other. New friends and adventures await the adventurous gang. 

Simple mechanics. 

Every person you encounter wants your help. Whether it is an item or a fetch quest, you are happy to be of assistance. Though this has a sense of monotony, I liked the stories and how each character was portrayed. Additionally, you can be as polite or as cheeky as you like. Consequently, this plays out in 2 unique ways. 

As you let the story evolve, you can complete mini-games, ride your bike, and teach your puppy, Pumpkin new tricks. This new-found hound is essential to your progress. Pumpkin will sniff out clues and help retrieve items. Moreover, this cute puppy helps you to start conversations with strangers. 

I loved the wholesome nature of the gameplay, but there was too much back and forth. Additionally, there was little guidance and this can leave you feeling confused. I wish the developer had given more clues as I found aimlessly searching a little distracting. 

SANYA looks great. 

The developer has cleverly shown the world from a child’s perspective. Each adult appears huge compared to their younger counterparts. Moreover, key items are larger and this becomes the norm. As you explore the world, you see everything from the protagonist’s perspective. This simple but clever idea emphasises the core theme. 

The audio is a little repetitive but fun. The cheesy music is upbeat and brings a smile to your face. Furthermore, the melancholy elements are complemented by sombre tunes. This was great as each layer is brilliantly intertwined. Additionally, the sound effects are OTT but enjoyable to hear.

Excellent controls.

Though this isn’t challenging to play, the controls are well-considered. The clean UI and responsive inputs ensure that this is a joy to experience. If I’m to be picky, some of the mini-games could do with better explanations. However, some trial and error should erode these concerns. 

If you are a completionist, you’ll need at least 2 playthroughs to get through this relatively short game. I didn’t concern myself with this and I enjoyed one detailed attempt. I’m not sure the story or core elements change and playing it again didn’t interest me. Yet, if this is your thing, you’ll need to set aside around 6 hours to finish every aspect.

SANYA is a joy to experience. 

Though this isn’t the most testing experience and there is a lot of back and forth, SANYA is a joy to play. The wholesome action is captivating and the clever perspective shift is wonderful to look at. Finally, I loved the new friendships and the childish nature of the core ideas. Accordingly, it is great and I recommend buying it here! Will you make the most of your childhood? Explore your surroundings, make new friends, and understand what it is to be alive.

Review: Blade75 Keyboard

Daniel Waite
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Review: Blade75 Keyboard

The Blade75 Keyboard from Mechlands is an impressive beast. This is the peripheral for you if you want a small form factor device that packs in the tech. The 4000 mAh battery and tri-mode connectivity ensure that this is truly versatile. Moreover, it is responsive no matter your connection preference.

Alongside this, it is built with quality in mind! The aluminium case is heavy and great to hold. Additionally, the striking colours and south-facing RGB are a delight. If you love the idea of customising your keyboard, but don’t have the skills, worry not. The Blade75 Keyboard has hot-swappable switches. As such, you can adjust this device with little technical know-how.

What’s in the box of the Blade75 Keyboard?

  • The packaging has a dark and futuristic edge. Moreover, most of the items can be recycled. 
  • The Blade75 Keyboard comes in 2 colours. I selected the black and dark olive green. There is a simple switch to the rear and the USB dongle is stored next to it.
  • A basic USB-C to USB-A cable is provided. 
  • Pull the keycaps with the pulling tool.
  • Spare switches are provided. 
  • Learn the basics with the user manual. 

Technical aspects. 

This mechanical keyboard is perfect for gaming or working from home. Low-latency performance makes this an ideal companion for elite gamers. I experienced the best performance when using the wired approach. However, the difference is negligible and gamers can enjoy high-end results no matter the connection.

If you are playing wirelessly, you’ll worry about power. Thankfully, the 4000 mAh battery makes this concern melt away. I had no problems with lengthy gaming sessions and the helpful LEDs highlight battery life. If I ran low, I simply plugged the device in and it charged while I carried on gaming.

The Bluetooth connection was easy to set up and there were multiple profiles to use. This makes it easy to flit between devices. I used this on my tablet, PC, and mobile phone. Luckily, I could move from device to device with the touch of a button. This makes the Blade75 Keyboard a brilliantly versatile option. 

Build quality. 

I’m obsessed with gaming keyboards. I have tried many brands and I’ve always admired Monsgeek and Drop. These brands deliver exceptional quality and eye-catching designs. Mechlands follows suit with its heavy aluminium case and vibrant colours. Additionally, the 75% form factor and 81 key layout make this a compact peripheral.

On top of this, the Blade75 Keyboard has gasket mount stabilisers and layers of internal padding for comfort and an exceptional audio experience. Though the switches feel extremely responsive, the input isn’t sharp or uncomfortably loud. Instead, you get a perfectly balanced actuation point and a sharp and definitive click between strokes. 

The Verdant Switches are comfortable to use and I found the travel distance to be perfect for modern FPS. However, if you have a favourite switch, you can pull the keycaps and use any compatible replacement. The hot-swappable design reduces the requirement for solder, and this is ideal for gaming newbies.

Is the Blade75 Keyboard worth it?

Buying a gaming keyboard that ticks every box is no mean feat. The Blade75 Keyboard does just that, however. The Flex-cut PC plate and fine-tuned stabilisers deliver an exceptional typing and gaming experience. Alongside this, the 1000 Hz polling rate and low-latency connection keep you ahead of your competitors. Furthermore, the build quality is impressive and I love the long battery life and its versatility. Accordingly, it is a fantastic gaming device and I recommend buying it here!

(More information on Mechlands can be found here!)

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

News: GUNNAR glasses 2025

Daniel Waite
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0
News: GUNNAR glasses 2025

2024 was a massive year for GUNNAR Glasses. Accordingly, I’m looking forward to the new styles and innovative products they release. CES 2025 has come and gone and I’ve been sitting on some exciting information from GUNNAR for a few weeks. As such, I’m going to give you a snippet of what will come this year. I’ve coined the article, GUNNAR glasses 2025. However, there are plenty of designs that they have kept under wraps, so there will be some amazing surprises this year.

Whether you work in front of a computer or you are stuck on your mobile phone, this amazing company has you covered. Moreover, they have plenty of styles to appease the most niche of tastes. Whether it is gaming, anime, or classic frames, GUNNAR won’t leave you wanting. Alongside this, the patented lens technology helps to reduce eyestrain, headaches, and fatigue. Therefore, you’ll look great and feel more alert no matter if you work, rest, or play.

GUNNER glasses 2025, what’s new?

  • GUNNAR has some incredible licenced partners for 2025! Activision, TOKIDOKI, Amazon Studios, Blizzard Entertainment, and much, much more. This eclectic blend of designs delivers vibrancy and unique elements to every pair of glasses. Consequently, you can protect your eyes and show off your personality at the same time.
  • Overwatch REAPER, available Feb 2025. These heavy-banded gaming glasses have a delightful hard edge and a thick frame. Moreover, there are some incredible Easter Eggs for fans of the franchise.
  • WOW, SYLVANAS, available June 2025. A franchise that never goes away! This stylish and slim pair of glasses will appeal to lovers of fantasy games. The accessories are stunning and the frames have a nice blend of traditional and unusual elements.
  • TOKIDOKI has multiple frames available in May 2025. Though I don’t see myself rocking these glasses, I love the vibrant accessories and the “look at me” style. 

Revolutionary.

I reviewed the Cupertino glasses and loved them. However, carrying each lens was a little inconvenient. Additionally, I hated the idea of losing one of the lenses. Thankfully, GUNNAR has created a new lens type that removes this issue. SUN-SHIFT delivers transition lens style performance without the price tag. These impressive lenses move from Amber to Sun tint in around 15 seconds. Subsequently, gamers do not need to remove their glasses when they break free from their desk.

The VISCER glasses are another example of the GUNNAR glasses 2025 revolutionary approach. Available in March, they use advanced geometry and a single Toric lens to increase protection and coverage. Though they won’t be for everyone, I like the interesting design and the sporty finish.

There’s plenty more to come from GUNNAR.

This is but a sample of the amazing products being released this year. GUNNAR is focusing on expanding its demographic and high-end technology. Furthermore, they are building a sustainable future with their wooden framed products. However, the patented technology keeps me coming back for more. No matter which frame I choose, the lenses reduce glare, headaches and itchy eyes. As such, I’m happy to recommend this incredible brand to anyone who will listen.

(More information on GUNNAR can be found here!)

The Essence of Crypto Liquidity Provision and Different Roles Involved

Andrew Edney
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The Essence of Crypto Liquidity Provision and Different Roles Involved

In cryptocurrency markets, liquidity plays a central role in ensuring efficient trading and stability. Providing liquidity crypto refers to the process of supplying digital assets to markets to facilitate seamless transactions. This function is fundamental to centralized and decentralized exchanges, with distinct mechanisms and participants driving liquidity provision.

What is Liquidity in Cryptocurrency Markets?

Liquidity in cryptocurrency markets is defined as the ease with which an asset can be bought or sold without significantly impacting its price. High liquidity implies tighter bid-ask spreads, reduced crypto market slippage, and overall market stability. Conversely, low liquidity often leads to price volatility and increased transaction costs. Ensuring sufficient liquidity is critical to the functionality of trading platforms and the overall growth of the crypto ecosystem.

Centralized Exchange Liquidity

Centralized exchanges (CEXs) rely on various strategies to maintain liquidity. Foremost among them is the role of market makers in crypto, individuals or more often entities that provide buy and sell orders for assets, ensuring continuous trading activity. Market makers use advanced algorithms to balance supply and demand, reducing volatility. CEXs also engage institutional participants and incentivize retail traders to contribute to liquidity. They may employ rebates or reduced trading fees for large-volume traders. Stablecoins in crypto liquidity are another key component, as these assets facilitate trading pairs and reduce volatility, providing more stability to the market.

Decentralized Exchange Liquidity

Decentralized exchanges (DEXs) operate on different principles, utilizing liquidity pools and automated market makers (AMMs) to ensure trading efficiency. Liquidity pools in DeFi consist of tokens locked by users in smart contracts, which act as reservoirs for trading pairs. Participants in these pools are known as liquidity providers (LPs), and they earn transaction fees proportional to their contribution to the pool.

AMMs use algorithms to determine asset prices based on the ratio of tokens in the pool. This system eliminates the need for order books, offering a decentralized and efficient way to trade. However, DEX liquidity models often encounter challenges such as impermanent loss, where liquidity providers may face potential losses due to price changes in the tokens they supply.

What is Liquidity Mining?

Liquidity mining is a strategy in DeFi where users earn rewards, typically in native platform tokens, for contributing assets to liquidity pools. This mechanism has gained traction as it offers several benefits:

● Passive income. Users earn transaction fees and token rewards, making liquidity mining a lucrative option for asset holders.

● Marketing opportunities. Liquidity mining campaigns can boost a project’s visibility by attracting press coverage and raising awareness, positioning the platform as innovative and community-driven.

● Equal access for anyone. Liquidity mining is available to anyone with compatible assets to contribute.

● Enhanced liquidity. By incentivizing contributions, platforms ensure sufficient liquidity for trading.

However, liquidity mining is not without risks. Impermanent loss occurs when the price ratio of the pooled assets shifts significantly, potentially resulting in lower returns. Smart contract risks, such as bugs or vulnerabilities, pose security threats, too. Additionally, participants face the risk of rug pulls, where developers withdraw funds from pools, leaving investors with nothing.

Liquidity provision is the backbone of cryptocurrency markets, enabling stable trading environments across centralized and decentralized platforms. Whether facilitated by market makers on CEXs or through liquidity pools in DeFi and automated market makers (AMMs) on DEXs, the roles and mechanisms involved are critical to the market’s efficiency.

Review: Cricket: Jae’s Really Peculiar Game

Dawid Wisniewski
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0
Review: Cricket: Jae’s Really Peculiar Game

“Cricket: Jae’s Really Peculiar Game” is a hand-animated JRPG developed by Studio Kumiho and published by PM Studios Inc. Released on September 19, 2024, for multiple platforms including PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox, the game has garnered attention for its unique blend of whimsical storytelling and profound thematic elements.

Narrative and Themes

The game follows Jae, a young boy grieving the loss of his mother to cancer. In his quest to bring her back, Jae embarks on a journey to Yimmelia, a mythical land on the moon rumoured to grant any wish. Accompanied by a diverse group of friends, each with their own personal struggles, the narrative delves into themes of loss, loneliness, and the power of friendship. The story is inspired by genre classics like “Earthbound,” balancing childlike whimsy with heavy emotional undertones.

Studio Kumiho’s founder, Jimmy Spencer, drew from personal experiences to craft the game’s narrative. The portrayal of grief and the journey towards healing are depicted with authenticity, resonating with players who have faced similar challenges. The characters’ interactions and development are grounded in real-life emotions, making their stories relatable and impactful.

Gameplay Mechanics

“Cricket” employs a turn-based combat system reminiscent of classic JRPGs, enhanced with timed-hit mechanics that reward precise button presses for increased damage or defence. Players can form a party of three children, with various character combinations unlocking unique combo attacks. For instance, pairing Zack and Symphony results in a tornado attack, while Zack and Twila can perform elemental-infused punches. This system encourages experimentation and strategic planning, adding depth to the combat experience.

Exploration is dynamic, featuring interactive environments where players can dash, charge into objects, and engage with NPCs in meaningful ways. The absence of random encounters allows for a more seamless exploration experience, with player interactions influencing game events and combat scenarios. This design choice enhances immersion and keeps the gameplay engaging throughout the adventure.

Artistic Design and Audio

The game’s hand-animated visuals are vibrant and expressive, capturing the whimsical yet poignant tone of the narrative. Character designs are detailed, and the environments are richly crafted, bringing the world of “Cricket” to life. The art style draws inspiration from classic RPGs, with a contemporary twist that appeals to both nostalgic players and newcomers.

Complementing the visual artistry is a thoughtfully composed soundtrack that underscores the emotional journey of the characters. The music adapts to the narrative’s shifts between light-hearted adventures and sombre moments, enhancing the overall storytelling experience.

Review: House of Golf 2

Dawid Wisniewski
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0
Review: House of Golf 2

“House of Golf 2,” developed and published by Starlight Games, is a sequel to the original “House of Golf,” expanding upon its predecessor’s foundation to deliver an enhanced mini-golf experience. Released on August 16, 2024, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with a Nintendo Switch version announced for the holiday season, the game introduces new features and improvements aimed at both solo players and groups seeking engaging couch co-op gameplay.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Building upon the original’s mechanics, “House of Golf 2” offers over 100 uniquely designed holes set within imaginative household environments. The courses utilize everyday objects as obstacles, creating a whimsical and challenging mini-golf experience. The game introduces a free camera feature, allowing players to explore each course and strategize their shots with greater precision. This addition enhances the strategic depth, enabling players to plan their approach by examining obstacles and potential shot trajectories.

The control scheme is intuitive, with shot strength determined by mouse movement or controller input. However, some reviewers have noted that the ball physics can feel inconsistent, with the ball behaving similarly across different surfaces, potentially affecting shot outcomes. Additionally, the absence of spin mechanics limits shot versatility, which could have added an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay.

Multiplayer and Social Features

“House of Golf 2” emphasizes local multiplayer, supporting up to four players in couch co-op mode. This focus makes it an ideal choice for social gatherings, fostering friendly competition in a shared physical space. The game does not include online multiplayer, which may limit its appeal to those seeking to play with friends remotely.

Visuals and Design

Powered by Unreal Engine 5, the game boasts enhanced visual fidelity compared to its predecessor. Courses are vibrant and detailed, with realistic lighting and textures that bring the household-themed environments to life. The creative course designs incorporate everyday items as obstacles, providing a fresh and engaging aesthetic that adds to the overall charm of the game.

Additional Features

The Trick Score System rewards players for executing creative and skilful shots, such as ricocheting off walls or navigating complex obstacles. This system encourages experimentation and adds a layer of flair to the gameplay. Live Tournaments introduce dynamic challenges, offering players the opportunity to compete for in-game rewards like coins and exclusive skins. These tournaments keep the content fresh and provide incentives for continued play.

Seasonal updates, such as the Halloween-themed content released in October 2024, demonstrate the developer’s commitment to providing ongoing support and new experiences for players. These updates include themed environments, new levels, and cosmetic items, enhancing replayability and player engagement.

Conclusion

In summary, “House of Golf 2” builds upon the foundation of its predecessor, offering an expanded and visually enhanced mini-golf experience. While it introduces several improvements and features that enhance gameplay, certain limitations, such as inconsistent ball physics and the lack of online multiplayer, may affect its reception among players. Nonetheless, it remains a solid choice for those seeking a fun and engaging local multiplayer mini-golf game.

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