WonderCon 2024, the three-day March convention held in Anaheim, California’s convention center, always has some great cosplay. This year was no exception, with folks bringing the heat with Star Wars looks, X-Men fits, and gigantic power armor that looks ripped from the Fallout TV series.

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Almost a decade after the game’s Kickstarter campaign first launched, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is about to get its final update. The Castlevania: Symphony of the Night spiritual successor from former series producer Koji Igarashi released in 2019 and has been getting steady content updates ever since. These…

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I recently decided to play a phenomenal old game called Metal Gear Solid via the recently released Metal Gear Solid Master Collection, hoping to show my friends the scene where I could see a man’s bare ass after he gets his lights knocked out and his clothes stolen. But censorship has struck again as I came to find…

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Helldivers 2 is a game about endless war and now its fanbase finds itself in a similar situation as a civil war rages on between players following a change to how the super-popular online shooter will operate on PC.

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It’s been a terrible day for Helldivers 2 and the team behind it. Angry players swarmed the co-op shooter’s Steam page to review-bomb it like a giant hive of Terminids after a PlayStation Network login requirement was reinstituted on PC. “Ouch, right in the review score,” Arrowhead Studios CEO Johan Pilestedt tweeted…

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Metal Gear Solid’s Master Collection has been out since October 2023. And while it is very lacking in some key ways that we’d expect from a modern remaster in the 21st century, it still contains a hefty selection of some of the greatest games of the late ‘90s and 2000s.

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I ran into an unfortunate softlock during my review of Another Crab’s Treasure, an adorable but still intimidating Soulslike, that has so far barred me from completing the game. Near the end of the game, you’re prompted to activate an elevator by an NPC that takes players to the final major area and the last few…

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Earlier this week, Riot Games deployed a patch for League of Legends that introduced new anti-cheat software to curb “scripters, botters, and cheaters.” Unfortunately, players reported issues with the popular MOBA following the update, saying that the new anti-cheat program had bricked their PCs. Riot Games has…

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A large and popular open-source mapping database used by many companies, apps, and websites is currently dealing with a strange problem: Random, fake beaches are appearing in places like backyards, church parking lots, and golf courses. And the community knows who to blame: Pokémon Go players trying to catch a rare…

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While Metal Gear Solid’s 2023 Master Collection has more than its fair share of technical issues, it still packs a ton of solid Metal Gear action for you to play through. Like the full version of 1999’s Metal Gear Solid VR Missions (which do not require a VR headset, in case you were wondering), a spin-off to 1998’s Me…

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YouTube content creator and movie critic Chris Stuckmann has been working on a horror feature titled Shelby Oaks for some time now, following a 2022 Kickstarter campaign that raised $1.39M in under a month. Now, The Haunting of Hill House and Midnight Mass (among other shows and movies) filmmaker Mike Flanagan is backing the project as work on it continues.

In a shocking turn of events, it was revealed a while back the movie would be based on the viral Paranormal Paranoids series uploaded to YouTube a few years back. The videos followed a group of paranormal investigators and focused on the character of Riley, who ominously disappeared in one of the last videos.

Though plenty of fan theories have been floating around regarding the authorship of the video series, all signs are now pointing to Stuckmann being directly or indirectly involved. If so, this would be quite the master movie. It will follow Mia (Camille Sullivan) as she searches for her sister Riley (Sarah Durn), the star of the unnerving videos. "As Mia’s obsession grows, she begins to suspect that the imaginary demon from Riley’s childhood might have been real," the synopsis adds. The movie is said to mix the traditional and mockumentary film styles.

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To me, Wizards of the Coast is the company that made the Pokemon Trading Card Game. That probably speaks to my age as well as to my level of exposure to the company: it was in fact only responsible for the first few waves of Western Pokemon releases, before Pokemon spun up its own internal operation. That just so happened to be when the TCG had taken over my school playground. But, the point is, of everything WOTC has done, I typically still associate them with a brand they haven’t worked with for decades.

Or to put it another way: I’ve never really been a Magic: The Gathering person.

This has never really tracked. It’s weird, in fact. I was into the Pokemon TCG, and regular readers of VG247 will know I am a disgraceful RPG mechanics nerd of the highest order. Magic is the sort of thing I should be into - but I’ve just never quite gotten around to it. I needed some sort of push to get me into it - and Wizards has really found exactly the right way.

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Episode 5 of The Board Room from Skate developers Full Circle has revealed some of the upcoming game's character customization and cosmetics.

This reboot, colloquially known as Skate 4, is the first entry in the now long-running series for almost 15 years, and includes many new and returning product partners to help you nail that perfect skater look.

A personal highlight is the inclusion of the legendary Vans Old Skools, which I will definitely be rocking - unless the vastly superior slip-ons are also included, of course.

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Cat Quest 2 and Orcs Must Die 3 are the latest freebies on the Epic Games Store.

A sequel to The Gentlebros’ rather fun Cat Quest, Cat Quest 2 is a 2D open-world action RPG set in a fantasy realm of cats and dogs.

The game expands on the original with more spells, expanded weapon options, a new character switch mechanic, and local co-op.

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Nvidia has announced it’s making it easier to stream GeForce Now across devices, with a new beta installation method for Steam Deck.

The new installation script will automatically install Google Chrome to the device and add all necessary settings to allow you to get straight into it.

Released last week, the GeForce Now update helps you navigate the service through the browser with a gamepad, including on the Steam Deck, for a seamless experience finding and playing games on the handheld without worrying about system specs, including non-Steam games and titles with supported Nvidia DLSS and ray-tracing.

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Elden Ring fans need to prepare to bid farewell to the Lands Between when Shadow of the Erdtree is released.

Why? Because according to FromSoftware boss Hidetaka Miyazaki, Shadow of the Erdtree will be the game's only DLC, marking a departure from the studio's usual approach, with games like Dark Souls 2 and Dark Souls 3 boasting multiple expansions.

While Elden Ring's story might reach its endpoint with Shadow of the Erdtree on June 21, Miyazaki has left the door open for future adventures, maybe even more games, as reported by GamesRadar, via Chinese publication Zhihu.

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Blizzard has spoken, and all mystery that might have existed around the next Diablo 4 season has been dispelled. During a developer livestream, Blizzard confirmed the extent of what you can expect in Season 4: Loot Reborn.

In case that name wasn’t a good enough indication, the item and crafting overhauls a lot of players tested in the recent PTR are, indeed, all there is to it.

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Sony itself has just made a big announcement about Helldivers 2, and it's not going down too well. Basically, the "grace period" for PC players not having to link their Steam accounts to a PlayStation Network one in order to play is coming to an end soon - with security being cited as the reason why this is set to become mandatory.

This news came via an update on the game's Steam page, attributed to Sony Interactive Entertainment itself, rather than Helldivers developer Arrowhead. "Due to technical issues at the launch of Helldivers 2, we allowed the linking requirements for Steam accounts to a PlayStation Network account to be temporarily optional," it reads, "That grace period will now expire."

"Account linking plays a critical role in protecting our players and upholding the values of safety and security provided on PlayStation and PlayStation Studios games," Sony continues, "This is our main way to protect players from griefing and abuse by enabling the banning of players that engage in that type of behaviour. It also allows those players that have been banned the right to appeal."

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Riot Games has finally rolled out its Vanguard anti-cheat to League of Legends. In the wake of this update, various users have expressed concerns and shared negative technical experiences, with some claiming the update has bricked their PCs. In response, Riot has come out publically and stood by the implementation, pointing to a relatively miniscule number of these reports against the total player base, and identifying key causes and fixes.

Vanguard - a kernel level anti-cheat - has proven controversial since its implimentation into Riot Games' FPS Valorant back in 2020. These concerns range from privacy isses, as it not only has access to the most authoratitive layer of your operating system, but also takes screenshots of your game to ensure you're not using any pesky cheats. As a kernel level bit of software that's always running, it's also put a toll on players' older machines with its high CPU usage.

With that context, we can look back to this week's eruption from parts of the League of Legends community. As soon as the Vanguard patch went live, reports on social media popped up pointing to bricked PCs, and noting that those playing on Virtual Machines (including Nvidia Now) or those without UEFI or TPM2.0 enabled on their PCs weren't having it function properly.

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Nintendo has managed to take down 8,535 GitHub repositories containing code from Switch emulator Yuzu with a single DMCA notice. Yup, after reaching a settlement with Tropic Haze, the company behind the emulator, the process of totally scrubbing any clones or copies of it from the net is in full swing.

If you're out of the loop the company behind that plumber and the little pink blob's decision to sue Yuzu's creators in court earlier this year quickly resulted in a decision in Nintendo's favour that meant Tropic Haze had to pay the publisher $2.4 million of “monetary relief”. It was also barred from offering or promoting Yuzu or its source code going forwards - leading to the emulator being "discontinued, effectively immediately".

Now, as reported by TorrentFreak, Nintendo lodged a DMCA notice with GitHub - a platform that allows lots of developers to store and share code - eariler this week, and it's resulted in a lot of Yuzu respositories being taken down.

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Key Takeaways

• Fortnite’s latest POI, Brawler’s Battleground, features a challenge against Ares, the Greek god of war.
• The Ares skin, a popular item, allows players to embody the character without engaging in repeated battles.
• You can get the Ares Skin through the Fortnite Item Shop, instead of through the conventional seasonal mechanics.

Channeling the Power of the Greek God of War

Introduced in late November 2021, the Ares skin instantly captivated Fortnite players. As part of the Warrior’s Lore set, this skin boasts an impressive gold-and-red design. To feel the excitement firsthand, check out this image.

Walking in Ares’ Footsteps: Obtaining the Skin

If you’re eager to embody Ares, you simply need to visit the Fortnite Item Shop. Despite what one might expect from a chapter titled Myths & Monsters, you won’t need to defeat Ares at Brawler’s Battleground or achieve a specific seasonal goal to claim the skin. Instead, it’s retailing for 1,200 V-Bucks.

Remember, you can acquire V-Bucks in a few ways – by exchanging real money, earning them through gameplay, or completing specific challenges. You might have some luck with Fortnite’s Save the World mode or by completing Battle Pass Challenges.

Strategies for Earning V-Bucks

Given the importance of gathering V-Bucks to obtain the coveted Ares skin, we’ve compiled a few helpful strategies to aid you on your virtual journey.

Reddit

FAQs

With the secret to obtaining the Ares skin now unveiled, why wait? Jump into Fortnite and prepare to walk in the shoes of the Greek god of war!

Key Takeaways

• A Pirate’s Life for Me
  • Become the most feared pirate captain as you navigate treacherous waters.
  • Engage in epic naval battles with a mix of strategy and real-time action.
• Chart Your Course
  • Explore a massive open world filled with dangers, treasures, and mysteries.
  • Customize your ship, crew, and tactics to suit your playstyle.
• A Connected Ocean
  • Compete or ally with other players in a shared world where every encounter could lead to a battle or a profitable alliance.

Join the discussion on Reddit to share your tales from the high seas: Reddit

Gameplay and Features

“Skull & Bones” takes the helm with its intricate ship combat mechanics, allowing players to feel the weight of every cannonball and the strategy behind naval engagements. Whether you’re hunting down merchant ships or clashing with the navy, every decision from wind direction to ammunition type matters.

Customization and Progression

Your ship is your greatest ally and weapon. From the hull to the sails and the cannons, every aspect of your ship can be customized to fit your style. As you plunder and progress, unlocking new upgrades and ships becomes a rewarding journey, with each choice impacting your capabilities in battle.

A Dynamic World

The game’s world is as alive as it is vast. Dynamic weather systems, shifting political powers, and the ever-present threat of other players ensure that no two voyages are the same. Navigate through storms, exploit trade winds, and always keep an eye on the horizon for other pirates or unexpected opportunities.

Multiplayer and Social Interaction

“Skull & Bones” offers a seamless multiplayer experience, where players can choose to form alliances or declare war on each other. This social aspect adds a layer of depth to the game, encouraging cooperation in pursuit of the most lucrative bounties and the deadliest confrontations.

FAQs

Sailing Towards New Horizons

As we chart our course away from the familiar shores, “Skull & Bones” stands out as a beacon for those yearning for a true pirate adventure. With its richly detailed world, strategic depth, and the thrill of high-seas warfare, it’s a voyage worth embarking on for any gaming enthusiast looking for their next great adventure.

Explore related adventures and dive deeper into the world of gaming.

Key Takeaways

• Major Improvements: The Starfield 2024 update introduces significant enhancements to textures, lighting, and shadows, alongside vital fixes for issues like save game corruption and the quirky asteroid pets.
• Beta Testing: Initiated on January 18, 2024, on Steam, the update has now been rolled out across PC and Xbox platforms, marking a significant step in Bethesda’s 2024 roadmap for Starfield.
• Community Response: Despite mixed initial reviews, the Starfield community recognizes the game’s untapped potential, particularly praising its gunplay and ship builder mechanics.

The latest patch, known as Starfield Update 1.9.51.0, was eagerly anticipated by the gaming community. Bethesda didn’t disappoint, delivering a comprehensive update that addressed a wide array of issues while also bringing in graphical enhancements to further immerse players in the vastness of space.

From fixing the perpetual slumber of characters in third-person view to squashing the amusing yet pesky bug of asteroids tailing spaceships, this update has it all. It’s not just about fixes; it’s about refinement. Shadows cast on characters, reflections on water bodies, and the overall reduction in visual artifacts significantly elevate the visual fidelity of the game.

The Starfield 2024 update isn’t just a technical retouch; it’s a reaffirmation of Bethesda’s commitment to the Starfield universe. With over 250 dedicated employees and a promise of regular patch updates, the future of Starfield looks brighter than a supernova. The teased “alternate way of travel” has the community buzzing with excitement, eagerly awaiting the next big reveal.

Starfield 2024 Update 1.9.51.0 Notes

Starfield 2024 Update 1.9.51.0 is not just a patch; it’s a testament to Bethesda’s dedication to crafting an unparalleled gaming experience.

As the stars align for Starfield 2024 Update, the community watches with bated breath, ready to embark on the next chapter of this interstellar adventure. The journey through the Settled Systems is far from over, and if this update is anything to go by, it’s only going to get more thrilling.

FAQs

What major issues does the Starfield 2024 Update 1.9.51.0 address?

• The update fixes critical issues such as save game corruption, graphical artifacts, and the humorous yet bothersome bug of asteroids following the player’s ship.

How has the community responded to the update?

• The Starfield community has acknowledged the significant improvements, especially in terms of graphics and bug fixes, recognizing the game’s potential despite its mixed initial reception.

What does the future hold for Starfield post this update?

• Bethesda has promised a regular patch cadence and with over 250 employees still committed to the game, fans can expect more exciting updates, including the much-anticipated “alternate way of travel.”

Ready to explore the vast cosmos of Starfield with this new update? The universe awaits, and the stars have never looked clearer!

Join the Reddit Discussion

For more detailed insights, keep an eye on Gaming Revealed. The universe of Starfield is expanding, and this update is your gateway to the stars!

As revealed with the game’s announcement, the main characters featured in Songs of Travel and their backgrounds are below:

• Hasan, who came to Austria at the age of 1, when his mother moved there from Istanbul, Turkey.
• Light, a non-binary Syrian refugee who arrives in Vienna after years of hardship and war in Syria and the United Arab Emirates.
• Michele, the son of Francesco Cicora, an Italian coal miner who died in the great mining disaster of Marcinelle 1956 in Belgium.
• Olya, a Ukrainian lawyer and a refugee who has had to flee twice: first when she left her home of Donetsk in 2014 and fled to Kyiv, and then when she fled from Ukraine once war erupted in 2022.
• Vân, the daughter of a Vietnamese contract worker who grew up in East-Germany and who must deal with the duality of being Vietnamese-German.

While pre-orders are not live on the App Store for iOS yet, you can pre-register for Songs of Travel on Google Play for Android here. Songs of Travel launches for free on May 9th for iOS and Android. More platforms have not been revealed yet. I’m looking forward to playing it on when it launches. Check out the official Songs of Travel game website here. What do you think of Songs of Travel so far?

New Releases

SaGa Emerald Beyond ($49.99)

A new SaGa game is upon us! And it’s on pretty much every platform, too. There’s no guarantee any given SaGa game will be quite like the last, but for its part Emerald Beyond doesn’t seem like a wild departure from Scarlet Grace. That’s a good thing in my books, because that game was outstanding and I expect this will be in the same ballpark of quality. I’ll be reviewing this on one platform or another very soon, it’s just a matter of which. Look for it soon, but the short answer is that SaGa fans will be in heaven and those who don’t know or like SaGa might have a tough time with it.

Wrath: Aeon of Ruin ($29.99)

Get your booming and shooting on in this first-person shooter that does that trendy thing of paying homage to the 1990s era of the genre. Three hubs, fifteen maps, fifteen different enemy types, a bunch of cool artifacts to collect, and a soundtrack by Andrew Hulshult of Dusk and Quake Champions fame. Our pal Mikhail will be doing a review of this game, since he’s been on a serious boomer shooter kick of late. If nothing else, it’s nice to see some Quake-inspired games now and then.

Another Crab’s Treasure ($29.99)

You know, I appreciate that someone is out there making Soulslikes that aren’t just Grimdark McShadow affairs. In this one, you’re a hermit crab that finds itself in need of battling creatures a lot bigger and stronger than it. Luckily you can find all kinds of things to use as shells, and each of them will offer their own specific benefits. Certainly an interesting approach to a well-worn genre, but we’ll have to see how it plays. I haven’t had a chance to go hands-on with it yet, so all I can say it that it looks good and I think the set-up is clever.

Arcade Archives Numan Athletics ($7.99)

Ah, now we’re getting to the choice cuts of the Bandai Namco catalog. This is 1993’s Numan Athletics, a track-and-field style multi-event sports games featuring superhuman athletes called Numans. As these button-slapping sports games go, this is a really fun one. It’s ridiculously over the top, and the gameplay is a lot of fun. Up to four people can play together, though since this is Arcade Archives it means you’re limited to local multiplayer. Still, a great game and I’m happy to see it in the Arcade Archives library.

The Epyx Collection: Handheld ($11.99)

Now here’s a deal of sorts. While the publisher can’t say the words, I can: Atari Lynx. These are Atari Lynx games, six of them in total, and they’re some of the games people most strongly associate with the hardware. The Lynx was a creation of Epyx before Atari bought it from them, and a large chunk of the launch line-up was developed by them before they went kaput. Well, this isn’t a history lesson. You get California Games, Todd’s Adventures in Slime World, Zarlor Mercenary, Electrocop, Blue Lightning, and Gates of Zendocon here, and while the wrapper itself is a bit lean on features, it gets the job done. This is a good value for an interesting assortment of games. Frankly, a better bunch of Lynx games than the ones we saw in Atari 50.

Library of Ruina ($39.99)

Arc System Works: it doesn’t just publish fighting games and riffs off of old Technos Japan releases. Sometimes it releases other things, like this Switch version of the well-regarded library battle simulation game by ProjectMoon. Follow the story but be ready to throw down library-style at any given moment, and by library-style I mean using a variety of pages to take down your foes. Can you complete the One Absolute Book that the mysterious librarian Angela has requested? And what will happen if you do? Our pal Mikhail will be doing a review of this one so stay tuned for that.

Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- Sweep the Board! ($59.99)

When you think of Demon Slayer, you naturally think of one kind of video game: a board game. What? I don’t know either, but here we go. This is pretty much Mario Party but with Demon Slayer characters, offering up some local multiplayer fun for up to four players. Roll the dice, traverse the board, play some minigames, and try to become the strongest Demon Slayer swordsman. I mean, in some sense, I get it. This brand managed to attract fans of all ages, and not all of them are going to be looking for standard action games. Maybe this one suits them better?

Adventure Bar Story ($19.99)

Now this is a bit of an oldie, isn’t it? The first time I saw this was via its mobile release, where it scratched the itch for an Atelier-style experience on a platform bereft of any official ones. Then it was on the Nintendo 3DS, where it also filled a particular niche. And now I guess it’s on everything. The price keeps going up with each release, too. That leaves us in a weird place. This is a charming little crafting RPG, but at twenty dollars this flip-phone era relic is creeping dangerously close to the price of far more fully-featured modern games. At any rate, here it is if you want it. Still just three bucks on mobile if you’re looking to save some money.

Whisker Waters ($24.99)

A fishing RPG starring your own custom cat character. I mean, it could work? This one is meant to be a lighter game, so expect a generally whimsical tone as you chill out and fish up a bunch of fish. You’ll have to make friends with the locals, and it would behoove you to assist them with their requests. It looks cute, but I haven’t had a chance to play it yet so I can’t speak to its quality. I will say that we can always use another fishing RPG, though. Where did River King go, Natsume? Get me another one of those sometime! For now, I’ll wade into the Whisker Waters and see what’s what.

S.O.L. Search of Light ($19.99)

That… that is quite the title, isn’t it? This is a narrative exploratory puzzle platformer with some base defense elements. Quite the word salad, but hopefully you can get the gist of it. The dining doesn’t look particularly fancy here, but looks have been known to deceive at times. This is yet another one I haven’t had the opportunity to play yet, so I can’t speak to the most important stuff. Yes, if you were looking for any experienced opinions on this game, I’m afraid you’re… S.O.L.. Ha! Nailed it.

Romance MD: Always On Call ($34.99)

It is 2024, and there is time for smooching! The latest visual novel dating sim release on Switch from Voltage follows the story of a young doctor who is starting work in the ICU at Seimei University Hospital. As if getting to grips with the job isn’t enough, she soon finds herself surrounded by a bunch of hunky doctor weirdos. Which one, if any, will she smooch? The power… is yours!

Our Field Trip Adventure ($14.50)

You know, I’ll at least grant that this is both a fun theme for a minigame collection and one that you don’t see often if at all. Up to four players can join in via local multiplayer, and there are ten different events to play. Pillow fights! Taking pictures! Hiding from the teacher! Gathering deer! Okay, that last one is pretty specific to Japanese field trips, but still… cute. If you’ve enjoyed SAT-BOX’s other releases or just want to try something a little different for your gaming nights, this might be worth looking into.

Doctor Cat ($4.99)

There’s an interesting framing device here about cats seeking therapy, but it’s all in service to a rather plain puzzler. You can probably gather from the above screenshot what the gameplay consists of, and it’s basically a very simple matter of arranging tiles to make the pictures. Perhaps that is what you want? I’m not the duke of your bank account.

Mine Sweeper Millon ($3.99)

Even the title screen says “Million“, but the shop entry says “Millon" so I am going with that. At any rate, this is Mine Sweeper. Exactly Mine Sweeper. But it has one extra gimmick up its sleeve, and that’s the alternate board you can play on. The basic 16 x 16 grid is available here, but you can also play on a 1000 x 1000 grid if you want. Yes, that is one million cells. No, you don’t have to do it all in one sitting. If you can finish the big board, you have my respect and concern.

Purple Slime Production Line ($1.99)

Your goal in this little game is to manipulate gravity to guide the slimes to their destination. Try not to get too many of them splattered in the process. Might be okay for two bucks.

Escape Game The Dr. Mouse’s Lab ($9.99)

Solve the puzzles and make your escape… from the lab of a mouse who graduated med school!

Cape’s Escape Game 8th Room ($9.80)

Solve the puzzles and make your escape… from gaming!

The Bin Bunch

Teared ($7.99)

World War: Battle of the Bulge ($14.99)

Hentai Girls: Steamy Maid ($5.99)

Timberdoku ($7.99)

Cats Hidden in Italy ($0.99)

The Eerie Surroundings ($3.99)

Hidden Cats in New York ($2.99)

Home Office Simulator – Ayame Life Sim ($9.99)

Five Nights of Nightmare: Escape Horror Story ($4.99)

Dash & Roll ($9.99)

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

As mentioned in the intro, Golden Week is about to start here in Japan. Not every sale from the Japanese eShop has activated in other regions, but enough of them have to give us a very large list of new sales indeed. I’ll leave it to you to comb through that list, along with the more svelte list of outgoing sales.

Select New Sales

Expeditions: A Mudrunner Game ($39.99 until $49.99 until 5/4)
GTA The Trilogy Definitive Edition ($29.99 from $59.99 until 5/6)
Red Dead Redemption ($34.99 from $49.99 until 5/6)
LEGO 2K Drive Awesome Edition ($29.39 from $69.99 until 5/6)
Borderlands Legendary Collection ($9.99 from $49.99 until 5/6)
Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition ($29.99 from $59.99 until 5/6)
New Tales from the Borderlands ($19.99 from $39.99 until 5/6)
BioShock: The Collection ($9.99 from $49.99 until 5/6)
Sid Meier’s Civilization VI ($4.49 from $29.99 until 5/6)
Dragon Marked for Death ($7.49 from $14.99 until 5/9)
Blaster Master Zero ($4.99 from $9.99 until 5/9)
Blaster Master Zero 2 ($4.99 from $9.99 until 5/9)
Blaster Master Zero 3 ($7.49 from $14.99 until 5/9)
Azure Striker Gunvolt Striker Pack ($19.99 from $39.99 until 5/9)
Azure Striker Gunvolt 3 ($14.99 from $29.99 until 5/9)

Luminous Avenger iX ($7.49 from $14.99 until 5/9)
Luminous Avenger iX 2 ($12.49 from $24.99 until 5/9)
Gunvolt Records: Cychronicle ($11.99 from $14.99 until 5/9)
Bloodstained Curse of the Moon ($4.99 from $9.99 until 5/9)
Bloodstained Curse of the Moon 2 ($5.99 from $14.99 until 5/9)
Gal Guardians: Demon Purge ($14.99 from $24.99 until 5/9)
Yohane the Parhelion: BitD ($22.49 from $29.99 until 5/9)
GRIP Digital Deluxe ($6.44 from $42.99 until 5/9)
Capcom Arcade Stadium Bundle ($15.99 from $39.99 until 5/9)
Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium Bundle ($19.99 from $39.99 until 5/9)
Capcom Beat ‘Em Up Bundle ($9.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)
Capcom Fighting Collection ($19.99 from $39.99 until 5/9)
Capcom Fighting Bundle ($24.99 from $59.99 until 5/9)
Street Fighter Anniversary Collection ($9.99 from $29.99 until 5/9)
Onimusha Warlords ($7.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)

Ghosts ‘n Goblins Resurrection ($9.99 from $29.99 until 5/9)
Monster Hunter Generations Ult. ($9.99 from $39.99 until 5/9)
Monster Hunter Rise ($9.99 from $39.99 until 5/9)
Phoenix Wright AA Trilogy ($9.99 from $29.99 until 5/9)
The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles ($15.99 from $39.99 until 5/9)
Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective ($19.99 from $29.99 until 5/9)
Okami HD ($9.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)
Mega Man Legacy Collection ($7.99 from $14.99 until 5/9)
Mega Man Legacy Collection 2 ($7.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)
Mega Man X Legacy Collection ($7.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)
Mega Man X Legacy Collection 2 ($7.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)
Mega Man Zero/ZX Legacy Collection ($9.99 from $29.99 until 5/9)
Mega Man Battle Network Collection 1 ($19.99 from $39.99 until 5/9)
Mega Man Battle Network Collection 2 ($19.99 from $39.99 until 5/9)
Resident Evil ($9.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)

Resident Evil Revelations ($7.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)
Resident Evil Revelations 2 ($7.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)
Arcade Archives Pac-Man ($5.59 from $7.99 until 5/9)
Arcade Archives Galaxian ($5.59 from $7.99 until 5/9)
Arcade Archives Ordyne ($5.59 from $7.99 until 5/9)
Arcade Archives Dig Dug ($5.59 from $7.99 until 5/9)
Arcade Archives Rolling Thunder ($5.59 from $7.99 until 5/9)
ACA NEOGEO Real Bout Fatal Fury Special ($3.99 from $7.99 until 5/9)
ACA NEOGEO Puzzled ($3.99 from $7.99 until 5/9)
ACA NEOGEO Prehistoric Isle 2 ($3.99 from $7.99 until 5/9)
ACA NEOGEO Last Resort ($3.99 from $7.99 until 5/9)
ACA NEOGEO Metal Slug ($3.99 from $7.99 until 5/9)
Little Noah: Scion of Paradise ($4.49 from $14.99 until 5/9)
SETTRIS ($2.99 from $4.99 until 5/10)
Ikkarus & the Prince of Sin ($6.49 from $9.99 until 5/10)
Alpha Particle ($4.99 from $9.99 until 5/10)

Shepherd’s Crossing ($14.99 from $29.99 until 5/10)
Froggie: A Retro Platformer ($3.49 from $4.99 until 5/10)
The Red Exile Survival Horror ($2.49 from $4.99 until 5/10)
Kasiori ($3.50 from $7.00 until 5/10)
Groove Coaster Wai Wai Party ($35.99 from $59.99 until 5/13)
Aragami 2 ($9.99 from $39.99 until 5/15)
Garfield Kart Furious Racing ($1.99 from $29.99 until 5/15)
Cloudpunk ($3.74 from $24.99 until 5/15)
Operation Wolf Returns: 1st Mission ($14.99 from $29.99 until 5/15)
Sparklite ($3.74 from $24.99 until 5/15)
The Smurfs: Mission Vileaf ($9.99 from $39.99 until 5/15)
Hercule Poirot: The First Cases ($5.99 from $29.99 until 5/15)
Murder on the Orient Express ($23.99 from $39.99 until 5/15)
My Universe Puppies & Kittens ($2.49 from $24.99 until 5/15)
My Universe My Baby Dragon ($10.49 from $29.99 until 5/15)
Warm Snow ($11.99 from $19.99 until 5/15)

Asterix & Obelix: Slap Them All! ($6.24 from $24.99 until 5/15)
Octahedron: Transfixed Edition ($1.99 from $12.99 until 5/15)
Scrap Riders ($6.99 from $19.99 until 5/15)
Dolphin Spirit: Ocean Mission ($17.99 from $29.99 until 5/15)
Inspector Gadget Mad Time Party ($23.99 from $39.99 until 5/15)
Overrogue ($8.99 from $14.99 until 5/16)
Cross Tails ($20.99 from $29.99 until 5/16)
Raging Bytes ($9.74 from $14.99 until 5/16)
Marenian Tavern Story ($9.99 from $19.99 until 5/16)
Blacksmith of the Sand Kingdom ($9.99 from $19.99 until 5/16)
RPGolf Legends ($14.99 from $29.99 until 5/16)
Lazriel The Demon’s Fall ($9.10 from $11.47 until 5/16)
Harpoon Shooter Nozomi ($6.98 from $9.98 until 5/16)
Metro Quester ($14.99 from $19.99 until 5/16)
Silver Nornir ($8.99 from $14.99 until 5/16)

Sales Ending Tomorrow, April 26th

Alive Paint ($2.49 from $4.99 until 4/26)
Burning Secrets ($2.99 from $4.99 until 4/26)
Diorama Dungeoncrawl ($4.99 from $9.99 until 4/26)
Freak Crossing ($2.99 from $4.99 until 4/26)
Horatio Goes Snowboarding ($2.44 from $6.99 until 4/26)
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 ($24.99 from $49.99 until 4/26)
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 Deluxe ($34.99 from $69.99 until 4/26)
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 Legendary ($44.99 from $89.99 until 4/26)
Magic Exposure ($2.49 from $4.99 until 4/26)
MotoGP 23 ($9.99 from $39.99 until 4/26)
Pretty Girls Klondike Solitaire Plus ($4.19 from $5.99 until 4/26)
Ravva & the Phantom Library ($5.99 from $9.99 until 4/26)
Rick Henderson ($2.79 from $7.99 until 4/26)
Slime Girl Smoothies ($8.99 from $14.99 until 4/26)
Takotan ($2.37 from $6.99 until 4/26)
Thunder Ray: Origins ($11.98 from $19.98 until 4/26)
Tricky Thief ($2.49 from $4.99 until 4/26)

That’s all for today, friends. We’ll be back tomorrow with the remaining releases of the week, plus whatever sales and major news items roll in over the course of the next twenty-four hours or so. I started work early today so that I wouldn’t have to stay late, and I’m going to be staying late anyway. I guess that’s just how it is on Thursdays now that sales have started popping off a day earlier than usual. I hope you all have a thrilling Thursday, and as always, thanks for reading!

Cooking Mama: Cuisine! is celebrating Mother’s Day with strawberries as a limited-time ingredient. Japanese Rural Life Adventure has added landscape mode support on iOS. It was portrait only before. This lets you manually force the orientation change in-game. Zookeeper World brings in 12 new stages with more coming May 5th. With the updates done, head over to our forum threads for What The Golf? here Stitch. here, Cooking Mama: Cuisine! here, Solitaire Stories here, Japanese Rural Life Adventure here, Crossy Road Castle here, Zookeeper World here, Bloons TD Battles 2+ here, Fruit Ninja Classic+ here, and LEGO Duplo World+ here. Head over to our dedicated Apple Arcade forum for discussion on the service and every game included here. What do you think of the new updates so far this month?

It has to be said that the last few updates have really made a big difference in the game’s overall meta. We’re seeing deck types that couldn’t even hope to scratch their way to the top breaking through, and that’s without having to kill too many other decks in the process. At some point some of these now-competitive decks will have to be reeled in a bit, but for now it’s nice to see some variety up at the top. You can almost feel that relief coming off of this OTA update, as it comes off less as damage control and more as trying to boost some cards that could use a little help. That said, there is one big red elephant in the room, so let’s get to him first.

Red Hulk is a very new card to the game, and even before he launched I could tell he was going to be trouble. He arrived as a 6-Cost 11-Power card with an ability that gave him +4 Power in any turn where your opponent had unspent Energy so long as he was in play or in your hand. That’s a very useful ability paired with some already beefy stats, and it didn’t take long for people to figure out how to exploit him. To that end, he’s gotten a little Power carved off from his stats, now coming in at 6-Cost 9-Power. That’s probably going to do the trick as far as mellowing him a bit without ruining him. Not great to see changes to a new card so quickly, but I’m sure Red Hulk players will live.

Okay, it’s all buffs from here, and the first is to yet another new card. U.S. Agent’s ability is, true to his nature, something of an inverse to Captain America’s. Instead of boosting his buds, he brings everyone down with an Ongoing ability that afflicts all 4-/5-/6-Cost cards at the location with a hit to their Power. Before this update, that damage was -3 Power. Now, he hits them for -4 Power. That’s substantial, to say the least. Perhaps that will help him see more use, since he seems to have come and gone almost immediately.

Three of Marvel’s popular heroines are getting a little boost to their Power, and as usual the hope is that the bump will encourage people to give them a try and maybe like them enough to keep them in the rotation. Jean Grey goes from 3-Cost 3-Power to 3-Cost 4-Power, Stature goes from 5-Cost 6-Power to 5-Cost 7-Power, and Jane Foster Thor goes from 5-Cost 8-Power to 5-Cost 9-Power. The last tweak is to good ol’ Mantis, who had her ability changed in a recent update and saw her stats adjusted a bit to compensate. Apparently it was a little too much of an over-correction, so her 2-Cost 2-Power is now 1-Cost 2-Power. Her ability is probably best used on a later turn, but being 1-Cost makes her easier to fit into any given point in a game.

That does it for this round of balance changes in Marvel Snap. The Red Hulk nerf should take a little wind out of the sails of nuisance decks, but only time will tell if all of those other buffs will have the desired effect. We often see Second Dinner offer up a single point of power to try to boost cards, but it’s rare to see it work for cards that just get no play at all. Fingers crossed, though. As someone who enjoys a good hammer-slinging deck now and then, I’m at least hoping this makes a difference for Jane. How about you? Do you use any of these cards, or will you use them now that their stats have been adjusted? Let us know in the comments!

Alongside this update announcement, HoYoverse announced that the Honkai Star Rail Concert will be streamed on YouTube on May 1st. I’m definitely going to watch some of it depending on how long the concert is. If you’ve not gotten it yet, you can download Honkai Star Rail on the App Store for iOS here, on Google Play for Android here, and here on the Epic Games Store in addition to its regular PC version. Check it out here on PS5. Have you been playing Honkai Star Rail regularly since it launched on mobile, PC, and PS5 and what do you think of Honkai Star Rail 2.2 “Then Wake to Weep" so far from its trailer?

TouchArcade (TA): Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do at Amanita Design.

Jakub Dvorský (JD): I’m director of Amanita Design, a studio based in Prague, Czech Republic, which I founded 20 years ago. I started as an artist and animator, nowadays I’m mostly a game designer and project lead.

TA: Before covering the games you worked on that most of our readers know and love, I wanted to go back a bit. Let’s talk about Dračí Historie and how you’ve changed as a designer over the years since then to now. What learnings have you taken from those older games and even early Amanita Design titles to your current work?

JD: Dračí historie (Dragon’s History) is a traditional point’n’click adventure and it’s the first game I worked on as an animator. It was released in 1996 I think so it really is history now. Since then I’m still learning, mostly how to make game design, how to create games more effectively and how to collaborate in a team. I’ve learnt a few tricks which seem absolutely obvious but everybody needs to go through some mistakes and find their own way. For example, now I know it’s really important to think everything through before you start producing all the art assets and building the game for real. I know prototyping and playtesting is important and inevitable. I had heard this wisdom before, but now I KNOW that it’s true. Personal experience helps a lot.

Image source.

TA: Have you ever revisited your older games like Asmodeus and Dračí Historie?

JD: No I haven’t, but I revisited early Samorosts and other things many times – these are more important for me. I’ve noticed a lot of things I would do better now but some aspects of these games still work well and it’s interesting to realize it and learn from it.

TA: Samorost was the first Amanita Design release, but almost everyone I know, and myself, discovered your work through Machinarium. Tell us a little bit about how you approached that project.

JD: While the first two Samorost games were small (primarily web-based) projects, Machinarium was intended as our first proper or full-length game for PC. The main game mechanic comes directly from Samorost but it’s a more traditional adventure game, with an inventory, menu and everything. Also the puzzles are harder and it’s aimed at gamers rather than the general public, even though it’s still quite accessible even for non-gamers if they are interested. Luckily this approach worked well, the game was a success so we ported it to many other platforms including mobile.

TA: I still adore Botanicula, the release that followed Machinarium, and loved playing it on iPad. How was it for Amanita Design to start working with Apple’s iPhone and iPad back then?

JD: Our games are and always were great for touch controls so it was natural and obvious we needed to bring our games on mobile platforms. When I first tried the iPad I fell in love, because it had a fantastic hi-res screen with beautiful colors, which wasn’t the case for most of the PC screens at that time. Also you could play our games on a couch or in a bed, which was fantastic.

TA: I think Machinarium is your most ported game ever with it even coming to PS Vita, Blackberry Playbook, and Xbox One. Aside from that, your games are usually on mobile and PC consistently with Switch sometimes. How has it been for the team working on so many platforms?

JD: Of course it’s a lot of additional work and hassle to get and maintain our games on so many platforms. However each platform has a slightly different audience and its own advantages and drawbacks so it’s interesting to get the games on as many of them as possible. Besides PC and mobile we are now also focused on consoles and game controller playing which is very satisfying when it’s made right.

TA: Can you tell us a little bit about the educational game you worked on for the BBC?

JD: The game was called Questionaut. It was a little Flash game built around quizzes from various school subjects such as physics, chemistry or mathematics. We created a tiny planet – a little puzzle for each theme – and the main character traveled from one to another with a blimp. It was fun to make it, but we did it just to make some money so we can finish our own work-in-progress project Machinarium.

TA: In recent years, it feels like Amanita Design has been pushing creative boundaries even more, and I love everything being shown. How involved are you in titles like Happy Game and the upcoming Phonopolis?

JD: Happy Game was created by Jara Plachy, author of Chuchel and Botanicula. It’s so weird and distinctive that it was almost impossible to help him with design decisions. Phonopolis is still in development by a new team in Amanita that hasn’t released a game yet. I’m helping mostly with game design ideas and currently also with the production pipeline as we are slowly getting closer to the finish line.

TA: Pilgrims on Apple Arcade was a lovely game, and it recently saw a standalone mobile release following it leaving the service. Is there any chance Amanita Design will do more short games like that?

JD: We don’t have anything like Pilgrims in the making right now, but it might change in the future. I enjoyed this little experiment a lot.

TA: Out of the many games you’ve worked on before and with Amanita Design, what is your favorite, and looking back is there any game you wish you had done more with?

JD: My favorite is by far the one I’m working on right now, which is unfortunately still unannounced so I can’t talk about it.

TA: Tell us a little bit about working with Apple on the Apple Arcade releases. Will there be more Apple Arcade games in the future?

JD: Apple Arcade started at the right time for us as we had 2 games nearing the release when Apple approached us. So we were able to release both of them (Creaks and Pilgrims) on Arcade quite soon. AA helped us to reach a new big audience and it was also beneficial financially. Apple had a clear vision of what kind of games they wanted to support on Apple Arcade and why. Unfortunately this vision changed since then so I’m not sure about the future of this service.

TA: I mentioned how I discovered Amanita Design through Machinarium, but the most impressive thing back then was seeing it have a vinyl soundtrack available. I missed the original pressings sadly, but this and Superbrothers: Sword and Sworcery have amazing music with vinyl releases. Amanita Design has always been doing vinyl releases and I’m glad to see it. How has it been doing those releases over the years with how the vinyl industry has been growing?

JD: We’ve had an amazing partnership with Dan Dudarec from Minority Records – a Czech indie music label – ever since the first Machinarium vinyl pressing. He’s been doing all the production work, schedules reissues, deals with manufacturing plants, helps with distribution… And it’s very much thanks to him that all of our vinyl releases – except for the two limited editions – continue to be available. The Machinarium LP is without a doubt our most popular piece of merchandise – it received its 12th pressing last year!

In general we just love vinyl. It’s probably the prettiest, most tactile music format out there. There’s just something magical about a large spinning disk that has grooves in it that contain music… They come in all sorts of colors and transparencies these days, and with some art prints included, it’s a nice collectible even if you don’t own a turntable.

TA: In the latest issue of EDGE magazine, the feature on Phonopolis mentioned how it is Amanita Design’s first proper 3D world. I always thought it looked incredible, but this stood out to me. Has it been the largest project for the studio?

JD: It’s undoubtedly been our longest and most complicated project to date. The art and animation techniques, as well as the entire creation process, are incredibly challenging and time-consuming. Nevertheless, we remain committed to the original vision. No matter how long it takes, we’re a stubborn group of developers.

TA: Is there any chance we see Phonopolis on mobile soon after or at launch?

JD: Mobile is part of the plan, but I can’t say if it’s sooner or later after its PC launch.

TA: What’s next for Jakub Dvorský?

JD: A couple more games to make and that’s it. Life goes fast.

TA: What have you been playing lately and what was your favorite game of 2023?

JD: I played The Case of the Golden Idol, Viewfinder, Storyteller and The Invincible – all great games which I fully recommend. Currently I’m stuck with Balatro which is fantastic and unfortunately too addictive.

TA: How do you like your coffee?

JD: Black, Turkish coffee is preferred but I drink mostly green tea and Pu-erh anyway.

I’d like to thank Jakub Dvorský and Lukas Kunce for their time and help here.

You can keep up with all our interviews here including our recent ones with Akitoshi Kawazu, Kenji Ito, and Tomokazu Shibata here, Dave Oshry of New Blood, Digital Extremes for Warframe mobile, Team NINJA, Sonic Dream Team, Hi-Fi Rush, Pentiment, and more. As usual, thanks for reading.

Steam Deck Game Reviews & Impressions

The highlights of this week in this category are reviews for Sand Land and Bitwave Games’ new set of Toaplan shmups with a preview for Simogo and Annapurna Interactive’s Lorelei and the Laser Eyes.

Lorelei and the Laser Eyes Steam Deck Preview

Having played games on iOS since the App Store launched, I’ve been a huge fan of Simogo across the developer’s older and newer titles. The likes of Year Walk and Device 6 are all-time greats. After Simogo brought many games to iOS, the App Store slowly changed, and it felt like the boutique games Simogo was known for wouldn’t be economically feasible anymore. We started seeing ports and games announced for other platforms from the developer. Sayonara Wild Hearts did make it to iOS through Apple Arcade thankfully, but nothing has been announced for Lorelei and the Laser Eyes yet. I will basically play Simogo games on literally any platform they release on, and that’s where this preview comes into the picture. I had a chance to play Simogo’s Lorelei and the Laser Eyes on Steam Deck early, and I’m blown away by it after just two hours with it.

If you are interested in Lorelei and the Laser Eyes and will be getting it at launch, stop reading this preview right now (but DO read the rest of this article) and go in with as little information as possible. I won’t spoil anything here, but I’m glad I got to experience Lorelei and the Laser Eyes without knowing much about it outside of two trailers. This preview is only going to cover the early parts and will not reveal anything about the puzzles or solutions.

Lorelei and the Laser Eyes has you playing as a woman who has been summoned to an old hotel. Right from the get go, you will start to see Simogo’s genius with its game mechanics and visuals. It is a simple game to control with one main interaction button and a movement option, but the simplistic interaction will have you rotating through menus quite a bit as you go through your possessions, mental notes, and more in-game. Lorelei and the Laser Eyes feels like it brings the best of Simogo so far blended into something that feels equal parts fresh and familiar, but the latter is only a facade. Lorelei and the Laser Eyes is full of surprises, and I cannot wait to play more. I recommend having a notebook or note taking app near you when you do play it.

We’ve seen Simogo post about it running well on Steam Deck and Switch, but I was curious how well it runs myself. Lorelei and the Laser Eyes is gorgeous on the Steam Deck OLED, and it runs flawlessly out of the box with its 90fps target. I even played it docked on my 1440p display and it ran at 120fps or higher almost all the way in the time I’ve put into the game so far. I won’t be surprised to see it get Steam Deck Verified soon.

While the visuals are striking and I’m in love with everything on display, I want to highlight the great audio design in Lorelei and the Laser Eyes so far. This is one to play with a good set of headphones for sure, and it was actually the game that got me to grab one for my Steam Deck. I can’t wait for the full soundtrack.

I’ve only scratched the surface so far, but Lorelei and the Laser Eyes is shaping up to be spectacular, and it has the potential to be my favorite Simogo game yet alongside Device 6 and Sayonara Wild Hearts. I can’t wait to dig into the full game more and also check it out on Switch. Stay tuned for our full review closer to launch.

Sand Land Steam Deck Review

I approached Sand Land from ILCA and Bandai Namco Entertainment in two different ways. I hadn’t actually read the manga when the game was announced, and I decided to keep it that way until a bit later. I’m always curious to see how these adaptations work for newcomers and those who are familiar with the source material, and I think Sand Land does good on both fronts. I played Sand Land for a few days on Steam Deck after getting review code for the full version with no prior experience outside the demo. I then got the manga on Kindle to see how I felt about it. I’ve come away with a positive opinion of Sand Land on Steam Deck, and I’m going to be replaying it on PS5 in the future.

If you’re new to Sand Land, this game is based on the manga by the late Akira Toriyama that also has an anime going on. Sand Land, the game, is an action RPG with vehicular combat, excellent character designs, music, and has been a joy to play almost all the way with its customization, quests, and how it looks and feels on Steam Deck. It even has elements of base building and interesting interactions with a colorful cast of characters. There are open world-like zones to explore, but they aren’t anything to write home about. You’re here for the vehicular combat and story, and it delivers on those fronts. This isn’t just the usual anime or manga licensed game for sure, and I’m glad to see the developer continue to release great adaptations.

The Steam version of Sand Land lets you adjust window mode (fullscreen, borderless, windowed), resolution, v-sync, resolution scale, frame limit, anti-aliasing quality, shadow quality, toggle motion blur, toggle depth of field, texture quality, and post-processing quality. I used a combination of medium and high here as shown in the image to get it looking great while running stable on my Steam Deck OLED. There are parts that can run well above 60fps, but the open world can struggle so I opted to aim for a stable frame rate with good image quality.

On Steam Deck, after testing a few different presets, settings, and tweaking things, I settled on playing it at 30fps for a more stable experience rather than opting for 45fps or 40fps like I normally do on games that can’t hit 60 or 90fps on Deck. You can opt for a higher frame rate but will need to turn the resolution below 720p (or reduce the scaling) to aim for the likes of 40 with minor drops in the open world. Sand Land doesn’t have 16:10 support despite some screen mode options causing it to look like it does. It seems like this is bugged and I hope it gets fixed. One more setting I recommend changing is the camera sensitivity under control settings. The default is too sluggish. I turned it to above 75 for the best experience.

In its current state, I wouldn’t be surprised if Sand Land is marked as Steam Deck Playable because the only potential issue will be the font size that is on the smaller end for the Steam Deck’s screen. I hope 16:10 aspect ratio support is added soon as well.

Some of the quests and open world activities felt repetitive, but on the whole Sand Land is one of the better adaptations we’ve seen from the publisher. Whenever Bandai Namco Entertainment announces a new project like this, I never know whether it will be worth my time or not. Thankfully, Sand Land ended up delivering and is worth your time on Steam Deck. I definitely recommend trying out the free demo if you aren’t sure it is for you.

Sand Land Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5

Toaplan Arcade Shoot’em Ups 4 Steam Deck Review

Bitwave Games is back with the newest and final set of Toaplan shoot ’em ups in Toaplan Arcade Shoot’em Ups 4 on PC platforms. The collection launched over a week ago as a bundle and individual releases, and there is even an ultimate bundle for those who own or want to own all 16 games at a discount. As with Volume 3, I’m going to cover the games themselves, but also the collection since I usually recommend getting the bundles for a better discount. Volume 4 includes Truxton 2, Twin Hawk, Grind Stormer, and Dogyuun.

When Bitwave launched the first three collections, there were issues that have slowly been addressed and I still consider the day one launch as an early access release for those titles. A similar thing has happened with Toaplan Arcade Shoot’em Ups 4, but the glaring issue with one specific game has been mostly addressed. I’ll get into the individual games in a bit. As with prior Bitwave releases, the games in Toaplan Arcade Shoot’em Ups 4 include the same options. These games are presented as their arcade versions with different regional editions (if applicable), save states, rewind options, a few visual options, sound options, assist options, and more. The games are very lightweight clocking in at a few MB each, and they boot up instantly on PC platforms.

I played the games on Steam Deck using the controls on the system itself and also with my Haute42 Board mini and 8BitDo Arcade Stick. There were no issues with any control option here as expected.

As usual, my main complaint for the overall package is the lack of any extras like interviews, and also the font used in the menus which makes it look very bad. Thankfully the games themselves look good, but I hope that the main wrapper font can be changed since all four collections are now available. Now, onto the games themselves.

Truxton 2 Steam Deck Review

Originally released back in 1992, Truxton 2 is a sequel to Truxton, and it has gorgeous visuals. It is also quite difficult, but really has been the game in this set I’ve revisited the most since getting access to it. As a vertical shmup, Truxton 2 has excellent gameplay, and I’m glad to see the audio issues get addressed quite a bit with updates following the launch. It isn’t perfect, but I’m pleased with the current state of Truxton 2, and it plays flawlessly on Steam Deck with Steam Remote Play Together support.

Truxton 2 Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5

Twin Hawk Steam Deck Review

Twin Hawk is an 1989-released vertical scrolling shmup from Toaplan that has an alternate World War II setting. This one is a bit different to Toaplan’s usual shmup settings with its visuals and the real star is the music of the package aside from the gameplay of course. Overall, I did enjoy my time with Twin Hawk, but I hope the sound emulation can be improved a bit because having heard Twin Hawk’s music before playing it, the end result here is a bit lacking. Aside from that, I recommend this release, and love how well it plays on Steam Deck. It definitely made me interested in the Evercade version if I ever decide to get one of those.

Twin Hawk Steam Deck Review Score: 3.5/5

Grind Stormer Steam Deck Review

Toaplan’s 1993-released vertically scrolling shmup Grind Stormer, considered a successor to Slap Fight, has been one of the biggest surprises so far from Bitwave’s releases. I’ve enjoyed experiencing it for the first time, and the quality of life features helped make it easier to play through initially. While the visuals and music are excellent in Grind Stormer, the gameplay is the real star. Grind Stormer also includes the V・V regional version which is worth checking out. I just hope the few small audio issues get resolved in updates.

Grind Stormer Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5

Dogyuun Steam Deck Review

1992-released vertical shmup Dogyuun is a stunner of a game with its environments and design. I hadn’t played it before this release in any form, and didn’t even bother checking out any footage of it barring that trailer. It floored me with its gorgeous visuals for the time and music. I think it is now one of my favorite Toaplan shmups with its setting and unique mechanics. Dogyuun makes me wish Bitwave did galleries and museum modes in these releases because I want to see more of this art. If you only want to grab one of the games from this bundle, Dogyuun is my favorite.

Dogyuun Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5

As a newcomer to most of Toaplan’s games, I appreciate what Bitwave Games has done with low-cost and lightweight versions on PC, but the developer needs to be better about how it launches these games. I’m sure the games will improve more after a few weeks as prior releases did and they already have in ways. In its current state, I can recommend these games if you’re new to Toaplan and want to try out some interesting shmups on Steam Deck at a low cost of entry. If you’ve already played the originals and want a more detailed comparison with different versions, stay tuned for something Shaun is working on.

Toaplan Arcade Shoot’em Ups 4 Steam Deck Review Score: 4/5

News and Trailers

Before game-specific news, Valve has some changes to how early access (time wise) unlocks work and refunds on Steam. This has now been called Advanced Access and will be indicated on the store page for the relevant editions as spotted by SteamDB. The time played during this will also count towards the refund period (via GamingOnLinux). Check out a screenshot from SteamDB for the new Advanced Access below:

Digital Eclipse just announced that its remaster of Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord will be leaving Steam Early Access and hitting 1.0 on May 23rd. It will also be available on consoles the same day. This 3D remaster was excellent from the start, and I can’t wait to replay it with 1.0 on Steam Deck.

Capcom has started streaming the first two episodes of Monster Hunter Stories Ride On anime on YouTube until March 2025. Pre-orders are also now live for the remaster of the original Monster Hunter Stories for Steam and consoles for $29.99. There will be bundles with Monster Hunter Stories 2 on Steam at launch if you’d like to grab both games together. Watch the first episode of the anime below:

Patattie Games just announced Wax Heads, a puzzle narrative sim hybrid coming to Steam on Windows and Linux, and it is already one of my most anticipated games to play for whenever it releases. It already looked amazing before I saw the vinyl collection and mechanics. More information on this will be revealed soon, but you can watch the trailer for it below:

Wired Productions had its Wired Direct 24 showcase with new games, release dates, and updates showcased for many of its titles. The highlights include Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles’ free DLC, Hotel Architect coming to early access, Lumote getting a new co-op mode, and more. Watch the full showcase below (It starts after 55 minutes of the video):

Atlus finally announced the release date for Metaphor: ReFantazio, the developer’s new fantasy RPG. Metaphor: ReFantazio launches for Steam and consoles on October 11th worldwide, and it even has a collector’s edition for consoles that looks excellent with a SteelBook. Metaphor: ReFantazio pre-orders have started going up as well. Metaphor: ReFantazio got a new trailer which looks incredible. Watch it below:

Granblue Fantasy: Relink version 1.2.0 is now live on PS5, PS4, and Steam with new playable characters, quests, and additional content. This update also adds support for additional paid DLC including some more item and upgrade sets. The next major update for the game arrives in May. Watch the trailer for today’s update below:

New Steam Deck Verified & Playable games for the week

A lot more notable Steam Deck Verified games this week and also some games I expected would be Verified much sooner like Botany Manor. SaGa Emerald Beyond should be Verified because the text size isn’t smaller than other games that Valve marks Verified anyway, and it is best on Steam Deck out of all platforms. Sea of Thieves moves from Verified to Playable, but hopefully Rare can fix that. Another Crab’s Treasure has also been great on Deck, so I’m not surprised to see it get rated already.

• Another Crab’s Treasure – Verified
• Backpack Battles – Verified
• Botany Manor – Verified
• Capes – Playable
• Centipede: Recharged – Playable
• Crow Country – Verified (via TouchArcade reader Mor)
• Death Come True – Verified
• Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes – Playable (via TouchArcade reader Mor)
• Fallout 4 – Verified
• Gigantic: Rampage Edition – Playable
• Gravitar: Recharged – Playable
• GUNVOLT RECORDS Cychronicle Steam Deck – Playable
• Holo X Break – Playable
• Heading Out – Playable

• Little Kitty, Big City – Verified
• Midnight Scenes: A Safe Place – Verified
• Paragon Pioneers 2 – Playable
• PONG Quest – Playable
• qomp – Verified
• Reigns Beyond – Verified
• SaGa Emerald Beyond – Playable
• Sea of Thieves – Playable
• SimCity 3000 – Playable
• Surmount – Verified
• Terra Memoria – Playable
• Yellow Taxi Goes Vroom – Verified

Steam Deck Game Sales & Discounts

The main Steam Golden Week Sale hosted by Komodo is also now live with loads of discounts on the likes of Fire Pro Wrestling World, Trails of Cold Steel, Trials of Mana, Atelier, Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Octopath Traveler, and more. The individual publisher Golden Week Sale pages are also live. Check out Tekken 8’s first discount and more from Bandai Namco here. Capcom’s Golden Week Sale is still on with good discounts on Monster Hunter World, Rise, Sunbreak, and more. From Square Enix’s Golden Week Sale, I recommend NieR Automata and STRANGER OF PARADISE FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN Sun, 28 Apr 2024 13:08:17 +0100 dorigames SwitchArcade, Round-Up:, ‘Class, Heroes’, ‘Toridama, 2’, Plus, Today’s, Other, New, Releases, and, the, Latest, Sales Hello gentle readers, and welcome to the SwitchArcade Round-Up for April 26th, 2024. We’ve reached the end of another week, and that means we have to mop up the remaining releases before we put it in the books. There are a few interesting titles in the bunch, and we’ve got summaries of all the games worth summarizing. After that, we’ve got another hefty list of new sales to check out. Those Golden Week sales won’t stop popping! The weekend sales outbox is also here, but it’s a lot smaller. Well, let’s get to the getting on with it!

New Releases

Class of Heroes 1 & 2: Complete Edition ($34.99)

Class of Heroes: Anniversary Edition ($19.99)

Class of Heroes 2G: Remaster Edition ($19.99)

Once upon a time, there was a PlayStation that was also portable. It had its own games and everything, no streaming needed. This “PlayStation Portable" played host to quite a few cool RPGs, including a series called Class of Heroes that was kicked off by the developer behind a lot of the Japanese Wizardry spin-offs. These games are basically that developer’s style of Wizardry game but with a more colorful vibe. At any rate, here are the first two games in that series, fully playable on your Switch in remastered form. I’ll be doing a review of both of these soon, but if you like your dungeon crawlers and don’t mind them a bit hard to gnaw on, you’ll probably enjoy these.

Zombies, Aliens and Guns ($5.99)

This is one heck of an ugly aesthetic, but what can you do? Anyway, this is a top-down shooter featuring more than thirty stages of zombie- and alien-blasting action. You get the usual things, like different weapon and some big boss battles, and you can’t fault the variety in stage themes. There are worse ways to spend six bucks, especially if you have a friend in the vicinity to play it with you.

TORIDAMA2: Brave Challenge ($7.99)

Toridama was a fun little surprise when it came out a few years back, and it’s nice to see it get a follow-up. The idea behind the original game and its sequel is that you have to play a bunch of minigames that test your nerves. Hold out as long as you possibly can, push things to the absolute limit, and so on to maximize your score. This time around there are twenty-five minigames to play, and that bizarre sense of humor that made the first game such a kick is here in full effect. If you enjoy games like Wario Ware or Rhythm Heaven, give this a shot.

Horrific Xanatorium ($7.99)

Always interesting when KEMCO releases something that isn’t a generic turn-based RPG. This is a visual novel set in a world ravaged by a pandemic that causes all those infected with it to suffer from delusions and hallucinations. The protagonist has been infected and his sister has taken him to a sanitorium to recover. He soon starts to harbor suspicions about the hospital director, and sees monsters lurking around. Surely an effect of the virus… or is it?

Tell Me Your Story ($10.99)

Standard RedDeer Games warning: do not buy this game at full price. The publisher intentionally inflates the normal price to make it look more appealing when it does its regular deep discounts. One should be applied to this game by the time you read this, I suspect. That disclaimer aside, this is a cute story based game about a girl who is going through her grandmother’s things with her, listening to her stories about them. You’ll solve various little puzzles as you play, and none of it is very strenuous. Depending on your mood, this might be of interest to you.

Tales From The Under-Realm: Hazel ($11.99)

Another visual novel from Gamuzumi, which means it was probably very lewd in its original form and has to settle for being slightly lewd here on Switch. A witch named Hazel is thrown into a prison cell with an assassin named Sasha. The other main character in the plot is Tori, a paladin who is interrogating her. You’ll have to make some choices as you work your way through the story, and those choices will determine where the story ends up. Trust an assassin, or trust a holy cop? Your call.

The Bin Bunch

Dracula VS Monsters ($4.99)

Cyberpoly RPG – Dark City ($9.99)

Life Bubble ($7.99)

Finding America: The Pacific Northwest Collector’s Edition ($9.99)

Sales

(North American eShop, US Prices)

Let’s pick out a few interesting things from these sales, shall we? Axiom Verge 2 is cheaper than it’s ever been on the eShop, and so is Arcade Paradise. Solid good times with both of those. In the Square Enix end of things, the Voice of Cards games are at new low prices, and so are games like Dragon Quest Treasures and Romancing SaGa: Minstrel Song. Do note that this list is curated; most of Square Enix’s library is on sale right now. Have a nice look through and see what grabs you.

Select New Sales

Axiom Verge 2 ($9.99 from $19.99 until 5/2)
Innocence Island ($1.99 from $19.99 until 5/2)
Super Mega Baseball 4 ($19.99 from $49.99 until 5/7)
Burnout Paradise Remastered ($5.99 from $29.99 until 5/7)
Fe ($3.99 from $19.99 until 5/7)
Sentimental Death Loop ($11.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)
Arcade Paradise ($9.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)
Infinity Strash: Dragon Quest ($40.19 from $59.99 until 5/9)
Harvestella ($29.99 from $59.99 until 5/9)
Paranormasight ($11.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)
Dragon Quest Monsters: Dark Prince ($20.19 from $59.99 until 5/9)
Tactics Ogre: Reborn ($24.99 from $49.99 until 5/9)
Theatrhythm Final Bar Line ($24.99 from $49.99 until 5/9)
Romancing SaGa Minstrel Song ($14.99 from $24.99 until 5/9)
Dragon Quest Treasures ($29.99 from $59.99 until 5/9)
Dragon Quest Treasures Deluxe ($32.49 from $64.99 until 5/9)

Octopath Traveler ($29.99 from $59.99 until 5/9)
Octopath Traveler II ($35.99 from $59.99 until 5/9)
Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII ($24.99 from $49.99 until 5/9)
Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII Deluxe ($34.99 from $69.99 until 5/9)
NieR Automata ($23.99 from $39.99 until 5/9)
The DioField Chronicle ($23.99 from $59.99 until 5/9)
NEO: The World Ends With You ($23.99 from $59.99 until 5/9)
Dungeon Encounters ($11.99 from $29.99 until 5/9)
Voice of Cards TBoB ($11.99 from $29.99 until 5/9)
Voice of Cards TBoB + DLC ($15.19 from $37.99 until 5/9)
Voice of Cards TFM ($11.99 from $29.99 until 5/9)
Voice of Cards TFM + DLC ($15.19 from $37.99 until 5/9)
Voice of Cards TIDR ($11.99 from $29.99 until 5/9)
Voice of Cards TIDR + DLC ($15.19 from $37.99 until 5/9)
Voice of Cards Trilogy ($29.99 from $49.99 until 5/9)
Voice of Cards Trilogy + DLC ($38.99 from $64.99 until 5/9)

SaGa Scarlet Grace Ambitions ($8.99 from $29.99 until 5/9)
Collection of Mana ($19.99 from $39.99 until 5/9)
Dragon Quest ($2.99 from $4.99 until 5/9)
Dragon Quest II ($3.89 from $6.49 until 5/9)
Dragon Quest III ($7.49 from $12.49 until 5/9)
Final Fantasy XII TZA ($19.99 from $49.99 until 5/9)
Final Fantasy VII ($6.39 from $15.99 until 5/9)
Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD ($19.99 from $49.99 until 5/9)
Rayman Legends DE ($7.99 from $39.99 until 5/9)
OddBallers ($4.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)
Livestream 2: EfTHP ($17.49 from $24.99 until 5/9)
Mechblaze ($7.99 from $9.99 until 5/9)
Maid of the Dead ($16.99 from $19.99 until 5/9)
Witch’s Rhythm Puzzle ($3.99 from $4.99 until 5/9)
Touhou Spell Bubble ($27.49 from $54.99 until 5/9)
Demon Sword: Incubus ($9.99 from $14.99 until 5/9)

Prince of Persia The Lost Crown ($29.99 from $49.99 until 5/9)
Scott Pilgrim vs. The World DE ($4.89 from $14.99 until 5/9)
9th Dawn III ($7.99 from $15.99 until 5/10)
A-Train All Aboard Tourism ($41.99 from $59.99 until 5/10)
Neo ATLAS 1469 ($24.99 from $49.99 until 5/10)
Fate/Samurai Remnant ($40.19 from $59.99 until 5/13)
Atelier Ryza ($23.99 from $59.99 until 5/13)
Atelier Ryza 2 ($29.99 from $59.99 until 5/13)
Atelier Ryza 3 ($38.99 from $59.99 until 5/13)
Samurai Warriors 5 ($29.99 from $59.99 until 5/13)
Touken Ranbu Warriors ($29.99 from $59.99 until 5/13)
Blue Reflection Second Light ($23.99 from $59.99 until 5/13)
Super Cyborg ($1.99 from $6.99 until 5/14)
Jumbo Airport Story ($7.00 from $14.00 until 5/15)
Mega Mall Story ($6.00 from $12.00 until 5/15)

Dead in Vinland: True Viking ($5.59 from $27.99 until 5/16)
Mechstermination Force ($1.99 from $11.99 until 5/16)
Retro City Rampage DX ($4.49 from $14.99 until 5/16)
Human: Fall Flat ($5.99 from $19.99 until 5/16)
Panzer Dragoon Remake ($2.49 from $24.99 until 5/16)
KnifeBoy Rebooted ($5.49 from $14.99 until 5/16)
Unables ($8.70 from $12.99 until 5/16)
The Jump Guys ($9.09 from $12.99 until 5/16)
Rising Dusk ($7.90 from $9.90 until 5/16)
Flooded ($6.49 from $12.99 until 5/16)
Retro Revengers ($7.90 from $9.90 until 5/16)

Sales Ending This Weekend

Fire Race ($1.99 from $4.99 until 4/27)
Kao the Kangaroo ($10.49 from $29.99 until 4/27)
Mimi the Cat: Mimi’s Scratcher ($3.99 from $4.99 until 4/27)
PuzzlePet: Feed Your Cat ($3.99 from $4.99 until 4/27)
Sokobalien ($3.99 from $4.99 until 4/27)
Storyblocks: The King ($3.99 from $4.99 until 4/27)
Wild Seas ($3.99 from $4.99 until 4/27)

That’s all for today and this week, friends. We’ll be back next week with more reviews, more new releases, more sales, and perhaps some news. Technically I am heading into a week of holidays here, but I can’t afford that so I’ll be back here manning my post as usual. Fortunately, I enjoy my work for the most part. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend, and as always, thanks for reading!

There’s not really much to say that you wouldn’t already know from playing previous Dadish games. Running, jumping, avoiding enemies, light puzzle solving, and rescuing an adorable but mischievous adolescent radish at the end of each level is the order of the day in basically all the Dadish games, and that’s true here as well. In fact, the simplicity and purity of Dadish 3D is what I like so much about it. There are lots of cleverly designed levels here, 50 all told, and for as cute and simple as things may seem on the surface this is a game that will really test your platforming abilities.

Thankfully it’s low-stakes enough to never be annoying if you have trouble nailing a particular section. You have unlimited lives and will merely need to start the level over again upon failure, and since the levels are nicely bite-sized without being overly tiny that’s not too much of a punishment. And the feeling of satisfaction from successfully making your way through a gauntlet of enemies and hazards and moving platforms makes all the retries worth it in the end.

Don’t just take my word for it though. ALL the Dadish games are completely free to play with ads, and all have a one-time IAP you can purchase to remove those ads and make it a full blown premium experience. It’s the best pay model in my opinion, and if you have yet to try a Dadish game then you need to remedy that as soon as humanly possible. There just aren’t that many 3D platformers on mobile, so Dadish 3D’s arrival is a welcome one, and it makes things all that much sweeter that it’s a fun and challenging game to boot.

Don’t forget to shoot us emails with any questions, feedback, or anything else relevant or irrelevant to podcast@toucharcade.com. We read ’em all, and love decoding messages written entirely in emoji. As always, you can listen to us with the links below… And if you like what you hear, please subscribe and/or drop us a review in iTunes. Much appreciated!

As a companion to this audio podcast, we also do a video version of the same show that is exclusive to Patreon which allows you to see us playing the games we’re talking about. Backers can view the most recent video episodes of the TouchArcade show by clicking here. Be sure you’re logged in to see the latest content. For everyone else who is curious, you can check out our public patreon posts to see older episodes of the video podcast. If you like what you see, consider becoming a TouchArcade Patreon backer.

Show Notes:

• Can the A30 beat the Miyoo Mini? [Retro Game Corp. on YouTube]
• Remastered ‘Advance Wars’-like Turn-Based Strategy Title ‘Warbits Plus’ is Launching on May 7th, Pre-Orders Live Now
• ‘Cassette Beasts’ Mobile Release Up for Pre-Order on the App Store, June 4th Release Date Listed
• ‘9th Dawn Remake’ Is a Complete Re-Imagining of the Original Game From Valorware, Hopefully Will Launch on Mobile As Well
• ‘Squad Busters’ Is a New Party Action Game From Supercell Featuring Characters From ‘Clash of Clans’, ‘Hay Day’, and More Coming May 29th Worldwide

Ubisoft has finally revealed the upcoming open-world Star Wars action adventure Star Wars Outlaws. The game will be released on August 30th, 2024, and pre-orders offer enticing incentives and expanded content. However, a healthy dose of skepticism is justified, considering Ubisoft’s track record and the hefty price tag attached to premium editions. Along this great news there is a new Story Trailer released

Fans eager to step into the boots of a spacefaring outlaw won’t have to wait long. Star Wars Outlaws releases this August, but those willing to pony up for the Gold or Ultimate Editions can jump in three days early. These deluxe versions also include the base game and a season pass, promising additional content post-launch.

Early Access and Pricey Extras

Fans eager to step into the boots of a spacefaring outlaw won’t have to wait long. Star Wars Outlaws releases this August, but those willing to pony up for the Gold or Ultimate Editions can jump in three days early. These deluxe versions also include the base game and a season pass, promising additional content post-launch. But would fans will be willing to give 110$ respectively 130$ for these?

Cause for Concern?

While the Star Wars universe holds undeniable appeal, Ubisoft‘s recent offerings leave room for hesitation. Several recent AAA titles like “AAAA” Skuls and Bones from the publisher have fallen short of expectations, marred by bugs, lackluster gameplay, and aggressive monetization. Additionally, the price point for deluxe editions of Star Wars Outlaws, exceeding $100, raises further questions about value for money.

Proceed with Caution

The promise of exploring the Star Wars galaxy as a charismatic outlaw undoubtedly sparks excitement. Still, Ubisoft’s recent history warrants a cautious approach. It’s advisable to hold off on pre-orders until more gameplay footage and reviews are available so that you can make an informed decision.

The post Star Wars Outlaws: Out on 30th of August 2024! appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Fourteen Years On: Metro Exodus’ Thrilling Path

This year, it’s been fourteen years recently since developers from Ukrainian studio 4A Games brought us the successful action game Metro 2033, which was based on the successful novel by Dmitry Glukhovsky. It is built on a dense atmosphere, stunning artwork, and fun action. The book’s author expressed several times that he liked the game’s treatment, and he was certainly glad that new readers found their way to his novels. Three years later, we have a free sequel, Metro: Last Light, which has already been released simultaneously for all major platforms. The developers have put all their experience to good use, and Metro has become a classic video game. So it’s no wonder that expectations were very high when the next Metro Exodus was announced. Find out if the developers managed to meet them in my review below. I’ll just reveal that it’s going to be quite a ride.

Metro Exodus has taken quite a leap forward with the PlayStation 5 version. The original PS4 version was great on its own, but the visual enhancements and technical innovations elevate the experience to a new level. I was immediately hooked on the PS5. The most significant change is the implementation of ray tracing, completely transforming the game’s lighting. Shadows are deep and realistic, and reflections on metal or water surfaces feel real. The environment has gained depth, making the atmosphere denser than before. The game runs at a smooth 60 frames per second on PS5, which noticeably improves gameplay.

Artyom’s Quest: Surviving in Post-Apocalyptic Russia

Metro Exodus, based on the novel Metro 2035, is a follow-up to the ending of Metro: Last Light. However, you haven’t played the previous installments. In that case, I recommend doing so, as the next installment follows its predecessor with only a slight distance this time. Anyway, the thing is, it’s been 23 years since the great war that wiped out nearly seven billion people, and the last remnants are still living in the Moscow subway system, having to deal with its aftermath every day, be it the omnipresent radiation or the various monsters. Among the survivors is the protagonist, Artyom, who hasn’t stopped dreaming of a place to live without fear of radiation and multiple monsters. Now, with his wife Anna, he occasionally makes his way to the surface, looking for a signal from possible other survivors. But the dream turns into a nightmare during one trip to the surface, when Artyom wonders if it was worth dreaming like this. Either way, along with Anna and a few other Special Forces members, he embarks on a journey through Russia and its wilderness on the Aurora train to find the paradise he so desires. I don’t want to give any spoilers here because the fantastic story is full of twists and turns, well-written characters, dialogue, and different communities, which everyone must enjoy for themselves. But the story definitely doesn’t disappoint anyone. It keeps you glued to the screen until the grand finale, which you will remember for a long time. It also concludes this unique trilogy very well.

Diverse Terrains: Beyond the Moscow Metro

You can see from the first minute of Metro Exodus that the developers now had much more ambition and budget after their previous successes, as everything is much more lavish and looks expensive compared to the first two installments. And I would compare Metro’s journey through this a bit to the Witcher series, where only with the third installment could the developers at CD Project RED fully realize what they always wanted. But it’s also worth mentioning that 4A Games hasn’t forgotten the previous installments and its fans, so they’re still building on their quality and popular foundations. Metro Exodus is still an atmospheric survival action game with horror elements, but now in a much more cinematic and spectacular way. I enjoyed the game immensely because of this, and I enjoyed every minute of it enormously. Plus, it’s hard to tear yourself away from it. Something is always happening, and the game keeps the player in suspense about how everything will continue. 

The fact that the developers had a much bigger budget shows in the levels themselves with their excellent design. Again, if you’re looking for a linear action game with a strong focus on story, you’ll find it here. You don’t have to worry about the game-changing dramatically. However, the developers have also prepared some more expansive levels; it’s a more miniature open world; I might compare it in style to the last God of War. You’re always set goals from the main storyline. Still, NPC characters occasionally give you some side quest you may or may not complete. The side quests are usually related to finding a particular item or exploring locations, which mainly enriches the game experience and reveals more about the local world.

What I liked during the quests is that the developers go a bit, well, instead, a lot old school and don’t lead the player by the hand. On the map, which you can call up at any time simply by pressing the touchpad, you only have the important places marked, but you no longer have an arrow to guide you to them; plus, you only get information and details about the quests from other NPC characters. This approach helps you explore the game world, making you feel and enjoy it more. This is the opposite of what we see in other similar games that lead you by the hand to a goal, which they still mark out so you don’t accidentally miss it in a meter-by-meter room. Here, you just know the location, and it’s up to you to explore it and find what you need and are looking for. 

As I mentioned above, the game takes place outside of Moscow this time, so you’ll visit more diverse locations that take you across the Russian wilderness. You’ll look to the Volga River, Siberia’s taiga, which radiation has virtually avoided, and the Caspian Sea desert, where I sometimes felt like I was in Mad Max. The greater variety of environments definitely helps the game. I always enjoyed arriving in a new one and the varied challenges you’ll face while playing.

PS5 Upgrades: Enhanced Visuals and Performance

The developers have also worked on using the DualSense controller’s haptic response, adding another dimension to gameplay. You can feel the gun shake as you shoot or the subtle vibrations that simulate the terrain you’re moving across. The colors have been slightly altered on the PS5, which may be a plus for some and a minus for others. While there were minor graphical glitches, such as occasional shadowing issues, overall, the PS5 version of Metro Exodus is the best you can play. It uses the console to its full potential and delivers a fantastic experience. If you have a choice, this version should be a clear priority. The game is still impressive on PS4, but the difference is noticeable.

What I also have to mention about the environment is that the developers have worked on the changing weather, so it starts raining heavily at the Volga River out of nowhere. At the same time, in the desert, a sandstorm comes again. Also, the time of day changes dynamically during gameplay, affecting the gameplay itself. While you encounter mostly human opponents during the day, at night, various mutants and other creatures come to the surface, and you have to deal with different problems that don’t exist during the day. You have to think whether a given mission is worth doing in the evening or during the day. 

Many players of the previous installments must wonder if Metro Exodus still offers those dark corners of the subway. The answer, of course, is yes. Although it occurs mainly on the surface, you’ll still be crawling through various bunkers and bases where daylight can’t reach. Of course, there are plenty of subway stations, but I won’t spoil any more.  

Combat and Strategy: Facing the Mutant Threat

Because the game occurs outside radiation-infested Moscow, Artyom no longer has to constantly wear a mask and change one filter after another. However, it still happens and is an important part of the gameplay when you venture into the contaminated parts of the world here. Survival elements are, therefore, ever-present and are linked to, for example, making first aid kits and various bombs, upgrading your suit with found materials, and then modifying various weapons. Artyom will also shoot pistols, shotguns, machine guns, crossbows, and other interesting toys you can change with the parts you find. This will make the weapons even more effective in the fight against human opponents and monsters. Modifying weapons or making bullets, first aid kits, and other items are handled simply. They will be accessible, even for a novice.

Even smaller but, from my point of view, a fundamental note about the weapons: this time, the developers have delivered a really detailed gunplay rich in visual and animation perfectly processed weapons from which it is really a pleasure to shoot and last but not least, of course, to listen to them. For me, as a lover of weapons in games, a huge thumbs up.

If you get attacked by monsters, the game contains several types. It’s a classic fast-paced shooter, but you must count every bullet. You don’t have enough of them on the higher difficulties, so every bullet that misses the target hurts like hell and can be helpful later. You constantly have to explore your surroundings, find hidden ammo boxes, and so on, so the core gameplay of Metro Exodus is similar to previous installments. Survival elements, which are also well-balanced, still play a crucial role. Fortunately, you can continually replenish your supplies with found materials at the workbenches scattered around the world and at the main base in the form of the Aurora locomotive. 

While encounters with mutants are all about action when you meet human opponents, you have more options thanks to a solid stealth system, so everything can be handled silently. In many situations, this is better, as enemies are outnumbered, and Artyom can take a few hits on higher difficulty. When it comes to the gunfights, they’re fun, although I do have a bit of a gripe with the AI. It could be better. Enemies tried to take cover, but I sometimes felt like they were just standing still or running around the level mindlessly. This shouldn’t have happened, but fortunately, I noticed this problem infrequently. 

Exploration and Discovery: Open World and Quests

As mentioned, Metro Exodus has many more open locations and is a semi-open-world game. This makes it hard to estimate how long it will take you to play through. I finished the main storyline on medium difficulty with a few side quests in about twenty hours and 100% in two playthroughs in about forty hours, which is a solid time for a story-driven action game. It’s worth giving it all a second go afterward for two reasons. The first is completing all of the quests while exploring the world (as I did as a fan of the series), which has many secrets that fans will definitely want to uncover; you can collect ribbons and various other collectibles, for example. The second reason is that your actions affect the fate of several side characters, so you have it in your hands whether they survive or not. The story can thus partially play out differently, and just trying out a different path is a decent enticement to replay. I was sorry to lose any of the characters from the train. I’ve developed a nice relationship with them throughout playing, so giving it your all again and trying to save them motivates players to play again.

It was clear from the first demo that Metro Exodus would be a stunning technological game. The developers, who created their own engine, may have presented it on a hyped-up PC. Still, the console version is undoubtedly nothing to be ashamed of. It looks absolutely fantastic. From the very first minute, you’ll be amazed at the gorgeous-looking environments, the highly detailed characters, and the various effects, which are breathtaking at many times. That’s just how I imagine a modern action game released in 2019. The developers knew that the game looked beautiful, so they also prepared a high-quality photo mode, allowing you to easily take stunning shots and share them with others. However, you’ll also want to know how the optimization is doing. And it’s pretty good right now. On PS5, the game runs at a nice 60Fps and has raytracing enabled, which is very pleasing, except for the bugs. I found a few here and there, but nothing to dwell on, and they will likely be polished by patches. 

Fantastic Sound of Radiated Russia

But back to the positive side, namely the fantastic sound which, together with the visuals, provides a very dense atmosphere that could be cut right down. Suddenly, with headphones on, you’ll feel right in the subway aisles or a world after a huge disaster. The musical accompaniment is also of high quality, containing some pleasant, touching, and, at a few moments, intensely emotional and melancholic songs that took me by the heart and made me love and relate to the story and the characters even more. Furthermore, dubbing the individual characters was excellent – especially the Russian one. Before I end my review, I have to mention the localizations into languages like Czech and others, as with the previous two episodes. This is again of high quality, so everyone can enjoy Artyom’s incredible story, even non-English speakers.

Metro Exodus : Wrap-Up

Metro Exodus is an excellent action game whose most vital point is a well-written story with believable characters that you will simply and easily like. Compared to previous installments, it’s also far more varied, offering more open levels with side quests and giving more freedom in general. Yet it retains the characteristic elements and, most importantly, the dense atmosphere of the post-apocalyptic world. The game is slightly brought down by the AI and occasional bugs, but that doesn’t change the fact that fans of both the previous installments and the genre itself will enjoy this game.

Where to Purchase:

Embark on a post-apocalyptic odyssey with Metro Exodus on Steam.
Experience enhanced visuals and haptic feedback in Metro Exodus for PS4/PS5 on the PlayStation Store.
Survive the Russian wasteland in Metro Exodus for Xbox One/Series X|S on the Microsoft Store.
Journey beyond Moscow’s metro in Metro Exodus, available DRM-free on GOG.
Uncover the secrets of a devastated world in Metro Exodus on the Epic Games Store.
Explore the official website of Metro Exodus for more information and purchase options.

The post Beyond Moscow’s Dark Corners: The Expaned World of Metro Exodus appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Assetto Corsa Evo is nearing release, with pre-orders already appearing locally. It is likely targeted for a launch in late spring 2024, likely around June or July, initially for PC. But these are our speculations; this has yet to be confirmed lately, and only 2024 is.

Despite recent layoffs at some European branches of its parent group, Digital Bros, Kunos Simulazioni remains productive. They recently added a highly praised Nürburgring Nordschleife DLC to Assetto Corsa Competizioni.

The upcoming Assetto Corsa Evo will utilize Kunos Simulazioni’s proprietary engine, returning to the roots of the original game rather than the Unreal Engine used in Competizioni. Expectations include features like dynamic weather, which is now standard in racing games. With its distinct Italian flair and physics, Assetto Corsa Evo is poised to captivate fans just as the first game did. We eagerly anticipate its release in the coming months.

The post Asseto Corsa 2 will be Named Assetto Corsa Evo, and its Knocking on Door! appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Dontnod’s Delays and Determination

Dontnod Entertainment, a video game development studio known for creating critically acclaimed titles such as Life is Strange and Vampyr, has been teasing multiple new projects for quite some time now. However, the release of these games has faced several setbacks, leading to prolonged waiting periods for fans of the studio. One of these projects was the highly anticipated story adventure game Twin Mirror, which underwent a tumultuous development cycle. Despite encountering various challenges, the team at Dontnod Entertainment persevered, ultimately succeeding in bringing the game to fruition. As a result, players were finally able to experience the captivating narrative of former investigative journalist Sam Higgs, which was eagerly awaited by fans of the studio and the genre alike.

Life is Strange Vibes

After playing for a while, it will become abundantly clear that this is the next installment from the creators of the Life is Strange series. Both the narrative style and the typical gameplay can’t be denied. This time, however, we don’t get to experience the drama of schoolgirls or the story of two brothers on the run. We’re looking at the story of Sam , who returns to his hometown of Basswood to say one last goodbye to his deceased best friend. Basswood is a typical small American town where people survive as best they can. Its atmosphere is handled excellently in the game. Sam didn’t leave it well, and many locals blame him for his decisions and work. Sam was an investigative journalist who was instrumental in shutting down the mine. But the main thrust of the story is something else entirely. The circumstances of his friend’s death don’t quite add up. I’m not going to tell you any more of the story. After all, this is an important element on which Twin Mirror is primarily based. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable whodunit you’ll get through in a day. You gradually uncover the circumstances of what’s currently happening in the town and Sam’s past.  

When Textures Attack! (Or Just Sit There Blandly)

The developers have said they want to avoid falling into the same stereotype as Telltale Games and are trying to make their new projects more distinct. In the case of Twin Mirror, though, they’re still sticking with the old approach. You can clearly tell at a glance that this is the work of Dontnod. Slightly stylized graphics, inferior textures, and poor quality face art compared to competing adventure games of this type. What the characters do in Twin Mirror is weak compared to other big adventure games. After a few minutes of playing, I counted on that when the first conversations took place. Despite the lower graphical quality, they managed to create scenery that is a joy to look at in some parts. 

However, Twin Mirror fits perfectly into the pattern of this studio’s work in other ways. Throughout the gameplay, you’re faced with several dialogue decisions, most of which only affect how the character in question will treat you. Very few critical decisions affect the ending of the game.

Supernatural Sleuthing in Sam’s Brain

But some exciting ideas also fit the classic pattern of the studio – supernatural abilities. We get several glimpses into Sam’s mind. It’s where memories are replayed, and he often has to deal with himself. His personality is more complex. More than once, Sam’s alter ego interferes in the story, which I’d rather not go into more detail about because it’s one of the most exciting things in the game, and it would be a shame to give it away beforehand. The story does have a few weaknesses, though. 

Basswood Needs More Character Development

As I mentioned earlier, Twin Mirror didn’t escape problems during development either. Initially, the game was supposed to be split into 3 episodes. For Dontnod, this makes sense, given their experience with episodic releases. But in the end, it was released all at once. During gameplay, you can tell where each episode is supposed to end without any problem. Plus, the developers were pressed for time, so they had to switch to chopping the story. 

The introduction is extensive. Everything is explained so you can understand everything as it should be. But halfway through, it breaks down, and the narrative takes a huge turn. Before you know it, you’re watching the closing credits. This was just an introduction, and the investigation continued for a few more hours. Unfortunately, it didn’t. As for the characters, if you expect them to develop significantly during the game, don’t count on it. They don’t even get much time to do so, and with almost every one of them, it’s evident at first glance what they are. Most of them treat Sam very differently than I initially expected. Despite the constant repetition at the beginning about how they don’t like Sam in Basswood, most residents welcome him with open arms. I find it odd that even those in the wrong way because of him don’t mind him hanging around their home.

Exploring? More Like Stumbling Around

Conversations and decision-making aren’t the only part of the game. Several times, you’re put in a situation where you have to go through a place, find all the essential elements, and then use them to piece together a scenario of what has happened or is yet to happen, all in the mind palace. It’s an exciting idea, but the execution is too straightforward. I would say. You must find all the information pieces to start putting it together first. You can always go right, even if you play through the different options in the mind palace. You will only be let in once you find the right combination. It could have been a challenge, but the developers clearly didn’t want you to think too hard when solving it. In fact, Sam often uses his predictions to tell you how to put the situation together. You’ll also spend some time exploring things and the environment in the game. It’s an absolute classic. Don’t count on collecting items or having an inventory to combine them. I encountered a puzzle once or twice in the entire game. The rest of the situations are solved through conversations or looking at things. Interactive items are labeled so you know where to go.

However, the interaction could be more nuts than an adventure game player would like. You have to angle yourself at the right angle to the interactive items even to see the menu of options, which sometimes means you have to set the character up for several tries before it does what you want it to do. However, it’s much worse when the interactive objects are loose in the environment. You have to approach them from the right side to make them appear. On one investigation, I spent more time doing this just because I came to the location from the woods instead of the road. They’re small things, but in a short game, where they make up a significant part of the gameplay, the developers should watch out for them. 

Twin Mirror: Faster Than a Speeding Storyline

As a result, Twin Mirror feels like a rushed project that the developers wanted to release at any cost. Even with another released adventure game, Tell Me Why from Dontnod, it didn’t turn out stellar, albeit a big chunk better than Twin Mirror. Their latest games, like Jusant and the yet unreleased Lost Records, which we will review in the summer, will break the vicious circle that Dontnod has been mired in since the abandonment of the Life is Strange series. 

Not Their Best Work, But Still Worthwhile

The story revolves around a former investigative journalist who visits his best friend for the last time. However, the overall story fails to impress due to its rushed pace and the need for improvement in the imaginative method of investigation. Additionally, even in the game Twin Mirror, the studio Dontnod has been unable to avoid its games’ recurring stereotypes. The facial expressions and texture quality are somewhat worse than expected.

Buy Twin Mirror

Steam: The game is available on Steam for $29.99. It features a single-player mode, Steam Achievements, and cloud-saving options​ (Steam Store)​.

Epic Games Store: Also available for $29.99, Twin Mirror on the Epic Games Store includes features like cloud saves. The game is described as a gripping psychological thriller with a narrative that lets you make choices that impact the story​ (Epic Games Store)​.

Xbox: There’s a significant discount on Xbox; the game is currently on sale for $4.49, down from $29.99. This sale ends in 5 days from the last update, so it’s a great opportunity for Xbox users to grab it at a lower price​ (Xbox.com)​.

PlayStation Store: Similar to Xbox, the PlayStation version is also on sale for $4.49, offering an 85% discount off the regular price of $29.99. This offer is valid until March 28, 2024​ (PlayStation Store)​.

The post Mysterious Small-Town: A Review of Twin Mirror appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

From Fahrenheit to Detroit: A Legacy of Choice

Detroit: Become Human is the latest release from French studio Quantic Dream, which has long been at the top of the story adventure genre. From the first-class and dark Fahrenheit to the drenching Heavy Rain to the emotional and gripping Beyond Two Souls, which, despite its quality, unfortunately, didn’t garner as much fame as expected initially. However, Detroit: Become Human manages, thankfully, to change that once again with ease, as you will see in my following text.

Not Your Average Action Game

I will be okay, though, and I’ll be the first to specify what Detroit is not. Look elsewhere if you expect frantic action, brutality, or a colorful open world. Detroit follows in the footsteps of its predecessors. It offers a more interactive film packed to the ceiling with a brilliantly branching narrative, elaborate characters, and the traditional ability for the player to influence the course to a degree not seen in games. You really want to experience this experience. 

Blade Runner Vibes: Dark, Dystopian, Delicious

Detroit takes you to a not-too-distant future where androids and artificial intelligence are the order of the day. Artificially created helpers are an integral part of our lives, helping in the home, serving as sex objects, and relieving humanity of a multitude of manual labor. But that also means lots of unemployed people, “racial” hatred of androids, and other issues that are very relevant even today. The game draws powerful inspiration from the cult of Blade Runner, which will definitely please fans of the movie classics.

Connor, Kara, Markus: Three Androids, One Epic Story

This futuristic world tells the story of three androids – Connor, Marcus, and Kara. Each has their own status and their own lives. Connor is an android sent by the CyberLife corporation to help police officers in a recent murder. Markus is an ordinary assistant to an aging artist. At the same time, Kara is a newly purchased maid the family’s father brings home. 

Although it doesn’t seem like it at first, the fates of all the characters are very closely intertwined and naturally meet several times throughout the story. Still, each views the issue of androids and their potential rebellion against humanity differently. It is with the first murder, which hints at a severe problem with android obedience, that begins a sequence of events that take you across the city of Detroit and eventually the entire United States to try again and again to find the answer to the question – “How far are you willing to go to achieve freedom?”

When Your Choices REALLY Matter

As you will have gathered, Detroit is true to its predecessors and is more of an interactive film than a game. The developers give you enough freedom and interaction at specific points so you do not feel deprived. Still, the reins are firmly held by the story above all else. It moves forward steadily, and I’ve yet to experience such an engaging narrative where I wasn’t so actively involved in the action. Each chapter builds on the next, with one crucial decision after another being thrown at the player. As is the way with Quantic Dream, almost everyone can cost you your life. 

Yes, even here, you’ll encounter many choices and decisions that take the story in unexpected directions. If one of the characters dies, there’s no turning back. However, this is one of the game’s great strengths – there are so many story branches that you can play the game six times and constantly encounter something new. At this point, I’ve played the game for about the third time and still know I have yet to discover everything. And that’s very, very respectable for a game that is very linear in its own way.

The Emotional Rollercoaster You Didn’t See Coming

Moreover, the developers have managed to meticulously think through all the characters so that after a few initial moments, you’ll be invested in the lives of each of them, hoping with every conversation that you don’t mess something up and that your favorites stay alive for at least a bit longer. Even the likes of Connor, who looks pretty robotic and aloof at the start, eventually becomes an incredible assassin who could high-five John Wick and grow on almost everyone. The development of the characters throughout the story is portrayed brilliantly, and more importantly – everything is entirely in your hands.

When Games Look THIS Good, Who Needs Movies?

Thanks to the game’s relatively closed structure and concept, the developers have let their imagination and graphic engine run wild. Detroit is one of the best-looking games in the world today. In fact, you’ll often wonder if you’re not playing a CGI movie because the graphics are the best to be found at the time. Everything is of the highest standard, whether we’re talking about animations, detail-rich environments, lots of little particle effects, or the fluidity of the surroundings. 

Of course, you’ll come across slightly choppy animations here and there, especially when moving characters, but that’s due to the specific genre and is understandable. On the other hand, the facial animation and the acting are top-notch. Watching your favorite characters during dialogues that, through no fault of your own, can go awry at any second is a treat. 

Detroit is, in short, visual porn, and it doesn’t matter how many times you play it. The excellent news for everyone will be the bravura use of the language you have set up, which is not only present in the dialogue in the form of subtitles but is also integrated into all the text in the game. All the magazines, dialogues, interactions, and other elements are in the language you set, so you can enjoy the game even if you are unfamiliar with English or any other language.

Why Detroit Belongs on Your Spotify Playlist

The soundtrack is a chapter unto itself. The developers recruited three composers for the official soundtrack, each caring for one character in the story. This gives each character a unique musical score that conveys their mood, atmosphere, or “personality.” The music is also interactive, perfectly matching what’s happening on screen. During quiet moments of exploration, a few instruments strum while epic loops kick in during thrilling chases and engulf you entirely. Here, we have another soundtrack you can safely play on your phone and out of the game, for example. 

Bonus Content: Unlocking Detroit’s Story Secrets

In addition to the story campaign, which you can play endlessly, the game also offers smaller bonuses that you can unlock with the points you accumulate while playing. These are little things like artwork, developer diaries, behind-the-scenes glimpses of development, complete 3D models of all the characters in the game, soundtrack samples, and trailers. Of course, you can’t expect multiplayer but other additional content, but that’s understandable.

The Game That Makes You Question Humanity

Detroit: Become Human might not be a game that suits everyone’s taste. Nevertheless, it is a remarkable example of how a video game can transform into an interactive work of art that competes with classic movies. If you are a Quantic Dream’s games fan, then you are in for a treat with their best game yet. Everything is almost flawless, from the characters to the music and the graphics. It will leave you with a lasting emotional impression. In short, it is a masterpiece of interactive storytelling!

Purchase Detroit Become Human

PlayStation Store: The game is available on the PlayStation Store for PS4 at a price of $19.99. There is also a Digital Deluxe Edition available for $29.99, which includes additional content​ (PlayStation Store)​​.

Epic Games Store: On the Epic Games Store, “Detroit: Become Human” is priced at $39.99. This version boasts enhanced visuals and full PC compatibility, including support for 4K resolution and 60fps​ (Epic Games Store)​​ (VG247)​.

Steam: The game is also available on Steam, where it integrates well with Steam’s features like achievements and cloud saves​ (Steam Store)​.

The post Detroit: Become Human – Blade Runner Fans, This Game is for You! appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

A Familiar Road with New Turns

As is customary in the Need for Speed racing series, just like in the earlier installments, we get our hands on furious races, omnipresent tire smoke, and tuned supercars in a new art style this time. Need for Speed, with the latest console version, got a chance to do something originally different. And it was an exceptional experience. The first impression immediately after starting the game was evident. Criterion was very heavily inspired by its previous work. Once again, you take on the role of a young racer looking to make a name for himself in the city. Starting from scratch with an old car, you race in day or night events to earn a living while trying to shake off the cops who come down on you after every race. A concept familiar from the older Need for Speed Heat. But this time, it’s been tweaked slightly. You create your own hero or heroine at the start of the game. The choice is broad; you can make a weird hipster, a Japanese anime-style doll, or something decent.

Night and Day, Risk and Reward

The races in Unbound are divided into day and night. During the day, it’s quiet everywhere. The races are characterized by less risk from the police, but at the same time, you can’t expect any more significant rewards. At night, on the other hand, the money starts rolling in. Law enforcement is alive and well, and the most frantic races are held for big money, which only the best can win. Of course, at night, the cops are hot, and your Heat level after each race is higher than in broad daylight. If you get caught, you lose all the money you didn’t manage to take to the garage.

The Heat of the Night

Several racing opportunities will appear on the map throughout the night. You will also often be chased by the cops after a race. If you shake them off, you can park and save your accumulated money, but this will jump you forward half a day, and the night’s events are gone. It’s more tempting to keep playing at night and run all the events. The more events you complete in one night, the higher your Heat level. Escaping the cops from level three onwards requires skill and a fast car. That hurts a lot when they catch you and confiscate all the money you didn’t manage to stash in the garage. It’s a thrilling aspect of the game, and the “this race will still work before they get me” style of decision-making was something I really enjoyed.

Racing Perfected

The story of Unbound is quite exciting and expansive by series standards, with well-written characters that are memorable and believable. The dialogue may be simple and annoying. However, we’re still talking about NFS, where the central aspect isn’t the deep story but the racing. The racing aspect of the game is perfect. This is precisely how I imagine arcade racing. In city traffic, at full speed, cutting corners, jumping, and passing closely with other road users flatting out. In Unbound, you will be dealing with surprisingly challenging races. It took me a while to learn how to drive at full speed amongst all the pitfalls, and I needed to tune the car to get to the front. The race modes don’t stray from the familiar standards; we have classic time trials, city circuits, drifts, and a special mode where you collect points for spectacular track runs and try to hit as many cones, paint barrels, and preferably jumps and skids as possible. At this point, one thing that really bothered me throughout my time playing was the lack of a fast travel option on the map. You have to transport yourself everywhere. Suppose the police patrols have it in for you and your high Heat level. In that case, you won’t just drive to the next challenge unleashed, but you’ll be dodging the police patrols with fear, marked on the map by a moving red icon. It’s neither cool nor fun, but it fits the game’s concept that the cops are here and will take your money if you’re not careful.

Aesthetic Overdrive

What would Need for Speed be without a good dose of tuning. You can customize each licensed vehicle, of which there are a staggering number, to your heart’s content. The ability to detail the powertrain is a big plus. Compared to previous installments, the authors have gone into even greater detail. Moreover, any minor modification of the car is noticeable on the road. Of course, many stickers, shiny wheel rims, bumpers, tinted glass, etc already exist. The graphics of NFS Unbound on the latest gaming consoles, especially on the PlayStation 5, are simply breathtaking. The game’s setting, Lakeshore, is a bustling and vibrant metropolis with towering skyscrapers, busy streets, and poverty-stricken suburbs, all of which are beautifully rendered with stunning attention to detail. The surrounding countryside is equally impressive, offering a plethora of scenic routes to explore. The cars in the game are also incredibly detailed, with every aspect of their design and mechanics flawlessly captured. The only downside is the lack of an interior view, which would have made the experience even more immersive. Overall, NFS Unbound is a visual masterpiece that truly showcases the power and capabilities of the latest gaming consoles.

New Styles and Online Shortfalls

A controversial pre-release feature was the new comic book style, where all the effects, like clouds from spinning tires, collisions, crashes, and flyovers, are complemented by cartoon and graffiti effects. Also, all the characters in the game look like they are from an animated movie. I was skeptical of this concept, but the developers have kept this style at bay. The graffiti is a tasteful art addition that often adds to the game’s atmosphere. The characters look too cartoonish for my taste, with bland facial expressions that make the contrast between the cartoonish and photorealistic visuals all too apparent. In addition to the 30-hour campaign, the game offers an online mode and a separate city map where you can race against other players and earn money. However, it appears that the developers did not invest enough resources in this mode. The lack of police cars, which add excitement and challenge to the races in the campaign, makes the online mode feel somewhat lackluster and empty. This is a missed opportunity, as the potential for engaging and competitive multiplayer races is certainly there. Hopefully, the developers will address this issue in future updates to the game.

Conclusion and Legacy

So, in conclusion, Need for Speed Unbound is an excellent addition to the famous franchise. Suppose you overlook that the developers were heavily inspired by the subtitled Heat and put in next-gen graphics. In that case, you get excellent arcade racing complemented by the original art style. It’s clear that the game was made for the fans, who get exactly what they expect but in a new and prettier package. The number of cars, their upgrade options, and the frantic racing are precisely what NFS has always been about, and that’s not changing. Here, all of this is brought together by an interesting story. Disappointingly, some repetitive activities and an unfinished online mode. In short, the franchise is still maintaining a relatively decent quality because it’s about to celebrate 30 years.

Purchase and Experience the Rush of Need for Speed: Unbound

Steam: Race to Steam to grab your copy and hit the streets in style.
Epic Games Store: Speed over to Epic Games Store for your adrenaline-fueled adventure.
PlayStation Store: Drive your way to the PlayStation Store and experience next-gen racing on your PS5.
Microsoft Store: Accelerate your game on Xbox by visiting the Microsoft Store.

The post Need for Speed Unbound: High-Octane Races Meet Fresh Comic Book Style appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

First Impressions and Gameplay Mechanics

The fifth installment of the DiRT car series – the well-known series from “Codies” always impresses at first glance with nice visuals and action-packed races that are accessible to everyone thanks to the pure arcade driving model. The problem, on the other hand, is a relatively modest career and a relatively poor range of single-player modes, which the developers try to compensate for with more elaborate multiplayer and online options.

The DiRT brand, along with licensed Formula 1 titles, has, over time, become the most crucial series for the racing greasers at Codemasters. The first DiRT is still considered one of the best arcade racing games years later. But “Codies” also reaped success with simulation fans, who were served two DiRTs under the name “Rally” simultaneously. DiRT 5 is even more of an arcade in many ways than the old DiRTs. The driving model is very similar to what we know from TrackMania, the DiRT Showdown spin-off, and the Motorstorm series. The resemblance to Motorstorm is not accidental. Behind the new DiRT is a significant part of the former Evolution studio staff, who moved under Codemasters after parting ways with Sony.

The car’s steering is very responsive and direct, the acceleration is strong, and the use of brakes is less. Despite the initial surprise, I quickly got to grips with the driving model. The controls of the vehicles are not at all difficult to get to grips with quickly, making the game accessible even to players who don’t otherwise play racing games much. The driving is action-packed, fast-paced, and entertained me. I only struggled slightly with the overly responsive controls and extreme acceleration. Still, I made do with just the gamepad, but given the arcade concept of the game, this is fine.

Arcade Spirit and Vehicle Dynamics

Along with the driving model, the overall physics of the game continues in a pure arcade spirit. This is most noticeable in the collision model. Especially after the start, hard collisions are the order of the day, as even computer-controlled opponents don’t precisely drive with two minds. Collisions, being pushed, being thrown off the track is a standard part of racing. The result is a more action-packed and frantic feel to the gameplay. The feeling of arcade gameplay is also evidenced by only cosmetic damage to the cars without affecting their handling or speed.

Diverse Vehicle Roster and Race Types

DiRT 5 features around 60 different vehicles divided into more than 10 categories. It’s a varied mix, featuring rally specials from different eras, off-roads familiar from the Dakar Rally, buggies of various sizes, production off-roaders, rallycross cars, and sports cars primarily designed for circuit racing. It combines the second and fourth DiRT cars with more unique vehicles.

The move towards the arcade, amongst a lot of other things, has made the differences in the behavior of each car relatively small. There is still a noticeable difference between buggies and rally specials or rear-wheel drive-only vehicles, for example. However, within the same class, the differences are almost nil. Most races pit a dozen drivers against each other in a three-lap match. These are short but challenging races lasting only a few minutes each time. Only Pathfinder mode, where you try to drive to the top of a mountain in a unique vehicle, and good old Gymkhana, where you collect points for drifts and acrobatic stunts, break away from this template for a change.

Dynamic Racing Environments

However, the classic rally with Erzettas is sadly missing from the game. The big attraction, however, is the tracks. The races occur in ten locations, including snowy Norway, rainy Brazil, mountainous Nepal, and arid American Arizona. Add up all the tracks and their variations, and you’ll see nearly eighty tracks. The number and variety of locations are very satisfactory. The dynamically changing weather conditions are also another of the many positives. Despite the races’ short duration, they can quickly change the weather, track surface, and time of day. In practice, you can do one lap during the day in sunny weather, another in a torrential downpour or sandstorm, and a third at night.

Audiovisual Impact

We have become accustomed to dynamic weather and time of day changes in racing games. However, they have never happened so quickly and with extreme variations, as in the fifth DiRT. If I had to single out one thing that makes DiRT at least worth trying, it’s the constantly changing conditions during the race. The ubiquitous particle effects of dust, smoke, flying pieces of mud, or falling snow or rain also sell the great atmosphere during the races. Especially in these moments, the game feels like the arrival of a new generation of consoles. In addition to the graphics, the well-crafted sounds and pleasantly listenable soundtrack deserve praise. On the technical side, I didn’t encounter anything serious; minor glitches or bugs were an exception. The only thing that didn’t please me was the occasional frame drops from 60 to about 30 frames per second, which was not entirely pleasant when driving faster or going through a sharp turn with maximum concentration. Still, fortunately, it didn’t happen too often.

Career Mode and Single-Player Content

I was very interested in how the developers would handle the career mode. This has always played an essential role in the DiRT series. Unfortunately, the fifth installment falls short in this aspect. At first glance, the enticing story told by the duo of Troy Baker and Nolan North eventually devolved into merely the often brief commentary and audio dialogue of the two protagonists. As a result, it’s just the occasional humorous or informative passages filling the time between races. It’s certainly nothing that could be called a story.

A much bigger problem, however, is the structure and progression through the career and the number of single-player modes. The career of the fifth DiRT is more than a roster of consecutive and similar races. The feeling of progressing somewhere and opening up new possibilities must be included. You have to reckon that the career offers nothing special apart from the racing itself. You don’t even have to buy a car at the start, as the game gives you one vehicle in each category by the start.

Moreover, the rewards for winning races are high. Soon, thanks to this, you will get considerable money that can only be spent on stickers and other cars. In both cases, this is a relatively small incentive. As I mentioned, the cars behave almost identically within their category. So there’s not much reason to replace the old ones with new ones. You won’t see a significant reward or deeper motivation for your efforts; race wins in your career. Vehicle upgrade options could be better. You can’t modify the performance of the cars. From a visual point of view, only stickers and body color combinations are offered. You can also remember team management. DiRT 5 replicates the all-too-easy career of recent GRIDs. We should stick purely to the single-player modes. In that case, only fast-paced racing or time trials are available apart from a truncated career. I expect more from such an ambitious game.

Multiplayer and Community Features

DiRT tries to compensate for this lack with multiplayer. For one thing, it features a split-screen for up to 4 players. Split-screen is available in both fast-paced races and careers. The online component provides classic races supplemented by special party modes Vampire, King, and Transporter. In Vampire, one player becomes a vampire and hunts down others who escape. In King mode, participants try to win the crown for as long as possible. In the final Transporter mode, the goal is to move as many items as possible to a designated location. Completely separate is the PlayGrounds mode. You can create and then share your own tracks. Players from all over the world can then run different times on them or earn points and rankings. You can make tracks for Gymkhana, time trial with checkpoints, or Smash Attack mode, where it is important to hit the desired targets accurately. The editor is quite clear and easy to navigate and control. Creating exciting and varied tracks should be fine. Here, too, you can see some similarities with the TrackMania brand, for which the track editor is an essential element. Ironically, multiplayer is the aspect of the game that contains richer content than single-player. While the single-player game relies on a weak career mode, the multiplayer brings split-screen, several online modes, and a track editor.

Final Lap

DiRT 5 is a pure arcade racing game for many players. The driving model is catchy, easy to learn, and fun despite the primitive physics. However, the leading ace up the game’s sleeve is the varied tracks with rapidly changing conditions, further enhanced by the fantastic audiovisual design. The biggest problem, on the other hand, is the weak career, offering only a series of consecutive and basically identical races. So, if you prefer a single-player, the fifth DiRT will offer little content and game modes. On the other hand, fans of multiplayer, community editors, and various online features will have plenty to keep them busy.

Where to Buy DiRT 5

Ready to hit the tracks? Purchase DiRT 5 on any of these platforms:

• Steam: Jump into high-octane racing with DiRT 5 on Steam.
• PlayStation Store: Rev your engines with DiRT 5 on the PlayStation Store.
• Microsoft Store: Experience the thrill of DiRT 5 on the Microsoft Store.

The post DiRT 5’s Dynamic Weather Fuels Adrenaline-Packed Tracks appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Comedy Central is reportedly developing an animated series based on the classic game ‘Golden Axe’, which is indicative of the trend of beloved games being brought back into the spotlight.
The creators of this iconic game from our childhood include Mike McMahon, who recently developed ‘Star Trek: Love at Dusk’ for Prime Video, along with Joe Chandler.

The initial season of the ‘Golden AxeAxe’ series is slated to debut with 10 episodes on Comedy Central. The official description indicates the show “will follow veteran warriors Tyrus Flair and Julius Thunderhead as they fight once more to save Yuria from a relentless evil giant.
Fortunately, this time, they are not alone; they’re joined by the inexperienced and comically underprepared Hampton Squibb!

So this nostalgic and sometimes pathetic journey continues.
Before the series air, you can practice the game on the go and relive the original ‘Golden Axe’ adventure on mobile devices available for Android and IOS:
Golden Axe 1 on Android Play
Golden Axe 1 on Apple App Store

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The studio has hinted that there is more for the fans, so be sure to tune in tomorrow night for the official announcement. Stay tuned for more updates later this day, or check the live stream below at 8 PM CEST. Would we get more medieval gore soon?

The post Warhorse Studios behind Kindgdom Come Deliverance Important Announcement Today appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Sequel Scope and Historical Depth

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 promises to extend its historical canvas, offering a game world twice the size of its predecessor. This expansion isn’t limited to geography but extends to a richer, more layered storytelling. The game will delve deeper into the tapestry of 15th-century European life, capturing the complexity of ethnicities and religious beliefs during the era of the Hussite uprisings—a period marked by profound social and religious turmoil.

Developers are poised to deepen the immersion with a storyline that weaves themes of love and revenge through the continuing saga of Henry, the game’s protagonist, as he seeks justice for the murder of his parents. In pursuit of this goal, players will navigate a world fraught with conflict and intrigue, set against the backdrop of historical events that shaped Bohemia and beyond.

Cinematic Enhancement and Story Expansion

The sequel will feature approximately five hours of cinematic scenes, further enriching the experience. This ambitious inclusion aims to seamlessly integrate story depth before players even step into the game’s interactive elements. Such an approach signifies Warhorse Studios’ commitment to enhancing delivery of the game and engaging players on a deeper emotional level.

Diverse and Dynamic Game

The geographic expansion in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 includes two meticulously crafted maps. The first, “Cesky Raj – Czech heaven” features the majestic Trosky Castle, a medieval architecture and history beacon. The second map will transport players to the town of Kutná Hora and its surroundings known for its historical value – like scary bone ossuary :O

Gameplay and Distribution

Reflecting on the game mechanics, the sequel is set to offer a variety of engaging combat scenarios, from besieged cities to skirmishes in the lush countryside and strategic confrontations in narrow passageways. These diverse settings promise to challenge players’ strategic thinking and combat skills, enhancing the game’s realism and historical fidelity.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 will be available exclusively through digital distribution on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, targeting a release during the holiday season. This digital-only approach reflects modern distribution trends and ensures that players around the globe can access the game upon release.

Development Team and Cultural Authenticity

The development team, comprising 250 dedicated professionals, is focused on delivering an experience that resonates with authenticity and quality. In response to feedback on the first game’s ethnic portrayal, the sequel will embrace a more accurate depiction of the region’s historical demographic diversity, adding depth and authenticity to the cultural representation.

Adding to the game’s authenticity, Warhorse Studios has decided to include original Czech audio tracks, enhancing the immersive experience for Czech players and honoring the game’s roots. This feature underscores the studio’s commitment to cultural fidelity and provides a more authentic gameplay experience for fans in the Czech Republic.

So Now we Wait a Little

With its ambitious scale, deepened story, and commitment to historical and cultural authenticity, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is shaping up to be more than just a sequel—it’s poised to be a landmark release in the RPG genre. As Warhorse Studios continues to reveal more details, the excitement only grows. This sequel not only aims to captivate fans of the original but also to attract new players with its enriched storyline and expansive world.

Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to follow the development of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, a game that promises to redefine the standards of historical RPGs and captivate the global gaming community.

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Key Takeaways:

• Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League was pulled offline just an hour post-launch due to a major bug.
• The bug causes players to have full story completion upon their first login.
• Rocksteady, the developer, is performing urgent maintenance, rendering the game temporarily unavailable.
• The bug’s timing, coinciding with the game’s early access in limited territories, may limit its impact.
• Rocksteady is committed to fixing these issues well before the game’s global release on February 2.

The gaming landscape is no stranger to turbulent launches, and Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League has unfortunately joined the ranks of those memorable, for the wrong reasons. Released for early access, the game was meant to be a tantalizing preview for the fans in New Zealand, signaling the start of an adrenaline-fueled journey against the world’s mightiest heroes. Instead, players were greeted with an unwelcome surprise—a bug so significant it completed the entire story for them, stripping away the essence of gameplay and narrative exploration.

In a swift response, the game’s official account acknowledged the issue, stating, “we’re aware that a number of players are currently experiencing an issue whereby upon logging into the game for the first time, they have full story completion.” To address this, Rocksteady has undertaken server maintenance, rendering the game offline. While the downtime is a disappointment, it’s a necessary step to preserve the integrity of the gaming experience.

This setback is a mixed bag of frustration and relief. On one hand, players are barred from diving into the game’s rich narrative and action-packed missions. On the other, the limited early access release means the bug’s impact is somewhat contained. However, the clever workaround by Xbox players, who set their system clocks to match New Zealand’s timezone, broadens the scope of affected users.

As players eagerly await the return of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, Rocksteady’s assurance of a fix before the global release offers a glimmer of hope. The temporary halt in story progression inadvertently shields the game’s narrative from premature spoilers—a small consolation in this chaotic scenario.

Rocksteady’s vision for the game is clear: an immersive experience that doesn’t demand a lifetime commitment but rather provides a compelling narrative and thrilling gameplay. As the developers navigate this unexpected hurdle, the gaming community watches with bated breath, hopeful for a resolution that restores the game’s intended glory and allows players to truly embark on their mission to take down the Justice League.

FAQs:

In conclusion, the launch of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and unpredictabilities in game development. As the developers work tirelessly to rectify the issue, the incident underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability, both for the creators and the gaming community. The countdown to the repaired and polished version continues, with hopes high for a gaming experience that truly does justice to the iconic Suicide Squad.

Key Takeaways

• Starfield PS5 Release: The once Xbox-exclusive title is now set to launch on PS5.
• A New Era for Gamers: This move marks a significant shift in console exclusivity, offering more players access to this highly anticipated game.
• Expansive Gameplay: Expect a vast, open-world experience that pushes the boundaries of exploration and adventure.

Is Starfield PS5 Different from the Xbox Version?

With the transition to PS5, many gamers are curious if there will be any notable differences in gameplay or graphics. While specific details are under wraps, the core experience of Starfield, an open-world space exploration game, remains consistent across platforms. Enhanced features specific to PS5 hardware, however, could be a possibility.

Why the Sudden Change in Platform Availability?

The gaming industry is no stranger to exclusivity deals, but they’re not set in stone. The decision to bring Starfield to PS5 could be a strategic move by the developers to expand their audience. By transcending console boundaries, they’re not only bolstering sales but also embracing a more inclusive gaming community.

How Will This Impact the Gaming Community?

• Broader Accessibility: More gamers can experience Starfield regardless of their console preference.
• Increased Hype: The anticipation for Starfield PS5 is likely to skyrocket, given the expanded audience.
• Community Discussions: Expect lively discussions across platforms, from Reddit threads to YouTube gameplay breakdowns.

FAQs

Beyond the Stars: What’s Next for Starfield?

The journey of Starfield PS5 is more than just a game release; it’s a symbol of the ever-evolving landscape of gaming. As boundaries blur between consoles, we’re entering an era where the focus is on the game itself, not where it’s played. Starfield PS5 isn’t just a game; it’s a testament to this new, inclusive direction in gaming.

• Engaging Gameplay and Diverse Activities: Destiny 2 excels in delivering fast-paced action, offering a plethora of weapons and abilities to explore.
• Captivating Storyline: The game’s narrative is a compelling journey through various worlds, filled with memorable characters and factions.
• Stunning Visuals: With its impressive graphics and unique art style, Destiny 2 creates an immersive sci-fi universe.
• Multiplayer Excellence: Both cooperative and competitive modes are well-crafted, providing a balanced and enjoyable multiplayer experience.
• Room for Improvement: Despite its strengths, the game faces criticism for repetitive content and some design choices in endgame activities.

The core of Destiny 2’s appeal lies in its gameplay mechanics. Bungie has fine-tuned the shooting experience to near perfection, with a vast array of weapons and player abilities that cater to different playstyles. Whether you’re navigating through story missions, diving into strikes and raids, or testing your mettle in PvP modes, the game consistently delivers a satisfying and dynamic experience.

The Journey Through Destiny 2’s Universe

The narrative aspect of Destiny 2 is one of its shining points. The campaign is not just a backdrop for the action; it’s a well-constructed story that takes players through a rollercoaster of emotions. As you traverse across exotic locales, from the war-torn European Dead Zone to the uncharted territories of Io, you’re not just fighting enemies; you’re part of a larger saga that’s both intriguing and immersive.

Engaging Visuals and Sound Design

Graphically, Destiny 2 is a masterpiece. The attention to detail in the environments, the character models, and the visual effects contribute to a game that’s not only fun to play but also a spectacle to behold. The artistic direction complements the sci-fi setting, with each world offering its unique aesthetic and atmosphere. Coupled with a captivating soundtrack, the game’s presentation elevates the overall experience.

The Social and Competitive Tapestry

Destiny 2’s multiplayer component is robust, featuring a variety of modes that cater to different preferences. The cooperative elements, such as participating in raids or joining forces in strikes, are highlights, fostering a sense of camaraderie among players. The competitive scene, primarily through the Crucible, offers a different pace and challenge, emphasizing skill and strategy.

However, the game’s not without its issues. Some players point out the repetitive nature of certain activities and the desire for more varied endgame options. The Leviathan Raid and its bosses, in particular, have been a point of contention for their design and mechanics. Despite these criticisms, Bungie’s commitment to updates and community feedback has led to improvements and additional content that keep the game fresh and engaging.

FAQs

Looking Forward

Destiny 2 is more than just a game; it’s a sprawling universe that offers an escape into a meticulously crafted sci-fi world. Its blend of shooting mechanics, storytelling, and multiplayer interaction creates a rich, engaging experience. Despite facing some hurdles, the game continues to evolve, promising an ever-expanding universe for Guardians to explore.

While Destiny 2 may have its detractors, its achievements in creating a cohesive and captivating world cannot be overstated. Whether you’re a lone wanderer or a fireteam veteran, Destiny 2 offers a galaxy’s worth of adventures waiting to be discovered. The journey is far from over, and the future of Destiny 2 looks as bright as the stars it encompasses.

Key Takeaways:

• Palworld, a console and PC favorite, to debut mobile adaptation – Palworld GO.
• Early access open beta to arrive in select countries initially.
• Gameplay involves visiting landmarks, earning rewards, and battling challenging Pals.
• Palworld GO players can acquire, hatch Pal eggs by unique game mechanics.
• Palworld GO early access beta launches today, April 1, for iOS and Android devices.

Your Sneak Peek into Palworld GO

With Palworld’s success reaching a whopping 15 million units sold and featured in Xbox Game Pass since its early access release in January, the announcement of Palworld GO is exciting news for the community. Shaking off labels of just being “Pokemon with guns,” the developers have brought their unique touch to the mobile adaptation as well, promising a unique gaming experience for everyone.

Our credible sources mention that the limited early access beta for Palworld GO would be available in three territories—Zanarkand, Yharnam, and New Jersey. This strategic move by the developer, Pocket Pair, is aimed at assessing the mobile version’s infrastructure before extending the beta experience worldwide.

Gameplay Connaisseur?

The gameplay of Palworld GO is still under wraps. Yet, speculations hint towards users receiving incentives to visit various landmarks in a town. The rewards include experience points (XP) for the players’ Pals, ammo, and Palspheres.

A thrilling part of Palworld GO is the ‘Pal Stops’, an on-screen interaction point at the said landmarks. Besides, it takes gaming-cum-exercise to another level—players get to hatch specific Pals from eggs by walking backwards around their neighborhood!

Another layer of excitement is the ‘Incursions,’ replacing some Pal Stops. These involve multiple Palworld GO players uniting for a multiplayer battle against more formidable Pals, including rare finds like Necromus and Shadowbeak.

FAQs:

The seamless adaptation of Palworld to Palworld GO’s mobile format and the introduction of innovative gameplay elements signal a remarkable launch. Make no mistake – the gaming community is watching closely. The Palworld franchise is all set to confirm that it’s not copying anyone but crafting its unique, interactive universe.

Key Takeaways

• Resident Evil 2 and Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands come to PS5 and PS4
• PS Plus Premium is getting Legend of Mana and Rally Cross
• A mix of AAA hits and hidden indie gems across various genres

Resident Evil 2

Leading the pack for PS Plus Extra in January is the stellar Resident Evil 2 remake. As one of the most acclaimed entries in the long-running survival horror series, it’s easy to see why this remake continues to captivate players. Taking the original PlayStation game and completely overhauling it with modern visuals and gameplay, it’s a masterclass in remaking a classic. You’ll explore the Raccoon City police station and sewers while being stalked by terrifying enemies, including the iconic Mr. X. Its atmosphere, puzzles, and tense combat still hold up incredibly well today. If you haven’t played this yet, it’s a must-download.

Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands

Another huge title coming to PS Plus Extra is Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, the Borderlands spin-off that puts a fantasy tabletop RPG twist on the looter-shooter formula. While it may not be a pure Borderlands experience, it’s absolutely packed with chaotic, humor-filled action. You’ll explore colorful environments, find epic loot, and battle against outlandish enemies. Alongside a fun story full of memorable characters like the eccentric Tiny Tina, it delivers a truly unique take on the RPG genre. Its bright, whimsical world is just begging to be explored.

Legend of Mana

For PS Plus Premium subscribers, one of the most intriguing additions is Legend of Mana, an action RPG from Square Enix. Originally released for the PlayStation in 1999, it puts a magical twist on the Mana series’ gameplay with its innovative crafting system. You’ll explore colorful lands, engage in real-time combat, and shape the world itself by building towns. With gorgeous hand-drawn visuals, a whimsical soundtrack, and deep customization options, it’s easy to see why this cult classic has endured among JRPG fans for over 20 years. It’s a real treat for retro enthusiasts.

Hardspace: Shipbreaker

Another highlight for PS Plus Extra is Hardspace: Shipbreaker, a unique indie game that tasks you with salvaging derelict spaceships. Using an array of tools, you’ll carefully dismantle vessels and extract valuable resources. However, it’s a risky job – one wrong move could cause catastrophic damage or even death. It’s an immersive sim experience with realistic zero-g physics. While the learning curve is steep, mastering its complex systems is incredibly satisfying. For fans of challenging, physics-based games, this one shouldn’t be missed.

Rally Cross

Racing fans will want to check out the PS1 classic Rally Cross coming to PS Plus Premium. As the name suggests, it focuses on off-road racing across treacherous tracks. While basic by today’s standards, it’s a fun blast from the past that holds up thanks to tight controls and thrilling speed. You’ll drift around corners, barrel through obstacles, and battle opponents in various vehicle classes. Plus, the retro graphics have a charming quality. It may not have all the bells and whistles of modern racers, but it delivers pure, unadulterated arcade racing fun.

Secret of Mana

Another beloved RPG coming to PS Plus Premium is Secret of Mana, a top-down action-adventure originally released in 1993. Set in a high fantasy world, it follows a group of heroes as they embark on a quest to collect powerful orbs. With vibrant pixel graphics, an enchanting soundtrack, and thrilling real-time combat, it helped define the Mana series and was hugely influential. While its gameplay may feel dated compared to modern titles, its charm, characters, and sense of wonder are timeless. It’s a must-play for RPG fans both old and new.

Other Notable Games

A few other standouts joining PS Plus Extra and Premium include the creepy psychological horror Vampire: The Masquerade – Swansong, the post-apocalyptic city-building sim Surviving the Aftermath, and the innovative skateboarding game Session. There’s also action favorites like Just Cause 3 and LEGO City Undercover to look forward to. No matter your tastes, Sony has you covered with this excellent selection of new additions.

Resident Evil 2 Remake Review

This review by GameSpot goes into great detail about what makes Resident Evil 2 such a stellar remake. It highlights the revamped visuals, tense atmosphere, reworked puzzles, and Mr. X as a terrifying new enemy. If you need any more convincing that this is a must-play, this video does an excellent job showcasing why it’s considered one of the best remakes ever made.

FAQs

PlayStation Plus Essential is the lowest tier of Sony’s gaming subscription service, and one of the perks of membership is that three free games come up for grabs every month. These titles will remain in a user’s library for as long as they remain with the service, but even if a PS Plus subscription lapses and then is renewed, all previously acquired free games will become available again.

Immortals of Aveum is a single-player first-person shooter developed by Ascendant Studios that currently sits at a 72 on OpenCritic. Players take on the role of Jak, a battlemage saving the world from the Everwar using magic-based powers.

Skul: The Hero Slayer is a roguelike platformer from Southpaw Games that won several awards pre-launch. As a tough little skeleton soldier, Skul crosses paths with Demon slayers and must hunt the hunters to free captured Demons. Procedurally generated levels offer challenge wrapped in pixel art.

Minecraft Legends is the real-time strategy spin-off from Mojang and Blackbird Interactive. Despite a “Mixed” Steam review and dwindling player numbers, the base-building and combat exploration retain fans.

In addition, PS Plus subscribers receive the Combat Pack 3 bundle for Call of Duty, including a blue operator skin, weapon blueprints, and more. All free April 2024 games are now available for PlayStation Plus members to enjoy across different genres.

Grounded Creative Mode Key Takeaways

• Infinite resources allow for limitless building and crafting in grounded creative mode
• No enemy threats so you can focus on creativity
• Fly and no-clip through the world for easier construction
• Spawn any item to test out wild design ideas
• Share creations with others via blueprint sharing

Building Your Dream Base

One of the most enjoyable aspects of creative mode is constructing the base of your dreams. With all resources available in unlimited quantities, you can build massive structures without worrying about gathering materials in grounded creative mode. Want to make a multilevel treehouse palace? A massive underground bunker? An intricate clocktower? The possibilities are endless. You also gain the ability to fly, letting you easily place blocks in hard-to-reach places high off the ground.

Testing Crazy Contraptions

Grounded Creative mode provides the perfect low-stakes environment to experiment with crazy contraption ideas. Want to build a massive Rube Goldberg machine? A crazy rollercoaster spanning the backyard? A elaborate trap system? You can spawn any item to bring even the wildest designs to life. With no enemy threats, you can focus entirely on your creations without distractions. It’s also easy to destroy and restart if a build isn’t working as planned.

Spawning Items On Demand

One of the most useful grounded creative mode abilities is instantly spawning any block, tool, or weapon with a few button presses. Need more raw materials? Spawn a stack with one click. Want to test out a rare weapon? Just summon it into your inventory. This makes item collection a non-issue so you can focus fully on construction. It’s also great for building demonstration areas, letting you instantly reset rooms to their pristine states.

Sharing Blueprints with Others

Once you’ve crafted an amazing build, you can share your creation with others using blueprint sharing. Export your build as a blueprint file which others can then import into their own worlds. This allows creative builders to show off their designs and also find new inspiration from what others have made. You might discover an ingenious building technique or get a cool idea for a new project of your own. The blueprint system opens up endless creative possibilities.

No Enemy Threats = Unlimited Focus on Building

Unlike the main game where hostile insects are constantly trying to destroy your base, grounded creative mode removes all threats. You’ll never be interrupted by a spider suddenly attacking or have to rebuild walls taken down by ants. This allows unrestricted focus on your constructions without distractions. You also can’t die or take damage, removing any stress when working high off the ground or experimenting with dangerous traps. It’s the perfect low-pressure environment for unleashing your inner architect.

Fly and No-Clip Through the World

Grounded Creative mode grants some handy abilities like flying and no-clipping that make building and traversing the world much easier. Flying lets you soar high above the treetops to get a bird’s eye view of your projects. It’s also great for placing blocks in hard-to-reach areas of tall builds. No-clipping removes collision, letting you seamlessly glide through walls and structures. This comes in handy for intricate interior decorating or fixing issues on the inside of buildings. Both abilities massively boost construction convenience.

Testing Ideas Before Committing Resources

For those who enjoy the survival aspects of Grounded’s main mode, creative building provides a safe testing ground. You can prototype new base designs, crafting stations, and trap creations without investing limited-supply resources. This lets you iterate on ideas, seeing what works well and what doesn’t before committing valuable materials. It’s lower pressure than diving straight into a big build in the regular mode. You might discover more efficient designs or find issues you want to tweak before using the blueprint in a survival world.

An Endless Sandbox for Creativity

Overall, Grounded creative mode unleashes your imagination by removing all restrictions on building. With infinite resources, no threats, and handy abilities, you can focus entirely on crafting whatever wild structures and contraptions come to mind. Whether you want to build the biggest bases, craft insane Rube Goldberg machines, or just let your creative juices flow, this mode provides an endless virtual sandbox. Be sure to check it out and let your imagination run wild in the backyard setting!

FAQs

How do I access creative mode in Grounded?

To enter grounded creative mode, start a new game and select the “Creative” option when choosing your world type. You’ll spawn at the oak tree with all building and crafting options unlocked.

Can I build anywhere in creative mode?

Yes, grounded creative mode removes all building restrictions. You can construct freely anywhere in the backyard, even places normally obstructed like under the hedge or inside other structures.

Can I share my creative mode builds?

Absolutely. Once your build is complete, you can export it as a blueprint file then share that blueprint online or with friends. They can then import it into their own creative worlds.

What items are available in creative mode?

You have access to craft and spawn all items, resources, and blocks found in the main Grounded game. This includes all tools, weapons, armor, building parts, crafting stations, and more.

Can I play creative mode with friends?

Not yet, but the developers have said cooperative creative building is a planned feature. For now creative mode can only be accessed solo in a private world.