A Tale of Friendship in the Frozen North

Riot Forge, in collaboration with Tequila Works, delivers a captivating narrative that draws players into the chilly expanse of Freljord. The buddy-movie-esque tale follows Nunu’s quest to find his missing mother, accompanied by the lovable Willump. The characters are constantly interacting from sharing food to friendly banter reinforcing their strong connection and love for each other. The amount of little animations giving the two character is amazing. The storytelling stands out as the game’s crown jewel, creating a cheery atmosphere peppered with somber moments. The Freljord, brought to life with Norse-inspired landscapes, serves as the perfect stage for this adorable duo’s escapades.

A Mixed Bag in Gameplay

As I navigated through “Song of Nunu,” it became evident that the gameplay is a mixed bag, with a distinct focus on storytelling. The platforming sequences, while forgiving, showcase the stunning environments and the seamless bond between Nunu and Willump. However, some may find the gameplay mechanics a bit basic. Nunu’s combat abilities, limited to snowball throws and a mystical flute, contribute more to puzzle-solving than intense battles. The transitions between Nunu and Willump, though commendably seamless, might leave some longing for more depth in the gameplay.

Finding Joy in Simplicity

While combat may feel redundant, the puzzles and platforming segments are where Song of Nunu truly shines. The game introduces mechanics progressively, allowing players to grasp new concepts seamlessly. The puzzles, although not overly challenging, provide a satisfying experience, especially when combining learned mechanics for more intricate challenges. The musical moments, accompanied by a beautiful soundtrack, add a layer of joy to the journey, proving that sometimes, simplicity is the key to enjoyment.

A Visual and Auditory Feast

The Freljord, with its varied landscapes, offers a visual feast that goes beyond the stereotypical frozen tundra. From invader ships trapped in a flash freeze to icy caves with rainbow beams, the environments showcase the developers’ commitment to detail. The gorgeous artwork, coupled with an enchanting soundtrack, and ‘too cute’ voice acting creates an immersive experience that gives you the warm and fuzzies.

Cuteness Overload

In the midst of the Freljord’s wonders, the adorable poros and hidden murals add an extra layer of charm. While the murals provide background insights into the game world, the poros steal the show. Offering players the chance to interact by sharing a cookie, these fluffy creatures are undoubtedly the stars of the show, contributing to the game’s cuteness factor.

Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story may not break new ground in terms of gameplay mechanics, but it undeniably excels in crafting a heartwarming experience. The game’s strengths lie in its storytelling, characters, and the sheer joy of exploring the beautifully crafted Freljord. As I bid farewell to Nunu and Willump after a 5-7 hour adventure, it’s clear that this is indeed the cutest, most heart-warming game of 2024 so far. If you seek a day filled with whimsical characters, vibrant backdrops, and a dash of silliness, Song of Nunu is a journey worth embarking on.

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Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) – Unleashing Game Pass on VR

For those like me who have both an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and a Meta Quest headset, the gaming extravaganza just got bigger. From award-winning titles like Forza Motorsport to the adrenaline-pumping Hi-Fi Rush, immerse yourself in a world of gaming anytime, anywhere—thanks to the glorious marriage of Xbox and Meta Quest platforms.

Embrace the Possibilities

Picture yourself exploring the vast universe of Starfield or burning rubber on the tracks of Forza Motorsport, all on a colossal virtual screen. Dive into indie gems like Unpacking or relive iconic adventures with games such as Fallout 4 and Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order. The selection spans from Goat Simulator antics to LEGO Star Wars adventures, all at your fingertips with a Game Pass membership, offering a smorgasbord of gaming delights.

Start Your Gaming Journey

Transitioning into this immersive gaming experience is a breeze. Head over to the Meta Quest Store and download the Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) app. Follow the straightforward tutorial to pair your supported controller, including Xbox Wireless controllers with Bluetooth support. If you’re new to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, a trial membership can get you on board.

Play Your Way

Inside the app, choose from a plethora of titles available in the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate library. Tailor your gaming view with four display sizes and immerse yourself in an Xbox-themed virtual space or blend gaming with reality using Quest 3 or Pro’s full-color Passthrough feature.

Witness the excitement of Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) on Meta Quest in action through the thrilling trailer above.

This collaboration between Xbox and Meta Quest marks a significant stride in bringing the gaming community together across platforms and screens. For more details on Xbox Cloud Gaming on Meta Quest devices, delve into Meta’s announcement, and explore further about Xbox Cloud Gaming on xbox.com/cloudgaming.

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The Magic of Hinterberg

Hinterberg, a once-tranquil town nestled in the picturesque Austrian Alps, has suddenly become the epicentre of magical happenings. Portals to new realms and fearsome creatures have transformed this Alpine idyll into a bustling hub of adventure.

In Dungeons of Hinterberg, you’ll don Luisa’s mantle and delve into a unique action RPG with social simulation elements. Here, your quest unfolds amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Alps. Venture into various biomes, explore mysterious dungeons, and return to the village for some après-slay socialising. Adventure and camaraderie are your constant companions, each shaping your progress in the game.

“Après-Slay” Fun in Hinterberg

Your journey starts each day at a cosy guest house in the heart of Hinterberg. From this home base, you’ll choose your daily destination — the biomes awaiting your exploration are teeming with magical skills to master, unique dungeons to conquer, and a host of challenges.

As you journey through these serene landscapes, your main goal is to tackle dungeons. Will you aim to conquer the “25 dungeons in 25 days” challenge or savour a more leisurely “slaycation”? Your choices will determine your pace and experiences.

Challenges and Friends Await

While you might be prepared to wield your sword, harness magic, and flex your puzzle-solving skills, you’ll soon discover that some challenges demand a helping hand. That’s where the social side of the game steps in.

Hinterberg’s newfound reputation as a magical-slaying haven has attracted adventurers and tourists from far and wide. The village is now a bustling hub, offering endless activities and hangout spots.

As you mingle with the locals and visitors, you’ll unearth their stories, gain insights into Hinterberg’s secrets, and uncover potential allies. Your choice of friends is crucial. Each evening, you can deepen your bond with someone, and the rewards are bountiful. Valuable items, new skills, and vital information can all be yours.

Consider your challenges, and make your friends wisely. Seek out dungeon experts, learn from seasoned monster slayers, or forge enchanted swords at Hannah’s smithy. And don’t forget about the village dog — cute companionship is a reward in itself.

Magic and Friendship Await

In Dungeons of Hinterberg, magic and friendship are your tickets to success. Join Luisa in this enchanting adventure, set to launch on Xbox Series X|S and Windows in early 2024, and remember, it’s coming day one with Game Pass! Get ready to embrace the magic of Hinterberg and the adventures that lie ahead.

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A Beautiful World To Explore

Adore boasts a visually stunning presentation that immediately captures the imagination. The game’s hand-drawn art style creates a beautifully rendered world filled with vibrant colors, intricate character designs, and lush environments. Every detail is meticulously crafted, immersing players in a world that feels both fantastical and lived-in.

The diverse array of creatures you encounter in Adore is a testament to the creativity of the developers. Each fantastical creature is rendered with care and exhibits unique animations and behaviors. The world feels alive and teeming with personality, thanks to the attention to graphical detail.

Furthermore, the game’s dynamic lighting and weather effects add depth to the overall visual experience. Watching the world transform from day to night or witnessing the interplay of light and shadow during combat sequences enhances the game’s atmosphere.

An RPG Roguelike With Monster Collection

Adore offers a gameplay experience that defies easy categorization. At its core, it combines action RPG elements with roguelike progression and creature collection mechanics. Players assume the role of a young adventurer, exploring procedurally generated dungeons and battling an array of creatures.

The standout mechanic in Adore is the ability to “adopt” and evolve creatures you encounter. These creatures serve as both companions and weapons, each with unique abilities and attributes. Managing your creature collection, evolving them, and strategically choosing which ones to bring into battle add depth to the gameplay.

Combat in Adore is real-time and requires a combination of skill and strategy. Players must dodge enemy attacks, utilize their creatures’ abilities effectively, and make quick decisions during fast-paced encounters. The gameplay can be challenging, and mastering the intricacies of creature management is essential for success.

The progression system is roguelike in nature, meaning that death is not the end of your journey. Upon defeat, you lose your collected resources but retain experience points and creature levels, allowing for incremental progress. This design choice encourages repeated playthroughs, as each run offers the opportunity to experiment with different creature combinations and strategies.

A Subtle Narrative

Adore’s narrative is enigmatic and gradually unfolds as you explore the game world and interact with its inhabitants. The game’s storytelling is more subtle than overt, leaving much of the world’s lore and mysteries for players to uncover on their own. While this approach can be intriguing, some players may find themselves wanting a more explicit narrative structure.

The characters you meet in Adore are intriguing, and their dialogues provide hints about the world’s history and the nature of the creatures that inhabit it. However, the narrative might not be the primary draw for players, as the gameplay mechanics take center stage.

The soundtrack of Adore is hauntingly atmospheric, complementing the game’s mysterious and otherworldly setting. The music sets the tone for exploration, combat, and moments of introspection, enhancing the overall experience. The sound design is immersive, with creature sounds, ambient noise, and environmental audio all contributing to the game’s atmosphere.

Adore offers substantial replayability through its procedurally generated dungeons, creature collection mechanics, and roguelike progression system. Players can spend hours experimenting with different creature combinations, strategies, and playstyles. Each run feels distinct, and the sense of discovery remains intact even after multiple playthroughs.

In addition to the main campaign, Adore features side quests and challenges that provide additional content for those seeking to further explore the game world and test their skills.

Adore on the Xbox Series X is a visually stunning and complex adventure that pushes the boundaries of traditional genre classifications. Its hand-drawn art style, intricate creature design, and challenging gameplay mechanics make it a unique and engaging experience for those willing to embrace its complexities.

While Adore’s narrative may take a backseat to its gameplay, and some players may find the difficulty level steep, it offers a rewarding and thought-provoking journey through an enigmatic world.

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Unveiling Sunshine Manor

In Sunshine Manor, players step into the shoes of Ada McReady, a young soul who, through a twist of fate, finds herself trapped in the eerie confines of Sunshine Manor while out on a Halloween trick-or-treating adventure. It’s not the kind of place anyone would willingly choose to visit. With its long, shadowy corridors draped in cobwebs, creaking floorboards, and an atmosphere that’s anything but welcoming, Ada’s only mission is to escape this nightmarish labyrinth as swiftly as possible.

As you guide Ada through her unsettling exploration of the manor, prepare to encounter ghosts, engage with demons (some more amicable than others), and strive to unravel the mysteries unfolding within the old Aitken house. In the classic battle between good and evil, Ada possesses her own set of tricks, including psychic powers to banish demons from her path.

Sunshine Manor promises a tale full of twists, turns, mystery, blood, and much more once that foreboding door slams shut behind you. Unearth the hidden secrets and untangle the history of this nightmarish abode, all while evading the ever-watchful gaze of The Shadow Man, who lurks, observing your every move.

Game Features That Haunt Your Imagination

• An original 1-hour and 22-minute soundtrack composed exclusively for the game.
• A dark, intricate, and downright bizarre storyline that leads to the chilling events of the Camp Sunshine massacre.
• Stunning hand-drawn pixel art reminiscent of the 8-bit era.
• Inspired by classic horror films from the 1980s and beyond.

Do you dare to venture into Sunshine Manor, a perilous game of cat and mouse where the ominous Shadow Man could be lurking around any corner?

About Fossil Games: Crafting Nostalgia

Fossil Games is a dynamic duo of indie game developers who share a deep passion for retro gaming, pixel art, and 1980s horror movies. They have previously released Camp Sunshine, the first installment in their Sunshine Universe trilogy, to rave reviews and widespread acclaim, earning a place in the hearts of gamers and YouTubers alike. Now, they invite you to experience the spine-chilling world of Sunshine Manor.

As we delve into this unsettling adventure, stay tuned for our upcoming review, where we’ll journey deeper into the mysteries and horrors that Sunshine Manor has in store.

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A Familiar, Yet Endearing Tale

Potata: Fairy Flower introduces you to Potata, a young witch with a furry companion in need of help. While the premise might sound familiar, Potata’s journey takes a unique twist when she inadvertently upsets a slumbering fairy by plucking a magical flower. To make amends, she embarks on a quest to gather scattered petals and restore harmony.

Old-School Platforming with a Modern Touch

The gameplay in Potata is reminiscent of classic platformers. You’ll guide Potata through a series of challenging levels filled with enemies, obstacles, and hazards. Precision jumping and timing are key to survival. Thankfully, the controls are responsive and familiar, making it easy to pick up and play.

Puzzles and Exploration Add Depth

While platforming is at the heart of the game, Potata: Fairy Flower offers more than just jumps and dashes. Puzzles are sprinkled throughout your adventure, requiring clever thinking and exploration. These puzzles break up the action nicely, adding variety to the gameplay.

Stunning Hand-Drawn Artwork

One of the standout features of this game is its visual style. The hand-drawn artistry brings the world to life, with vibrant colours and charming character designs. The transition to Xbox Series X has done wonders for the game’s visual fidelity, and it’s a delight to explore this enchanting world.

The Challenge Factor

While Potata: Fairy Flower might appear family-friendly at first glance, don’t be fooled. This game can be genuinely challenging. Some platforming sections demand precision and can lead to frustrating moments, but they’re balanced by the satisfaction of overcoming them. Be prepared to hone your gaming skills.

A Few Hiccups

While the gameplay shines, the dialogue sections occasionally bog down the experience. Lengthy dialogues and grammatical errors can disrupt the flow. It’s clear that the game leans heavily on its narrative elements, but there’s room for refinement in this aspect.

A Whimsical Adventure Worth Exploring

Potata: Fairy Flower (Xbox Series X Edition) is a delightful blend of platforming and puzzle-solving, wrapped in a visually captivating world. The game retains the essence of classic platformers while offering modern conveniences. Its difficulty might not make it the ideal family-friendly title, but for those seeking a challenge and a dose of magical adventure, Potata’s journey is one worth taking.

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A Sip of the Winemaking Life

The long-anticipated arrival of Hundred Days on Xbox has brought the joys and challenges of winemaking straight to your fingertips. Developed by Broken Arms Games, this simulator invites players to explore both Piemonte and Napa Valley scenarios, complete with their unique grape varieties and intricacies. This is not just a game; it’s a chance to embark on a journey that uncorks the world of wine production.

A Vine’s Journey Unveiled

Imagine witnessing the life cycle of a vine leaf unfold, from its humble beginnings to its transformation into the finest wines. Hundred Days takes you through this captivating journey, employing a blend of deep and realistic gameplay mechanics. These mechanics are designed to cater to both newcomers and seasoned players, allowing everyone to grasp the essence of winemaking.

Crafting Wine: A Delicate Art

Winemaking is an intricate art that demands chemistry, meticulous routines, a touch of luck, and above all, passion. As a virtual winemaker, you’ll need to learn the nuances of the trade and cultivate a thriving vineyard. You’ll tread the path of success by learning how to balance these various elements to produce exquisite wines that satisfy the discerning palates of your customers.

Savouring the Experience

Broken Arms Games’ Hundred Days – Winemaking Simulator is set to be priced at 29,99 €/ 29,99 $/ 26,99 £, with an exciting 15% launch discount. This presents an excellent opportunity for gamers to dive into the world of winemaking without straining their wallets.

If you’re intrigued by the art of winemaking, the allure of exploring vineyards, and the intricate dance of chemistry, routine, and passion, then Hundred Days could be your perfect gaming match. So why not raise a virtual glass to this engaging simulation and embark on a digital winemaking journey?

Cheers to Hundred Days, and let the virtual vineyards unfold their stories on your Xbox console. Don’t miss the chance to experience the world of winemaking like never before.

Hundred Days – Winemaking Simulator is available now on Xbox Series X|S and Windows Store. For more information and to immerse yourself in the world of vines and vintages, check out the game’s official page on the Xbox Store.

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A Journey Beyond Limits

In a spectacular launch, Everspace 2 offers players the chance to dive into a sprawling universe brimming with over 100 meticulously crafted locations, all brought to life in stunning 60 frames per second. Gamers on Xbox Series X|S can prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey amongst the stars, crafting their destiny in the vastness of space.

Play Anywhere with Xbox Game Pass

The launch on Xbox Game Pass brings an extra layer of excitement, allowing intrepid spacefarers to explore the depths of the cosmos on both Xbox platforms and the Microsoft Store. The Play Anywhere feature means that the journey can continue seamlessly across devices, offering a unique and immersive experience.

A Galactic Adventure Awaits

Michael Schade, CEO of Rockfish Games, spoke of the passion behind Everspace 2’s creation, a journey spanning over six years. He states, “The journey for Everspace 2 fans is not over. In addition to a free update coming later this fall, we’ve already started work on a sizable expansion to the game which will add more star systems, more story content, more characters, and most importantly, more loot to discover.”

Next-Gen Features Await

For players embracing the universe on PlayStation 5, Everspace 2 promises a heightened experience, making full use of the DualSense controller’s features. From adaptive triggers to immersive haptic feedback, PlayStation 5 players can expect to feel the cosmos at their fingertips.

A Universe of Possibilities

Everspace 2 offers an enthralling 30-hour single-player campaign, fully voiced in both English and German. With countless hours of side missions, challenges, and activities localized in multiple languages, the game’s expansive universe is ready to captivate players from all walks of life.

Retail Editions for Space Explorers

For those seeking a tactile experience, the Everspace 2 Stellar Edition, featuring an enticing steelbook, a 64-page artbook, and a digital soundtrack download, will be available worldwide on October 3, 2023. Pre-orders are already open through various global retailers.

Embark on Your Adventure

As the stars become the limit, Everspace 2 promises an immersive adventure that transcends boundaries. It’s time to strap in, navigate the cosmos, and unveil the secrets of the universe like never before.

Follow the journey of Everspace 2 on their official channels for the latest updates and streams. The game is available on Xbox, Microsoft Store, Steam, GOG, and PlayStation. The exploration awaits, are you ready to answer the call of the stars?

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Embarking on a Cozy Journey

From the moment I started playing Fall of Porcupine, I couldn’t help but draw parallels with Night in the Woods. While the art styles and developers differ, both games share a captivating storytelling approach that pulls players into their respective worlds. The character design and animation in Fall of Porcupine are delightful, featuring anthropomorphic animals working human jobs, from a hippo receptionist to a cow medic co-worker.

A Heartfelt Tale of Healthcare and Friendship

Playing as Finley, the bright-eyed pigeon doctor, players dive into a captivating narrative that revolves around themes of healthcare and social issues. As I explored the picturesque town of Porcupine, I encountered various charming characters, each with their own stories and secrets. The game’s writing shines, bringing these characters to life and immersing players in their personal struggles and triumphs.

Challenges and Mini-Games

Throughout the game, players engage in a variety of mini-games and challenges as they tend to patients at St. Ursula’s Hospital. These moments offer a mix of fun and emotional depth, as players navigate puzzles and rhythm-based activities to provide care. While some mini-games could benefit from clearer instructions, the overall experience is enjoyable, especially when players explore the town with their friends and partake in delightful activities like shooting hoops or cooking dinner.

A Pacing Tale and a Few Bugs

As I progressed through Fall of Porcupine, I encountered a couple of minor bugs, such as floating in the air randomly. However, these issues didn’t significantly impact my overall experience. The pacing of the game, on the other hand, presented some challenges. The story starts strong and draws players in with its charming world and well-developed characters. However, in the later stages, the narrative can feel rushed, leaving players with unanswered questions. Nonetheless, the emotional impact and wholesome themes of the game remain intact, making it a memorable journey.

A Cozy and Impactful Experience

Despite a few bumps along the way, Fall of Porcupine delivers a heartfelt and meaningful adventure that beautifully blends realism and fantasy. Its charming art style and diverse cast of characters add a layer of joy to the narrative, while the healthcare-focused themes bring depth and relevance to the overall story. While pacing and minor bugs may be present, the emotional journey this game offers is worth every moment spent in the world of Porcupine. As a fan of cozy games on Xbox, I wholeheartedly recommend Fall of Porcupine for those seeking an emotional and unique gameplay journey.

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A Walk Down Memory Lane with Antstream Arcade

The Antstream Arcade catalog takes us on an exciting journey through gaming history, offering titles from early Atari releases to Commodore, Sega, Nintendo, and the original PlayStation era. The best part? You won’t need to fuss with installations, downloads, or setups; all these retro gems will be instantly accessible on Xbox One and S/X. The team at Antstream Arcade has worked tirelessly to ensure that these classics are carefully optimized through a rigorous quality control process, preserving the authentic gameplay experience just as the developers intended.

Revolutionary Gameplay and Unique Mini-Game Challenges

One of the standout features of Antstream Arcade is its revolutionary way of playing retro games. By using unique technology to modify the originals, Antstream introduces new mini-game challenges that breathe fresh life into these timeless classics. Picture yourself playing as Pac-Man but with a twist – avoid collecting the dots, or experience a role reversal where Pac-Man becomes the chaser while Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde are on the run! This innovative approach caters to both veteran players seeking a unique experience and newcomers eager to explore the classics from a fresh perspective.

Compete, Connect, and Show Off Your Gaming Prowess

Beyond the nostalgia trip, Antstream Arcade brings a competitive edge to the gaming community. Players can enter tournaments, engage in high-score duels, and participate in giant slayer community battles, fostering a sense of camaraderie among fellow retro gaming enthusiasts. The platform supports instant cloud game saves, online high scores, and resume play features across multiple devices, making it easier to connect and compete with friends and gamers worldwide.

Antstream Arcade on Xbox: A Dream Come True for Retro Gamers

As I read through the insights shared by Steve Cottam, CEO of Antstream Arcade, I couldn’t help but resonate with his passion for preserving and making classic games accessible to all. The excitement in his voice about bringing the Antstream Arcade platform to the Xbox community is contagious, and it’s evident that this service holds a special place in his heart. Sarah Bond, CVP of Game Creator Experience and Ecosystem at Microsoft, also shares our enthusiasm, highlighting the incredible opportunity to stream these nostalgic games on Xbox consoles and share them with friends and family.

A Stellar Retro Gaming Experience Awaits

With the native support for Antstream Arcade on Xbox, players will get to enjoy a seamless and immersive retro gaming experience. The game’s extensive library, impressive cloud gaming features, and regular additions of new titles ensure that there’s always something exciting to discover. Antstream Arcade has already garnered millions of downloads and multiple industry awards, which speaks volumes about its appeal to retro gamers worldwide.

As an avid retro gamer, I can’t wait to dive into Antstream Arcade’s vast collection of classic titles. The ability to relive my favorite gaming memories and share these experiences with friends and family is truly exhilarating. If you, too, hold a special place in your heart for the golden age of gaming. Antstream Arcade on Xbox is ready to take us on a nostalgic journey filled with timeless classics and new mini-game challenges that will keep us entertained for hours on end.

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A Zany Gang of Misfit Animals

In Filthy Animals: Heist Simulator, you find yourself in the employ of Tony, the eccentric Filthy Animal Bossman Criminal Mastermind (who, let’s face it, probably chose his own name). Joined by a ragtag crew of animal misfits, you’ll embark on a series of daring heists that increase in scale and potential rewards. From stealing cold hard cash to securing nuclear materials, the action never stops.

Unleash Your Inner Animal

Play as one of four mutant creatures, each with their own quirky appearance. As you successfully complete heists, your characters will gain experience points, allowing them to level up and unlock new perks. Discover hidden collectibles and enjoy the satisfaction of leveling up to a modest cap of six, earning new perks like increased ammo drops and unique character skins.

Objectives, Mayhem, and Hidden Loot

Each heist presents various objectives, but you only need to complete three to successfully exit the level. Objectives range from collecting loot and smashing specific items to tracking down hidden letters spelling out “FILTHY” (Reminded me of Tony Hawks). The levels are filled with items waiting to be smashed or thrown around, providing a chaotic atmosphere. Additionally, hidden collectibles are scattered throughout the levels, offering extra challenges and rewards for adventurous players.

Weapons, Abilities, and Vending Machines

Engage in combat with the relentless guards trying to stop your heists. Utilize a variety of weapons, from rocket launchers to semi-automatic rifles, to fend them off. Your most valuable asset is your special ability, which can be charged by consuming tacos and other goodies scattered throughout the levels, granting you temporary superpowers. Vending machines also play a role, offering a range of beverages that can turn the tide of a heist, providing shields, speed boosts, and more.

Flaws in the Mayhem

While Filthy Animals brings an abundance of laughter and entertainment, it does suffer from a few flaws. The controls, intentionally adopting loose, unruly physics similar to Human Fall Flat, can be frustratingly imprecise, leading to inadvertent mishaps and challenges. Combat and item interaction can feel clunky, and grabbing the wrong objects or accidentally knocking yourself over can be a source of frustration. It’s a bit like being drunk. Some platforming sections also suffer from imprecise controls and delays.

A Riotous Co-op Experience

Filthy Animals truly shines when played with friends or loved ones. The game supports both local and online co-op for up to four players, amplifying the hilarity and fun. While multiplayer doesn’t alleviate all the issues, such as the imprecise controls, it offers a shared experience that can result in memorable and laughter-filled moments. Gather your crew and embark on this wacky adventure together.

Visuals, Sound, and Level Design

Visually, Filthy Animals impresses with its well-designed levels. The environments are filled with interactive objects and provide a visually engaging backdrop for your heists. Each level has its unique theme, ranging from a high-security bank to an underground laboratory, adding variety to the game’s visuals. The character designs are charming and quirky, capturing the essence of the misfit animals you control.

The sound design in Filthy Animals: Heist Simulator complements the chaotic gameplay perfectly. The wacky antics of the characters are accompanied by humorous sound effects, adding an extra layer of comedic value. The soundtrack, while occasionally repetitive, fits the heist theme and adds to the overall atmosphere of the game.

The level design is well thought out, offering a mix of open spaces and tight corridors to navigate. Each level has multiple paths and hidden areas, encouraging exploration and discovery. While the controls can sometimes make traversal a bit challenging, the level design provides opportunities for creative solutions and improvisation.

Replayability and Longevity

Filthy Animals offers a decent amount of replayability. With multiple objectives to complete in each heist, hidden collectibles to find, and character progression through leveling up, there are incentives to revisit levels and improve your performance. The cooperative multiplayer aspect further enhances replayability, as each heist can be approached differently with a group of friends.

However, the game’s longevity may be limited for some players. While the initial heists and chaos provide plenty of entertainment, the repetitive nature of the gameplay and the limited number of levels may lead to eventual weariness. Additional content updates or DLCs could help address this issue and provide more variety for long-term engagement.

Filthy Animals: Heist Simulator is a hilarious co-op romp that combines the chaos of Gang Beasts with the heist elements of Payday 2. With its zany characters, outrageous objectives, and unpredictable physics-based gameplay, it offers a unique and entertaining experience for players seeking lighthearted fun. While it has its flaws, such as imprecise controls and limited longevity, the game’s cooperative multiplayer and engaging visuals make it a worthwhile choice for a laughter-filled gaming session with friends.

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Prepare to embark on a magical adventure like no other in The Plucky Squire. Developed by indie studio All Possible Futures and published by Devolver Digital, this action-adventure game takes players on a journey through the captivating world of storybook characters. Taking on the role of the brave protagonist, Jot, and his friends, you’ll find yourself transported to a three-dimensional realm beyond the pages of their book. With an intriguing blend of action and platforming elements, The Plucky Squire promises to deliver an experience that will capture the hearts of gamers.

The Story Unfolds: Jot’s Epic Quest

In The Plucky Squire, you’ll join the heroic Jot as he faces a formidable challenge. Banished from his storybook by the villainous Humgrump, Jot must venture into both the world within the book and the real world to overcome obstacles and save his friends. It turns out that Humgrump realizes he is the destined villain of the story, set to be defeated by Jot and the forces of righteousness. In a desperate attempt to alter his fate, Humgrump expels Jot from the pages, forever altering the story.

To restore the storybook’s happy ending and rescue his friends from Humgrump’s dark forces, Jot embarks on a remarkable journey. Along the way, he gains the extraordinary ability to traverse between the 2D and 3D worlds. This unique power opens up a realm of possibilities, allowing Jot to solve intricate puzzles, engage in thrilling mini-challenges such as boxing badgers and jetpack flying, and face numerous other obstacles as he assumes the role of the hero within a living storybook.

Development: A Fusion of Talented Minds

The Plucky Squire is the brainchild of All Possible Futures, an indie game studio founded by James Turner and Jonathan Biddle. James Turner, known for his previous work as a designer on Pokémon and as the art director for Pokémon Sword & Shield, brings his wealth of experience and artistic flair to the project. Co-founder Jonathan Biddle, who previously collaborated with Devolver Digital as the creative director for The Swords of Ditto and founder of Onebitbeyond studio, also adds his expertise to The Plucky Squire.

Exciting Platform Availability

Good news for all gaming enthusiasts! The Plucky Squire is set to grace multiple platforms upon its release. Whether you’re a proud owner of a Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, or prefer the versatility of PC gaming on Steam, you’ll have the opportunity to dive into this enchanting world on your favorite platform. The developers have made sure that no one is left out of this extraordinary adventure.

Anticipation Builds for The Plucky Squire

As a fan of captivating storytelling and mesmerizing gameplay, I can’t help but feel excited about The Plucky Squire. The combination of action, adventure, and the ability to jump between the 2D and 3D worlds promises a thrilling and immersive experience. With a talented team at the helm and the backing of Devolver Digital, The Plucky Squire has the potential to become a standout title in the indie gaming scene.

While an exact release date for The Plucky Squire has yet to be announced, the game is scheduled to launch in 2023. So mark your calendars and keep an eye out for further updates on this eagerly anticipated adventure. In the meantime, why not head over to Steam and wishlist The Plucky Squire to be among the first to embark on this magical escapade when it finally arrives?

Get ready to join Jot on his quest to restore his story

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Welcome to HallowTown

In Death or Treat, the narrative revolves around HallowTown, a town in distress due to the villainous Clark Fackerberg (Mark Zuckerburg) and his malevolent corporation, FaceBoo! The game cleverly reflects the real-world phenomenon of social media draining the joy out of life. During the course of the game, you will battle against the forces of DarkChat, RipTok, Deviltube, and DeathFlix! Not the first enemies you would expect to see in a Halloween-themed game but a nice    idea.

Visually, Death or Treat is nothing short of stunning with its gorgeous sprites and environments reminiscent of a 90’s cartoon. The fluid animations further enhance the game’s look and feel and I would definitely give the artists and animators a Netflix show to create this as a cartoon. Sadly, the masses of text to read and the occasional unreadable font will detract from the story and you’ll skip right past.

Meet Scary

In the game, you play as Scary, a candy manufacturer running Ghost Mart. Upon arriving in HallowTown, everyone has been replaced by monsters (the bad kind). The gameplay mechanics in Death or Treat follow the expected formula of a melee-focused 2D action game. Running, jumping, and unleashing attacks while dashing away from danger form the core gameplay loop. The controls are intuitive and responsive, allowing for smooth traversal. However, be prepared for a challenging experience, as the difficulty can become steep at times.

Fight Diverse Monsters

Death or Treat surprises with its engaging combat system, featuring a diverse range of enemies. From long-range bomb throwers to hammer-wielding foes, each encounter offers a unique challenge. Additionally, the game introduces flying creatures that can be defeated by redirecting their projectiles. Notably, weaker enemies can be juggled and slammed into the ground with satisfying uppercut attacks. Choosing abilities before each run adds strategic depth, with the boomerang ability standing out as a personal favorite, capable of devastating crowds of adversaries. The inclusion of puzzle elements in boss fights adds further variety and rewards strategic thinking.

Unlocking Progression

After each run, Death or Treat presents an opportunity to invest collected materials in rejuvenating HallowTown’s shops which act as the Hub World like in Hollow Knight. This progression system allows you to spend earned candies and collected ingredients to purchase upgrades. From new weapons to enhanced skills and expanded health, the rewards are satisfying. Unlocking a new weapon brings the joy of dispatching enemies with fewer hits. However, the cost of many upgrades can be high, requiring significant grinding, which can dampen the fun. The repetition of starting areas for shortcuts also becomes tedious over time.

A Few Scares Short of a Haunting

Although Death or Treat boasts procedurally generated stretches, the gameplay still falls victim to repetition, offering the same scenarios too frequently. This repetitiveness sets in early and can be disappointing for players seeking more variety. Furthermore, several glitches and performance issues mar the experience. These technical problems can cause unnecessary stress and detract from the overall immersion.

Death or Treat delivers a highly enjoyable 2D action roguelike experience, with immersive combat that will have you gleefully juggling Halloween monstrosities while they spew out candy like piñatas. The tight 2D action, diverse enemy types, and excellent visuals contribute to a satisfying gameplay experience. Death or Treat manages to capture the essence of Halloween in an entertaining way and it’s hard not to love the stunning visuals. However, the need for extensive grinding and the repetitive nature of scenarios may deter some players. Additionally, the presence of annoying bugs and performance issues is an unfortunate downside. Despite these shortcomings, fans of the genre will enjoy the 4+ hours of gameplay to beat the game, but few will return to the game once complete.

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Curse of the Sea Rats is a Visual Spectacle

The first aspect that immediately grabs your attention in Curse of the Sea Rats is its stunning presentation. The hand-drawn characters and environments are a visual feast for the eyes, immersing players in a vibrant and enchanting world. From the first moment, I was hit with nostalgic joy with cartoon visuals similar to that of ‘Secret of Nimh’ or ‘Pirates of Dark Water’. Petoons Studios have done a fantastic job at creating such an impressive visual style. From the animated characters to the intricately designed settings, every detail exudes a delightful and whimsical charm. Accompanied by a well-crafted soundtrack that complements the pirate theme, the presentation in Curse of the Sea Rats is a definite highlight.

Gameplay Challenges

While the presentation shines, the gameplay in Curse of the Sea Rats struggles to maintain the same level of excellence. The combat system, although engaging, falls short of expectations. Starting with standard attacks and blocks, players unlock magical abilities as they progress. However, the combat quickly becomes repetitive, lacking the depth and variety that would keep it engaging throughout the game. Unlocking new moves requires progressing through skill trees, which requires the collection of spiritual energy from defeated enemies. Thankfully, it’s relatively simple to build up your character and encourages you to change players between levels to build up each player’s abilities.

Multiplayer Metriodvania

A fantastic addition to Curse of the Sea Rats was the ability to have multiple players enjoy the adventure with you. Up to four players can jump in and play couch coop which I loved as both myself and my children could play together. Whilst the levels didn’t add more enemies the more players you had, you could feel the difference during boss battles as one could distract the boss allowing other players to deal out the damage.

Unbalanced For Experienced Players

One issue that plagued Curse of the Sea Rats is its unbalanced difficulty curve. Enemies and bosses do not scale with the player’s level, resulting in a situation where progress down the skill trees renders combat encounters too easy. This worked really well when my 9 & 12 years olds played as they felt like they were smashing through it. However, as an experienced player (and amateur game dev) I could see them using the standard attacks exclusively, ignoring the new moves and attack patterns that were intended to enhance the gameplay experience.

Great Exploration & Sidequests

Curse of the Sea Rats presents a vast and beautiful world to explore, with a variety of rooms to explore the world can sometimes feel somewhat sparse, with screens often housing only a couple of enemies, lacking variety. Despite this, the game offers plenty of sidequests and branching pathways to pursue, providing opportunities for additional challenges and rewards. There are a variety of enemies and encounters that enrich the exploration aspect and elevate the overall experience.

TL/DR

Curse of the Sea Rats delivers an entertaining and whimsical adventure that stirs up nostalgia, captures the imagination brings together players in a surprisingly enjoyable way. The game’s exceptional hand-drawn visuals, accompanied by a fitting soundtrack, create a captivating world brimming with charm. While the combat system and difficulty scaling could benefit from further refinement, the platforming elements, exploration and sidequests offer ample opportunities for additional challenges. Petoons Studios has laid a strong foundation with Curse of the Sea Rats, and with some fine-tuning and improvements, it has the potential to become a remarkable title in the rat-oidvania genre.

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The Village Beckons: A Whirlwind Racing Experience

In Smurfs Kart, players will have the opportunity to race through twelve enchanting tracks set in the beloved Smurfs’ universe. From the idyllic village to the mystical forest, the daring dam to the treacherous swamps, and even Gargamel’s infamous abode, each location is beautifully recreated, immersing players in a world brimming with whimsy.

Choose Your Smurf, Master Your Kart

With twelve iconic playable Smurfs to select from, including Handy, Hefty, Smurfette, Papa Smurf, and mischievous Jokey, fans can step into the shoes of their favourite characters and hop into uniquely designed karts. Each Smurf brings their own individual kart and possesses a special power that adds an exciting strategic element to the races. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a newcomer to the Smurf racing scene, the game caters to all skill levels, ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Unleash the Smurf-tastic Chaos

Smurfs Kart delivers an array of thrilling gameplay features to keep players on their toes. Utilize the vibrant world around you to your advantage, with bonus items, boost pads, ramps, destructible boxes, and cunning shortcuts to gain the upper hand. In the heart-pounding races, where eight Smurfs compete for victory, strategic maneuvering and swift decision-making will be key to crossing the finish line in first place.

Rev Up the Fun with Friends and Family

One of the game’s standout features is its inclusive multiplayer options, providing an opportunity for players to smurf together in epic races. Smurfs Kart supports up to four players in split-screen local multiplayer, ensuring that friends and family can join in on the fun. Experience the thrill of competition firsthand as you race side by side, vying for that coveted top spot.

Race Against Time, Chase the Leaderboards

For those seeking to test their skills against the best, the game offers a challenging “Time Challenge” mode. Attempt to conquer each Smurf’s racetrack, setting blistering lap times and aiming to secure your place at the pinnacle of the online leaderboard. Compete against the clock, pushing your limits to emerge as the ultimate Smurf champion.

A Celebration of 65 Years of Smurf Magic

This year marks a significant milestone for the Smurfs as they celebrate their 65th anniversary. Smurfs Kart serves as a delightful homage to these timeless characters, embracing their charm and immersing players in a world filled with nostalgia and joy. As a longtime fan of the Smurfs myself, I couldn’t be more thrilled to see them speeding onto our screens once again.

Get Ready for Smurf-tacular Racing!

With its enchanting tracks, iconic characters, and exhilarating gameplay, Smurfs Kart promises to be a delightful addition to the racing genre. Whether you’re a devoted fan of the Smurfs or a racing enthusiast seeking a fresh and family-friendly game on Xbox or Playstation, this game has something for everyone. So, mark your calendars for August 22nd, 2023, and prepare to embark on a smurf-tastic racing adventure like no other!

(Note: This article was written with the aim of providing an objective preview of the upcoming video game. The positive opinions expressed are solely those derived from the press release. I am yet to play the game)

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Enter Regis III as Yasna, a highly qualified astrobiologist on a mission to study the eerie, uncharted planet. The stunning views may initially appear serene, but players will soon discover that the planet holds many secrets and Yasna will be forced to reflect that maybe not everything everywhere is for us and that perhaps the human species is not necessarily the pinnacle of evolution.

The developers of “The Invincible” are a group of creators who were instrumental in the success of several AAA franchises including The Witcher 3, Cyberpunk 2077, Dead Island, Dying Light, and Call of Juarez. Starward Industries aims to bring meaningful experiences to players on PC and consoles and pursuing the quality mastered in their previous endeavors yet delivering it in smaller groundbreaking projects.

LudoNarraCon 2023

LudoNarraCon is an event that celebrates story-rich games. In addition to the demo of “The Invincible”, players can also experience other demos, live streams, and panels. The event page will go live at 10 AM PT/1 PM ET/6 PM CET on May 4, so get ready to explore the universe in “The Invincible” and celebrate story-rich games at LudoNarraCon 2023.

As a sci-fi enthusiast, I can’t wait to get my hands on “The Invincible” and explore Regis III. It’s exciting to see developers from popular franchises like The Witcher 3 and Cyberpunk 2077 come together to create a new and innovative experience. Stay tuned for more updates on “The Invincible” as its release date approaches.

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Embark on a thrilling adventure with Kira, the game’s curious protagonist who discovers a mysterious mirror in her new countryside home. Transported to an extraordinary world, she is greeted by charming creatures who seek her help to challenge the realm’s malevolent monarch as the prophesied Ravenlok.

Exploration and Adventure Await

As players journey through the game’s fairytale realm, they will encounter chromatic biomes, fungi foes, masked enemies in massive mansions, and intricate labyrinths that lead to the Queen’s Castle. Prepare to face adversaries big and small, level up and unlock new abilities, and purchase health-regenerating potions and powerful explosives to aid in battle.

The game is not all about fighting, however. Players must solve puzzles and fulfill quests for the eccentric citizens cheering on Ravenlok’s challenging mission. Each successful quest brings players one step closer to taking down the malevolent monarch and fulfilling the prophecy.

Immersive Graphics and Sound

Ravenlok’s orchestral original soundtrack accompanies this visually cinematic experience, rendered in crisp 4K resolution at 60fps, and fully optimized for the Xbox Series X. The game’s voxel art style is a marvel, with fascinating creatures and gorgeous 3D pixels infusing Ravenlok’s dreamlike fable with a modern flair.

Excitement Builds with Ravenlok’s Launch

Ravenlok’s Game Director, Vanessa Chia, hopes that the game will capture players’ imaginations and inspire infinite possibilities as they embark on an epic journey through the magnificent worlds of Ravenlok. With Ravenlok’s release, players have the opportunity to immerse themselves in an extraordinary journey through a magical realm, and face the challenges that await.

I, for one, am excited to see what Ravenlok has to offer as I journey through its fairytale realm.

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Cute Graphics

The pixel art design of Witchcrafty may be 2D, but they look stunning. The attention to detail in the pixelwork and character design is impressive, and the animations are smooth, and work well. The level design has all the recognisable elements including spikes, solid platforms, jump-through platforms, moving platforms, and crumbling platforms. There s nothing new here but that adds to the warm and fuzzy feeling of familiarity.

Simple Storyline

In Witchcrafty, you play as a witch who overslept and has to investigate the source of a malevolent other-worldly force located below the goblin caves. The world is divided into five realms, each with their own boss battle at the end, including castles, forests, caves and mountains. There’s also the freedom to hop on a broomstick later on and travel back to any of the previous realms, giving the game the outline of a true Metroidvania.

Standard Gameplay

The little witch starts with a limited toolset, but soon develops more as the game progresses. There are spells that are elemental and are tied to particular blocks and chests that require said spell to obliterate them. There’s limited mana, so you can’t use spells all the time. The controls are pretty good, making Witchcrafty a tight little action platformer. Sometimes the character gets stuck in a single animation frame but a quick jump puts your character on the straight and narrow. Outside of collecting mana for your elemental attacks, the other collectible is a gem, which accumulates enough quantities that you can afford to buy a quarter of health or additional mana.

Spikey Difficulty

The platforming and combat are mostly on the easy side, but Witchcrafty has a dark side and it spikes suddenly, making some parts of the game too difficult for the intended audience (little kids). The game also employs an extremely harsh save system. When you die, all your progress is rewound to the last save point, which is not uncommon, but very frustrating for the target audience. In the end, I would have to unlock a chest and backtrack to a save point to save the progress before tackling the next section.

A Charming But Fickle Witch

Witchcrafty looks lovely and is a fun and enjoyable Metroidvania. Yes, it comes with some issues that may hamper your enjoyment but it’s worth looking past them. The game’s difficulty level varies, with some sections and bosses being frustratingly intense and other sections being a breeze. The save system is harsh for newer players not used to the old mega-man days. However, the game is still fun, and I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a simple yet enjoyable Metroidvania.

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Graphics and Sound Design – A Vibrant and Lively World

The graphics and sound design of Figment 2: Creed Valley are nothing short of exceptional. The game’s hand-drawn environments are bursting with colour and personality, and the attention to detail is impressive. From the trees grooving to the background music to the eclectic homes of the ‘opinions’, every location is beautifully crafted and full of life.

The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a range of catchy and upbeat tracks that perfectly capture the game’s playful tone. Bosses sing as they attack and you respond in catchy lyrical quips. The voice acting is also top-notch, with each character bringing their own unique personality and charm to the game. Both Catty Donnelly and Yui Hisaishi reprise their roles as Rusty and Piper.

Gameplay – A Fun and Challenging Adventure

Figment 2: Creed Valley is a pseudo-3D adventure game that follows the story of Dusty and Piper, two heroes tasked with saving the mind from the fears and doubts that plague its inhabitants. The top-down isometric view works well and matches the original. The gameplay is a mix of puzzle-solving, exploration, and combat, and it all comes together to create a fun and challenging experience.

The puzzles are cleverly designed and often require a bit of creative thinking to solve, while the combat is simplistic but satisfying. One of the new additions to Figment 2 is the mindset switch that changes the world from a closed mind to an open mind. In a closed-mind state, the world has purpose and platforms move methodically, however, in an open-mind state, the world is brighter and barriers are removed. This change is also reflected in the characters with Rusty preferring the focus of a closed mind whereas Piper is more open to new ideas. This theme continues throughout the story. Figment 2 also allows for cooperative play with player two acting as the trusty sidekick Piper. Unbound from gravity, she is able to fly around the level and assist Rusty with battle. As her move set is very limited she mainly acts in a support role. However, my daughter and I enjoyed working through the story together, and she was able to learn from the lessons found within without having to worry about being the main player.

Story and Characters – A Heartwarming Tale

One of my favourite parts of Figment 2: Creed Valley is its heartwarming story and lovable cast of characters. I felt like I learned more about myself and my mindset throughout. The game tackles themes of self-doubt and fear in a thoughtful and engaging way, and the characters are all wonderfully written and memorable. Dusty and Piper are a charming duo, with their banter and personalities providing plenty of laughs throughout the game. The game’s villains are also intriguing, with each one representing a different fear or doubt that the heroes must overcome. The main ‘enemy’ in the game is a two-faced clown bent on free thought and childhood innocence who appeared after the breakdown of the moral compass and most of the game is spent chasing them through the mind.

A Short but Sweet Adventure

As much as I enjoyed Figment 2: Creed Valley, a minor criticism would be that the game is a bit on the short side. While the main story is engaging and entertaining, it can be completed in around 8-10 hours, which may disappoint some players.

Personally, I love self-contained games that can be completed in a week. However, the game’s side quests and hidden collectibles do offer some extra content, and the game’s replayability factor is high thanks to its engaging story and enjoyable gameplay.

Figment 2: Creed Valley is a delightful and charming sequel that improves upon the original game in almost every way. Its exceptional graphics and sound design, fun and challenging gameplay, and heartwarming story and characters make it a must-play for fans of the adventure and puzzle genre. The concepts that the game explores make you think about your own mindset and how experiences differ depending on your perspective. A fantastic lesson for any gamer.

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Spiritfarer

Spiritfarer is a cozy management game where you play as Stella, a ferrymaster to the deceased. As you explore the world, you’ll meet various spirits that need your help to cross over to the afterlife. With beautiful hand-drawn art and a relaxing soundtrack, Spiritfarer is the perfect game to unwind with after a long day. One lovely moment in the game is when you finally help a spirit come to terms with their past and they depart with a smile. Word of warning though, don’t do the hedgehog quest too quickly as she leaves soon after and it’s a real tear-jerker.

Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley is a beloved farming simulator that has won over the hearts of many players. In the game, you inherit a run-down farm and must restore it to its former glory. With its adorable characters, relaxing gameplay, and wholesome story, Stardew Valley is the perfect game to play when you need a break from the real world. A lovely moment in the game is when you complete a bundle in the community center and the town comes together to celebrate your achievement.

A Short Hike

A Short Hike is a charming exploration game where you play as a bird named Claire, who’s on a quest to reach the summit of a mountain. With its beautiful pixel art and calming soundtrack, A Short Hike is a cozy game that’s perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon. A lovely moment in the game is when you reach the top of the mountain and take in the breathtaking view.

Coffee Talk

Coffee Talk is a visual novel game where you play as a barista in a cozy coffee shop in Seattle. As you serve drinks to various customers, you’ll learn about their lives and help them work through their problems. With its beautiful pixel art and relaxing jazz soundtrack, Coffee Talk is the perfect game to play with a warm drink in hand. A lovely moment in the game is when a regular customer opens up about their struggles with writer’s block and you offer some encouraging words.

Ori and the Blind Forest

Ori and the Blind Forest is a beautiful platformer where you play as a guardian spirit named Ori, who sets out on a quest to save their home forest. With its stunning hand-drawn art and emotional story, Ori and the Blind Forest is a cozy game that’s sure to tug at your heartstrings. A lovely moment in the game is when Ori is reunited with their mother, and the two share a heartwarming moment.

My Time at Portia

My Time at Portia is a charming life-simulation game where you take on the role of a builder in a post-apocalyptic world. With its adorable characters and relaxing gameplay, My Time at Portia is the perfect game to play when you need to destress. A lovely moment in the game is when you finish building your first commission, and the happy recipient comes to thank you.

Gris

Gris is a stunning platformer that takes place in a world of dreams and emotions. With its gorgeous watercolor art style and calming soundtrack, Gris is a cozy game that’s perfect for a lazy afternoon. A lovely moment in the game is when you finally overcome a particularly difficult platforming section and are rewarded with a beautiful new area to explore.

My Fantastic Ranch

My Fantastic Ranch is a cute and cozy farm management game where you take care of various animals on your very own ranch. With its charming art style and relaxing gameplay, My Fantastic Ranch is the perfect game to unwind with after a long day. A lovely moment in the game is when you successfully breed a rare animal and watch as it grows and thrives on your ranch.

Wayward Strand

Wayward Strand is an interactive narrative game that takes place on an airborne hospital. As you explore the hospital and interact with its residents, you’ll uncover a heartwarming story about family, love, and coming of age. With its unique premise and charming characters, Wayward Strand is a cozy game that’s sure to leave you with a smile on your face. A lovely moment in the game is when you help two characters reconcile their differences and they come to understand each other better.

Summer in Mara

Summer in Mara is a delightful farming and adventure game where you play as Koa, a young girl who sets out on a journey to explore a beautiful archipelago. With its gorgeous tropical setting and heartwarming story, Summer in Mara is the perfect game to play when you need a break from the real world. A lovely moment in the game is when you help a character fix up their boat, and they take you on a sunset sail around the islands.

Untitled Goose Game

In Untitled Goose Game, you play as a mischievous goose causing chaos in a small village. While it may not sound cozy at first, the game’s charming art style and silly objectives make for a lighthearted and fun experience. There’s nothing quite like honking at a farmer and stealing his hat to brighten up your day.

These cozy games are just a small sample of the many relaxing and heartwarming experiences Xbox has to offer. So next time you’re in the mood for a cozy game, consider giving one of these titles a try. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite way to unwind after a long day.

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A Plot With Multiple Directions

The story of Fight’n Rage revolves around three usual suspects, the Ninja Gal, street fighter Norris, and hulking Ricardo, who are present in a village when a band of marauders attacks. As the game progresses, the plot branches off in multiple directions, and players have the option to choose their preferred path, boss fights, and motivations. There are hidden options and level exits that lead to one of eight potential endings, which offers a lot of replay value. Tip: Try throwing a knife at the first Boss to save the girl…

The Combat System

The combat system is where Fight’n Rage really shines. It’s a simple and familiar system that can be instantly picked up by any seasoned gamer (or by anyone who has played a ’90s beat-’em-up before). The game starts with a tutorial that explains some of the finer points of the combat system but leaves the rest for the players to discover. The combat system is inspired by head-to-head fighting games, particularly Street Fighter 3, which means players can parry attacks, use special attacks, and dodge in different directions. Each basic move changes dramatically depending on the direction you’re pushing, and you can even combo into super attacks. With a lot going on, players will have a lot of fun experimenting with different moves.

Character Moves

The three initially playable characters have their own moves, which adds to the fun and excitement of the game. Norris has a slide kick, a barrage of punches, and the Izuna Drop, Gal has excellent aerial maneuverability and one of the best screen-clearing special attacks in the game, and Ricardo can destroy whatever he touches in a few big hits and has crowd control on tap. Each character is unique, and players will find themselves gravitating toward one character over another.

Endurance Test

Each stage of Fight’n Rage is designed to be an endurance test, meant to whittle players down bit by bit with a constant barrage of surprise attacks. Enemies come in gangs from every direction, springing ambushes and sudden attacks that are difficult to dodge unless you know they’re coming. The bosses are nearly impossible to beat the first time around, with various special moves, high damage output, and constant reinforcements, but once you get to know their patterns, they become a mere time sponge to slowly beat the crap out of.

Secrets, Unlockables & Options

In the beginning, you have Arcade Mode and that’s it, but as you play you can unlock new modes, new characters, and new character variations as well as uncover secrets, and new routes through the game. Your first play through is just the beginning.

Fight’n Rage also offers an extensive range of video options, which adds to the nostalgia factor. Players can keep the arcade machine look, complete with a CRT TV style bend in the glass or switch it to flat, pixel clear, blurred and so many more. It’s an excellent feature that allows players to customise the game according to their preferences.

Overall, Fight’n Rage is a nostalgic blast from the past with modern touches, offering an exciting plot, tonnes of unlockables, and an extensive range of fighting moves. The combat system is simple, familiar, and easy to pick up, and the characters have their own unique moves that add to the excitement. The arcade-style may be a slog for some, but for those who love the challenge, Fight’n Rage is a must-play. The game offers a lot of replay value, and players will find themselves going back to it again and again. If you’re a fan of retro-style arcade games, then Fight’n Rage is the perfect addition to your collection.

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The graphics in Trenches aren’t great but actually work. The repeated assets support the feeling of hopelessness with the ongoing trenches feeling repetitive and confusing. The fogging may get some complaints, but it keeps your focus on what’s right in front of you. Some objects and textures pop in from time to time but these are a minor niggle. Considering the game was created by a single developer, the weaknesses can be overlooked. Along the way, you will find messages scrawled on walls, mutilated bodies, and a selection of story-building artifacts that in many cases use real-world photography from the war adding to its harrowing nature.

The audio is really strong, with no music to distract the player, instead just the sound of raindrops and footsteps add to the atmosphere. The setting of the trenches, though monotonous, is still able to build suspense with limited vision and random jump scares. Some minor effects, such as slow blinking and blinding lights, feel intentional and I suspected that the blink was added to change the layout of the map without the player realizing. The limited vision only adds to the game’s eerie atmosphere.

In terms of gameplay, Trenches is a game of cat and mouse, with players exploring the trenches, collecting dolls, and avoiding the unknown creature that’s pursuing them. The mechanic of relying on your trench whistle to track down the dolls is a unique twist on the genre and the blend of stealth and survival creates a thrilling experience. SteelKrill Studio has done an impressive job in creating a game that’s both tense and creepy, with jump scares that will make your heart race.

Overall, Trenches is a simple yet well-crafted game that’s well worth your time, especially considering it was made by a single game developer. The game’s mix of jump scares, stealth, and survival, combined with its eerie atmosphere, makes it a horror game that will keep you on the edge of your seat. So, if you’re looking for a new game to play and are a fan of the horror genre, Trenches is definitely worth checking out.

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The visuals in Figment are nothing short of stunning, with each level and creature being uniquely hand-painted and colorful. The game’s sound design is equally impressive, with every trumpet flower and bug bridge having its own set of sounds and noises. The background music is ethereal and happy, fitting the game’s aesthetic perfectly. The game’s boss battles take it to a whole new level by turning into full-fledged musical numbers, with the bosses singing before battle.

As Dusty and Piper journey through the game, they explore both sides of the brain, solving puzzles along the way. The puzzles in Figment are a mix of logic and sequence-based puzzles that require the player to use objects to activate other objects and open areas. It’s best to play the game in large chunks, as taking extended breaks in the middle of a sequence may cause confusion.

While replayability may be limited, players can go back to collect various “Remembranes” and other collectibles. After a five-hour playtime, I was happy to have enjoyed the story and the game’s charm. Figment may not have the same level of action as other games in the genre, but its pace and gentleness make it a great experience for younger players.

Overall, Figment is a masterclass in subtlety and style, with its colorful characters, quirky puzzles, and surreal level design all supporting the game’s central theme of being inside a child’s mind. Another knockout game from Bedtime Games, Figment is a must-play for anyone looking for a unique and visually stunning experience.

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In this game, players will step into the shoes of a member of the resistance force in the Undercity, fighting against the corrupt military of Esperanza to bring justice to a world divided into three regions: the mutant-infested outside grounds, the Undercity, and the sky city Esperanza where the rich and powerful rule over the world.

Blade Assault features three playable characters, each with their own unique playstyle and signature weapons. Players can enhance their weapons to turn them into beasts capable of shredding through the world’s monsters, and collect 200 different items, from Cores to Gears. The game also includes seven challenging bosses to battle, and players can develop relationships with NPCs and earn rewards through the Friendship System.

For those who crave an extra challenge, players who complete the game will unlock the Assault Level, where they can test their might against endless waves of hard-mode enemies. The console version will feature all of the great content previously released for the PC version.

Blade Assault is the ultimate Xbox gaming experience, offering an immersive cyberpunk adventure with action-packed gameplay, memorable characters, and a compelling story. Mark your calendars and get ready to join the resistance and take on the corrupt military of Esperanza on March 31st, 2023.

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My Fantastic Ranch Review on Xbox

Despite nearly completing the game in two days, I didn’t get much chance to actually play the game. My 10-year-old horse-obsessed daughter took control early on and we played it side by side for the next 48 hours. My Fantastic Ranch is a fantastic introduction to the management simulation genre with a generous starting budget and a clear tutorial walking you through your first key purchases from a Tack Room to a Staff Room. Within no time at all, we had a small working Ranch in which we taught visiting students Dressage in one arena and Target Practice in another. As managers, players have access to a variety of buildings, fields, arenas, decorative items, and landscaping options. As money/crystals come in, you place the different fields, add fences and paths and eventually add fountains and additional greenery. Some of the elements required updates, as you couldn’t have animals without tack rooms and stables, and you could do lessons without a staff room and enough staff. These elements were always the first priority and adding paths and trees simply fell by the wayside as there was no clear benefit or problem with not using them.

The gameplay is serene and one can move at three different speeds depending on the player. Control is easy to use and whilst the camera control could be a little forced at some points, most players will unlikely notice as they will not be trying to capture the perfect game footage for a review. Outside of the building, players must manage the various lessons, enter competitions (of varying levels) and host royal events. After each major event, the prince and princess unlock a new part of the land for you to grow into. The game moves in weeks, and at the end of each week, you get a report on your profits, expenditure, customer satisfaction, and various other metrics. When Monday comes around, the animal and staff markets are refreshed and you can get three new animals and people. In our case, we took everything as there were no ‘bad eggs’. The animals and staff all seemed great, so there was never a reason to pass on them or spend 500 crystals to ‘re roll’ and get different choices. There are a variety of micro-choices in the game that include matching staff and riders to animals, as well as putting the right duos forward in competitions and events, so there is always something to do. Similarly, a series of mini goals appear in the bottom left to keep you on track from starting a lesson with a fire dragon to running 8 circus skills lessons within a given time limit.

My daughter loves horses but has never really been into unicorns, which I thought might be an issue. However, she loved it and the fact it wasn’t horses didn’t phase her one bit. By the end of day two we had almost 30 animals, ran weekly competitions, had an on-site school of 26 enrolled students, and had successfully completed three royal events.

The reports were a nice break to mull over and discuss our progress but there were little to no major challenges to deal with. As an older gamer, I would have liked to see another level of challenges, the naughty animals and timed challenges were good, but a storm never damaged the arenas, the food was never ruined by blight and the staff never upped and quit. If I was to request additional features, I would like to see a Hack Track option to create a hacking option for students and additional buildings such as a cafe (for visitors and students) and even mucking out. Renaming the animals would have also been good as they ranged from Joy Sweet to Quizitle Benari (or something equally complicated to read). But my daughter and I smashed through the main game type on My Fantastic Ranch in 48 hours before starting the second game type of ‘Dreamer’. This creative mode unlocks all the items from the start and doesn’t require money to build/hire etc. in this mode, My daughter planned out the ranch more and finally got around to using the decorative and natural elements to create her perfect Ranch.

Overall, My Fantastic Ranch was amazing fun for my daughter and me and we enjoyed our time building and managing our little ranch. There are lots to do but also areas to expand. The game is short-lived for experienced gamers but a wonderful introduction to the genre. The graphics work well and the voice acting, despite being very enthusiastic, fitted the game. There is enough complexity to make it engaging and the various challenges to keep you playing until you max out, but there could have been more activities and buildings to further enhance the experience.

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Justice Suck: Tactical Vacuum Action on Xbox

Hold on to your brain cells, this is about to get trippy! Justice Sucks has one of the greatest (and strangest) origin stories I have heard this year.

You play as Dusty, a robot vacuum that gains sentience after fighting off burglars during a break-in. Dusty’s family is brutally attacked by the FamilyCorp warranty squad and in the battle, you’re thrown into the living room TV. On the brink of robodeath, your consciousness enters “the TV dimension” to gain the abilities you need to rise from the ashes and rescue your family.

In an odd mix of Die Hard, Viscera Cleanup Detail and Metal Gear Solid, Justice Sucks is a surprisingly fun game considering it’s about a robot vacuum cleaner. The core gameplay revolves around the player moving around the environment using objects in the environment to attack the enemies. Being small and flat, the player can hide easily under sofas, tables, and units. Similarly, Dusty can use vents and flaps to navigate the map faster than the enemies. As enemies are damaged and eventually killed, the blood and ‘meat’ needs cleaning up and you are a vacuum after all. The enemies show their vision cones as they walk and with additional perks, you can foresee their routes. As such, you sneak around the levels dispatching the terrorists in an array of colourful ways. Once dead, you suck up the body in one last final insult. The game spans various levels including a house, a ship, and a nightclub. Each location has multiple game types to work through from rescue missions to missions that focus on speed, style, and endurance.

The whole aesthetic is very cool from the eye-bleeding visuals to the funk soundtrack. Even the UI sounds like it groves as you navigate the menus. The cut scenes are completely crazy and have some fantastic imagination behind them. This is the only game in which you will see the spirit of a robot vacuum cleaner bounce a grenade off its bum whilst twerking on a rainbow dancefloor. The enemies feel like a cross between an eighties dance troupe and Japanese neo-punks. They don’t have much substance beyond that but they do vary in type. Some use melee weapons while others use guns and upon spotting you, they will do their worst. As the game progresses you gain additional perks and buffs that allow you to charge enemies, throw items, turn invisible, and many more.

The fact that the game is so fun leads to the game’s main issue. There aren’t enough levels. One minute I felt like a vacuum version of John McClain in Die Hard then Steven Segal in Under Seige but soon, you run out of levels and have to go back to improve your times and scores for the online leaderboard. However, it’s worth noting that it was designed this way as the abilities that you unlock later in the game mean that you can get far better scores when returning to the earlier stages. The variety of levels is great starting from your humble home and working through to the expansive airport

Overall, Justice Sucks is WAY more fun than it looks in screenshots. The sexy-funk graphics and sound, alongside its madcap storyline, makes for a thoroughly joyous gaming experience. The gameplay mechanics work well and the variety of missions keeps it interesting. I would have loved to see more levels as the possibility of having office blocks, mansions, and hotels all ready to manipulate would be fantastic. Hats off to Samurai Punk for making a worthy successor to Roombo: First Blood.

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You Suck at Parking Review on Xbox Series X

You Suck at Parking is a cute but frantic parking game. You drive your car around the levels and park in the designated spots. The challenge, however, is that there is no reverse and if you stop, you park. As such, you buzz around the levels trying to stop in a single spot. At first, this is straightforward, but as the game progresses, the levels include superhot barriers that make you explode on impact, Wind machines that push you off target, and police cars that arrest you with one touch. The game is so much fun and incredibly addictive.

The joy of the game starts with the controls. Its twitch controls make it fantastic fun to drive and powerslide around the levels. Mistakes come thick and fast as you fly off the course or explode into a fireball. A tap of the D-pad instantly restarts the level which is useful as each level is timed. Then it’s the level design itself. Each level has two or three spots to park in and you need to park before the timer hits zero. The exhilaration of hitting that last spot is truly amazing and trying to complete all spots is massively addictive.

All the levels are accessed via an island overworld that you can drive around at your leisure. Car cannons fire you across to new areas and parking at different buildings access the main level. Each level has five stages and all can be completed either partially or completely. The more ‘hearts’ you earn, the more you can access.

The game’s difficulty fluctuates from being overly simple to incredibly hard, but with time and patience, it’s fun to master the different levels. When the game adds more cars and chasing police cars, the pressure ramps up even further. There are over 100 single-player levels in You Suck at Parking, some of them almost maze-like in their complexity. In an interview in Wireframe, designer and studio co-founder David Prinsmel discusses how they approach the level design more like a golf game than a racer.

Outside of the single-player game, the online multiplayer allows for 8 players to battle it out on a variety of multiplayer maps to become the ultimate parker. With only one parking spot and all eight players going for it, expect rushing, ramming, and explosions. It’s crazy fun and with it coming to Game Pass, you can expect lots of players from day one. 

For added personalisation, you can hit the garage to customise your vehicle. Players can change the vehicle type, the paint job, the exhaust effects and much more. A Fortnite-style store and battle pass system allows players to buy and unlock a huge amount of customisations but regular players still have a handful to unlock each season The simple polygon graphics and bright colour palette compliment the gameplay well and the UI enjoys lots of satisfying pops and bloops. The music can get a little weird sometimes but is easy to tune out in the heat of parking.

Overall, You Suck at Parking is pure unadulterated fun. Its precision controls, wacky level design and satisfying completion are hugely addictive. The game can be tough at times  (and sometimes feel impossible), but the gradual increase in the difficulty means that it is accessible for both younger gamers and those looking for a real challenge. The campaign is the most fun, but the online play and regularly added levels ensure that you can have new experiences long after completing the one-player adventure. With over 100 levels and a promise of many more being added post-launch, You Suck at Parking is a parking LOT of fun.

Check out the game on the box store or visit: https://www.xbox.com/en-us/games/store/You-Suck-at-Parking/9NCF3MRQ8480 

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Rimworld: Console Edition Review on Xbox

The first time I played Rimworld, my little band of soldiers, cave dweller and shopkeeper soon settled into their little wooden hut and started growing rice, everything was peaceful until a rabid squirrel attacked. After the rabid rodent had done its damage and subsequently been killed, they helped a lone traveler and were attacked by marauders. Thankfully, the marauder wasn’t fatally injured and there was an opportunity for him to join the team but in the flurry of battle, I added too many orders one of my team beat him to death carrying out a delayed command. Soon after they ate a tortoise and then other attackers hurt two of my team then burned down my house which them inside…

The second and third time round, none of these events happened…

Rimworld is a really unique game that marries the graphics of the Prison Architect series, the epic stories of Skyrim, and the mountain of data found in Dwarf Kingdom. Players first choose their three crew mates from a random selection of characters, each character has both a childhood background and adult profession, these two elements form the basis of their traits and abilities. The poor little cave dweller might have great mining abilities, but lack social skills, whereas the Comedian will boost morale but be terrible with guns. The multitude of variations is fantastic and sometimes a little dark and it doesn’t stop there (more on that later). Before each game, you can choose your Story Teller. The three options are Cassandra Classic, Pheobe Chillax, or Randy Random. As you might imagine, these are the balanced route in which you are given time between disasters to rebuild, the peaceful route that focuses on building your community, and the random in which you can be struck with blight one moment and attacked by an ancient evil you awoke whilst mining.

If you think you are a peaceful kind of gamer, ignore this bit. The game can descend into madness during some games and you might need to be morally flexible to get through the craziness. Your colony may need to be cannibals sometimes or harvest downed teammates for their organs but its survival of the fittest on Rimworld and the story can take some interesting twists and turns. The emergent gameplay never follows a set path, instead throwing in new twists to keep it interesting. If you set a trap for a marauder and forget it’s there, you might find one dead colonist, wander too far from home and you might meet a giant sloth that can kill. There are just so many things that can go wrong. If two of your colonists start a relationship and one dies, the other might have a mental breakdown and run rampage through the colony. It’s completely bonkers but utterly amazing.

For those who quiver with excitement over mountains of data, Rimworld has it in droves. From temperature, crop yield, medicine effects, social buffs, addiction, and so much more. However, new players to the micro-management simulation genre might find it all a little daunting. The first tutorial will take you through your first 30 minutes but after that, you are on your own. If you are happy to learn the complexities of the game then you will be rewarded ten-fold.

Rimworld has been out on Steam for years and there are additional DLC packs and an active modding community. The game has overwhelmingly positive reviews and has been one of the most popular games on the platform for many years. Now console gamers can enjoy this fantastic experience and access to the DLC as well. Modding is currently not included but may come in the future.

Rimworld Console Edition – Summary

Rimworld is a fantastic game that has SO much replayability. You can choose the ‘Get off the planet’ quest and complete the game, but the joy is simply surviving the twist and turns that the storyteller throws at you. There is a steep learning curve for new players but for those with the patience to work through it, you will not be disappointed. I have called this a first impression, as I am 20+ hours in and the average play time on steam, is 130 hours so I have a long way to go. The graphics may be basic but the emergence of storytelling and randomness of the whole experience makes this one of the greatest games very made. And for all those indie devs out there, it was done by two people.

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Voyage Review on Xbox

Voyage is a side-scrolling narrative adventure that is both peaceful and intriguing. I had no idea what was going on for the first hour as I ambled left to right climbing over things, crawling under things, and moving things about. Whilst this sounds mediocre at best, it’s the set pieces that make it worthwhile. Each scene is ethereal in its style and animation giving players a little nugget of story in each location. Soon, you realise that it’s not so much a game but an experience. You are the hands that push these two characters onward. It’s quite compelling.

The mechanic of having two players works well as one can help the other up difficult heights as well as flick switches whilst the other holds something open. You learn to use them as two arms of the same player similar to the game Brothers. There are also some sweet animations when you swap characters, call each other over or just have a hug. When you need a hint, a quick tap of the Y button will general piano tinking stars to point out what you need to do. As such the game is easy to complete and it should be enjoyed as a story experience rather than a game you will often return to.

The game’s sounds and music does all the talking as there is no dialogue to lay out the story for you. In order to avoid spoilers, I won’t outline the main narrative as it needs to be experienced firsthand.

The graphics have a beautiful hand-painted charm and the developers haven’t been afraid to keep some areas dark or covered in a sand storm to give the world a desolate and empty feel. The inhabitants of the world feel like voyeuristic ghosts that either go about their daily business to appear to help out. There are also some animals to help out every so often.

The gameplay is super simple, push right and solve the puzzles to traverse the different scenes. At a few points during the game, you will get to move left, but essentially you are there to move the characters through the narrative. The small part of agency you do have helps you connect to the players and ultimately care about the outcome.

Overall, Voyage is a beautiful and serene game that is generally pretty slow but tells a magical story not yet seen on the Xbox. The gameplay and puzzles are simplistic but help to keep the narrative moving and players within the experience. The two-character mechanic works well but it is the hand-painted set pieces that will keep you playing. For achievement hunters, there are lots of low-hanging fruits here and it’s worth sinking 2-3 hours in to enjoy this slow boat ride of a game and walk away with 1000 gamer points and the heartwarming tale of two siblings who might just save a world if they work together and have a cuddle.

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But is all this speed and action flipping fantastic or is it all action and no talk? Here’s my review of Severed Steel on Xbox.

Severed Steel follows the story of a woman called Steel who lost her arm in a work-related accident and she has since been ‘retired’. Instead of suing the evil corporation, she decides to go on an acrobatic rampage to destroy the company and any security professionals standing in her way. It’s as if John Wick had young Yoda’s gymnastic ability. You can slide, dive and wall jump your way around levels while killing dozens of enemies in real-time or slow-mo. Kills re-fill your bullet-time meter and your health, so as long as you keep a healthy body count you’re essentially invincible.

The levels are a mix of cold corporate offices, warehouses, and industrial units. Textures are flat and simple but all have a neon hue. The simplistic style means you can concentrate more on the action than on the realism. As you walk ride down a corridor, you won’t care if the offices have names or if there are branded coffee mugs on the long meeting tables. The simple shapes mean you slide under it, jump over it, run along it, or smash through it. At the beginning of each level, you are told the level objective in big bold text similar to super hot. Whether you are destroying samples or killing everyone, you don’t really care as bouncing around the levels is just fun.

The combat is pretty forgiving with acute accuracy not always needed, but you are rewarded if you get that coveted headshot. The weapons feel different enough for the seconds you hold them and there is a variety of weapon types to try out. There are no reloads which is jarring at first, instead, you throw your empty weapon to stun nearby enemies long enough to steal theirs. Early in the same you also get a Metroid-style arm blaster that easily puts holes in walls (as well as enemies) allowing you to traverse the levels differently as you can go through both floors and walls. But even with a shiny new arm cannon if you drop to the floor, slow down for a breather or find yourself stuck in a corner death comes swift… thankfully so does the restart screen.

Music is a heady mix of trance and electronic which suits both the frenetic speed and the slow-motion moments. Explosions and shooting feel meaty but it’s the voice acting that lets it down. Repetitive swearing and phrases from the enemy could have been better and you soon tune them out.

As for the other negatives, I did experience Some performance issues on my Xbox Series X, but only a couple of times, Xbox One may have more. Also, it would be great to see a more fleshed-out story and character development, as the comic-style panels and limited dialogue make it feel a little empty in the narrative department.

Severed Steel features a campaign mode, a game+ mode, and a firefight mode. Firefight mode is a challenge mode where you can play levels from the campaign. It also has a level-up system and plenty of unlocks to encourage you to spend time in it.

Overall, Severed Steel is an absolute banger. If you’re into FPS games heavy on bullet time, this has to be played. The mechanic makes the game and may set a new benchmark for action shooters. The neon-soaked graphics are simplistic but work and the pumping soundtrack keeps your heart thumping. Some slow-down issues and a paper-thin story are disappointing. Whilst the lack of any decent voice acting is a missed opportunity, the action movies that this game feels like could benefit from some epic one-liners. In short, play this game and feel like an absolute badass!

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The Solar Ring is the story of a knight tasked with the retrieval of The Solar Ring stolen by The Lord of Darkness. The knight must travel between worlds to kill enemies, gather orbs, purchase upgrades, and traverse platforms.

The game… is a game. But it is a game that feels like a solo developer releasing the minimum viable product. It has a character, a basic story, and levels but that is it. The graphics are a mix of Fiverr-made polygon graphics, a mix of assets from the Unity asset store, and bare minimum mechanics that don’t carry over from level to level.

Keep the graphics consistent

The main character looks different from the trees and grass. The Mushrooms are different from the trees. The main character is different from the enemies. All of these inconsistencies make the game feel cobbled together and disjointed.

I don’t know when I can die

Sometimes the player can walk off the island and die, while other times, you can walk through an invisible stream and be fine. When landing on a platform, gravity doesn’t apply. The platform slides away underneath me and I can still jump but it doesn’t feel natural.

The mechanics are inconsistent

The spears don’t touch the enemies and yet inflict damage, the lightning magic rains down particle effects and is overpowered for the level 2 magic item. Jumping should use the A button, but players need to press the right stick down.

Everything is just thrown together

The story is paper thin to fit the demo and there is no explanation why a brave knight must collect light balls to upgrade their weapon (through a multi-click UI system that has no explanation). The achievements in the game aren’t actually top-level Xbox Achievements, but in-game rewards that don’t actually do anything.

Overall, The Solar Ring is a game that you would show at a Game Jam or Dev Club to show your progress, but it could do with more work. Being a mix of game dev tutorials and asset packs, it doesn’t feel like a modern game. It needs another few years of development bringing all the styling together, animating the characters, crafting a better story, and justifying ‘why’ the different mechanics exist. Well done to SM studios for releasing a game, 99% don’t get that far. At only £3/$4 you need to keep your expectations low, The Solar Ring is clunky, unoriginal, and feels like a young developer working through the whole process, instead of a passion project. Sorry SM Studios…

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Best Month Ever! is all about the story and is more of an interactive movie than a game. This is no surprise considering that it was created by students, graduates, and employees of the “Video Game Development” program at The Warsaw Film School. You do have some agency in the game to move a character around a scene, click on certain elements and keep the story moving. However, it is more like a Telltale interactive story than a traditional game. There are sporadic mini-games throughout like throwing a stone to hit a target or lining up constellations but these are very simplistic and serve as a vehicle for you to connect with the characters and be part of the story. The biggest impact you have on the outcome fo the story is through the various decision options. Do you take the blame for a smashed window? Lie to your son? Stay in the car when asked? The developer says that all these decisions have an impact on the ending, of which there are a few.

The story itself is emotional, moving, and thought-provoking. Set in the 1960’s Louise, mother to Mitch, a black illegitimate son of a Jazz musician has it tough. Louise had a bad childhood experience which pushed her to leave her family behind. Now with only four weeks left to live she wants to help Mitch start a new life, meet her long-deserted family and perhaps even find Mitch’s father. The game is a rollercoaster of sentimental moments, action scenes, and revealing insights into Louise’s past. Thanks to the relatively fast pacing of the game, you will be burning the boss’s car one minute and catching fireflies with your mother the next. At only four hours long, it is easy to play through and during my time I did not see a death state although, during a driving section, I did wonder what would happen if I ran into an oncoming car?

The voice acting is fantastic and the script works really well to convey such a lot of complex topics. The music fits the period and helps with the melancholy ambiance of the story. The graphics are a mix of good and bad. The ‘scenes’ look amazing from the buzzing neon signs of the dinner to the waterfall in the forest, however, the character models are a little less professional. The Mitch character looks good but the animation feels too slow for his movement speed and the lighting on the Louise model sometimes makes her look like a PS2 Lara Croft. As you only see the characters from a distance, it doesn’t distract away from the story.

The game moves through time jumping to the past when exposition and using narration by an older Mitch to give insights into the young boy’s feelings at the time. For me, the journey was much better than the destination as the story and decisions really touched me whereas the end was a little bit of a letdown. However, it definitely made me think each time I had to either lie to my son or explain a very difficult situation to him. I wondered if I would do the same to my own children. I think we are quick to protect our children with lies in the real world, but when you know that your decisions will impact the final state of your in-game child, you tend to be more idealistic. But thankfully, I have not had to tell my children I used to be a stripper.

Overall. the game is a welcome respite from the action-packed adventures that dominate the gaming market. Best Month Ever! is an experience that connects with you on an emotional level and keeps you guessing throughout. As the game is more of an interactive story, it won’t be to everyone’s liking but fans of story-driven titles such as The Wolf Among Us, Gone Home, or The Vanishing of Ethan Carter might enjoy this quick emotional journey and who knows it might be the Best Evening Ever! playing a video game.

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I recently got the opportunity to play the first few hours, and this is my first impression of Remote Life on Xbox.

The first thing that jumped out to me on Remote Life was the visuals. The 3D style graphics look great but it was the creature design that caught my attention. The mix of the robotic with the Geiger-style alien gives the game a unique and eye-catching look. Blasting through the hordes of aliens is a joy when the variety of beasts is this good.

The weapons are the biggest visual treat as your ship can be equipped with four different weapon types, a mega weapon, and can also gain additional attachments to beef up your firepower. From simple red lasers to missiles, scatter shots, plasma waves, and myriad more, shooting is sheer eye candy as bullets shower the screen wiping out the enemy waves.

Each level ends with the epic boss battle and oozes retro charm as you move in and out to avoid the scripted patterns of bullet walls.

Unlike its retro predecessors, you don’t have to start from scratch if you die and are outside the three life limit, you can also save your progress at the end of each level. The menu section is a little clunky and basic using mouse-like control to select which level to tackle.

The sound and music are perfectly passable with industrial-techno background music that is easily forgettable alongside a few spoken words to break up all the large text-based exposition. The Sound FX on the weapons all sound great and vary enough to be distinct whereas the explosions are all very similar.

Level design is simple and fun and changes throughout to include the straightforward blaster to convoy missions to keep things interesting. As you circumnavigate the alien hive, there are plenty of crushers, spinning spikes, and doors to get in your way. A steady hand and calm demeanor are needed for the more hectic parts.

With a few hours of playtime under my belt, I know I am going to be jumping back into this a lot over the coming weeks as I work my way to the middle of the alien ship to deliver the mega missile that will save the world. If you are a fan of classic shoot-em-ups, Remote Life looks and plays like a modern game but has all the classic nods to the games gone before it. For a single developer, this is an immense achievement and I look forward to dealing with the all-important death blow in the next few weeks.

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Autonauts is a game packed full of personality and innovation to offer gamers of all ages the opportunity to explore a unique and colourful world of coding and crafting. Build a Bot workforce to automate everything in your settlement; tell them what to do, and expand their brains and operational potential with numerous upgrades and options. Create simple crafting items and structures from blueprints, and build dozens of different Workerbots to make your new planet a fully functioning home.

The Autonauts console version is a brand-new experience, providing gamers with an evolved controller-focused tutorial and structure that enables them to hone their coding skills more quickly and effectively. Conveniently code mechanical helpers by showing them what to do step-by-step, be it cooking, farming, mining, construction and so much more; then sit back and watch your automation ‘ant farm’ carry out their duties.

Autonauts combines the best of coding, crafting, simulation, world-building, production-line, and resource management to create a truly awesome experience unlike any other.

This summer, create the automated world of your dreams on Xbox One, Playstation, and Nintendo!

About Curve Games

Curve Games is an award-winning independent label working with developers worldwide to deliver the best in interactive entertainment. With a uniquely diverse games catalogue that includes renowned indie hits such as For the King, Bomber Crew, The Ascent, and Lawn Mowing Simulator, and the multi-million selling smash hit Human Fall Flat, Curve Games has taken its place as one of the leading games publishers worldwide.

About Denki

Denki is a video game developer based in Dundee, Scotland, which was founded in 2000 by four key developers from the legendary DMA Design. Denki has worked extensively in the digital interactive television (DiTV) market, as well as console, mobile and computer platforms, and has produced bespoke licensed gaming products with the biggest entertainment brands on the planet. Autonauts is an original IP from the studio and their most recent release.

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In June 2019, The Walking Zombie 2 was released on Android and iOS to rave reviews. With millions of downloads worldwide, the team at Alda Games decided to port the game to PC and consoles. However, despite the game being great fun, the mobile experience can be felt throughout from its regular requests to rate the game, to its in-game store teasing weapons that can only be bought with real-world money.

But these mobile hangovers are just a small part of a hugely competent game. If you can look past this then there is a lot of fun to be had.

The story in The Walking Zombie 2 follows a group of survivors who discover that one of them (you) is immune to the virus. As such, you are tasked with all the missions outside of the camp. The game loop is highly addictive as each mission can take between five and fifteen minutes to complete meaning dipping in and out is easy.

Players will find themselves completing quests including clearing areas of zombies, fixing up locations, rescuing survivors, and collecting supplies. There are also various mini-games such as zombie hordes or minigun turrets to keep things interesting.

These missions gain experience to help you level up and improve your player and camp. I was really surprised at the depth of the RPG side of the game with XP points allowing players to increase various skills including melee weapons, speed, health, and speech amongst others. Perks are also available to boost different skills and buffs.

Weapons vary from simple shovels to missile launchers with players able to carry two weapons that can be switched out easily for equipment in your backpack. Whilst there are a wide variety of guns, most are so expensive that you either need to grind for hours or purchase one of the coin packs. When armed, the guns feel pretty good with both a hip-fire option and a more accurate scoped setting. The melee weapons offer a satisfying crunch when smashing skulls. The combination of guns, bats, and explosives makes for a fun game loop that is simplistic but satisfying.

The map grows as you unlock new bases and there are dozens of quests to keep you busy for many hours. The boss battles are a great addition and the inclusion of a Donald Trump-style boss is a nice touch. However, as the game progresses, the boss battles are increasingly difficult, and feels like the game is urging you to buy bigger weapons for real-world money.

The menu system is extensive if a little cumbersome requiring you to use multiple buttons to navigate the different sections. After a while, this can even become frustrating.

The polygon graphics look great and their simplicity means that game runs smoothly without any frame rate drops in the heat of the action. The zombie models are often repeated but the stylist look doesn’t deter from a solid first-person shooter. Sound effects are good from the moaning zombies to the reloading rifles, but it’s the voice acting that lets it down. The poorly acted cut scenes are so bad, they are almost good ad you will find yourself laughing at their wooden nature.

Overall, The Walking Zombie 2 offers players a fun-filled romp through the zombie apocalypse with simplistic yet addictive gameplay, a multitude of quests to complete, and an array of zany boss battles. The RPG elements are surprisingly deep and there is a lot to grind for. However, the cumbersome menu system prompts to buy more coins or review the game are frustrating and should have been removed during the porting process. If you can look past its mobile heritage, there is a simple and addictive zombie shooter that’s easy to pick up and play when you have pockets of Xbox time.

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Whisked away into the paintings, you are tasked with solving the myriad puzzles and opening up different parts of this amazing world. But is Summertime Madness a sun-soaked holiday worth taking or a twisted spiral into madness? Here are my first impressions of Summertime Madness.

Summertime Madness on Xbox

The first thing you will notice is the stunning paint-style visuals. The soft tones and bright colours make the world of Summertime Madness a feast for the eyes. The subtle blurring and paint dab-like textures give the world an ethereal dream-like quality compared to the dark war-torn world you leave behind.

There are multiple game types to try from the main 6-hour timed adventure or a more serene time-free game allowing you to explore the paintings and solve the puzzles at your own pace. I opted for the timed game as it was recommended in the start menu. If you are an advanced puzzle game player, you can opt for the three-hour advanced mode and speed run it.

During my initial playtime, I managed to solve the boat and the lighthouse and thoroughly enjoyed it. The game has a Myst-like quality in that it combines exploration with mechanical puzzles without giving you too many pointers. Should you need help solving the more taxing elements, you can trade 15 minutes with the mystery devil to get a clue on how to solve it. This was very tempting at first but once you are in the mindset of the puzzle maker, it is simply a matter of time and attempts to unlock the unfolding elements of the game. Throughout the course of the game, there is also a variety of items to collect in the form of musical instruments and the bedroom at the top of the tower is amazing if you recognise it.

The soundscape is a relaxing mix of music and soft sounds from blowing wind to musical chimes. The whole experience is serene until it becomes frustrating. Some of the puzzles seem straightforward but every so often a puzzle will move from the challenging column to the frustration column and patience is needed to return to it.

Whilst I am only two hours into the game, the six-hour time limit is both stressful, but also reassuring as you know there is an end. Myst was around six hours whereas Rivan, the sequel was over double that which was a little too taxing on my simple brain. The fact that advanced players can finish it in three indicates that it might not overstay its welcome.

Overall, my first impressions of Summertime Madness are positive. Beautiful graphics, relaxing music, and an ethereal ambiance make for an inviting game. The story is thin but helps to set the scene. The trading of clues for time is a nice touch but is sometimes sorely needed due to the odd frustrating puzzle. The more seasoned puzzler could complete this quickly whereas younger players may struggle.

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The story behind The Gunk focuses on its two female protagonists, with you playing as a scavenger named Rani who, alongside her partner, Becks discover a near-dead planet ripe for salvage. Upon landing, they discover that it is infested with a slimy goo that’s choking plant life and mutating creatures into little beasts. The plot is simple: clean up the planet and save the world. In this respect, it does bear a slight similarity to the Steamworld games. However, it’s the relationship between Rani and Becks that keeps you interested, as they start the game in a state of desperation and argue more and more throughout the narrative.

The main mechanic of the game involves sucking up the nefarious black goo that is strangling the life from the planet’s ecosystem. Once an area is clear of gunk, it bursts back into life sprouting new flora and fauna right before your eyes, which is very cool and never gets old. The regenerated scenery is both lush and stunning and really encapsulates an alien planet. In some ways, it reminds me of Ōkami which isn’t a bad thing. However, young Rani isn’t just on clean-up duty. Throughout the game are various puzzles, some of which do require you to stop and think for a minute which is a refreshing change from similar games that hold your hand throughout.

The Gunk is cleaned up using Rani’s Bionic arm and power glove. Throughout the game, she is able to use scavenged resources you collect to craft and upgrade her glove. Being able to make your glove shoot laser works well in the puzzles and boss battles but for the more common enemy type, you are better off simply sucking them up and throwing them at other enemies. The crafting side of the game is a nice touch, but I would have liked to see more functions enabling you to access additional secret areas.

The combat is hard to get used to at first as it involves sucking up the enemy, then moving and retargeting, before firing at an on-coming baddie. Younger gamers may find this a little frustrating at first. To be honest, this game would be fantastic for younger gamers around 8+ if it wasn’t for the random swear word used in the dialogue. They have only been used a handful of times and could have easily been dropped in favour of a wider appeal.

Visually, the game is absolutely stunning on the Xbox Series X, with a more realistic style than the previous SteamWorld series and the characters are nicely animated and have their own charm. Lip synced dialogue would have been nice, but it doesn’t detract from the overall experience.

The Gunk is built by a fantastic team and is inspired by some great titles from Luigi’s Mansion to the more recent Kena: Bridge of Spirits. The graphics are fabulous and the dialogue adds depth to the protagonists. At £20/$25, it sits in the mid-range of games but if you have Game Pass you can play it for free right now. The game is fun and is not too challenging but would have suited a younger player if the bad language was removed. Overall, both I and my kids enjoyed the game and worked through the story over the course of a couple of weeks. The game doesn’t bring anything new to the table but sometimes a comfort game is just what you need.

The post Review: The Gunk | Xbox appeared first on Gaming Debugged | Gaming Site Covering Xbox, Indies, News, Features and Gaming Tech.

Phoenix Point Xbox Review – Year One Edition

The story of Phoenix Point follows the aftermath of an alien virus released from the Arctic that has ravaged the earth and turned many of the inhabitants into mutated fish hybrids. Only the Phoenix Project, a secret organization of the smartest and bravest people left on earth, can fight the mutant horde and reclaim the planet. Thankfully, you are not alone and there are various factions that you can work with or steal from to achieve the ultimate goal.

The original release enjoyed a positive reception, but also suffered from a sharp difficulty spike, as well as sporadic story missions. The all-new Year One Edition is the ‘definitive’ version that balances the previous difficulty issues and combines all the previously released DLC, and updates, into one beautiful package. And it is beautiful, especially running at 4K and 60fps on an Xbox Series X.

Despite the world lying in ruins, the survivors have split into factions that you will need to work with to gain new ways to fight the mutant horde. The New Jericho’s billionaire leader wants to destroy everything. The Disciples of Anu have embraced the mutations and want to leave humanity in the past. Synedrion is indecisive androids in a weird borg-like collective. Each group has its own ways of fighting the enemy, so allying with the different sides gives players new technology and resources. There are various complex diplomatic elements to get to grips with should you wish to delve more into this area of the game. The sheer level of detail here far outways that of XCOM.

Phoenix Point and XXOM

XCOM fans will be very familiar with Phoenix Point, as It looks and plays in a very similar way, in that you control a small group of soldiers in turn-based combat in the trenches, whilst managing a series of bases at a wider strategic level. The joypad controls are excellent and use the standard XCOM set-up, however, the more complex interfaces (such as the new inventories), are intuitive.

The maps are procedural, which means there are lots of variety in the layouts but I did miss some of the more ‘considered’ levels. When a level is fully designed and built around the player, they tend to be more memorable. The story missions are great and feel like there is more consideration in the layout and pacing but if you are just out scavaging, it feels more random. The missions include scavaging, saving civilians, base defense, and destroying enemy nests. The story missions are less sporadic than in the original release and help the story along.

Phoenix Point: Year One Edition is a real labor of love for Gollop and his team at Snapshot Games. You have to commend the sheer depth of detail in this game. There is a nearly overwhelming amount of options and content to enjoy should you be willing to learn the many systems and mechanics at work. The story is fantastic and the array of Lovecraftian enemies are fresh and fun to fight. However, the additional complexity won’t be for everyone, especially console gamers used to pointing and shooting. If you are a hardcore strategy fan who is looking for the next XCOM, then this will probably be perfect for you. The Year One Edition brings together all of the additional content but makes it optional should you wish to increase the longevity even further. However, the procedural maps, evolving aliens, impressive AI and increasing difficulty will have you playing for some time.

Phoenix Point FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Phoenix Point.

What is Phoenix Point?

Phoenix Point is a turn-based strategy game set in a post-apocalyptic world. The game features a compelling storyline, challenging missions, and a vast array of weapons and abilities.

Which platforms is Phoenix Point available on?

Phoenix Point is available on PC, Mac, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.

How many versions of Phoenix Point are there?

• Phoenix Point
• Phoenix Point Year One Edition
• Phoenix Point Bheometh Edition
• Phoenix Point Complete Edition

What are the system requirements for Phoenix Point on PC?

To play Phoenix Point on PC, you need a Windows 10 operating system, an Intel Core i3-530 processor or equivalent, 8 GB of RAM, and a DirectX 11 compatible video card with 1 GB of VRAM.

What is the objective of Phoenix Point?

In Phoenix Point, your objective is to defend humanity against a threat known as the Pandoravirus. You must gather resources, research new technologies, and engage in tactical battles to defeat the enemy.

Is Phoenix Point a multiplayer game?

No, Phoenix Point is a single-player game. There is no multiplayer mode available at the moment.

How long is the campaign in Phoenix Point?

The campaign in Phoenix Point can take anywhere from 30 to 50 hours to complete, depending on your playstyle and skill level.

Can you customize your soldiers in Phoenix Point?

Yes, you can customize your soldiers in Phoenix Point. You can change their appearance, equip them with different weapons and abilities, and train them in different skills.

Are there different difficulty levels in Phoenix Point?

Yes, there are different difficulty levels in Phoenix Point. You can choose from five different difficulty levels, ranging from Rookie to Legend.

The post Review: Phoenix Point 2022 | Xbox appeared first on Gaming Debugged | Gaming Site Covering Xbox, Indies, News, Features and Gaming Tech.

This year I wanted to highlight ten amazing gift ideas that would make any gamer bow before you in thanks:

Xbox Series X / Playstation 5 -$599 / £449

The Xbox Series X and Playstation 5 are the hottest properties at the moment with gamers struggling to secure one for Christmas. However, if you are happy to pay between £600 – £1,500 on eBay you might be lucky. These consoles are four times more powerful than the previous iterations with the Series X supporting up to 120 frames per second. Most games are backward compatible with many Xbox titles being enhanced for the new hardware. Whilst the Xbox has the power, the PS5 has the launch titles with the new Spiderman game a must-play this holiday. Personally, I’m an Xbox fanboy so my decision is made.

SnakeByte Twin Charging Station – $25

The future is wireless and Snakebyte’s TWIN: CHARGE X is a wireless dual charging station for either your Xbox controllers or Playstation controllers. You can charge two controllers at the same time and the dock looks very tidy next to your consoles. The kit also includes two rechargeable 800mAh batteries. It’s compatible with your chosen controllers and with no official launch of a wireless charging station by Microsoft, Snakebyte is the best option for the gamer in your life.

You can also be ready for 4k/8k resolution with the Snakebyte SX PRO HDMI cable that can be bought as part of the same range.

Link: https://amzn.to/3mVrDJY 

Ergotron Standing Desk 

If lockdown has taught me anything it’s that we all sit around quite a lot. But when I was introduced to a standing desk I found that I was more productive and kept the weight off. Curious about the increased productivity, I tested my gaming abilities and found that I became noticeably better on FPS games whilst standing up. As such, I wholeheartedly recommend a standing desk converter to help both work and play.

Link: https://amzn.to/2NBEXWQ

Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit

Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit is a racing mixed reality racing game for the Nintendo Switch. Home Circuit utilizes physical radio-controlled cars responding to how the player plays in-game. Players drive a kart in the real world using the familiar Mario Kart controls and see the action from your kart’s onboard camera displayed on your Nintendo Switch. Prepare to transform your home into elaborate courses this Christmas as it is a whole new way to enjoy Mario Kart.

Oculus Quest 2

Untethered virtual reality is here, and it’s got Star Wars!. Oculus Quest 2 is one of the most advanced VR systems that not only lets you play games, but also allows you to be a part of live concerts, exclusive events, etc. Priced at a ridiculously reasonable $299, this headset doesn’t necessarily require a gaming PC, but is compatible with one should you have a beast in your game room. Obviously, you need a Facebook account to use most of the features, but it’s a small price to pay for total immersion.

Link: https://www.oculus.com/quest-2/

Razer Kishi Android Controller

Now Xbox has shed the shackles of console gaming and moved to ‘cloud gaming’ any Android phone can be turned into a mobile Xbox console. The only catch is that you need to carry around a controller and one of the new phone holders. However, there is a better way. The Razer Kishi Android Controller are a set of beautiful controller extensions that turn the phone into a high-powered Nintendo switch allowing you to play many of your favourite Xbox titles anywhere with a stable wifi connection.

https://www.razer.com/gb-en/mobile-controllers/razer-kishi/RZ06-02900200-R3M1 

Marvel Gaming Chair

There are a few Marvel-themed gaming chairs currently on the market. If you are happy to wait until January, I would take a look at AndaSeat’s new range of Marvel-themed chairs. But if you want one now, then the New ARC-R range from NeoChair are a fantastic range of gaming chairs with massage features built-in. If you are not going to stand, then you might as well be comfortable.

NeoChair: https://neochair.com/products/arc-m-iron-man-marvel-gaming-chair-massage?variant=39268825661510 

AndaSeat: https://www.andaseat.com/ 

XCom Board Game – £60

Tear yourself away from a screen this Christmas and enjoy one of the many gaming-themed board games. In XCOM: The Board Game, the alien invasion has begun and human civilization is on the brink of collapse. As the department heads of XCOM you and three friends must succeed where the world’s militaries have failed. Mixing board game elements with an accompanying app, the game is hugely addictive and lots of fun. If you are a fan of XCOM, check out my review of Phoenix Point on Xbox.

https://www.board-game.co.uk/product/xcom-the-board-game/ 

Blood Sweat & Pixels

In Blood, Sweat, and Pixels, Jason Schreier takes you on a fascinating journey behind the scenes of video game development, where the creator may be a team of 600 overworked underdogs or a solitary geek genius. The book explores artistic challenges, technical impossibilities, marketplace demands, and corporate meddling. Once you have read this, games like Destiny will never be the same again.

https://amzn.to/3mqdkfc 

6 Months Game Pass Ultimate

The Xbox Game Pass gives you access to over 100 high-quality console games for one low monthly price. When it was originally launched, the initial games lineup was less than impressive, but over time the library has dramatically improved. As Xbox pushes its cloud gaming platform, the Ultimate Game Pass is required to play games on mobile. If you prefer to dip into games rather than become an expert in one, the game pass gives you access to a plethora of games from a variety of genres. A must for any gamer!

https://www.smythstoys.com/xbox-game-pass 

I hope these help you this Christmas and I wish you all a wonderful holiday and a fantastic New Year.

The post Gamers Christmas Gift Guide 2021 appeared first on Gaming Debugged | Gaming Site Covering Xbox, Indies, News, Features and Gaming Tech.

When playing video games with family members during the festive period, there is a lovely understanding that gaming together isn’t about completing the game or even getting the high score, but simply playing together. Sure, there will be arguments, calls of unfairness and even the odd thrown controller, but that’s all part of Christmas, isn’t it?

The Xbox One has a huge library of couch co-op games to enjoy, from mind-bending puzzles to football with cars. So this Christmas, take some time with your family and boot up the big black beast.

Overcooked 1 & 2

This frantic four-player cooking game is so much fun and you will find yourself screaming at family members to get the dishes done. Its simple to understand but hard to master and thanks to most of the gameplay staying on one screen it is easier for the older generation to follow.

Rocket League

Think football with cars and then add in stunts, precision controls and a bucket load of fun and you have the biggest hit of the year.

Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare 2

This quirky third-person shooter is one of the most ‘child-friendly’ shooters on the Xbox One. Everyone will love the over the top characters and cartoon violence.

Rayman Legends

Crazy characters and solid platforming action make Rayman a great choice for Christmas Day, whether you are working together to complete the zany musical levels for versing each other in Rayman’s weird take on football, it is loads of fun.

Castle Crashes

Old-school side-scrolling beat-em-up with colourful cartoon characters and an array of madcap oversized bosses to defeat. Four players action that even grandad can play.

The Lego Games

Pick your franchise and enjoy a two-player adventure to enjoy with family members. The Lego games include Star Wars, Marvel superheroes, Batman, Indiana Jones and many more.

Minecraft

There is something soothing about building in Minecraft. Bond with family members this Christmas and create something wonderful together.

Tumblestone

Up to four players can play this addictive and colourful puzzle game inspired by both Pang and Tetris. Aside from the competitive play, there is also an engaging story mode that can be enjoyed.

Goat Simulator

Leave your common sense at the door as Goat Simulator is the most bonkers game you will play this Christmas. You and a friend can tear up the streets inflating your head, blowing up stuff that doesn’t usually explode and so much more weird and wonderful things.

Marvel Ultimate Alliance

This is the more grown-up version of the Lego Marvel Super Heroes game with more accurate depictions of all your favourite superheroes and stories taken from the comics. However, it does contain much more violence than its Lego counterpart.

Just Dance

Christmas wouldn’t be the same in our house with a dance-off against the children. The Just Dance series on the Xbox One is the best version of the game as players with a Kinect sensor do not need a controller and can simply concentrate on the dancing. Those with a Kinect can use their phones as a makeshift tracker.

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