Visions of Mana Review

Visions of Mana

“Visions of Mana marks a triumphant return for the beloved RPG series”

After years of anticipation, Visions of Mana finally arrives, bringing the classic RPG series into the modern age. With newer elements such as stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and a captivating story, this game is a must-play for fans of the genre.

In a crowded market filled with exceptional RPGs, Visions of Mana stands out with its unique blend of classic elements and modern innovations. The game’s immersive world, engaging combat, and memorable characters offer a truly unforgettable experience.

With that said, let’s delve into the Visions of Mana review and explore its captivating features and gameplay.

Visions of Mana – Overview

Available now on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and Series S and PC, Visions of Mana, the long-awaited sequel to the classic RPG series, lives up to the hype.

While not without its flaws, the game offers a captivating experience with an engaging combat, a charming cast of lovable and interesting characters, and a beautifully crafted open world to explore.

The game’s storytelling is refreshingly straightforward, avoiding unnecessary complexity and focusing on a compelling narrative. The pacing of the game may be slow towards the end, the overall story is enjoyable and emotionally satisfying.

In the end, Visions of Mana is a must-play for fans of the series and JRPG enthusiasts alike. Its gameplay is engaging, the cast are memorable, and beautiful world make it a standout title. While it may not be perfect, the game’s strengths far outweigh its minor flaws.

A Charming Cast and Engaging Story

Visions of Mana introduces a captivating cast of characters, each with their own unique personalities and backstories.

Val, the protagonist, is a charming and optimistic hero, while Hinna, his childhood friend, is a determined and dedicated companion.

The party members you encounter along the way add depth and diversity to the story. Careena’s plucky yet irritable demeanor provides comic relief, while Morely’s serious nature offers a contrasting perspective.

While the early stages of the game offer a brisk and engaging pace, the narrative slows down significantly towards the end.

The introduction of unnecessary padding and exposition dumps disrupts the momentum and can be frustrating for players.

Despite these pacing issues, the overall story remains enjoyable and emotionally satisfying. The characters’ personal arcs and the central plot provide a rewarding experience.

Visions of Mana is a charming adventure with a lovable cast of characters. While the narrative pacing could be improved, the engaging gameplay, beautiful visuals, and satisfying conclusion make it a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre.

A Strategic and Fun Combat Experience

Visions of Mana’s combat system is a highlight of the game, offering a strategic and engaging experience. The game’s combat mechanics are well-designed, combining fast-paced action with thoughtful resource management.

Key features of the combat system include:

The game’s bosses are challenging and well-designed, offering unique mechanics and strategies. Defeating these bosses requires skill, strategy, and a deep understanding of your character’s abilities.

Overall, Visions of Mana’s combat system is a standout feature, providing a rewarding and engaging experience for players of all skill levels.

Some Good, Some Bad

Visions of Mana offers a vast and captivating world to explore, filled with diverse landscapes and hidden treasures. From lush jungles, and seaside villages, to snowy tundras, each location showcases the game’s uniqueness and stunning art style.

As much as the game’s exploration is generally more enjoyable, there are a few minor things to be aware of. Firstly, the visual bugs, such as lip-syncing issues and occasional framerate drops, can detract from the experience.

The next thing is the lack of a clear navigation which makes it more challenging to discover hidden areas and complete optional content. And mind you the game is full of side quests, collectables, and more to find. 

Overall, Visions of Mana’s exploration is a rewarding aspect of the game, despite the minor technical issues. The beautiful world and hidden secrets make it a joy to discover.

Verdict

Visions of Mana marks a triumphant return for the beloved RPG series. With stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and a captivating story, this game is a must-play for fans of the genre.

While the game’s pacing and design may have some minor flaws, the strengths of the combat system, class system, and characters far outweigh the shortcomings.

Overall, Visions of Mana’s a refreshing addition to the modern RPG landscape, offering a nostalgic yet innovative experience. 

So what do you think of this game? Is it the modern RPG you’re looking for? Be sure to leave us a comment here below and your own personal opinions. To find out more or you wish to purchase the game, click HERE. That’s all from me on the Visions of Mana Review. Stay safe until next time 😀   

Black Myth Wukong Review

Black Myth: Wukong

“Black Myth: Wukong is an impressive action game, showcasing a strong foundation of gameplay and a visually stunning world”

After a long wait, the most anticipated action game, Black Myth: Wukong has finally found its way onto the shelves (or in this instance, onto our digital gaming stores). It’s one of the most ambitious and the most impressive action games for this year, promising to deliver stunning graphics, impressive and challenging combat, and a gripping look into Chinese myths and culture. But does the game live up to the hype? Is it really the one of the best action games for you to buy. Let’s delve into the Black Myth: Wukong review and find out if it really is the game to buy.    

Story-Driven Adventure

While Black Myth: Wukong offers an engaging gameplay experience, its narrative falls short of fully captivating players. The story, loosely based on the classic novel ‘Journey to the West’, relies heavily on prior knowledge of the source material. This can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the characters and events of the original story.

The game’s episodic structure, featuring six self-contained chapters with stunning animated vignettes, adds depth and variety to the narrative. However, the main storyline itself lacks the emotional impact and character development found in the best action RPGs.

While the game deviates from the traditional souls-like formula (similar to Elden Ring), it retains elements such as a checkpoint system and stamina-based combat. However, it lacks the core mechanics of leveling up, character customization, and item management typically associated with the souls-like genre.

Overall, Black Myth: Wukong’s story is a mixed bag. While the episodic structure and animated vignettes are impressive, the lack of a more compelling narrative and character development is a noticeable drawback.

Masterclass Combat & Action RPG

The combat system is a masterpiece. It blends intricate resource management with fast-paced action. The Focus Meter, which powers special attacks and transformations, adds depth and strategy to the gameplay.

The diverse array of spells and abilities further expands the player’s options, allowing for creative and effective combat strategies.

The game’s world is beautifully crafted, with stunning environments and detailed animations. The exploration is rewarding, with hidden secrets, challenging bosses, and opportunities for character progression.

While the story might not be as captivating as the gameplay, the game’s overall quality and immersive experience make it a standout title in the action RPG genre.

Ultimately, Black Myth: Wukong is a testament to the power of innovative gameplay and stunning visuals. It offers a truly unforgettable adventure for players seeking a challenging and rewarding experience.

Tech Challenges & Future Potential

While Black Myth: Wukong offers an exceptional gaming experience, it’s not without its technical shortcomings. The lack of a map, coupled with confusing level design, can hinder exploration and create frustration. Additionally, the game has experienced various technical issues, including crashes, audio glitches, and localization bugs.

These problems, which are common in ambitious titles, can detract from the overall experience. However, it’s reasonable to expect post-launch patches to address these issues and improve the game’s stability and polish.

Despite the technical challenges, Black Myth: Wukong’s core gameplay, visuals, and world design make it a compelling title. With necessary improvements, it has the potential to become an even more exceptional experience.

Verdict

GameScience’s Black Myth: Wukong is an impressive action game, showcasing a strong foundation of gameplay and a visually stunning world. The combat system is engaging, demanding both strategy and skill, while the diverse enemies and boss battles offer a thrilling experience.

While the story relies heavily on prior knowledge of ‘Journey to the West’, the game’s strengths in combat and exploration make it a captivating adventure. However, the lack of a map and minor technical issues may frustrate veteran action gamers. 

Overall, Black Myth: Wukong is a promising game with the potential to become even greater with further development and refinement.

That’s all for now. Thank you for reading up to this far on the Black Myth: Wukong Review. If you wish to express or have any inputs, please leave your comments here below. If you want to find out more about this amazing action game then click HERE or the blue button above. That’s all from me. Take care until next time 😀  

Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD Review

Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD

“Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD is undoubtedly the best way to experience this spooky adventure”

Remember the joy of blasting away spectral shenanigans with Luigi in 2013’s Luigi’s Mansion 2 (or Dark Moon, for our American friends)? Well, grab your Poltergust 5000 again, because the spooky sequel has returned for a hauntingly delightful remaster on the Nintendo Switch! Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD is the definitive way to revisit this ghost-hunting adventure, but is it a must-have for seasoned Luigi fans, or just a friendly apparition of a game? Let’s bust some ghosts and find out from the Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD Review.

A Visual Glow-Up for Luigi’s Mansion

Forget the blurry edges and jagged textures of the original 3DS release. Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD boasts a graphical overhaul that makes everything look spick and span.

From the reflective sheen on suits of armour to the detailed threads on Luigi’s iconic overalls, the developers haven’t just bumped up the resolution – they’ve breathed new life into the game’s spooky environments. While it won’t win any awards for best visuals in 2024, compared to the 2013 version, it’s a night-and-day difference.

The Gameplay: Same Scares, Same Thrills

Now, let’s talk about the good stuff – sucking up ghosts! The core gameplay remains delightfully unchanged. You’ll explore haunted mansions, solve clever puzzles, and use your trusty Poltergust to capture mischievous ghouls.

There are no fancy new ghosts, levels, or bosses to battle, and Luigi doesn’t get any of the cool moves from Luigi’s Mansion 3 (like the plunger shot or Gooigi). This means the experience is very similar to the 3DS original, lacking some of the variety found in its later sibling.

Twin-Stick Controls: A Long Overdue Improvement

One welcome change is the addition of twin-stick controls, similar to Luigi’s Mansion 3. Remember the frustration of the 3DS version, where Luigi stubbornly faced one direction while aiming the flashlight?

Thankfully, that’s gone! Now you can swivel Luigi’s aim freely with the right stick, making ghost-busting feel much more intuitive and fluid.

Multiplayer: A Missed Opportunity for Spooky Fun

Sadly, the multiplayer mode takes a hit. Unlike Luigi’s Mansion 3, which allows two players on one system, Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD is strictly single-player, both online and locally.

The frantic ghost-wrangling fun of Scarescraper (aka Thrill Tower) is still there, but it’s a shame you can’t share the scares with friends or family without buying extra Switches and copies of the game. No split-screen support here, boo!

A Fun, Familiar Haunt

Despite its limitations, I had a blast revisiting Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD for a dozen spooky hours. While I prefer the single, sprawling mansion of Luigi’s Mansion 3, the compartmentalized levels here make it easier to revisit areas and find missed collectables after the story.

Plus, some fantastically phantasmagoric moments still hold up, like the giant spider boss fight and the tumbling-down haunted staircase sequence (think a G-rated John Wick experience!).

The Verdict

Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD is undoubtedly the best way to experience this spooky adventure. Its gorgeous visuals and improved controls make it a great addition to the Switch library.

If you’re new to the series or haven’t played this one yet, you’re in for a treat. However, if you’re a seasoned Luigi’s Mansion 2 veteran hoping for dramatic gameplay changes, you might be a tad disappointed.

So, should you add Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD to your Switch collection? If you’re craving a charming ghost-busting adventure and haven’t played it before, then absolutely!

But if you already own the 3DS version and aren’t itching for a graphical upgrade, you might be content to revisit the original. Whatever you choose, just remember to pack your proton pack… er, Poltergust 5000! There are some spooky spectres waiting to be captured!

Be sure to click on the button above or HERE to find out more about the game or to purchase the game. But before you do that, why not leave a few comments below? Stay safe until next time 😀

Shadow Of The Erdtree

Elden Ring: Shadow Of The Erdtree

“Shadow of the Erdtree stands as one of the best DLC experiences you can get”

Overview

Remember the feeling of exploring the Lands Between for the first time in Elden Ring? That sense of wonder as you stumbled upon hidden dungeons, unearthed forgotten lore, and battled colossal enemies unlike anything you’d ever faced? Shadow of the Erdtree, the highly anticipated expansion to Elden Ring, manages to recapture that magic in a tight package, bring a fresh new addition to the end-game experience.

While it doesn’t revolutionize the core gameplay, Shadow of the Erdtree delivers a wealth of new content that will keep Tarnished warriors busy for a good long while. Here’s a closer look at what the expansion offers, along with some potential drawbacks to consider.

Breathtaking Beauty: A Feast for the Eyes

FromSoftware continues to impress with the stunning visuals of Shadow of the Erdtree. The Realm of Shadow, the new region players explore, boasts a unique aesthetic that complements the Lands Between perfectly. Expect to find lush, otherworldly landscapes, haunting ruins bathed in an ethereal glow, and sprawling vistas that inspire both awe and trepidation.

The level of detail remains phenomenal. From the intricate textures of armor sets to the environmental storytelling woven into every corner of the map, Shadow of the Erdtree is a visual treat. Whether you’re gazing upon a colossal, spectral dragon or navigating a maze-like dungeon, the visuals consistently draw you deeper into the world.

Classic Souls borne Combat Evolved

The core combat of Elden Ring remains largely unchanged in Shadow of the Erdtree, which is a good thing. The Souls borne formula of punishing encounters that reward mastery is still present, but the expansion introduces some interesting wrinkles.

New weapon types like throwing knives and beast claws offer fresh tactical options, while powerful spells and Ashes of War add another layer of depth to character builds. Players who loved Elden Ring’s open-ended combat system will find themselves right at home here, with plenty of opportunities to experiment and discover devastating new combos.

However, the difficulty curve in Shadow of the Erdtree is undeniably steeper. Enemies hit harder, bosses are more relentless, and the margin for error is slimmer. Be prepared to face some truly grueling encounters that will test your skills and patience to the limit.

A Treasure Full of New Content

One of Shadow of the Erdtree’s biggest strengths is the sheer amount of content it adds to Elden Ring. The Realm of Shadow is surprisingly vast, packed with secrets to uncover and hidden areas to explore. From deciphering cryptic messages left by past explorers to battling fearsome new monstrosities, there’s always something new to discover.

The expansion also boasts a significant number of new bosses, many of which rank among the most challenging and memorable in the entire Souls borne series. These encounters showcase FromSoftware’s mastery of boss design, demanding strategic thinking and flawless execution to overcome.

On top of the new bosses and areas, Shadow of the Erdtree introduces a wealth of new gear to collect. Players can look forward to acquiring powerful new weapons, armor sets, talismans, and Spirit Ash summons. These additions not only expand your character-building options but also encourage experimentation and different playstyles.

A Worthy Expansion, But Not Without Flaws

While Shadow of the Erdtree is an undeniably fantastic expansion, it’s not without its drawbacks. The biggest concern for some players might be the lack of significant innovation in terms of core mechanics. The core gameplay loop remains very similar to Elden Ring, which might feel repetitive for those craving a more radical shakeup.

Additionally, the brutal difficulty might alienate some players, especially those who haven’t already mastered the challenges of the base game. While the new content is exciting, it’s definitely geared towards experienced Tarnished warriors, and newcomers might find the learning curve a bit too steep.

Overall, Shadow of the Erdtree is a must-play for dedicated Elden Ring fans. It delivers a hefty dose of new content, challenging boss encounters, and stunning visuals. However, if you’re looking for a drastic change in gameplay mechanics or a more forgiving experience, you might want to adjust your expectations.

Verdict

While Shadow of the Erdtree might be the sole Elden Ring expansion, it’s a fantastic one – especially if you’re a fan of the base game’s core mechanics. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but condenses everything you loved about Elden Ring into a tightly packed experience. Think of it this way: Shadow of the Erdtree feels like a standalone game in its own right, but “small” only when compared to the sprawling world of Elden Ring. It’s bursting with secrets, loot, brutal boss fights, and nightmarish creatures to conquer.

On top of that, you get a treasure trove of new tools to play with: weapons, spells, combat skills, spirit companions, and talismans. These additions open up even more creative ways to tackle the game’s famously challenging battles. The expansion even throws in some fascinating lore revelations, along with the stunning visuals and epic music that defined the original’s larger-than-life encounters. All in all, Shadow of the Erdtree stands as one of the best DLC experiences you can get.

Be sure to check out the review of Elden Ring, which you need to play the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion. So what do you think of the new expansion? Is is better than you hoped for? Tell us about your experience with Elden Ring. Leave any of your comments here below. That’s all from me. Stay safe until next time 😀 

F1 24 Review

F1 24

“F1 24 is a great racing game, especially for newcomers to F1 or gaming in general”

Overview

Formula 1 has been stuck in a rut for over a decade. Since 2010, only two teams have managed to win the championship, making things a bit predictable. F1 is all about engineering, and whoever builds the fastest car (and has a driver who can exploit its speed) usually comes out on top. However, there’s a flicker of hope in 2024! With four different winners in just the first eight races, this season might be shaping up to be more exciting. 

But that formula has grown stale. The lack of competition in real-world F1 seems to be reflected in the new F1 24 game. While it’s a fantastic racing simulator with a great career mode and realistic handling, it doesn’t offer much that’s truly new compared to previous editions. It’s a great game, but one that feels a bit repetitive.

Driver Career Mode

The biggest change in F1 24 is a new story mode called “Driver Career.” Here, you can finally step into the shoes of one of the sport’s 20 current driver superstars, like Lewis Hamilton or Max Verstappen, and experience a multi-season career from their perspective. This is separate from, but complements, the existing “My Team” mode where you manage the entire team (which remains unchanged).

Driver Career focuses on the driver experience, ditching the business side of things like finances and sponsorship deals. This allows you, the racer car driver, to concentrate on racing and building your reputation. These features are also available in the two-player career mode, making it a great option for friends to race together. While Driver Career sounds exciting, there’s a catch. While it offers a new way to play, it seems there might be some underlying issues that prevent it from being truly exceptional.

Mid-Race Objectives

The new mid-race objectives in F1 24 sound great on paper, but in reality it really falls flat. The idea of mini-missions during the race to add excitement and tension is brilliant. Imagine needing to push for a strategic overtake or focus on clean driving for a few laps to gain an advantage.

However, the current objectives lack any connection to the actual racing situation. Instead of feeling dynamic and strategic, they seem random and disconnected. For example, being told to focus on staying within track limits might make sense if you’re driving erratically, but otherwise feels like an arbitrary task. The objectives currently feel more like a random chance encounter rather than a well-integrated part of the racing experience.

The new mid-race objectives in F1 24 are a missed opportunity. Imagine your engineer panicking about fuel use when the HUD clearly shows you have plenty to spare! These objectives feel nonsensical. There’s also no penalty for ignoring them, making them pointless. It seems the game itself acknowledges this, as failing an objective has no consequence.

Overall, these objectives need to be more dynamic and relevant to the race situation to be truly engaging. The “secret meetings” are also a bit strange. While they try to capture the secretive nature of driver contract negotiations, they fall short. For example, refusing a “secret” offer from another team inexplicably makes your current team happy. It’s unclear why McLaren would celebrate you rejecting an offer they weren’t even aware of in the first place.

Extra Bits

F1 24 tries to add immersion with voice bites from real drivers, but it falls short. While it’s cool to hear snippets of iconic radio messages, or celebrations from other drivers, these are very limited. Most of the time, drivers are silent during races, which feels bland. The commentary also lacks depth.

You might expect special lines for dramatic championship battles, but instead, the game relies on generic commentary that doesn’t reflect the situation. For example, finishing a season tied for the championship lead going into the final race only gets you generic lines about drivers approaching the final race after a bad season.

It’s understandable that the developers can’t predict every scenario, but a championship coming down to the wire feels like a major missed opportunity for more engaging commentary. F1 World, the virtual life mode from F1 23, returns, but it’s still not for everyone. From unlocking cosmetics, to grinding for car upgrades, it feels like a chore compared to the traditional career mode.

For those who just want to jump in for quick solo races, it’s harmless, but it lacks the appeal of a traditional career. Multiplayer seems unchanged since F1 23. Public lobbies remain chaotic, and leagues are still the only way to have a civilized online experience.

Time To Race

F1 24 feels great to drive! Building on the improvements in F1 23, F1 24 offers even more stable and forgiving handling. While some might argue this makes it less realistic, the cars feel planted and allow for aggressive cornering. Let’s face it, most of us haven’t driven a real F1 car at full speed, so who’s to say the immense grip F1 24 offers isn’t accurate in its own way? The bottom line is, the handling is enjoyable and makes you feel like a skilled driver. This, after all, is the goal of a racing simulation game.

Just like F1 23, the gamepad controls are impressive, even compared to a wheel setup (though the wheel can be a bit more sensitive). Another plus is the highly adjustable AI difficulty. Being able to find the perfect balance between you and the AI, regardless of your skill level, is crucial for creating a realistic racing atmosphere. If all racing games offered this level of customization, the genre would be much better off.

The new, more forgiving handling model and the exciting Driver Career mode are a major plus. Driver Career lets you be an F1 superstar, while Challenge Career offers bite-sized experiences with pre-set drivers like Verstappen (although it’s solo with online leaderboards). Personally, I would rather play the Driver Career mode and experience it with each of the F1 superstars. On a positive note, F1 24 is the best-looking F1 game ever!

The graphics are fantastic, and driver sprites are even more realistic. Several tracks have also been updated to match their real-world counterparts. The decision to upgrade to F1 24 boils down to how important these new features and improvements are to you.

Verdict

F1 24 is a great racing game, especially for newcomers to F1 or gaming in general. It offers a polished experience with tons of options and difficulty adjustments, making it accessible for all skill levels. However, for veterans of the F1 franchise (like F1 22 and 23 players), this year’s edition might feel a bit repetitive.

While there’s a revamped career mode and some handling tweaks, the core gameplay doesn’t offer a significant leap forward compared to recent versions. If you already own the previous games, the upgrade might not be worth it. 

That’s all from me on the F1 24 review. Please share your opinions or comments below if you have anything you would like to say about the review. The game is available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and on XBox Series X.

If you’re interested in the game you’re more than welcome to click the blue button above, or HERE, to check the price or to purchase the game. Until next time 😀 

XDefiant

image credit: Ubisoft

Tom Clancy’s XDefiant

“XDefiant is a decent competitive first-person shooter game”

Calling all FPS shooter fans! A new contender has entered the arena, and it’s bringing the heat. XDefiant, from Ubisoft, is a free-to-play first-person shooter that’s shaking things up with its unique blend of familiar and innovative elements. Get ready to dive into a world where iconic factions from across the Ubisoft universe collide in fast-paced, objective-based battles. This review will take you deep into XDefiant, exploring its core gameplay mechanics, character customization options, game modes, and more. We’ll discuss whether it lives up to the hype of a genre-bending shooter and if it has the potential to become your next favorite competitive fix. So, grab your weapon of choice and get ready for the XDefiant review.

Overview

Because it incorporates characters and settings from well-known Ubisoft titles, this free arcade-style arena shooter has a unique flavor to it. It features classes that could make it more akin to Overwatch, yet it’s still quick. It has quick deaths and respawns, but it also has objective-based modes that value cooperation over pure kill count. Although the mix of dissimilar components helps set XDefiant apart from other competitive shooters in terms of gameplay, it also gives the impression that the game’s components aren’t always cooperating to achieve the desired results.

image credit: Ubisoft

Back in the late 2000, Call of Duty discovered the joys of competitive play that was fast-paced and grounded. With its strong first-person shooter design, XDefiant is obviously aiming for the same kind of success. The weapons seem distinctive and gratifying to use even though they are all very normal for military shooters like this one. For example, the AK-47 kicks and strikes differently than the M41A, so choosing one over the other for your play style feels significant. Most of the time, guns are also suitably lethal, but you’ll get the most out of them if you take the time to learn how recoil affects your aim and what advantages come with outfitting a certain stock or sight attachments.

When employed skillfully, XDefiant’s class abilities—such as healing allies, lowering shields, and launching explosive drones—can alter the course of a battle, but they never become so strong as to take away from the game’s primary shooting mechanics. If anything else, this is an enjoyable shooter with decent gunplay; as a strong base, you can do far worse. What XDefiant finds difficult to integrate into a cohesive whole, though, is the additional content that is added over that gunplay.

Fast-Paced Gameplay

The allure of XDefiant lies in the amalgamation of many Ubisoft realms into a unified competitive shooter, akin to a multiverse. When you start a match, you select a character from one of four factions based on Ubisoft games (a fifth faction can be acquired or unlocked through gameplay). These factions serve as your classes, and each one is sufficiently unique and captivating to play in a different way without feeling forced into a particular game. For example, the Libertad faction in Far Cry 6 is essentially a medic class. They heal from damage more quickly and have two options: they can drop a fixed gadget that slowly heals everyone nearby, or they may shoot out a fast-heal charge that covers a radius around the person who activates it.

The Ghost Recon Phantoms, on the other hand, are tanks that don’t perish as rapidly as other factions. They can either draw out a personal riot shield that is rather good at blocking shots in both directions, or they can construct a fixed barrier that they and their teammates can shoot through. Additionally, there are factions centered around Splinter Cell, Watch Dogs, and The Division. As with other class-based shooters, using the appropriate skill at the right moment may significantly alter the course of a battle.

However, you may change your mind at any point throughout the game, so you know that every time you defeat an opponent, they could learn from your mistakes and return as a different class with a different set of abilities. For your team, timing and strategy in countering an enemy’s skills are just as crucial as accuracy.

Their hyper ability is the last significant distinction between each faction. Unlike many games’ ultimate powers, this large special ability can only be utilized once you’ve charged it by accruing kills or points toward goals. If you’re not cautious, the enemy side can generally shut them down. For example, the Phantoms‘ ultra grants them a personal energy dome that shields them from any external damage.

image credit: Ubisoft

If an opponent is cunning and fast enough to escape the protective cannon, they may still sneak through and kill the person creating the energy, negating the ability. The Libertad healing gadget, which gives everybody within its range double health, works in the same way. While an enemy is inside its range, they may appear nearly impervious, but you may fire the gadget to destroy it and turn it back on. Thus, ultras are often powerful without being ludicrous, but you have to utilize them wisely and know when to use them.

It’s crucial to note a warning. Although most factions feel very unique, well-balanced, and enjoyable, some clearly seem to stand out above the others, and a few look absolutely pointless. DedSec from Watch Dogs, whose gameplay style focuses toward hacking enemy abilities, is the greatest offender on this front. Their deployable spider drones are really impressive. They automatically track down the other team and shock or blind them completely, leaving them completely exposed. But I haven’t seen anyone use their other ability—which lets you take control of the other team’s deploys.

Simply said, there aren’t many opportunities or items to steal, and each time I attempted to sneak up to a shield or healing station to try to hack it, I would always end up dead—by other players, who were naturally utilizing the item I intended to take. That’s particularly terrible because DedSec can only be unlocked by paying $10 or by spending a significant amount of time playing the other four factions in order to obtain it for free.

image credit: Ubisoft

Conversely, some skills feel excessively powerful. Inspired by Splinter Cell’s covert gameplay, the Echelon faction may either turn almost invisible or unleash a pulsating sonar ability that allows your entire squad to detect foes through barriers. The 5.7 pistol, which fires slowly yet dispatches opponents in one or two hits, is yours to keep and is substantially extended by their extreme ability, Sonar Goggles.

The only way to deal with the Sonar Goggles is to just murder the person who is wearing them. There’s really no downside here, unlike other factions where powers are much more situational or team-oriented. Seeing through walls is always advantageous. Some classes are more popular than others in matches due to the launch’s ineffective balance, which detracts from the faction system’s overall strength.

Missed Targets

The main problem with abilities, though, is usually that they don’t really mesh with XDefiant’s “the quick and the dead” strategy for gunfights. Many qualities are basically irrelevant in most instances because shootouts frequently end practically as soon as they start. When all it takes to drop you is a few strikes, you almost certainly won’t survive if you deflect damage or use an explosive drone to delay your response. To really employ them, you need to have a Jedi-like intuition of what’s going to happen, such as planting a shield or healing device where you believe a battle is about to break out or sending an explosive drone where you think someone is likely to be.

Instead of equipping the Cleaners faction’s moltov, which you can only use if you’re a few feet away from an opponent, why not utilize the Phantom’s deployable shield to gain several seconds of free shots at any distance? If you can neutralize a healing device without dying by shooting it from a distance, what good is it to be able to hack one from close quarters? 

image credit: Ubisoft

There are now issues with various weapons’ balance as well. As I continued to play XDefiant, more and more players with sniper rifles started showing up in lobbies, and it was soon obvious why. Regardless matters where the shot lands on your target, you can usually kill someone with one shot when you swipe. If you can get a bead on someone and hit them, even at short range, you’ll probably drop them before they can double-tap you. Expert players immediately realized this, thus no matter how far away the adversary is, if you go in today, you’ll definitely find yourself eliminated right away. I felt like a chump very fast for carrying a different pistol.

Only a portion of the sniper advantage is to blame for the current sense of uselessness with shotguns and light machine guns. Both have substantial disadvantages. LMGs appear to be more geared to destroy enemy technologies like shields and cause less damage against actual enemies, while shotguns have a relatively narrow range and slow fire rate. Despite having fewer disadvantages, both weapon types seem to penalize you for selecting them over assault rifles or submachine guns.

That being said, XDefiant doesn’t mind if your kill. The death ratio is negative as long as you’re advancing your team toward the match objective, so none of that is a deal-breaker. You don’t need to be one of the quickest shooters online to pick up a riot shield, concentrate on living long enough to get a payload from one side of a map to the other, or play defense or support on capture sites by assisting in the survival of your more formidable allies. While all of that is entertaining, it might require a few additional game modes that take a more creative and intriguing approach to varying gameplay to keep us from becoming bored for a little while longer.

Game Modes

Right now, XDefiant only offers five modes, all of which are typical for this type of shooter. Six-on-six unranked play is supported in all of those modes. A four-on-four ranked mode, which employs skill-based matchmaking, is also coming to XDefiant, although it’s currently only accessible as a preview.

Zone Control, Domination, and Occupy are variations on capture-point modes that are played in XDefiant’s large, packed arenas, with Occupy taking place on a linear map. That reduces variation, and you’ll soon find that many of the matches you play in a given session get monotonous. It doesn’t really modify the gameplay to distinguish between the three types of control point capture—one that goes across the map, three that do it concurrently, or multiple in a certain order.

In the meantime, Hotshot is a variation on Call of Duty’s Kill Confirmed where points are awarded solely for retrieving dropped items following a kill. However, it has an additional VIP twist where the player with the most items gains speed and multiplies their score for each item they retrieve. As such, you should defend your team’s Hotshot while pursuing the opposition’s. Conversely, Escort is a simple payload mission on a linear map; it doesn’t really change from the mode that has been a part of Team Fortress 2 and Overwatch for years, thus it’s not very new or inventive. Neither of these choices does anything to enhance XDefiant’s unique features or set it apart from other games.

Conversely, the maps themselves are mostly exceptional. XDefiant draws its factions from the same games, and these games are heavily referenced in ten arenas and four linear areas, creating visually stimulating and diverse environments. They are often very open, with several routes leading into and out of each location. That implies that your chances of getting shot in the back are roughly the same as your chances of getting the drop on someone, but at least they promote quick mobility, little camping, and a variety of interactions with nearly every step.

image credit: Ubisoft

That helps make every group and weapon feel realistic (well, maybe DedSec), at least in terms of playstyle; even while the guns’ strength is a little inconsistent, it’s still entertaining to dash about with a shotgun or to hide out with a sniper rifle. Since there are no places where a team can burrow down to make themselves almost invulnerable or where an individual can hide and dominate alone with a sniper rifle, the open architecture also keeps things fair.

Additionally, there’s a very extensive progression system that lets you progress by unlocking different faction members, weapon attachments like scopes, and weaponry. After a few rounds with a weapon, additional components become unlocked for it just by using it. This allows you to customize weaponry to your preference. Completing tasks with the weapons you already have, such as scoring point-blank SMG kills or reaching a particular amount of one-shot snipes, is necessary to unlock further firearms and characters. All of the challenges are easy to achieve and motivate you to change up how you play. They strike the ideal mix between giving you new weapons for your efforts and encouraging you to try out alternative loadouts and gear.

However, this cannot be true about the quest to become a member of the DedSec faction. When you first launch XDefiant, you may choose from four factions; but, to access the fifth, you must accrue almost 700,000 XP (experience points) through daily challenges, finishing and winning matches, scoring kills, and accomplishing goals. To put it into perspective, you get 100 XP for a kill, 2,000 XP for finishing a match (and an additional 2,000 XP  if you win), and 5,000–10,000 XP for each of the four daily challenges. That means that completing it for free will require some serious grinding, but if you’re prepared to spend $10, you can unlock DedSec right away.

The Verdict

Although XDefiant is a decent competitive first-person shooter game, based on many Ubisoft properties, it doesn’t really separate out from the pack of free-to-play shooters. The majority of its shooting techniques are really satisfying, and even dying doesn’t stop the action because you respawn quickly.

Weapon balance is one of its more minor problems, which Ubisoft is likely to fix in the future. The quick time-to-kill can be frustrating because it limits the usefulness of many class skills. Players often die before they have a chance to activate these skills, making them feel irrelevant to the core gameplay. It also lacks a distinguishing mode, relying instead on cliched point-capture notions and worn-out yet reliable tropes like Payload and Kill Confirmed.

However, good maps make things interesting for longer than they otherwise would, so maybe it will have enough time to establish a niche of its own. It’s really appreciated that you have come this far. Thank you for checking out the XDefiant review. Be sure to get the game now, available digital on PS5, Xbox Series and PC. Also share your thoughts or comments below. Stay safe, until next time 😀 

(Image: Capcom)

Dragon’s Dogma 2

“Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a double-edged sword: a charming throwback brimming with nostalgia, but also burdened by some outdated flaws”

A decade after the original, Capcom unleashes Dragon’s Dogma 2. This sequel promises to recapture the magic of the first game’s dynamic world and innovative combat, but does it soar to new heights, or does it crash under the weight of its predecessor’s shadow? Buckle up, Arisen, because this Dragon’s Dogma 2 review dives deep into the strengths and weaknesses of this long-awaited return. We’ll explore the world, dissect the combat, and see if this sequel can truly claim the title of Dragon’s Dogma 2. So, is it a triumphant return or a frustrating exercise in nostalgia? Let’s find out!

Overview

Dragon’s Dogma 2 stays true to the cult classic formula that made the original great. It boasts the same top-notch action combat and a vast, mysterious open world begging to be explored. However, this sequel isn’t afraid to show its age.

Just like the 2012 game, Dragon’s Dogma 2 throws you headfirst into the deep end. Expect brutal enemies and chaotic encounters right from the start.

The world itself feels cobbled together but somehow works in its favor. This “controlled chaos” creates a unique open-world experience, where unexpected events can turn into exciting adventures.

The world design encourages exploration. Unlike many open-world games, Dragon’s Dogma 2 doesn’t hold your hand. Hidden secrets and unbeaten paths reward the curious adventurer.

Be warned, though, danger lurks around every corner. Early on, even simple travel is fraught with peril. Packs of enemies work together to overwhelm you, and night-time presents a whole new level of brutality.

(Image: Capcom)

Compared to the original, Dragon’s Dogma 2 avoids the frustrating difficulty spikes, but makes up for it with battles that can quickly snowball into epic, messy clashes. Learning to manage this chaos is a steep learning curve, but eventually mastering a once-daunting area feels incredibly rewarding.

Fast travel is limited in this world. Forget convenient waypoints; exploration is primarily done on foot. ‘Ferrystones’, your ticket to long-distance travel, come at a premium in the early game.

Oxcarts, a more local option, have limited schedules and can even be destroyed mid-journey by roaming monsters. This “inconvenience” creates a sense of vulnerability but can also be incredibly frustrating.

Despite the occasional setbacks, the world’s mysteries are so captivating that you’ll find yourself pushing forward. The lack of hand-holding makes you feel like a true explorer, not a pre-programmed quest machine.

Every corner holds the potential for discovery, and the environments are visually stunning. From breathtaking cliffside vistas to eerily charming caves, Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a world worth getting lost in.

A Dragon’s Tale Mixed with Hidden Gems

(Image: Capcom)

Dragon’s Dogma 2’s story mirrors the open-world approach – it’s a mixed bag with some hidden gems. The main plot is familiar territory: you’re an immortal Arisen destined to fight a dragon. It throws in some Game of Thrones-inspired political intrigue, but it’s nothing groundbreaking.

However, the story throws in a couple of unexpected twists that shake things up. Additionally, the side characters shine brighter than the main narrative. You’ll find yourself drawn to a Hemingway-esque hermit and a noble’s son working to reform his government from within.

Quests are a similar mix. Townsfolk readily throw errands your way, ranging from typical fetch quests to monster slaying. Some introduce interesting twists, like time limits or ambiguous consequences.

Imagine juggling three quests – one involves rescuing a child from wolves with a ticking clock, another requires some detective work following a suspicious character. Just like exploring the wilderness, city streets offer adventure and reward curiosity.

Familiar Class Favorites and Exciting Newcomers

(Image: Capcom)

Next with Dragon’s Dogma 2 review are the vocations or classes. The game offers a robust selection of vocations or classes to choose from. Fans of the original will be happy to see the return of classics like Fighter and Mage, each with a distinct playstyle.

Advanced vocations like the Warrior specialize further, offering even more offensive power. These classes feel great to play, with responsive controls and a variety of skills to unlock.

The new additions are truly inspired. The Mystic Spearhand, a melee/magic hybrid, focuses on aggressive close-quarters combat, a stark contrast to the defensive Mystic Knight from the previous game.

The Warfarer provides ultimate flexibility, wielding any weapon type and filling any party role, although not as expertly as dedicated specialists. 

The Trickster, a master of deception, uses illusions to manipulate enemies – picture the “smoke too tough, swag too different” meme come to life, with enemies tripping over mind-altering incense.

Combat borrows heavily from Monster Hunter. Large and even some small enemies have weak points – a cyclops’ eye or a lizard’s tail. Targeting these vulnerabilities can deal more damage, inflict stuns, or even sever limbs, altering enemy attacks and potentially yielding better loot.

This strategic targeting adds depth and reward to battles, especially when facing large groups of foes.

Pawns: Your Invaluable Companions… Mostly

(Image: Capcom)

Dragon’s Dogma 2 ditches traditional multiplayer, but introduces Pawns – AI controlled companions who fight alongside you. Pawns aren’t just battle buddies; they can gather resources, point out hidden secrets, and even offer quest hints.

They’ve gotten a significant upgrade this time around, with specializations like resource highlighters and party inventory organizers.

Here’s where things get interesting: Pawns can travel through The Rift, a separate dimension, to join other players’ adventures. They learn from these experiences, bringing back items and knowledge to share with you.

While exploring with your Pawn team, you might discover secrets they learned on their travels with other Arisen. This asynchronous multiplayer system was innovative in 2012 and remains unique today.

However, Pawns aren’t perfect. Their AI can be unreliable, leading them into trouble and untimely deaths (often by falling off bridges during battles!). You can issue commands like “help” or “wait,” but these can be unresponsive in the heat of the moment.

(Image: Capcom)

Sometimes, you’ll be stuck waiting on your Pawn to revive you or free you from an enemy, which can be frustrating.

Despite their occasional shortcomings, Pawns are invaluable assets. Combat in Dragon’s Dogma 2 shines with its satisfying action. Every swing, shot, and chop feels impactful, thanks in part to the game’s physics system.

Bigger characters can grab and climb enemies, while smaller ones are faster and more agile. You can even pick up objects and enemies to use as projectiles, and team up with your Pawns to overpower massive foes.

The game throws a lot of these nuances at you, and while it encourages exploration and discovery, a little more guidance in the manual wouldn’t hurt.

Climbing Woes and Performance Hiccups

(Image: Capcom)

Moving on with the Dragon’s Dogma 2 review are the pros and cons. Dragon’s Dogma 2’s combat isn’t without its flaws. Climbing enemies in the heat of battle can be frustrating. The controls become unresponsive as the enemy moves, making it difficult to maintain your grip.

Additionally, the camera can become a real enemy in tight spaces, blocking your view and making it nearly impossible to see what’s happening.

Frame rate drops can also occur during large battles. While not unplayable, these slowdowns can make precise timing in combat more challenging, especially with all the chaos on screen. 

Enemy variety is a mixed bag. You’ll encounter variations of a core set of creatures, but some regions have unique enemy traits. For example, desert lizards have tougher hides, and humanoids wield different weapons and armor.

The true standouts are the special monsters like Medusas, which are visually impressive and offer unique challenges. Discovering these encounters in the open world is a definite highlight.

Verdict

Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a double-edged sword: a charming throwback brimming with nostalgia, but also burdened by some outdated flaws. It lovingly rehashes the 2012 cult classic’s magic – the vibrant, dynamic world and the genre-defining combat with its physics-based brilliance.

However, the experience is haunted by a few unwelcome guests: unreliable AI companions, awkward climbing mechanics, occasional frame rate drops, and a camera prone to tantrums at inopportune moments.

These quirks might test your patience, but if you can persevere, Dragon’s Dogma 2 offers a unique and rewarding action-RPG experience.

It stands apart from its modern counterparts with its open-world freedom and unconventional quest design, making it a gem waiting to be unearthed by players seeking a captivating adventure.

So what’s your take on the Dragon’s Dogma 2 review. Is it everything you expected? Leave a comment here below and add what your think of this video game. If you interested, click on the buttons above. Until next time. 😀

“Rise of the Ronin delivers a captivating samurai experience with its beautiful world, engaging combat, and impactful story choices.”

Looking to carve your name into the legends of feudal Japan? Then unsheathe your katana and prepare to dive into “Rise of the Ronin,” the latest open-world action RPG by Team Ninja. This review will guide you through the sprawling world, fierce combat, and character-driven narrative to help you decide if this is the samurai adventure you’ve been waiting for.

Overview

Rise of the Ronin throws you into the tumultuous final years of the Sengoku period. You play as a disgraced ronin, a masterless samurai seeking to forge your own destiny amidst warring clans and rising tensions. Explore a vast open world inspired by historical Japan, forge alliances, hone your combat skills, and carve your legend through a web of choices and consequences.

A Samurai Tale

Rise of the Ronin throws you into the heart of Japan’s turbulent 19th century, during the Boshin War that toppled the Shogunate. The story follows two fictional orphans, survivors of a Shogunate massacre, trained as assassins – the “Blade Twins.”

You customize these blank slates in a detailed character creator, then embark on a daring mission: infiltrate American Black Ships and eliminate Commodore Perry (no kin to the singer). This thrilling opening sets the tone for the game – fast-paced action with a historical backdrop.

The narrative expands beyond the initial mission. You’ll encounter historical figures, choose your allegiance (pro-Shogunate or against), and face tough decisions that shape Japan’s future. While some choices hold weight, others have predetermined outcomes.

Thematically, the story tackles interesting topics – nationalism, resistance to foreign influence, and the clash of tradition with new technology. History buffs will enjoy interacting with fictionalized versions of influential figures like Genzui Kusaka and Sakamoto Ryoma. Think “revolutionary samurai warriors” for a unique blend of history and action.

However, the narrative’s depth resembles a blockbuster movie – entertaining while you play, but details fade quickly after the credits roll. It’s a fun ride, but one that might not leave a lasting impression.

Features

• Open-World Exploration: Traverse a meticulously crafted open world brimming with bustling towns, scenic landscapes, and hidden secrets.
• Character Customization: Craft your samurai warrior, from appearance and attire to your fighting style and skillset.
• Deep Combat System: Master the art of swordsmanship with a variety of weapons, stances, and parrying techniques.
• Meaningful Choices: Your actions and decisions throughout the game influence the story’s progression and the fate of the world around you.
• Bond System: Build relationships with key characters, unlocking side quests, unique rewards, and potential allies.

Gameplay

The true stars of the show are the missions. Some are open-world encounters, while others resemble classic Ninja Gaiden or Nioh missions, where you team up with AI companions or friends to tackle objectives. Co-op is a fantastic addition, but it’s a shame you can’t always tell if a mission allows it beforehand.

The combat shines! Team Ninja delivers again with a satisfying and flexible system. You can wield various weapons, each with multiple fighting styles and strategic rock-paper-scissors mechanics. Mastering “counterspark” – deflecting attacks and opening enemies up – is key to victory. Enemies are relentless, making battles demanding but rewarding.

Boss fights are fantastic, forcing you to learn patterns and utilize advanced tactics.

Character progression is another highlight. Each stat has a skill tree, allowing you to tailor your playstyle. Side quests strengthen bonds with characters, unlocking dialogue, combat style upgrades, and gear.

The Longhouse, your hub, offers customization, skill point respec, and even time travel via a special book! You can revisit past missions, make different choices, and complete missed content – a fantastic feature. The world is peppered with thoughtful touches, like color-coded dialogue options and character trackers.

You can even see and interact with your friends’ characters in the world, adding a unique layer of connection.

However, Rise of the Ronin stumbles under the weight of its ambition. The open world is stuffed with repetitive activities and generic loot drops. Upgrading and disassembling gear helps, but the sheer volume of mostly useless items becomes overwhelming.

Even some side activities, despite being interesting in concept (finding cats, photography missions), lose their appeal due to the uninspired loot rewards. It feels like the developers were more focused on ticking open-world RPG boxes than creating a truly focused experience.

Imagine this: a more streamlined Rise of the Ronin, ditching the loot bloat and focusing on stellar combat, well-designed missions, and engaging character progression. That could have been a truly remarkable Soulslike. Instead, we’re left with a good game buried beneath layers of unnecessary content.

Rise of the Ronin’s core gameplay loop revolves around exploration, combat, and character progression. Uncover quests in settlements, venture into the wilderness to tackle challenging enemies, and complete objectives to gain experience and unlock new abilities.

The combat is a highlight, offering a satisfying blend of strategic swordsmanship and demanding reflexes. Mastering weapon stances, parries, and timing your attacks is key to overcoming formidable opponents.

Multiplayer

While the focus lies on the single-player experience, Rise of the Ronin offers a limited online co-op mode. Team up with a friend to tackle challenging missions and specific bosses, adding a layer of camaraderie to your samurai journey. However, the online aspect feels like a tacked-on feature and doesn’t significantly impact the core gameplay.

Post-game Content

Once you complete the main story, a decent amount of post-game content awaits. Unfinished side quests, hidden areas to explore, and challenging endgame bosses offer additional hours of gameplay for completionists.

Verdict

Rise of the Ronin is a promising mix. It boasts a fantastic historical setting, Team Ninja’s renowned combat system, and some clever RPG elements that make it instantly engaging, especially with friends. Little details like using the grappling hook to throw objects or gliding onto your horse add a delightful touch.

However, the game stumbles with an overabundance of map markers, overly complex systems, and a ridiculous amount of useless loot. Sorting through this clutter and dealing with unnecessary mechanics made me yearn for a more streamlined experience.

When Rise of the Ronin focuses on its core strength – the challenging and rewarding combat – it shines. But it often feels caught in two minds, unsure of its identity and what it should be. This indecision, unfortunately, weakens the overall experience, even for a skilled samurai.

It delivers a captivating samurai experience with its beautiful world, engaging combat, and impactful story choices. While repetitive open-world tasks and a shallow online mode hold it back slightly, the core gameplay loop and character progression are deeply satisfying. If you crave a thrilling single-player adventure set in the rich tapestry of feudal Japan, Rise of the Ronin is a worthy journey to embark on.

Thanks for checking out my Rise of the Ronin Review. If you like this review please leave your comments below. So what do you find fascinating about Rise of the Ronin? Is it the combat system, the open-world exploration or the character customization system? Is this the ideal game you would play? What other alternative games are you looking at? So, what now? Click on the button above or HERE to get yourself a copy of Rise of the Ronin.  

WWE 2K24 Review

 

WWE 2K24

“WWE 2K24 delivers a refined experience, building on the successes of the past three years”

Lace up your virtual boots and step into the squared circle because WWE 2K24 is here! After a two-year hiatus to regroup, the latest edition in the franchise throws its hat into the wrestling game ring. But is it a champion or a contender merely warming the bench? Let’s break it down into a WWE 2K24 Review.

Looking Sharper Than Ever

One thing’s for sure – WWE 2K24 is a looker. Wrestlers boast detailed character models that capture their real-life counterparts with impressive accuracy. From signature hairstyles to intricate tattoos, the attention to detail is fantastic. Even the referees get a makeover, ditching the generic stand-in look for faces you might actually recognize from Monday Night Raw. It might seem like a minor detail, but these touches add to the overall immersion.

Gameplay: Small Tweaks, Big Impact (Maybe)

Don’t expect a complete overhaul of the core mechanics. This year’s edition focuses on refining the existing formula. The biggest addition is the Super Finisher, a devastating move requiring three finisher stocks to execute. It’s undeniably powerful, but filling those stocks takes time, leaving you vulnerable. Another new wrinkle is the random trading blows minigame that pops up during matches. While it adds a touch of variety, it disrupts the flow and feels more like an annoyance than a strategic element.

The good news: some nagging issues have been addressed. Non-legal tag team partners can only interfere once before getting ejected, preventing the cheese-fest of past iterations. New paybacks like the Iron Jaw add strategic depth, and the overall AI feels improved, with managers now actively helping their clients secure victories.

Match Mania: A Mixed Bag of Brawls

This year brings back some fan-favorite match types, including the special guest referee match. Imagine the chaos of one player controlling the ref, enforcing the rules or throwing the whole match into disarray! It’s a blast, especially with a group of friends.

The ambulance and casket matches return, each with their own quirks. The ambulance match offers more environmental interaction, while the casket match feels like a regular bout with a different win condition. A missed opportunity? Not being able to recreate iconic moments like HBK dancing on the coffin. Gauntlet matches add another layer of challenge, letting you test your endurance against a series of opponents. However, the limited pool of four wrestlers feels restrictive.

MyRise: Living the Dream (or Nightmare)

WWE 2K24’s story mode, MyRise, returns with two compelling narratives. “Unleashed” mirrors the struggles of an indie darling adjusting to the WWE machine, while “Undisputed” throws you into the power vacuum left by a retiring Roman Reigns. Both stories are packed with content, humor, and even some truly bizarre moments that capitalize on the absurdity of professional wrestling. However, they can feel bogged down by filler matches that detract from the main events.

Showcase Mode: Fumbled History

The Showcase mode aims to recreate iconic WrestleMania moments, but it stumbles this year. The match selection, spanning 40 years of the event, feels underwhelming. While some early matches benefit from the added context, others simply don’t hold up as historical landmarks. Even worse, the mode still struggles to capture the magic of those legendary battles. Completing objectives often feels like checking boxes rather than truly reliving those moments. The transitions between gameplay and real footage are jarring and frequent, further disrupting the flow.

Perhaps the most frustrating aspect is the game’s seeming fear of its own history. Edited crowd noise and blurred faces sanitize the experience, removing some of the grit and realness that made those matches so memorable. Key moments and wrestlers are missing, likely due to licensing issues. This sanitization and incompleteness feel like a disservice to the fans.

Universe and MyGM: Familiar Faces, New Toys

For those who like to craft their own wrestling stories, Universe Mode and MyGM offer familiar territory with some interesting tweaks. MyGM gets the most attention with new features like post-PLE trades and individual wrestler ring levels that influence their performance. These additions make for the most strategic MyGM experience yet.

Universe Mode feels more like a minor update, offering new rivalry options but lacking significant changes. While still robust, it misses some features like superstar promos that were present in older iterations.

Verdict

WWE 2K24 delivers a refined experience, building on the successes of the past three years. While it doesn’t overhaul everything, it introduces enough fresh features across the board to make it a worthwhile upgrade.

However, some longstanding issues persist. The Showcase mode docuseries format still struggles to translate into engaging gameplay, MyRise’s story pacing remains inconsistent, and some wrestlers outside the top tier lack the same level of visual detail. Despite these shortcomings, WWE 2K24 stands as a strong conclusion to a trilogy of excellent wrestling games.

Thanks for checking out my WWE 2K24 review. Be sure to click on the button above to buy the game. And don’t forget to leave your comments below. Stay safe until next time 😀

(Image credit: Eleventh Hour Games)

Last Epoch

“Last Epoch blends deep character customization with exciting action gameplay, offering a unique experience”

In the ever-expanding realm of action RPGs, where giants like Diablo and Path of Exile reign supreme, a new contender has emerged: Last Epoch. This time-bending title promises an experience unlike any other, offering a blend of rich character customization, thrilling action, and innovative systems. But does Last Epoch live up to the hype? Let’s dive into this Last Epoch Review to discover its strengths, weaknesses, and whether it deserves a place in your gaming library.

Last Epoch Review – Overview

Last Epoch, a new ARPG, has finally launched after five years in Early Access. It offers a sweet spot between the two giants: it’s easy to learn like Diablo 4, but has the deep character customization of Path of Exile. You can build your character exactly how you want thanks to a clear and flexible skill system.

The story campaign is a bit forgettable after the initial hours, but that’s okay because the real fun starts at the endgame. There are some online multiplayer bugs and occasional clunkiness, but if you can get past those, the journey to level 100 is rewarding, filled with exciting loot, thrilling battles, and a constant sense of getting stronger.

It offers a familiar starting point for ARPG veterans. You can choose from five classic character classes: Sentinel; Mages; Rogue; the undead-summoning Acolyte; and Primalist (similar to Barbarian class). Each character has a distinct playstyle, so you can’t go wrong with your pick.

(Image credit: Eleventh Hour Games)

The adventure takes place in the visually stunning high-fantasy world of Eterra, constantly under threat from evil gods, undead armies, and a mysterious void slowly consuming the planet, kind of like purple mold on a giant orange.

Last Epoch throws you into a classic ARPG experience filled with intense battles, exploration, and loot collection. You’ll hack, slash, cast spells, chug potions, and delve into quests, just like in other action RPGs. But Last Epoch adds some unique twists to the familiar formula.

For example, the “Ward” system adds a regenerating shield on top of your health, and your mana can go negative, acting as a cooldown for your spells. These additions make the combat feel deeper and more strategic compared to Diablo 3 or 4, without losing the core fun and simplicity of the genre.

Last Epoch delivers the expected gore and monster battles of an ARPG, with enemies like zombies, bird-warriors, and giant crabs. However, the story itself isn’t quite as dark and demonic as Diablo.

Story

The story borrows heavily from Chrono Trigger, particularly the character “Elder Gaspar” and the concept of time travel. While this inspiration helps explain the events of the game, the overall story itself is just decent, not outstanding.

The game heavily borrows from Chrono Trigger’s time travel concept. The story revolves around preventing Eterra’s destruction by traveling through five different eras.

However, unlike Chrono Trigger’s well-developed narrative, Last Epoch fails to create a compelling reason for the characters to care about the time travel mission, making the story feel uninspired despite the interesting premise.

(Image credit: Eleventh Hour Games)

The main story is a letdown. The ending feels like a series of disconnected events and areas with underdeveloped characters and a confusing plot. Thankfully, around level 60, this uninspired story gives way to the much more enjoyable endgame.

This features fun, procedurally generated challenges within each timeline you previously explored, along with some epic boss fights. While the story falls short, the engaging endgame content salvages the experience.

It’s clear the developers aimed high by referencing a classic like Chrono Trigger, but the narrative fails to meet those expectations.

Battle Gameplay

Last Epoch might feel like a step back initially in two ways:

However, persevere past level 15, and you’ll discover the true star of the show: the incredibly deep and unique skill system. Each class has its own distinct identity, and as you level up, the variety of skills and builds available truly shine.

This makes experimenting with all five classes highly rewarding, offering a breadth of character creation unlike any other ARPG.

Each of the five base classes has three subclasses to choose from. These subclasses drastically alter your playstyle. For example, the Acolyte can choose to be a Necromancer, focusing on summoning and buffing undead minions.

One of the best Necromancer skills is spawning Wraiths that get even deadlier. The Rogue can specialize as a Marksman, focusing on mobility and precise archery attacks. 

Character Base Classes & Sub-Classes (Image credit: Eleventh Hour Games)

Last Epoch lets you fine-tune your character in incredible depth. You have two main ways to do this:

These two systems work independently. You don’t have to choose between improving your passive or active skills; you can level them up both at the same time. This allows for unmatched character customization and lets you tailor your hero to your exact preferences.

Item Crafting & Gear

Its crafting system, using glyphs and scrolls, lets you completely transform equipment, making each piece feel unique and valuable. 

The game also throws surprises your way! You might find random items like a belt that grants your Necromancer a frosty surprise – every time you heal, it unleashes a wave of ice, freezing enemies and making them easy prey for your undead army.

This system encourages exploration and experimentation. Instead of just searching for gear to fit your build, you might find an amazing item that inspires you to completely redesign your character’s skills and passives to take advantage of its unique power.

The game lets you truly unleash your inner mad scientist when it comes to character building. You can combine up to five different skills at once, unlocking entirely new skill trees that let you precisely tailor your playstyle. 

(Image credit: Eleventh Hour Games)

Imagine finding an item that boosts you or your minion’s damage. This is where Last Epoch shines: the possibilities for creative combinations are endless. And if you ever change your mind, switching skills and character respec is a breeze, allowing you to constantly experiment and fine-tune your ultimate hero.

Last Epoch takes the guesswork out of character building with its intuitive guide system.

Overall, Last Epoch empowers players to experiment and customize their characters confidently thanks to its accessible and informative guidance system.

Post Story Content

Last Epoch’s endgame revolves around challenging “Monoliths of Fate,” inspired by roguelikes like Hades. These time rifts offer unique themes, diverse rewards, and replay ability as you progress to level 100. The true loot comes in the form of Blessings, permanent buffs impacting everything from experience gain to character stats.

You can equip up to 10, with some flexibility in choosing from a selection after each Monolith conquest. The element of surprise comes from hidden Blessings, motivating players to complete them all.

Last Epoch’s endgame throws you into the “Monoliths of Fate,” maze-like challenges inspired by roguelikes.

In essence, the Monoliths of Fate offer a strategic and ever-evolving endgame experience that pushes you to master your character and adapt to constantly changing situations. 

While Last Epoch has other endgame activities like traditional dungeons and an enemy wave arena, they feel less engaging compared to the Monoliths of Fate.

(Image credit: Eleventh Hour Games)

Here’s a breakdown of the drawbacks of post game:

These factors make the non-Monolith endgame feel somewhat unpolished and forgettable compared to the core strength of the game.

Last Epoch Review – Good and Bad

Last Epoch is a forgiving game, especially outside of challenging endgame activities.

Overall, Last Epoch prioritizes a smooth and enjoyable experience, offering a forgiving approach in most situations but providing a strong challenge in the endgame to keep things interesting.

Last Epoch’s town portal system throws a wrench into the otherwise smooth gameplay.

In short, the town portal system detracts from the overall experience, especially for online players.

Battle Online or Offline

Since you’re already in offline mode, you won’t encounter any of the game’s microtransactions or cosmetic options. These are primarily visual additions purchasable through the online store, and the reviewer confirms they can be entirely disregarded without affecting gameplay.

Last Epoch offers a great side system called Factions, with options for both online and offline players.

This system caters to different playstyles: online players who enjoy trading can join the Merchant’s Guild, while solo players or those offline can benefit from the Circle of Fortune’s boosted loot rates.

Last Epoch excels in presenting complex systems in a user-friendly way. Despite having a lot going on under the hood, the game’s intuitive interface makes learning its mechanics feel smooth and accessible.

(Image credit: Eleventh Hour Games)

This is in stark contrast to other ARPGs, like Path of Exile, where intricate systems can be overwhelming for newcomers. 

Therefore, Last Epoch could be considered the perfect entry point for anyone interested in the genre. It allows players to learn and master ARPG mechanics without the initial hurdle of overly complex interfaces or overwhelming systems.

Last Epoch impresses with both performance and visuals in the following ways:

Overall, Last Epoch delivers a visually impressive and smooth gameplay experience regardless of your hardware.

Last Epoch Review – My Verdict

Last Epoch blends deep character customization with exciting action gameplay, offering a unique experience between Diablo and Path of Exile. While it borrows elements from these giants, it also carves its own path with innovative systems and a captivating endgame that will keep you hooked for hours.

While the story might not be its strongest element, and there are some lingering bugs, the overall experience is still rewarding and shouldn’t deter you from giving it a try. I hope you enjoy the Last Epoch review. Please leave a comment below telling us about the game and other concerning matters. Until next time 😀

Skull and Bones

The seafaring RPG delivers unexpected levels of fun. Ship-to-ship combat with customizable weaponry is a blast, and the RPG mechanics offer surprising depth for build-crafters

After a long and tumultuous development journey, Skull and Bones has finally set sail. While many envisioned it as the successor to ‘Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag’, and Ubisoft itself made various promises that haven’t fully materialized, the final product offers a surprisingly enjoyable, albeit imperfect, experience.

Not Quite the Promised Treasure, But Still Fun

Skull and Bones is an RPG action-adventure that lets you become a fearsome pirate captain. If you enjoy watching “Pirates of the Caribbean” you will feel right at home.

You start as a sheer outcast. You embark on your naval adventure at the end of the 17th century when piracy thrived, and many outcasts decided to pursue their fortune.

You will have to grow your fame by completing missions and engaging in epic naval combats. Every pirate needs a pirate ship, so you’ll need to build one and customize your own fleet.

As you perform these deeds, you end up climbing ranks, gaining respect, and become a one-of-a-kind pirate captain whose name strikes fear across the ocean sea.

The Skull and Bones game doesn’t fulfill all the expectations set by its troubled development history. It’s not the “Black Flag” follow-up some craved, and it lacks the depth of the story and features Ubisoft once hinted at.

However, the core gameplay loop of sailing the Indian Ocean and engaging in ship-to-ship combat proves surprisingly fun.

Engaging Naval Combat and Deep RPG Mechanics

The game shines in its naval combat. Firing cannons, mortars, giant ballista and all sorts make for an enjoyable experience. It’s satisfying and a thrilling RPG experience as you defeat other ships on the Indian Ocean, granting you rewards and loot to customize your ship.

The RPG mechanics add a satisfying layer of depth, allowing you also to build your character for various playstyles. The cooperative element, where you can team up with friends to tackle challenging encounters, further enhances the enjoyment. 

Impressive Economy Simulation, But Content Concerns Linger

The economy simulator deserves praise for its impressive depth and complexity. Managing trade routes, engaging in black market activities, and building settlements adds a satisfying layer of strategic thinking and resource management.

However, the current state of the game raises concerns. The endgame content feels thin, lacking the variety and engagement needed to hold players’ attention for the long haul. The story is practically non-existent, offering a bare minimum of narrative context.

Additionally, the game suffers from technical issues like crashes, glitches, and persistent notifications, hindering the overall experience.

Hope on the Horizon

Despite these shortcomings, the Skull and Bones game isn’t entirely without hope. The ambitious live-service roadmap promises a steady stream of content updates that could address the lack of endgame activities and potentially expand the narrative.

In the meantime, the solid foundation of the core gameplay, the enjoyable RPG, and economic elements make it a decent voyage for players who crave ship battles and strategic seafaring adventures. Even though the experience needs some refinement and additional content to truly reach its full potential, game patches and updates will hopefully resolve the

The Verdict

While the Skull and Bones game might not be the successor many longed for, the seafaring RPG delivers unexpected levels of fun. Ship-to-ship combat with customizable weaponry is a blast, and the RPG mechanics offer surprising depth for build-crafters.

The economy simulation is also impressive.

However, it’s not yet the fully realized package Ubisoft promised, with limited endgame content, minimal story, and a rough-around-the-edges technical state.

Yet, hope isn’t lost… the ambitious live-service content roadmap offers a chance to address these weaknesses, and its strong foundation leaves room for an even better experience down the line.

Should you buy it? If you want to fight other pirate ships on the wide open sea, with your friends then I’m sure you will enjoy this game. Buy the Skull and Bones game. However, you may need to update the game before playing to get a better gaming experience.  

If you like my review give it a thumbs up in the comments below. Any questions you may have as well, you can leave them here below and I’ll make sure that it gets answered. Until next time. 😀

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

“Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is a triumph, weaving a captivating narrative that honors the legacy of the original while forging a bold new path”

Get ready to revisit a beloved world reimagined! Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, the much-anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed Final Fantasy 7 Remake. This time, Cloud Strife and his companions must defy fate as they journey beyond the boundaries of Midgar. New threats emerge, familiar faces return, and the very essence of the planet hangs in the balance. Does Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth deliver a worthy follow-up to the phenomenal remake? Let’s dive in and find out!

A World Reimagined

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth’s most striking feature is its sheer scale. Each region, meticulously crafted and brimming with details, feels like a living, breathing world.

From the sweeping grasslands to the desolate wasteland, the sheer scope is awe-inspiring. Exploration becomes an adventure in itself, uncovering hidden secrets and unraveling the stories etched within the landscape.

The environmental themes resonate deeply; the beauty of the world stands in stark contrast to the scars inflicted by Shinra’s relentless pursuit of Mako energy. This juxtaposition fuels a burning desire to protect this fragile planet.

Optional Activities

Rebirth embraces many modern open-world tropes, offering a plethora of optional activities. While some, like tracking down Lifesprings or battling unique enemies, deepen the world and lore, others, like treasure hunts or timed button presses, feel like filler.

However, the rewards are generally enticing, encouraging exploration and completionism. Community Noticeboards in major towns provide sidequests that flesh out the world and characters, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people affected by the events unfolding.

Combat Evolved

Combat in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth builds upon the foundation laid in Remake. The returning ‘Pressure and Stagger’ systems reward strategic thinking and skillful execution.

Mastering enemy vulnerabilities and exploiting them feels immensely satisfying. Each character boasts a distinct fighting style, and Yuffie, now a fully playable member, adds a layer of dynamism with her expansive skillset.

Synergies, powerful partner attacks, further elevate combat, offering new tactical possibilities and rewarding teamwork. The Materia system remains robust, allowing for customization and experimentation.

Mastering these intricate systems unlocks a combat experience that is both challenging and deeply rewarding.

A Cast of Familiar Heroes

The iconic characters of Final Fantasy 7 return, each wrestling with their own burdens and motivations.

Cloud’s internal struggles are brought to life with nuanced performances and expressive animations. Barret’s backstory receives a powerful retelling, while Red XIII is fleshed out into a more complete character.

The relationship between Aerith and Tifa deepens, showcasing a bond forged in shared hardship and unwavering hope. Despite the occasional melodrama, the core themes of friendship, environmentalism, and the fight for a better future resonate strongly.

A Story Reforged

Rebirth’s narrative initially follows a familiar path, revisiting key locations and events from the original. While this allows for deeper exploration and character development, it can feel slow-paced at times.

The true intrigue lies in the game’s exploration of alternate timelines and the concept of defying fate. This ambition is commendable, but the execution is flawed.

The conclusion, while thematically poignant, is convoluted and lacking in clarity. Despite these shortcomings, the story manages to hold a mirror to our own world, reminding us of the importance of hope and resilience in the face of tragedy.

Verdict

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is a triumph, weaving a captivating narrative that honors the legacy of the original while forging a bold new path. The combat is exhilarating, the visuals are stunning, and the story will leave you yearning for more.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the original or a newcomer to the world of Final Fantasy 7, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is a must-play experience. So, grab your Buster Sword, and prepare for an epic adventure – A timeless classic! 

If you live our review, please leave comment here below. If you wanna find out more about the game, check it out here. Stay safe until next time :D.

Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth

This isn’t just the best turn-based Yakuza, it’s a series masterpiece, packed to the brim with brawling bliss.

Strap on your flip-flops, Yakuza fans, because this next Yakuza-inspired video game, Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth, takes Kiryu and co. on a tropical vacation with more chaos than a tiki-themed mosh pit. Forget karaoke bars and pocket circuit racing – this Hawaiian heist throws you headfirst into a sprawling criminal saga that spans continents and punches. But does paradise deliver, or is it just a sunburned disappointment?

Overview

Yakuza goes tropical: After the RPG twist of Like a Dragon, Infinite Wealth dials in a smoother, more tactical turn-based combat that feels like a satisfying evolution. It’s still rough and tumble, but with strategic depth and flashy proximity attacks, it’s like a chess match with brass knuckles.

Old friends, new digs: Ichiban’s back, still the sunny pup he was, joined by a reflective Kiryu facing his mortality. Their Hawaiian adventure is a wild ride, tackling everything from environmental woes to online conspiracies, all wrapped in a compelling mystery with fewer knots than usual.

Characters to savor: The supporting crew shines, from local charmers like Eric and Chitose to scene-stealing villains like Trejo’s machete-wielding Dwight.

The writing is top-notch, from dramatic moments to lowbrow humor, and the idle banter between them is pure gold, whether it’s praising Sega’s Game Gear or debating soy sauce.

Aloha, paradise: Hawaii isn’t just a backdrop, it’s a vibrant, explorable playground. You can cruise the beaches, hit the malls, grab shave ice, and greet everyone with a friendly “Aloha.”

It’s a refreshing change from the usual war games and racing titles, and this fictional Honolulu is surprisingly vast, easily fitting nine Kamurochos inside its sandy shores and shiny malls.

More than just Waikiki: Don’t get too comfy in paradise, because Kiryu heads back to Japan for a few chapters. You’ll revisit Yokohama and Kamurocho, complete with their own substories and side activities.

For series veterans, it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane, offering Kiryu a chance to reflect and make amends. Newcomers might not get as much out of it, but the experience points are worth the detour.

Infinite Wealth is Like a Dragon at its best: It’s a hilarious, heartfelt journey with a satisfyingly polished combat system and a stunning new Hawaiian setting. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this tropical brawl is a must-play.

Gameplay Features

Gone to Hawaii, but the weirdness still stays. Despite swapping Japan for sunshine, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is knee-deep in hilariously off-the-wall enemies, from Hungry Hungry Homeless to Imp Patient. Think a grown-up Garbage Pail Kids brawl, but with way more strategic punch.

This time, the turn-based combat explodes with life. You can reposition your four-person squad before each round, flanking foes for bonus damage or grabbing objects like bikes and barrels to create party-wide mayhem.

Unlike the automatic weapon pick-ups in Yakuza: Like a Dragon, here you choose your tools of destruction, from explosive gas cans to rocket launchers.

As your party bonds deepen, you unlock spectacular team moves. Imagine knocking an enemy into your teammate’s volleyball spike or launching them into a curbside jump-kick, like a human pinball gone rogue.

These XCOM-inspired chain reactions add another layer of tactical depth, rivaling the team combos in Marvel’s Midnight Suns and Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope.

Kiryu, the series mainstay, throws it back to the old-school street fighting with three distinct stances: balanced Brawler, rapid-fire Rush, and grapple-heavy Beast. He even gets his trademark Heat gauge, letting you unleash real-time button combos for a satisfying dose of classic Yakuza action.

But even without Kiryu, the combat is a far cry from Yakuza: Like a Dragon’s polite turn-taking. Infinite Wealth throws out a riotous level of chaos, with each fight arena demanding fresh strategies.

From wielding flaming logs in a forest inferno to battling in a poison gas room, the stakes are constantly shifting, keeping you on your toes. One fight even lets you knock enemies into a hungry shark’s mouth for a truly unforgettable encounter.

Sure, there are some repetitive street brawls, but the vast majority of Infinite Wealth’s story missions are gripping and unforgettable.

This Hawaiian vacation is a vibrant blend of classic Yakuza brawling, tactical turn-based depth, and hilariously twisted enemies, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.

Yakuza Roles System

Yakuza’s signature job system returns! Switch up your squad’s skills and unleash chaos. I rocked Idol for support, but the new jobs are even cooler. Kasuga surfs enemies as an Aquanaut, Adachi slashes as a Samurai, and newcomer Tomizawa blasts baddies as a Desperado.

It’s like a cosplay brawl gone wild!

Special attacks are insanely fun. Imagine Kiryu channeling Bruce Lee in a Game of Death jumpsuit, smacking enemies using nun-chucks to oblivion. Each job unlocks dazzling skills as you level up, like tossing a frisbee that unleashes a pack of puppy-maulers to devour foes.

No more grinding! Unlike the frustrating difficulty spikes of Yakuza: Like a Dragon, Infinite Wealth keeps the challenge balanced. The final chapter throws punches, but bosses are fair, and you’re always prepped with recommended levels for each fight.

Oddly, there’s no difficulty setting for your first playthrough. You have to beat the story to unlock harder modes, which seems strange.

It’s like asking you to climb Everest twice, one step at a time, before you can use a jetpack. No easy mode either, so if you struggle, you’re stuck grinding in repetitive dungeons. This lack of accessibility feels outdated.

Overall, Infinite Wealth’s job system and balanced combat are a blast. The flashy skills and hilarious job outfits make every fight a riot. Just wish there were difficulty options for everyone, not just New Game+ masochists.

Side Paradise Activities

Kawaii Hawaii isn’t just scenery in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth – it’s a playground overflowing with side activities.

But that’s just the tip of the Hawaiian pineapple!

The best part? You level up and unlock goodies everywhere you go. Whether it’s pummeling foes or brewing beer with your buddies (unleashing new combo attacks!), you’re constantly rewarded.

Infinite Wealth feels like a giant treasure chest – you’ll never run out of surprises.

Infinite Wealth might not have an infinite wealth of ideas, but it’s definitely overflowing with the good stuff. Get ready to punch, explore, and laugh your way through paradise!

Verdict

Forget the grinding, embrace the glamour! Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth’s revamped combat oozes flash and flexibility, making every turn a thrill. The Hawaiian playground explodes with endless activities, keeping you hooked longer than a barracuda on a fresh lure.

A gripping story that hops across continents and a vibrant cast of new jobs make every fight feel fresh, even after 50 hours. This isn’t just the best turn-based Yakuza, it’s a series masterpiece, packed to the brim with brawling bliss.

If you like my review, please consider adding a few comments below. If you interested in getting Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth video game, then consider clicking the button above or here to see your purchase options. Until next time 😀 

Suicide Squad Kill the Justice League

Overview

I want to appreciate Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League so much. I really loved the Batman: Arkham game series by Rocksteady. I adore superhero action in an open universe. I have even had brief but intense relationships with looter-shooters. However, there’s something off about the way all of those factors come together in this game. 

I honestly don’t see myself wanting to play much more after I finished the campaign tale, for whatever reason—be it the uninspired loot mechanics, the dull and repetitive task design, or the empty or uninteresting postgame content.

That’s a serious issue for a live-service game that wants to hold our interest for several months or perhaps years. It’s unfortunate because there’s a compelling narrative being presented thanks to the well-crafted cutscenes, impressive writing and strong acting that contributes to much of the heavy lifting.

Beyond that, though, Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League never quite manages to provide enough enjoyment to match the high caliber of games in this category.

A DC Comic Tale

Regarding the plot itself, it doesn’t take a genius to figure out what’s making the Justice League act strange as they wreak havoc across the city. Brainiac is back. Superman’s infamous antagonist has devised a cunning scheme to seize control of the planet, and making everyone do his will, even mind-controlling the Justice League.

Thus, the Suicide Squad is dispatched to destroy them by any means necessary. You won’t believe this. Around the halfway point, what appears to be a conventional narrative that fans have heard a lot before takes an unusual turn.

Yes, some of the major revelations are tempered by now-familiar comic book cliches, but there’s a storytelling quality to this that takes you back to the heydays of Arkham Asylum.

This is mostly due to the outstanding character design and scriptwriting, which breathe life into every character and skillfully walk the fine line between being endearing and irritating. Close-ups are also widely employed to highlight Rocksteady’s graphic prowess, and it’s usually impressive to witness as cutscenes come to life.

The Suicide Squad

The voices behind the faces also exhibit that technical mastery. In one of his last roles as The Dark Knight, the late, great Kevin Conroy shines, revealing a darker side to the caped crusader than we’ve ever seen. As the tyrannical Harley Quinn, Tara Strong is flawless once more, and Joe Seanoa, aka Samoa Joe, skillfully delivers each of King Shark’s one-liners.

Deadshot, Captain Boomerang, King Shark, and Harley Quinn are all playable squad members. They’re all intriguing characters with signature weaponry like boomerangs, booming hammers, sharpshooting sniper rifles, and sharp-toothed snapping. Rocksteady could have created a variety of vigilantes with unique play styles by utilizing the fun and wildly varied abilities available to them.

Instead, though, all of these characters are reduced to the same perplexing blueprint as damage-output-chasing characters who appear to enjoy nothing more than firing guns and occasionally throwing grenades.

While each of them do have signature fighting and traversal moves—such as Harley’s sweeping baseball bat hits or Boomerang’s namesake enemy-chaining—the main emphasis is on shooting and amassing a growing collection of weapons.

The way these villains are written and how they play awkwardly contradict each other. For DC fans, this could have been a happy playground, but Rocksteady has obviously gone to great pains to build a richly detailed universe full of iconic characters who behave true to their comic book roots.

However, our situation is akin to watching your favorite football team play and discovering that they are, for some reason, being asked to play tennis instead. Although their well-known faces are recognizable, they are not in their natural habitat.

But whether or not their demolition strategy makes logic is a whole other matter from whether or not it’s entertaining. And there are two sides to this answer: yes and no.

Let’s Get Dangerous

In Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, the action picks up speed as you shoot foes at breakneck speed, unlike the slower pace of the Arkham games when you had to wait for them to move before delivering devastating countermeasures.

At moments, it’s quite remarkable, with a focus on taking no damage while taking elegant takedowns and chasing combos. These combos have a 50-point maximum score, making them extremely difficult to master and having a high skill ceiling.

Even the Shield Harvest system, which promotes aggressive play and echoes the philosophy of Control or Doom—that the best way to defend is to assault even more—made me think of some of my favorite action games.

I relished the chaotic action that this concept naturally produces as I raced through arenas, scurrying to acquire up ammo and shields. Unlike many other shooters after Gears of War, the active reload feature in this game offers you something to do besides hold down the shot button.

As you advance, you gradually get access to additional skills and changes. One is Affliction Strikes, which provide fighting an additional dimension by giving your melee strikes special abilities like venom, which makes your opponents turn against each other when they are struck.

Indeed, there are so many distinct concepts and gameplay elements that it can occasionally become a little too much to handle, and the campaign’s never-ending supply of tutorials doesn’t seem to stop. But there’s a tight and fulfilling rhythm that can be established once you eventually get the hang of the whole equipment.

Simply said, expect something a little busier than the more leisurely, riddle-based experiences in Gotham when you enter Metropolis. After spending some time here, I understand Rocksteady’s reasoning for this speed change.

The speed at which these fighting systems operate does in fact mirror the heroes’ respective personas: Batman is always one step ahead of the game, while Amanda Waller’s hired shooters are reckless, outrageous, and, quite bluntly, revel in the bloodshed.

Class-based games typically include characters that specialize in particular talents that may be customized to your preference through comprehensive skill trees. However, as most of them felt awkward at first, I found that testing out each criminal’s movement skills was the most important factor in determining which one best suited my style.

I experimented a while with each character. I like Captain Boomerang’s teleporting Speed Force Gauntlet, which allowed me to freely flank waves of enemies. Deadshot comes with jetpack which he uses to hovers around.

Harley comes with a swinging bat and a grapple Spider-Man/Batman hybrid move-set. Shark’s very simple run-and-jump maneuvers are good for multiple enemies damaging but never really excited me.

The Extras

The other characters in Metropolis were undervalued by Rocksteady’s abrupt change from a single-player narrative to a cooperative looter-shooter. The role that The Penguin played in Suicide Squad is arguably the clearest example of this.

This time around, the once-dominant Gotham criminal boss is reduced to nothing more than a weapons trader. He’s at least passably competent at his job; sure, he’ll give you access to a semi-limited selection of guns that you may customize to your liking while you determine which of the four “manufacturers” in the city has the features and benefits that suit you the best.

Since this is a looter-shooter, it goes without saying that there are several rarity levels, from common and rare guns to extremely powerful, one-of-a-kind notorious and legendary weapons that are all based on different DC villains.

Apart from that small detail in the outfits, the guns themselves are incredibly uninteresting. The world and its inhabitants are vibrant and charming, qualities that aren’t mirrored in the drab armory. As you circle around foes using a conventional flank-and-fire strategy, you’ll primarily be using a regular variety of rifles, SMGs, pistols, shotguns, chain guns, etc.

The various weapon manufacturers provide unique features, such as burst-fire options or increased ammo capacity, but nothing compares to the sheer variety of weapons that Borderlands’ comparable setup can offer. The looter-shooter that popularized the genre with its constantly expanding bizarre arsenal of weapons is still very difficult to compete with.

Your options for adding life to your weapons are restricted to pretty common upgrades like cooldown reductions or critical damage enhancements, none of which are particularly useful for harnessing the power of superheroes or villains.

I kept expecting to see something weird, like a gun that launches bomb-exploding rounds. Despite completing the campaign and engaging in some post-game grinding, I find the lack of creativity in the game to be somewhat disheartening, even when it comes to the rarest and most premium options.

That’s especially unfortunate because, despite its unremarkable gunplay and weaponry, the game has the makings of a really fascinating loot and battle system; it’s simply hidden beneath the bland.

Targets Missed

As you go around popping what seems like an endless number of purple spots and monsters with less than the sharpest AI, Metropolis has developed an extremely severe case of swarming, but bland Brainiac enemies. 

As the story progresses, a wider range of enemies are shown, and these new opponents present more of a challenge because they can channel specific heroic skills and force you to think through your strategy more carefully.

The majority of these foes, however, are typically found on top of buildings guarding Brainiac weapons or generally being an annoyance, so for the most part, I felt like I was just bouncing from rooftop to rooftop killing foes.

In reality, the campaign’s roughly 10-hour storyline is characterized by a constant “cutscene, rooftop battle, repeat” rhythm. There is merely a constant flow of drab encounter designs with no apparent effort put into creating unique scripted missions.

Frequently, you’re just switching between a few simple goal types, like guarding an area, eliminating a gang of foes, or escorting a cargo across the city. These objective types get monotonous very fast.

Although there are plenty of big buildings in Metropolis to bounce on and explore, the game’s mission design never takes advantage of this feature.

While Suicide Squad’s movement at times may even be reminiscent of Spider-Man games, the city doesn’t feel nearly as designed for such missions as Insomniac’s superhero open world missions, which let you gracefully dash through cities.

However, Rocksteady constructed its Gotham City with a number of monuments that functioned as amazing enclosed stages inside an open environment before any of those games were released. Suicide Squad, on the other hand, avoids fascinating interiors as much as possible because nearly all of the action takes place quickly and far above the city.

The battle arenas in Arkham City were so skillfully created that they resembled little action levels within of a vast open world with potential for environmental takedowns and inventive methods to move about all the time. However, only fleeting examples of this idea can be seen here.

Interestingly, one of them is an early Batman encounter that provides a clever reversal of the Arkham experience. However, a subsequent encounter with The Dark Knight regrettably returns to a mindless gunfight.

Light in Dark Tunnel

Sadly, this is the pattern that most of the major confrontations follow; just a few boss fights deviate from this. The first is a dull battle against a huge purple cannon, an odd choice given the world’s abundance of both heroes and villains.

Things do, however, brighten up a little when you eventually get to battle mind-controlled Justice League members. While there are hints of the puzzle-like quality seen in Arkham’s boss encounters, it’s hard to find anything nearly as memorable as boss fights from past Rocksteady games like Arkham City. 

Most of them take place in circular arenas with little windows for attacks; The Flash boss battle is a good illustration of this, where you have to time counterattacks swiftly before doing damage. The most notable of them all, though, has to be a fight against Green Lantern and his armament of light constructs.

This fight masterfully employs a sizable arena full of elevated vantage spots that double as cover, resulting in a great deal of spectacle and adrenaline.

Though you are eventually supposed to basically shoot them down in identical styles, all of the heroes are a pleasant challenge that, critically, never seem unfair, with each one generously signposting attacks to prevent irritation.

Yes, you’re up against superhumans, so the Suicide Squad should probably be eliminated, but the way you dispatch them is bolstered by a believable enough narrative to let you square up against the strongest people on Earth. And the majority of those solutions simply involve developing new kinds of ammo.

Of course, I won’t reveal too much here, but there are a lot of other well-known DC characters mixed throughout. Comic book enthusiasts will love the unexpected cameos and exits laced throughout, even though at times it just makes the narrative appear like an assortment of strikingly beautiful scenes pieced together with cliched battle sequences.

However, there are also memorable times that pass quickly while being filled with awe. 

In Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, Superheroes are revered as gods in the world of Metropolis. It’s filled with monuments to them at each corner. It’s usually really beautiful and would probably be a great spot to spend a weekend if it weren’t for the little problem of a massive brain hanging over it and wreaking havoc.

The art design is excellent, blending a wide range of architectural elements to create a very attractive cityscape. However, because of the warzone simmering underneath it, the skyline is frequently covered with smoke and gunshots. But all of it feels strangely dead at the same time.

Similar to the Arkham games, there is an unsettling lack of human movement to give the impression that this is a real location with people who need to be protected.

In addition, aside from adversaries patrolling the streets in anticipation of your ambush, there isn’t any memorable music to accompany you as you navigate through them. Once more, it’s unfortunate because, while this world is unquestionably an artistic triumph, there just isn’t nearly as much variation in it as there was when I first entered it as an enthusiastic visitor.

The UI comes next. It’s often said that you should have more faith in a restaurant’s food if its menu has fewer options. I believe the same holds true for a HUD and how much screen clutter it causes.

The game UI has an unbearably large quantity of text, numbers, cooldown meters, health bars, and button prompts shown. Sometimes you have to sift through text passages to peek at the mini map or see how near you are to death. You can disable some features, but to be honest, you really need to have the most of stuff on in order to try to keep track of what’s happening.

Post Campaign Content

Despite the studio’s best efforts to portray Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League as anything other than a game-as-a-service, the live-service aspect of the game becomes evident in the post-game after the story is concluded.

My greatest worries were realized right away when I was given copies of missions that I had already completed in the campaign, all of which featured the same jumbled set of duties.

Incursions are the main actions that occur when a character enters the post-credits realm. These are quick, rinse-and-repeat missions set in the superhero multiverse. These are, predictably, all the same “defend the objective” and “kill as many enemies as possible in a given amount of time” situations that I had already gotten weary of.

There’s a startling lack of creativity and minimal regard for your time. Even worse, you can only access these ostensibly significant missions using a new currency called Promethium, and they have little bearing on the wider struggle surrounding you other than perhaps annoying the main antagonist a little.

This can only be obtained by doing more tiresome missions around Metropolis, including taking out another enormous cannon that has purple dots pulsating on it. It produces a monotonous loop that lacks any meaningful gameplay or narrative elements.

The only true motivation is to outpace other players and deliver an entertaining taunt, or to repeatedly grind the same few encounters at harder difficulties in order to unlock guns with higher damage numbers, which I suppose I’ll use for more useful tasks when they come up in a later update.

Additionally, all XP points earned after a character reaches level 30, and has completed their own talent tree, are allocated to ‘Squad Skills’. No, these aren’t exciting new abilities that encourage much-needed cooperative play; rather, they are more dull stat bonuses like small boost to damage reduction or a small boost to rifle damage.

It’s a monotonous, boring, and repetitive post-game that lacks the elements that formerly made Rocksteady’s games so captivating. However, it is unfortunate that there aren’t any noteworthy villain arcs or side stories, and that there isn’t quite the spontaneity in the game’s open environment that fans of Manbat’s participation in Arkham Knight may anticipate.

Contracts also need to be fulfilled, but again, they are nothing special because they involve killing a specific number of grunts with a sniper rifle or executing a traversal attack a particular number of times. These provide you with experience points, credits, and an abundance of crafting supplies that you may utilize in your modified Hall of Justice headquarters.

Micro Transactions

It can be tedious to customize your character and navigate the numerous menu screens to get small stat boosts, but nothing compares to the stress of having to keep track of the five crafting currencies Suicide Squad uses.

They are entirely distinct from a premium money that is used to unlock cosmetics like clothes and emotes and are all needed to build various modifications, weapons, and augmentations.

There are now just one or two new styles available for each character in the store, making it appear somewhat empty.

Although they aren’t particularly inexpensive, the situation is made somewhat worse when you learn that this simply unlocks the basic style for each outfit—you’ll need to spend up to $40 to unlock every variation and color option inside each skin.

While makeup may be expensive, Suicide Squad Kill the Justice League deserves praise for providing all new seasonal gameplay content at no cost. Rocksteady has given us a peek at the future roadmap, which includes the promise of more playable characters and locales.

This makes it possible for locations like Arkham Asylum to appear in the game, serving as a somber reminder of the fantastic tale the company previously presented there.

It’s unclear how much the upcoming episodic missions will truly move the story along, but plenty of remixed activities, enemy variants, and cosmetic drops are a given. It’s hard to say for sure, but it looks like we’ll be doing a lot of what’s already available in Metropolis over and over again, which could become even more tired than it already is.

Familiar locations from Rocksteady’s past outings may be exciting, but what we’ll be doing in them will determine whether or not Suicide Squad will survive as an ongoing game. 

Future DLC or Game Pass

Although I do appreciate the combat, I’m not convinced it ever provides the diversity or dynamic edge Suicide Squad needs to succeed without the promise of further story to support it.

Although score-chasing can be entertaining and fits in with the arguing character of the mercenaries, it isn’t enough of a motivation to keep me playing, whether you’re attempting to outdo your squad mates or the world.

I’m not at all interested in a battle pass consisting of character skins and emotes, so perhaps future seasons will tell new tales.

The campaign’s disappointing cliffhanger does, in my opinion, strongly hint at what we’ll be doing in each of the seasons. While I sincerely hope it advances the plot significantly each time, I doubt it. Rather than coming back every month to see what’s new posted, I think it’s much more likely that I’ll wait months to see how much has been added before returning to the story.

All of this raises the main query about Kill the Justice League: why is it a live-service game with recurring content releases? Thus far, I’m not persuaded that Rocksteady’s desire to tell more stories in its DC universe is the reason for it; rather, I believe Warner Brothers’ strategy of gradually adding cosmetics to its store will increase profits.

Players feel underwhelmed by an unfinished plot at launch, therefore it’s not a good model. It can also be frustrating for a studio that has a strong history of making single-player games to operate this way. We are all ultimately defeated, much like a world without heroes to protect it.

Verdict

Playing Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League is extremely annoying. There is plenty to like in the story, which is a genuinely strong DC comics story, beautifully wrapped in high production standards, with combat that is quick enough to keep things interesting.

However, everything else simply collapses around it. The looter-shooter gameplay is stale and boring, the mission design is entirely uninteresting, and the postgame content is incredibly repetitious with very little interesting things to do.

Overall, the game is a bit of a let down that never really impresses with any of its many poorly thought out ideas. It’s not terrible, but it’s disappointing and frustrating coming from Rocksteady—the pioneers of story action in single player Batman Arkham games—following multiplayer fads that are now out of date. Better to wait until the game is cheaper than to buy it now.

So what are your thoughts on this Rocksteady game? Was it the game worth waiting for? What games would you rather play? Let’s discuss it here below by adding your comments. Click on the button to buy the game if you choose to. Thanks for checking out my review. Until next time 😀