Review: Ikonei Island: An Earthlock Adventure
Developer – SnowCastle Games Publisher – SnowCastle Games Platforms – PS4/5 ,Xbox One , Xbox Series S|X , Nintendo Switch, PC (Reviewed) Review copy given by Publisher Welcome, adventurers, to the captivating world of Ikonei Island, where promises of magical creatures, monster battles, and cooperative play seem to beckon you. However, beneath the surface of this intriguing premise lies an adventure that ultimately fails to deliver the excitement that its bullet points of it’ ssteam page suggest. Ikonei Island opens with the promise of a mysterious and enchanting journey. Upon waking up on this peculiar island, players are greeted by enigmatic statues and curious creatures. The concept of bonding with these “beasties” and harnessing their unique abilities is indeed intriguing, but the execution leaves much to be desired. The potential for deep exploration falls short as the island remains disappointingly shallow. One of the key selling points is the ability to play in cooperative mode with friends, forming teams of 2-4 players to experience the island’s offerings together. While this feature sounds promising, the lackluster execution and lack of variety in activities make it challenging to elevate the fun to the “power of frog,” as advertised. The core gameplay loop revolves around farming, building, battling, and uncovering new areas and quests collectively. Sadly, these activities fail to captivate and become monotonous far too quickly. The promise of creating and nurturing your farm from scratch using various tools and systems for increased efficiency ultimately feels like a missed opportunity for depth and engagement. Exploring the island’s secrets by interacting with its inhabitants seems promising on paper, but the stories encountered lack depth, and the knowledge gained is hardly invaluable. The potential for engaging narratives is squandered in favor of a more mundane experience. The mention of a band of pirates threatening to profit from the island’s resources hints at potential conflict and intrigue. Regrettably, this subplot fails to deliver on its promises and feels more like an afterthought than a compelling storyline. While the concept of creating powerful weapons to fend off monsters is an exciting prospect, the combat mechanics are disappointingly simplistic, and the overall experience lacks the thrill and challenge that gamers might expect. In conclusion, Ikonei Island: An Earthlock Adventure may have a promising premise, but its execution falls short of delivering an exciting and captivating experience for its $32.50 CAD ($24.99 USD) current price point at the time of writing this review. The bullet points on the Steam game page mirror the disappointing reality of the game itself, leaving players yearning for a deeper and more engaging adventure. Despite its alluring concept, Ikonei Island ultimately fails to ignite the excitement it initially suggests.
Review: Videoverse
Developer – Kinmoku Publisher – Kinmoku Platforms – PC (Reviewed) Review copy given by Publisher Warning: VIDEOVERSE contains swearing and online abuse, in addition to inappropriate drawings, such as nudes, drug use and mild gore. It is intended to show a real depiction of the internet. If you or someone you know is experiencing Cyber-bullying or Online Abuse , In Canada, you can reach out to Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or visit kidshelpphone.ca. For assistance in the United States, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available at 1-800-273-8255, or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org. The Cyberbullying Research Center also offers resources and support at cyberbullying.org. In the UK, the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) can be reached at 0808 800 5000, and their website is nspcc.org.uk. We’d also like to thank Safe in Our World for being supportive of our work in Gaming and Helping support Mental Health Awareness through Gaming. In a world that thrives on nostalgia, VIDEOVERSE takes you on a thrilling journey down memory lane to a time when the internet was a wild frontier of self-expression and online friendships. Developed by the creators of “One Night Stand,” this decision-based narrative adventure aims to capture the essence of 90s social media networks like Myspace, MSN Messenger, and early internet forums. While VIDEOVERSE nails the nostalgia factor, it stumbles when it comes to keeping your interest in the long run. Step into the shoes of Emmett, a young video game enthusiast and budding artist. As you guide him through the world of Kinmoku Shark and its social network, Videoverse, you’ll experience the heady days of late-90s and early-2000s internet culture. The references to iconic figures like Myspace Tom, Neopets, and the original Facebook are bound to elicit warm smiles from any 90s kid. The game is a true throwback, with its vintage tech aesthetics and a fantastic soundtrack reminiscent of the Kinmoku Shark’s chill soundscape, courtesy of Clark Aboud. It instantly rekindles memories of those favorite retro gaming consoles. You can personalize your Videoverse experience by choosing your avatar, personal quote, and favorite theme, adding an extra layer of immersion. VIDEOVERSE offers an extensive cast of characters and multiple side stories, making it feel like a bustling online community. You’ll get to relive the Feudal Fantasy era, which mirrors the passionate discussions and fan theories that were so prevalent in those times. The inclusion of accessibility options like clear font, closed captions, and colorblind-friendly themes is a thoughtful touch, making the game inclusive to a wider audience. However, despite its strong nostalgic appeal and attention to detail, VIDEOVERSE falls short in keeping players engaged. The gameplay primarily consists of making choices, which affect Emmett’s character development, but these decisions often feel inconsequential, lacking significant consequences. It’s akin to scrolling through an old internet forum without the thrill of active participation. The game’s narrative, which promises teenage drama, video game fandoms, and corporate conspiracies, fails to deliver the depth and intrigue it hints at. Another drawback is the game’s relatively short playtime. While it’s true that VIDEOVERSE is priced accordingly, it leaves you wanting more, especially given the potential of its premise. There’s a missed opportunity to dive deeper into the lore of Kinmoku Shark, Videoverse, and the Feudal Fantasy game within the game. In conclusion, VIDEOVERSE is a delightful trip back to the heyday of 90s social media sites and online gaming communities. It impeccably recreates the ambiance of that era, but it ultimately struggles to provide meaningful and lasting engagement. If you’re seeking a brief nostalgia fix and don’t mind the lack of deep gameplay, VIDEOVERSE is worth a look. However, for those looking for a more immersive and compelling gaming experience, it may fall short of expectations.
Sony announces smaller PlayStation 5 model, releases November 2023
It was maybe the worst-kept secret of the year, but Sony has officially announced the new design for the PlayStation 5 that comes in a slimmer design. It had been leaked and reported already that Sony was planning to release a “PlayStation 5 Slim”, but this isn’t necessarily marketed as that. The new PlayStation 5 design features the same technology specs that were already included in the console that was originally released in 2020. What’s new with the smaller PS5 is it comes with a 1TB SSD for more internal storage and an attachable Ultra HD Blu-Ray Disc Drive. This new PS5 is reduced in volume by more than 30% and weight by 18% and 24% compared to the original version. The PlayStation 5 Digital Edition will come without an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive, but you have the option to add one for $79.99 USD. PlayStation 5 Price Update: PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive – $499.99 USD PS5 Digital Edition – $449.99 USD The Digital Edition will go up by $50.00 USD. Along with these consoles, there will be a horizontal stand shipped with them, but a Vertical Stand compatible with all PlayStation 5 models will be sold for $29.99 USD. Source: PlayStation
Gamescom Asia Beta/Demo Review: Cyber Paradise
Note: This review is based on the beta demo showcased at Gamescom Asia and may not represent the final version of the game. In a future where our existence is reduced to lines of code and the afterlife is but a digital wasteland, Cyber Paradise offers a unique and heartwarming premise. It’s a game that invites you to step into the shoes of Hayley, a skilled hacker-warrior, on a journey to mend the fragmented memories of the dearly departed. This Gamescom Asia Beta Demo provided a tantalizing glimpse into this intriguing world. The core of the game revolves around venturing into the digital remnants of The Lost Sector, where forgotten memories of the deceased linger. As you scavenge through ever-changing digital realms, you must confront creatures born of fear and sorrow. The 2D action roguelike gameplay brings a refreshing challenge, keeping you on your toes as you battle to mend lost souls and create a digital paradise for them. One of the standout features of Cyber Paradise is the emotional depth embedded in its storytelling. The game presents a dystopian world where the concept of heaven and hell is reduced to lines of code. The narrative takes a poignant approach to exploring themes of loss and hope. In the demo, we are introduced to Mini, a beloved pet whose passing has left her human companion, Samuel, in deep grief. As Hayley, your mission is to piece together the fragments of Mini’s life and create a serene Cyber Paradise for her. The emotional resonance of this story sets the tone for what promises to be a touching and introspective gaming experience. Beyond the action-packed gameplay, Cyber Paradise also offers a unique respite in the form of Mini’s café. Here, tales unfold, and bonds are formed among the café’s patrons. This setting serves as the clandestine base for your adventures and provides a platform for the game’s rich storytelling. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the shared experiences and memories of the people you encounter, shedding light on the intricacies of this simulated world. The visual aesthetics of the game are worth mentioning, with its striking blend of 2D artistry and digital landscapes. The attention to detail in capturing the essence of a cybernetic world is commendable, and it complements the game’s theme perfectly. The beta demo showcased at Gamescom Asia offers a tantalizing glimpse into the potential of Cyber Paradise. It successfully combines engaging gameplay with an emotionally charged narrative, all set against a backdrop of a thought-provoking and unsettling dystopia. The promise of building cyber paradises for lost souls and the bonds formed in Mini’s café create an atmosphere of connection and introspection that leaves players eager to explore the full experience when the game is released. In conclusion, the Gamescom Asia Beta Demo of Cyber Paradise showcases a game with a lot of promise, and it’s a title that stands out for its unique premise and storytelling. With its engaging gameplay and heartfelt narrative, it has the potential to be a standout title in the gaming world, and it’s certainly one to keep an eye on as it continues to develop towards its final release.
Review: Livestream 2: Escape from Togaezuka Happy Place
Developer – qureate , Orgesta Inc. Publisher – qureate Platforms – Nintendo Switch, PC (Reviewed) Review copy given by Publisher Warning: This Game may contain content not appropriate for all ages, or may not be appropriate for viewing at work: Some Nudity or Sexual Content, General Mature Content. All characters involved in sexual content are over the age of 18. Livestream 2: Escape from Togaezuka Happy Place is a captivating side-scrolling survival action-adventure game that immerses players in a chilling world of mystery and suspense. Developed by a team that clearly knows how to craft a compelling gameplay experience, the game’s combination of puzzle mechanics and survival elements make for an exciting and challenging ride. However, while Livestream 2 succeeds in many aspects, the story sometimes feels like it doesn’t seamlessly mesh with the core puzzle-solving mechanics. Set in an abandoned shopping mall, the game unfolds as three streamers – Himari, Aina, and Miyabi – must find a way to escape the clutches of a sinister mascot. The fate of these girls hinges on the choices players make throughout the game. This branching narrative adds a layer of intrigue, keeping players engaged as they attempt to navigate a series of challenges and make critical decisions. One of the game’s standout features is its unique character-switching mechanic. Himari, Aina, and Miyabi start their individual searches from different locations within the mall. Players must strategically switch between these characters to uncover the necessary clues for their escape. This dynamic adds depth to the gameplay, requiring you to think critically and solve puzzles as a team. Will you reunite all three streamers and ensure their safety, or will someone be left behind? The heart-pounding moments occur when players must evade the relentless mascot. The menacing monkey mascot poses a constant threat while exploring the mall. Encounters with this character send players running, hiding, and trying to escape its pursuit. This element effectively heightens tension and makes for adrenaline-pumping gameplay. As for the puzzle-solving component, Livestream 2 offers a decent mix of challenges to tackle. To escape the mall, you must collect items and discover hints strewn throughout the environment. Puzzles await at every turn, and the items and hints you gather are your tools for solving them. The puzzles are diverse and generally enjoyable, requiring a combination of wit and strategy to conquer. These segments contribute to the game’s appeal, giving you a sense of accomplishment when you finally figure them out. However, this is where the minor discord between the story and gameplay comes into play. While the narrative is intriguing and filled with suspense, it can occasionally feel disconnected from the puzzle-solving elements. Some of the choices and events in the story don’t seem to have a direct impact on the puzzles you face. This incongruity might leave players feeling that the story and gameplay aren’t perfectly integrated, which is a slight disappointment considering the game’s overall quality. In conclusion, Livestream 2: Escape from Togaezuka Happy Place is an excellent game that excels in several aspects, particularly in its unique character-switching mechanic and thrilling mascot encounters. The puzzles and branching narrative add depth and replayability to the experience. However, the occasional lack of cohesion between the story and puzzle mechanics is a minor blemish on an otherwise exceptional gaming journey. If you’re a fan of survival action-adventure games with a dash of puzzle-solving, this title is worth a try. It may not be a perfect blend, but it’s a gripping experience that will keep you engaged throughout.
Animal Crossing LEGO Sets Revealed, releases March 1, 2024
LEGO and Nintendo announced they are partnering up to create the first-ever Animal Crossing LEGO sets and it has now been revealed what these sets include. There will be 5 different sets available to purchase on March 1, 2024, ranging from $14.99 USD to $74.99 USD. Here are the Animal Crossing LEGO sets: Julian’s Birthday Party $14.99 Bunnie’s Outdoor Activities $19.99 Kapp’n’s Island Boat Tour $29.99 Isabelle’s House Visit $39.99 Nook’s Cranny & Rosie’s House $74.99 Pre-orders for these brand new LEGO sets are not available as of now, but you can bet they will be ready to purchase on March 1, 2024 online and at your local LEGO Store.
Sam Lake Presses On The Scale Remedy Entertainment Faces On the Max Payne Remakes
When looking at the growing lineup of projects that developer Remedy Entertainment has built up in recent years, putting that into perspective for the size of the team illustrates how taxing it can be for these AAA titles. Later this month, Remedy plans to roll out the long awaited Alan Wake II after players awaited more than a decade and a recent delay on the release for the sequel. Additionally, the team is also internally working on more Control titles. One is Project Condor – a PvE online experience and another mainline installment for the series. Not to mention the new collaboration with Rockstar Games to remake both Max Payne and Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne is in the pipeline too at Remedy Entertainment. When speaking to Video Game Chronicle recently, Max Payne remake creative director Sam Lake expresses that the game is a large task for Remedy Entertainment to take on – similarly to how the original games were view at their time too for the team then. “It is a significant undertaking in the sense that even if they are old games, just thinking about bringing them up to modern standards and combining them into one, you can see that it’s a big, big project.” In a follow-up question posed on the casting for Max Payne, Lake answered: “No comment! That’s going too far.” While the original installment coined the likeness of Payne, the sequel following the game’s success did instead commission a unique look for Max Payne which then carried over to the third entry as well. So if Lake were to reprise his role, it would be for the first game most likely. Although his portrayal in games is limited from recent Remedy releases, Lake did receive a role for Alan Wake II. He stands as FBI agent Alex Casey alongside dual protagonist, Saga Anderson. Perhaps it could draw some conflicting forces for future projects tied to the ‘Remedy Connected Universe’ You can read the full report by heading here. What has you most interested to see for the Max Payne remakes? Source: Video Game Chronicle
CD Projekt Red Staff Forms Unions For Developers In Poland
While different industries of labor has extended its reach to unionizing its workforce from manual labor in construction, white collar work, and even in retail, there is more markets that are opening to trade unions. For the video game industry, we’ve witnessed this desire blossom more and more as firms begin to face supermajority votes from its staffing to support developers. One example is Sega of America which opted in favor for a union. Additionally, ZeniMax Online Studios also did the same prior to that as well. The most recent press on unionization is the statement from SAG-AFTRA. Last month, the group issued that a strike is imminent for video game voice actors, motion capture actors, and more in the field is on the horizon. While not an immediate strike, at least a discussion is to be the first approach before forming a picket line. This week, CD Projekt Red staff has formed a new union for the Polish game industry. The announcement follows waves of layoffs at the Cyberpunk 2077 team earlier this summer. CD Projekt Red gameplay programmer Lev Ki and gameplay QA analyst Paweł Myszka are the standing founders of the new Polish Gamedev Workers Union. We started talking about unionizing after the 2023 wave of layoffs when 9% of Reds (that is roughly 100 people) were let go. This event created a tremendous amount of stress and insecurity, affecting our mental health and leading to the creation of this union in response. Having a union means having more security, transparency, better protection, and a stronger voice in times of crisis. The above shows how employers tend to view their interests to be in conflict with those of their employees. While employees are the ones creating value in this arrangement, they lack any decision power in company-structure-related matters. That is why we need to organize to enter those situations on equal footing. We believe that the mass lay-offs are a danger to the gamedev industry and we believe that unionizing is a way for us to preserve the industry’s potential. “We want to build a collective. We want to operate as a support system that actively works to protect employees and holds a strong negotiating position. Right now, we are focusing on grouping Reds to give us a unique, common voice,” the FAQ reads. “Given the significant changes that CD Projekt is undergoing, we want the employees’ voices to be directly heard when making decisions that affect all of us. “We also want to increase employment stability. Unionization guarantees us the ability to negotiate the terms of mass layoffs as well as in individual cases. [..] We are also currently in what is effectively a trial period, a period in which a Union is being legally established but doesn’t yet have all of its governing bodies in place. This period will end for us in mid-December when we’ll have a large statutory meeting, during which we’ll ultimately root ourselves in our proper position. “We’ve also established contact with a group of union activists in other game dev companies and we joined forces to cooperate and establish a better industry and job market for all of us.” What has yo most interested in the new union formed by the current CD Projekt Red staff? Source: Polish Gamedev Workers Union
The Crew Motorfest Free Trial is available until October 20
Ubisoft announced The Crew Motorfest is the series’ most successful release and in our review, we agree that it’s the best game the series has to offer. Today, the publisher announced the Free Trial of The Crew Motorfest is coming back for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC players from October 10th to 20th. The Free Trial will allow you to play freely for 5 hours and there’s the possibility to carry over your progress if you decide to buy The Crew Motorfest. Ubisoft also noted that players who already completed the Free Trial in September will not be able to play in the new session. If you had remaining free access time you will still be able to complete it. You can download the Free Trial now on PC via the Ubisoft Store and Epic Game Store, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series XlS, and Xbox One.
XDefiant receives another delay
Ubisoft San Francisco announced in early September that XDefiant’s release date would be slightly delayed due to the submission process. On Monday, October 9, 2023, the development team on Ubisoft’s upcoming first-person shooter announced the game will be delayed further. Recently they held a Public Test Session for XDefiant and it showed the team some inconsistencies in the game experience that will need to be addressed. Therefore they have delayed the Preseason for XDefiant pushing the date further most likely avoiding the release of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III. The statement thanked fans for their support as they work hard making this game the best it can be. “The team will continue working to address these issues and testing them to make sure we deliver on our goal of being a best-in-class arcade shooter. We will share more information about Preseason and testing as it comes” Initially, there were reports of Ubisoft San Francisco’s game releasing on October 28, 2023, but that turned out to be false.
