Review: Assetto Corsa Evo (Early Access 0.1)
Developer – Kunos Simulazioni Publisher – 505 Games Platforms – PC (Reviewed) Review copy given by Publisher NOTE: The following game is being reviewed in an Early Access State, the game may change after the release of this review, this review reflects the game at the time of publishing. Assetto Corsa Evo has finally sped into Steam’s Early Access after months of anticipation and teaser showcases. As the third driving simulator from the Italian developers at Kunos Simulazioni, AC Evo follows in the tire tracks of their original release, Assetto Corsa (2014), and its successor, Assetto Corsa Competizione (2018). Before we shift gears into a deeper discussion about AC Evo, let’s address some disclaimers and establish our credentials. My gameplay experience is powered by a Ryzen 7 5800X processor, an RTX 3080 GPU, and 32GB of DDR4 RAM running at 3600MHz. My simulator setup includes a Simagic Alpha Mini wheelbase, Fanatec Clubsport Pedals, a Thrustmaster TH8A Shifter, and a homemade wooden DIY cockpit, creating an immersive and highly responsive driving experience. Given that my setup is located away from my monitor, I play exclusively in VR using an Oculus Rift S, though I have also experimented with gameplay outside of VR. While I am not a professional race car driver nor would I consider myself a top-tier sim racer, I bring substantial experience to the table. With over 700 hours in the original Assetto Corsa and hundreds more in iRacing and other simulators, I have developed a solid understanding of what to look for and how to evaluate the overall experience. At launch, Assetto Corsa Evo features 20 unique vehicles and 5 tracks, which can be enjoyed either in solo practice sessions or in customizable races against AI-controlled opponents. Returning to the series is the detailed showroom mode, allowing players to closely inspect their vehicles and admire the incredible craftsmanship the Kunos Simulazioni team has put into these stunning models. According to the roadmap displayed upon launching the sim, future updates will introduce multiplayer, a story-driven mode, and the highly anticipated free-roam feature, promising even more depth and variety for players. The vehicles released with version 0.1 are as follows: • Abarth 695 Biposto • Alfa Romeo Giulia GTAm • Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce • Alpine A110 S • Alpine A290_β concept • Audi RS3 Sportback • BMW M2 CS Racing • BMW M4 CSL • Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 • Ferrari 296 GTB • Ferrari 488 Challenge Evo • Ford Escort RS Cosworth • Honda S2000 • Hyundai i30 N • Lotus Emira V6 • Mazda MX-5 Cup (ND) • Mercedes-AMG GT2 • Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (992) • Toyota GR86 • Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk8 Clubsport Most vehicles listed above have different packages available to drive the Toyota GR86 has Premium Standard (Red Leather package), Trueno Performance, and a Hakone Edition Performance Package variant. Each spec of the cars gives you unique looks and handling making the experience for each trim package unique and a slightly newer and different experience. Another large detail that was a modded feature on the original Assetto Corsa has made its way as a native feature to AC Evo and that is a fully interactive infotainment center for the vehicles allowing you to change driving modes, cluster styles, as well as fully interactive lights for modes and assist. These small details add so much more life to the vehicles, making you feel like there are no limitations to how you choose to drive and interact. Of course, what is a racing game without race tracks? There are only 5 tracks with this initial release, but don’t let that number fool you. These tracks are highly detailed and laser-scanned. The quality absolutely overwhelms the quantity here. Many more tracks will continue to come with all the future updates, as well as multiple different layouts for those tracks. Listed below are the 5 tracks you can experience with this early access release. • Imola • Brands Hatch • Laguna Seca • Mount Panorama, Bathurst • Suzuka This time kunos has built AC Evo from the ground up using there own new game engine, straying away from the once-used unreal engine. The Kunos engine may be in the infant stage but the visuals that have been already accomplished are nothing short but spectacular. Not only are the vehicles stunning, but each track’s atmosphere is so immersive and high quality you really get the sense of where you are. Now that you’re familiar with some of the features Assetto Corsa Evo has to offer, let’s dive into the details of my experience and evaluate whether it’s worth your investment. Like any game, AC Evo has its share of strengths and weaknesses, and in its current state, there’s a fair balance of both. The force feedback in this game feels so smooth and responsive, putting together all they have learned from both previous Assetto games giving you the ultimate feeling when driving. This is already one of the ultimate experiences on a wheel (Direct drive in my case) you can feel every dip in the road, the corner rumble strips, the grass, wet roads, etc. That being said, it isn’t perfect still, i found sIme of the FWD driving felt abit numba bitll, but i have hiIh hopes that will evolve with time. As mentioned the vehicles are detailed and absolutely stunning visually, but i felt that some of the sounds sounds were lacking and honestly didn’t feel like they were meant for the vehicles, like the ford escort cosworth sounds kinda flat and almost weak, yet the Camaro sounds aggressive and strong like a big American v8 should be. The tracks are a significant boost from previous years, you can tell alot of time and care has gone into ensuring the closest experience to the real track as possible. The weather interacting with the tracks is a huge feature that plans to add so much more to your driving experience, but with the current version I felt it was abit inconsistent with the wet patches. The new tire physics are a major
Review: Bridge Constructor Studio (VR)
Developer – ClockStone STUDIO Publisher – Headup Platforms – Meta Quest (Reviewed) Review copy given by Publisher Let’s be honest—most of us aren’t exactly qualified to design real-world bridges, and I’m no exception. But that didn’t stop me from feeling an unreasonable amount of confidence in my chaotic, physics-defying constructions. Spoiler alert: they didn’t work quite as well as I’d hoped. Thankfully, ClockStone Studio’s latest installment, Bridge Construction Studio VR, lets you live out your bridge-building fantasies (and failures) in virtual reality without risking real-world disasters. I dove into this addictive yet maddeningly challenging game using a Quest 2. While I couldn’t test the mixed-reality mode exclusive to the Quest 3, it looks like an exciting addition for those lucky enough to own the newer hardware. Even without it, the game offers plenty of opportunities for creative problem-solving—or in my case, creatively watching things collapse in spectacular fashion. Upon entering the Construction Studio for the first time, you’re greeted with a tutorial that covers the essentials of bridge-building, allowing you to get your vehicle across safely and continue its journey. While designing a sturdy bridge might seem daunting at first—especially if you’re new to the bridge construction genre—the tutorial does an excellent job easing you into the mechanics. It guides you step by step, even starting you off with a partially built bridge to complete, helping you apply the same principles to your own designs. There are 70 different bridge puzzles to be completed over many different environments and challenges along the way. You can choose to play along and follow the budget given to earn a special reward for every complete scenario. Bridge Constructor Studio is the perfect pick-up to play when you have some time and put down at any time or play for longer sessions due to the comfortable nature of how the VR is implemented into the game. If you master the art of bridge building, you can create your own scenarios as well as choose different locations, vehicles, and objects to build your own scenarios with up to 40 saves at once. The only notable downside I encountered was the need to frequently adjust my sitting position in each scenario. While it wasn’t a dealbreaker or something that significantly detracted from the overall experience, it did add a small layer of inconvenience. These adjustments, though minor, occasionally interrupted the flow of gameplay, especially during more intricate building moments. That said, it wasn’t enough to dampen the fun or immersion, but it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer a completely seamless VR experience. Bridge Constructor Studio is a very enjoyable experience for those who enjoy puzzles and a really easy VR game to introduce to someone new without them feeling any motion sickness. Just like the several other bridge constructors, it’s addicting and relaxing to play for countless hours at a time. Clockstone Studio once again makes something so specific, like building bridges, so fun.
Review: Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
Developer: Asobo Studio Publisher: Xbox Game Studios Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PC (Reviewed) Review Code Provided by Publisher For decades, flight simulation has captivated enthusiasts, professionals, and casual fans alike, offering a unique blend of realism and escapism. Microsoft has long been at the forefront of this genre, bringing the skies within reach of the average user. But with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, does the franchise soar to new heights, delivering the ultimate experience for players of all skill levels, or does it struggle to maintain altitude? Back in 2020, Microsoft revolutionized the simulation landscape with Microsoft Flight Simulator. Boasting real-world geographic data, breathtakingly detailed landscapes, and an impressive array of meticulously crafted aircraft, the game redefined what a flight simulator could be. However, its launch was not without turbulence, plagued by performance issues and technical hiccups—a natural growing pain for such an ambitious project. Fast forward to Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, and the story feels eerily familiar. While the game builds on its predecessor’s legacy, its launch wasn’t entirely smooth. Players encountered long queue times, graphical glitches, and even mission-breaking bugs, detracting from an otherwise stellar experience. Fortunately, post-launch updates have addressed many of these issues, restoring the game’s status as a benchmark in the genre. Once again, Microsoft proves its mastery of virtual aviation, reminding the world why it remains the gold standard in flight simulation. First impressions are crucial, and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 wastes no time pulling you into the cockpit for a deeply immersive experience. The aircraft details are nothing short of extraordinary, capturing the essence of piloting with a meticulous level of realism. Whether you’re a seasoned aviator or a curious newcomer, the adjustable difficulty settings cater to all. Go full simulation mode, interacting with every dial and button during preflight preparations, or opt for a streamlined experience that lets you take off with a single click. Visually, MFS2024 pushes boundaries once again. Paired with a high-powered PC and 4K resolution, the game approaches photorealism, rendering stunning landscapes and environments that feel alive. However, this level of fidelity comes at a performance cost. With recommended specs that include an RTX 4080 and Ryzen 9 7900X, running the game smoothly demands serious hardware. PC players should carefully evaluate their setups to ensure they achieve comfortable frame rates. One of the standout additions this year is the introduction of Career Mode. Here, players can earn licenses, tackle diverse weather challenges, and pilot an impressive range of aircraft, from helicopters and hot air balloons to more unconventional flying vehicles. This mode injects a sense of purpose and progression into the game, transforming it from a casual exploration tool into an engaging journey with missions and milestones that keep you coming back for more. Also debuting this year is a World Photographer Mode, allowing players to traverse the globe and capture breathtaking vistas. It’s an opportunity to explore places you may never visit in person, creating memorable moments through the lens of virtual photography. On top of these features, MFS2024 introduces new gameplay experiences like mountain rescue missions, air races, and aerial firefighting. These additions further enrich the simulation, providing fresh ways to immerse yourself in the skies. Whether you’re a first-time pilot or a seasoned veteran, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 offers something special—it’s the definitive flight sim experience we’ve all been waiting for. If you can look beyond the occasional performance hiccups on PC and the lingering graphical quirks that continue to be addressed through updates, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is an experience that simply shouldn’t be missed. For the ultimate immersion, a flight stick is highly recommended, but even with a controller, the game delivers an engaging and authentic sense of piloting. Whether you’re soaring through familiar skies or discovering new corners of the globe, this flight sim offers a consistently rewarding journey through the breathtaking expanse of our world.
Review: Farming Simulator 25
Developer: Giants Software Publisher: Giants Software Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series S|X, PC (Reviewed) Review Code Provided by Developer The Farming Simulator franchise has been a cornerstone of the genre since its inaugural release in 2008, steadily cultivating a loyal fanbase with each successive installment. Over the years, the series has meticulously refined its formula, inching ever closer to unparalleled realism. Farming Simulator 25 adheres closely to its well-established roots, which is to be expected from a simulation series that thrives on authenticity. These enhancements keep the experience engaging and prevent the series from becoming stale, offering both long-time players and newcomers a reason to jump back into the fields. This year, the game introduces dynamic weather elements like twisters and hail, which can significantly impact your crops and potentially undo hours of hard work. Currently, twisters are not fully interactive and don’t disrupt machinery or the player character, but incorporating such features would enhance the realism and elevate the immersive weather system even further. This year’s installment also expands the agricultural variety with the addition of new crops like rice, green beans, peas, and spinach, bringing the total to an impressive 25 farmable options. However, the standout feature is the introduction of animal husbandry, allowing players to raise livestock such as cows, chickens, and more, adding a whole new layer of depth to the farming experience. On the graphics side of things, This year also introduces a suite of visual enhancements, including improved ambient occlusion, which adds depth and realism to the environment. Tire tracks are now more detailed and prominently visible, alongside several other graphical upgrades designed to elevate the overall visual experience. Farming Simulator isn’t a game that will appeal to everyone, and that’s perfectly understandable—especially when it’s competing for attention alongside major AAA titles releasing around the same time. It’s easy for this series to fly under the radar. However, for farming enthusiasts or those who occasionally enjoy a good simulation game, Farming Simulator 2025 delivers on all fronts. The game offers a deeply immersive experience, where you can easily lose yourself in the tranquil rhythm of farm life. From tending to crops and sculpting the landscape to exploring a wide array of machinery, the gameplay provides a satisfying blend of relaxation and productivity. While there’s a bit of a learning curve, the robust tutorial system helps new players get up to speed, transforming novices into capable virtual farmers. Once you’ve grasped the basics of navigation and follow the seasonal planting guides, the gameplay unfolds in a straightforward, rewarding manner. Personally, I find simulation games to be an excellent way to gain insight into professions I may not encounter in everyday life. Farming Simulator offers a fascinating glimpse into the dedication and perseverance of farmers—the men and women who work tirelessly to ensure we’re all fed. It’s an educational and enjoyable experience wrapped in a calm, methodical package. For those returning from Farming Simulator 22, this year’s updates feel like a breath of fresh air. The visual enhancements are a welcome addition, but the core gameplay remains largely unchanged—and understandably so. After all, there’s only so much you can alter about the fundamental act of farming. However, with the introduction of new machinery, fresh crops, expanded animal husbandry, and various quality-of-life improvements, it feels less like you’ve left home and more like your familiar homestead has been significantly upgraded. Giants Software’s dedication to refining and expanding the experience with each installment is evident, showcasing their passion for the series and their community of like-minded enthusiasts. One of the main drawbacks I noticed is that the game can feel overwhelming at first, particularly for newcomers to the Farming Simulator series. This initial complexity might discourage some players from fully diving in and exploring everything the game has to offer. Performance was another mixed bag for me—while generally serviceable, there were moments where frame rates dipped, especially during high-resolution play. However, this is par for the course with many modern releases, and I’m confident that future patches will smooth out these issues. That said, I was disappointed with the driving physics for standard transportation vehicles. While I don’t expect hyper-realistic handling, the current system feels clunky and can make simple driving tasks a frustrating chore. Some refinement in this area would go a long way toward improving the overall experience. Farming Simulator 25 doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it certainly polishes it to a fine shine, offering a smoother and more refined experience. Whether you’re a newcomer eager to explore the rich world of farming or a seasoned player looking for a low-effort, laid-back game for those late nights, this is the ideal entry point. With the option to share the experience through multiplayer or enjoy the tranquility of solo play, Farming Simulator 25 delivers a relaxing and rewarding journey, no matter how you choose to tend your fields.
Review: #Drive Rally
Developer – Pixel Perfect Dude Publisher – Pixel Perfect Dude Platforms – Xbox Series S|X,Xbox One,Nintendo Switch,PS4/PS5, PC (reviewed) Review copy given by Developer Rally racing, to me, stands out as one of the most intense and thrilling forms of motorsport. The sheer skill required for drivers to maintain control of their cars at breakneck speeds on narrow, ever-changing surfaces is astonishing. Rally drivers have to master everything from gravel to snow, often with little margin for error. The 90s era of rally racing was particularly wild, a period marked by death-defying stages and blisteringly fast cars that pushed the limits of what was possible. Watching a rally event during that time was nothing short of exhilarating; the drivers’ precision and bravery left you in awe, constantly on the edge of your seat. So, when I first came across #Drive Rally, it instantly grabbed my attention. The game’s art style and the concept of an arcade-based rally racing experience were an immediate draw. During my first experience with the game’s physics, I found myself struggling to stay consistent, often feeling frustrated as I couldn’t put down a solid time. Each lap felt like a challenge, and it seemed like I was constantly battling to maintain control. However, as I continued to practice and familiarize myself with the handling, I began to improve. My laps became smoother, and I found myself getting faster with each attempt. Don’t let those initial struggles discourage you—once you master the mechanics and learn to control your vehicle, the payoff is immense. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of nailing a perfect handbrake turn right after barreling through a flat-out section, especially on tricky surfaces like snow. When you finally pull it off, the sense of accomplishment is incredibly rewarding, making all the practice worth it. There are multiple stages to conquer across three distinct locations: Dry Crumbs, with its bright, sandy hills; Whispering Woods, a hilly forest terrain; and Revontuli, a snowy wonderland. Plans are already in place to introduce a fourth location, expanding the variety of environments and challenges even further. Currently, there are 12 vehicles available to help you on your quest to become the rally champion, each coming in three versions with different performance upgrades and kits. These vehicles also offer unique customization options that can be unlocked by progressing through the championship mode. The cars themselves are inspired by legendary rally icons from the 80s and 90s, such as the Lancia Delta, Audi Quattro, and many more. The customization mainly focuses on altering the look of your vehicles with different bumpers, hoods, wheels, and liveries to give your ride some flair. The vehicle sounds are impressively done and do a fantastic job of keeping you hyped, especially when you’re maxing out the rev limiter, tearing down a long, sweeping dirt path, weaving between trees, and dodging cones. As I mentioned earlier, the physics can be a bit tricky to get the hang of in the first 30 minutes, but they stay true to the arcade feel. It reminds me a lot of Sega Rally—the two games share a similar vibe, especially in terms of core concept and physics, though this one has a more modern touch. You can easily sink hours into shaving seconds off your time, constantly chasing the leaderboards and fighting for those coveted top spots. The thrill of beating your personal best becomes addictive as you keep pushing for a faster, cleaner run. But what’s rally racing if you’re doing it all by yourself? Luckily, you’ve got a unique Co-Driver by your side, tailored to each racing location. They’re there to guide you through every twist and turn, calling out directions so you can stay focused on driving instead of constantly worrying about what’s ahead. The real question is: do you trust your co-pilot? Their guidance is crucial, and relying on them can be the difference between setting a new record or crashing out. One feature I always love using in any game that offers it is Photo Mode. In #Drive Rally, it’s simple and straightforward, making it incredibly easy for anyone to capture stunning shots of both the landscapes and the vehicles. The game itself is visually gorgeous, with an art style that adds a unique charm—it strikes a nice balance between cartoonish and semi-realistic, which really complements the arcade racing vibe. Running on ultra settings, the game performed flawlessly for me at well over 150fps on a 1440p monitor, with no performance issues or frame drops. I’m a huge fan of the visuals, the concept, the sound design, and the overall replayability, which makes this game an easy recommendation for anyone looking for a fun, arcade-style racing experience. My only hope is that one day we’ll get an online mode, which would truly elevate #Drive Rally to the next level, turning it into the ultimate rally-based arcade game. In conclusion, #Drive Rally puts you right in the driver’s seat, giving you a taste of what it was like to be a rally driver in the 90s, racing across some of the most challenging terrains imaginable. The game is all about speed and precision, as you navigate your rally car up and down twisting roads and rough paths while maintaining complete control. #Drive Rally captures the essence of 90s-era rally racing in a compact yet powerful experience. The question is: do you have what it takes to become a rally legend?
Review: NBA 2K25
Developer – Visual Concepts Publisher – 2K Platforms – PS4/5,Xbox One,Xbox Series S|X, Nintendo Switch,PC (Reviewed) Review copy given by Publisher 2K has long been a titan in the realm of sports games, particularly with its NBA 2K franchise, which has been captivating basketball enthusiasts since its debut in 1999. Over the years, the series has cultivated one of the largest, if not the largest, fan bases in sports gaming worldwide. With every new release, the stakes are high, and fans expect nothing less than excellence. So, with NBA 2K25 now hitting the courts, the pressing question is: does it live up to the legacy, or does it stumble before even reaching the free-throw line? The NBA has showcased some of the biggest legends in sports history—names that even non-basketball fans are familiar with, like Michael Jordan, who graced the cover of NBA 2K16, and LeBron James, featured on NBA 2K14 and 2K19. This year, the honor goes to Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics, fresh off his 2024 NBA Finals victory, making him the perfect face for 2K25. Now, let’s dive into the various game modes that NBA 2K25 has to offer, while examining the pros and cons of this year’s edition. MyCareer: In NBA 2K’s MyCareer mode, you embark on your journey to NBA stardom by creating your own baller, starting with personalizing every detail of your player’s appearance. Whether you decide to sculpt your character’s features manually or utilize the 2K app’s face-scanning feature to bring your own face into the game, this level of customization amplifies the immersion significantly, allowing you to step into the shoes of your digital self. After you’ve locked in your player’s look, you’re presented with a wide array of customization options for their movement and playstyle. Every aspect of your player’s mobility can be tailored to fit your preference— from choosing specific dunk and shooting animations to selecting defensive maneuvers. These animations are all modeled after real-life players, allowing you to craft a playing style that suits your unique approach to the game. I personally found myself diving deep into this system, exploring every available player animation until I discovered the perfect setup that complemented my style on the court. It’s a process that demands time and attention, but the payoff is worth it as your player’s fluidity and performance reflect these fine-tuned decisions. Beyond animations, MyCareer allows you to sculpt your player’s stats through one of three build systems. For beginners or those seeking a simpler path, the pro templates offer a great way to streamline the process, each one designed around the specific strengths and weaknesses of real NBA stars. The descriptions accompanying each template make it easy to understand the differences, ensuring you pick the one that aligns with how you want to play. Alternatively, the fully custom option gives complete control, enabling you to adjust every stat and build your character from the ground up, tailoring your style and optimizing for badges you aim to unlock. Whichever route you choose, once you’re happy with the setup, it’s time to take your talents to the NBA, joining your favorite team and embarking on a journey filled with quests, earning fans, and establishing your brand as you climb through the ranks. One of the most engaging aspects of MyCareer is the massive online experience known as The City. This open-world environment is brimming with opportunities to elevate your MyPlayer’s skills, from training facilities and shops to a wide variety of courts where you can play against others. The City feels alive with activity, offering everything from beginner courts to the Proving Grounds, which is the competitive heart of the mode, featuring ranked play in formats like 1v1, 2v2, 3v3, and 5v5, complete with leaderboards to track your progress. For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, The City also offers casual streetball games and unranked matches, allowing you to join friends or other players for some friendly competition. Exploring The City is highly recommended—it’s a vibrant space that adds a whole new layer to your MyCareer experience, blending competitive, community-driven gameplay with the essence of street basketball. My Team:In MyTeam, you’re tasked with assembling a customized roster of basketball players to face off against other players online in head-to-head matchups. This roster is built using player cards, which can be earned through gameplay or purchased using Virtual Currency (VC). The mode feels similar to a fantasy league, where you strategically stack your team with the best athletes and personal favorites, unlocking a variety of customization options and unique experiences along the way. However, I didn’t invest much time into MyTeam, primarily because it felt like a pay-to-win environment. To stay competitive, it often seemed necessary to purchase packs, which detracted from the overall enjoyment for me. My NBA:In MyNBA mode, your creativity truly knows no bounds. It allows you to craft teams in limitless ways, combining players from various eras of basketball history to create your own dream lineups. Whether you want to explore historical ‘what if’ scenarios, such as pairing legends from different generations on the same team, or simply experiment with unconventional rosters, MyNBA offers the perfect sandbox to bring your basketball fantasies to life. It’s a deep and engaging mode that not only lets you relive iconic moments from the past but also gives you the freedom to rewrite basketball history on your own terms. The joy of seeing players who once competed against each other now working in harmony is a satisfying way to immerse yourself in the endless possibilities of the sport. My GM:In MyGM mode, you have the unique opportunity to craft your own personal backstory as the manager of a team. Whether you imagine yourself as a former player who now wants to shape the game from behind the scenes or as a sharp financial strategist focused on building a franchise for long-term success, the narrative is yours to control. As a GM, you’ll dive deep into the operations of your
Review: Star Wars Outlaws
Developer – Massive Entertainment Publisher – Ubisoft Platforms – PS5, Xbox Series S|X, PC (Reviewed) Review copy given by Publisher NOTE: Before diving into the review, I want to mention that I played this game on a custom-built gaming PC with the specifications listed below. Keep in mind that performance can vary depending on your system, especially since this game demands higher-than-average minimum requirements. Listed below are the specs of my computer, to help you gauge the performance. CPU: Ryzen 7 5800x,GPU: Nvidia RTX 3080, Ram: Corsair Dominator Platinum 3600Mhz, Hard Drive: Western Digital 500GB M.2 Star Wars Outlaws enters the gaming universe with a legacy to uphold, following in the footsteps of the highly acclaimed Jedi series, which brought us unforgettable adventures with Cal Kestis. Those titles were renowned for their rich narratives and fluid, dynamic combat mechanics, setting the bar sky-high for any future Star Wars game. Now, with Star Wars Outlaws attempting to carve its own unique identity, the weight of expectations is palpable. Can it live up to the precedent set by its Jedi predecessors, or even surpass it? That’s the challenge Outlaws faces as it ventures into uncharted territory for the franchise: open-world gameplay. One of the standout features of Star Wars Outlaws is its expansive open world, the first of its kind for a Star Wars game. Fans and content creators alike have been eagerly awaiting this innovation, hoping for an experience that offers freedom, exploration, and depth. As you step into the shoes of Kay Vess, a new protagonist, the game presents a fresh take on the galaxy far, far away. Unlike previous titles where you wielded a lightsaber and the power of the Force, Kay’s journey is grounded in more human struggles—relying on stealth, cunning, and alliances rather than raw power. This shift is a refreshing change of pace, encouraging players to think more strategically and less like the all-powerful Jedi we’ve grown accustomed to. Accompanying Kay on her journey is Nix, her ever-loyal companion, who brings to mind the beloved BD-1 from Jedi: Fallen Order. Nix plays a crucial role in aiding you with distractions, combat support, and solving puzzles, seamlessly blending into the gameplay. If you’ve experienced the partnership between Cal Kestis and BD-1, the bond between Kay and Nix will feel comfortably familiar, enhancing the immersion as you explore different planets, form alliances, and battle enemies in pursuit of freedom and wealth. The open-world aspect of Outlaws is breathtaking in its execution. Each planet is meticulously designed, with stunning landscapes that pull you into the Star Wars universe. I often found myself wandering off-course, just to take in the beauty of the environment. The in-game photo mode became a frequent companion, as I couldn’t resist capturing the picturesque backdrops. Exploration feels rewarding, with small pockets of the world hiding materials, credits, and data logs that deepen the lore. These details add layers to the narrative, making the world feel lived-in and rich with history. Whether you’re strolling through shops or sneaking through a dense jungle, Outlaws succeeds in immersing you completely in its vibrant, detailed environments. A strong audio experience is another pillar of any Star Wars title, and Outlaws delivers on that front as well. The soundtrack blends seamlessly with the game’s events, building tension when sneaking through enemy bases or enhancing the calm of quiet moments. The atmospheric sounds—from bustling NPC conversations in crowded areas to the eerie silence of a remote outpost—serve to deepen the sense of place and add to the immersion. However, Outlaws doesn’t escape criticism, particularly when it comes to its storytelling. While Kay’s journey takes you to various corners of the galaxy, too often it feels like you’re just a glorified delivery person, shuttling back and forth to fulfill tasks for others. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but the repetitiveness of the quests sometimes dulls the excitement. On the bright side, the game’s faction system, which revolves around reputation, injects some unpredictability into the narrative. The decisions you make, such as who to aid or betray, have real consequences, leading to diverging storylines and varying outcomes. This branching structure offers replayability, making each playthrough potentially different depending on the choices you make. One area where Outlaws stumbles, unfortunately, is in its performance. While the game’s visuals are undeniably stunning, they come at the cost of optimization. I played on medium to high settings with ray tracing enabled, averaging around 60-70 FPS. Though the game looked gorgeous, frame drops were frequent, sometimes dipping into the 40s. While not game-breaking, these performance issues detracted from the fluidity of gameplay. Hopefully, future patches will improve performance across a wider range of systems, as the game’s demanding visuals currently pose a challenge for many players, especially those with more modest setups. Stealth mechanics are another area where Outlaws struggles to find balance. While stealth-based gameplay isn’t inherently bad, the frequency with which it’s required can make it feel repetitive. There’s a sense that the game leans too heavily into stealth, to the point where deviating from this approach often results in failure. Unlike other action games where getting spotted can lead to a frantic, high-stakes battle, here it frequently means restarting from the last checkpoint. This lack of flexibility can be frustrating for players who prefer a more action-oriented playstyle. Combat, too, leaves something to be desired. While blaster fights can be enjoyable in the right circumstances, the hand-to-hand combat is disappointingly shallow. The melee system lacks depth and variety, often boiling down to simplistic takedowns. For a game that distances itself from lightsabers and Force powers, you’d expect more innovation in its core combat mechanics, but Outlaws falls short in this area. The potential for more dynamic encounters feels untapped, and hopefully, future updates will address this weakness. Then there’s the speeder, a staple of the Star Wars universe, which serves as your primary mode of transportation across planets. While it’s exciting in theory, the actual experience of piloting the speeder is hindered by clunky
Smite 2 Closed Alpha First Impressions
I have been a long-time Smite player, playing since late 2014, transitioning to playing Smite on Xbox in early 2016 then back to pc a couple of years back. You can say I’ve been in and out of the arena for years, putting hundreds of hours into this MOBA. In case you’re new to Smite, it is a MOBA centered around battling at God’s Goddess and many other mythological-based characters in a 5 vs 5 fight to kill the enemy minions, purchase items to upgrade your abilities, defeat and defend the enemy towers and take down the enemy titan for the victory. Smite 2 Is the newest entry in the series created and developed by the studio Hi-Rez, in a much more updated and next-gen-looking MOBA following the same steps as the latter in the series. Smite 2 is in the closed alpha phase currently, but consistently pushing out updates for us all to enjoy and offer our feedback on so we as a community can carve Smite 2 into the mass MOBA we have all loved and enjoyed. I will be breaking my first impressions down based on the changes I notice, similarities with the gameplay, and some potential quality-of-life changes that could keep Smite 2 on the path of greater success. Firstly, The item store which in my opinion is one of the more important parts of keeping the pvp on a more equal playing field. The new items now mean a bit more on how you choose to build yourself, focusing more on one or two key stats to work together more so than going all in on one stat. I mostly played Neith during my first real session of playtime, as she was one of the first gods I reached rank 10 with when I first began playing, I knew I could jump into a conquest match and immediately feel at home. My typical Neith build clearly would work on Smite 2 as the items are different, so I found myself working on a new build on the fly giving Neith a completely different pace I’m used to forcing me to adapt differently. The new items have been a welcoming change for the balance and pace of the game, especially making the early games more important to farm minions or jungle to get that advantage in your lane. I have noticed some of the tank-based gods seemed to be a little more squishy than previously since the health/defense-based items are still in their early stages. Another large difference that has been brought to Smite 2 is the engine, Now being run through Unreal Engine 5. The game absolutely looks night and day better, the models all have new life, and all the maps (Conquest and Arena at the time of this) Both look amazing with the Unreal lighting, all the beautiful Unreal assets mixed with the new models for the characters giving the game a breath of fresh air. With these pro’s, there will always be con’s like the performance is not the greatest at the time of my first impressions with a good amount of random studders and out of the ordinary FPS drops that can hinder your gameplay tremendously. My current computer setup is a Ryzen 7 5800x and an RTX 3080 Paired with 32GB DDR4 Ram, so my setup isn’t exactly a low performing setup but I’m sure with time they will be able to optimize the game and the engine with future updates. The Combat, obviously being the main premise of the game gives you a rewarding sensation when you take on an enemy and win your battle that pushes your team closer to victory. In some cases i found myself taking damage but not having a sense of urgency like I felt in Smite 1, Gave me the feeling that i could stay in team battles and work my lane a little harder and longer than I’m use too especially building lifesteal as an early item you have a great amount of self maintenance. Mana Feels abit more forgiving when using abilities, i did not find myself running out of mana very quickly forcing me to not engage battles for fear of being punished. Smite 2’s Game pace does feel a little slower compared to Smite 1, I’m not sure if that’s because the new items favor more calculated plays and team battles, instead of being able to One Man Army duo lane and begin over leveling the enemy team. I didn’t get to play every role of God/Goddess so the progression potentially may vary on that aspect but for me as a hunter that’s how i felt.Smite 2’s Alpha is a very strong and promising start to what should be an amazing MOBA experience. I look forward to playing all the playtest weekends and being apart of the growing and ever changing landscape Hi-Rez is pushing to give us. If you have not yet played smite, i highly recommend picking it up, the game is completely free to play and available on steam to download.
Review: Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD
Developer – Nintendo Publisher – Nintendo Platforms – Nintendo Switch (Reviewed) Review copy given by publisher Luigi’s Mansion is a cherished franchise in the Nintendo universe, captivating fans since its debut on the Nintendo GameCube. The story begins with Luigi winning a contest that grants him ownership of a grand new mansion. Filled with excitement and anticipation, Luigi sets out to claim his prize. Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD is a high-definition remaster of the second game in the franchise, Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon, originally released on the Nintendo 3DS in early 2013. Staying true to the original, players guide the green-capped hero through a series of haunted puzzles, battles, and amusing scares across five distinct mansion locations. Along the way, players will encounter a variety of ghosts and collect precious gems, making for a thrilling and nostalgic adventure. If you’ve played Dark Moon on the 3DS, you’re likely aware of the limitations imposed by its single joystick control system. This setup made aiming more rigid and increased the challenge of capturing ghosts with the Poltergust 5000. Fortunately, the dual-stick controls introduced in Luigi’s Mansion 3, are also in this Remaster, eliminating these difficulties, and offering a smoother and more precise gameplay experience. On top of the controller overhaul is the very obvious visual enhancements through new shaders and textures, such as Luigi’s denim looking more detailed, the interior components of the manor, etc. Nintendo’s visual treatments on any Remaster are always top-notch, and very well-remastered giving older games a new look, well keeping that same feeling and atmosphere we all love in the storytelling and beautiful art. The missions are all led by Professor E-Gadd, someone you may or may not be familiar with if you have never played a Luigi’s Mansion game before. E-Gadd is up to his same antics, creating new ways to make the Poltergust 5000 more powerful and useful for Luigi as he progresses on with his mission to complete the dark moon. During the early stages of the “Gloomy Manor” you are put through tutorial-like trials to learn the controls and acquire attachments for the Poltergust 5000 to make it more equipped for future endeavors. Although the missions do feel fairly linear, I still found myself exploring the manor and did not feel too tied down to the task at hand. Whether you’ve experienced Dark Moon before or are picking it up for the first time, Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD is a must-play. In addition to the story mode, you can enjoy the multiplayer feature from the original 3DS release, aptly named “Scare Scraper.” You’ll need to progress through the story mode until you unlock the Dark Light Device to access this mode. ScareScraper remains true to its 3DS origins, unlike its iteration in Luigi’s Mansion 3. One notable drawback is the absence of a local play option, requiring multiple consoles and copies for multiplayer on one system. ScareScraper offers three game modes: Hunter mode, Rush mode, and Polterpup mode, each with three difficulty levels. The main cons I have picked up on have been the lack of Story Mode co-op which would be a fantastic touch to Luigi’s Mansion 2, especially because it was so beautifully implemented into Luigi’s Mansion 3. Another main con is you will be playing a game you may have played before, there is no new additional content added it is a strictly visual and sound overhaul, but it is a true experience to the original. Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD is a love letter to the franchise’s devoted fanbase, capturing the essence and charm that have defined Luigi’s Mansion games since their inception. It stays true to the core gameplay mechanics that fans adore, blending puzzle-solving, ghost-hunting, and lighthearted humor in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The HD remaster enhances the visual and audio experience, breathing new life into the game’s atmospheric environments and spooky settings. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD offers a delightful and immersive adventure that pays homage to the beloved original while delivering a polished and engaging experience.
Black Ops 3 Wish List And BO1 and BO2 HD Remake talk
I made a short video explaining the things i want in the next call of duty game, Black Ops 3. I also discuss the HD Remake for BO1 and BO2, I am looking forward to hearing other peoples opinions and i strongly believe you guys will have good ideas and such. The wishlist is still early before any game play so don’t take anything i say as confirmed details.
