LEMNIS GATE Review

Info

Developed By: Ratloop Games

Published By: Ratloop Games, Frontier Developments.

Platforms Available On: Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4/5 and PC – reviewed on Xbox Series X, a code was very kindly supplied for the purpose of this review.

Overview

Lemnis Gate is a time-warping, turn-based, multiplayer combat strategy FPS. Over five alternating turns taking place in a 25” time-loop, you are called to master the unique abilities of a varied cast of deep-space operatives and outskill, outsmart, and outmanoeuvre your opponent in mind-bending, four-dimensional battles.

KEY FEATURES THINK DIFFERENTLY Matches in Lemnis Gate take place within time loops. You have 25 seconds to execute your action, be it blasting an enemy, manoeuvring your operative, or setting up your next move. After all players have taken turns, the next 25-second round begins. Now you’ll face what has happened while setting up what will happen. Each of the five rounds is your chance to alter the timeline as past, present, and future converge.

A TIME-BENDING TACTICAL SHOOTER With a varied cast of characters to choose from, how you play is up to you. Lay damaging toxic waste in your enemy’s path, slow time to land the perfect shot, or deploy protective orbs to assist your future self. Every operative possesses a distinctive loadout and special ability that proves decisive on the battlefield.

TEAM UP WITH YOURSELF Welcome to the team comprised entirely of one: you. With Lemnis Gate’s innovative auto co-op feature, you command every member of your side. Auto co-op gives you total control of five deep-space operatives, effectively enabling two competitors to duke it out in bustling ten-character matches. Become a literal one-person army.

COUNTLESS POSSIBILITIES, ENDLESS OUTCOMES From the first second to the last, anything can happen in Lemnis Gate. Each round is a fresh chance to implement an unbeatable new strategy – or earn redemption from an earlier error. Predict hostiles’ routes, infiltrate enemy lines, and develop multi-layered gameplans by co-operating with yourself. Experiment both in and outside time, and get creative with causality.

A HOST OF MODES AND MATCHTYPES Create a match to your preference. Pick between a 1v1 and 2v2 contest, online or offline. Select your mode amongst three thrilling spins on established genre staples. There’s Retrieve XM, in which you scramble to collect exotic matter and return it to your gate; Domination, which is about competing to capture zones; and Seek & Destroy, where you attempt to wreck your opponent’s Resistors.

Whether teaming up with a friend for “hotseat” local multiplayer, or pitting your operatives against online rivals, Lemnis Gate lets you set the board to suit your style.

Gameplay

Futuristic FPS games are normally my bag with ones like Halo my main go to but something new was definitely needed in that genre to keep it fresh, step up to the plate Lemnis Gate bringing a fresh ideal to the FPS genre with its standard shooter mixing with time bending mechanics to take what we thought of FPS games and put it completely on its head.

Lemnis Gate is probably the most intense FPS I’ve played in a while, using the unique time loop system you can plan the take down of your opponent in more strategic manner by planning your every move, the added benefit is being able to play out your strategy in the time loop and of it doesn’t work you can try again.

In a move away from the pretty much standard FPS fayre of free for all and team deathmatch modes Lemnis Gate focuses on the pvp or smaller team combat with the futuristic time loop twist spicing up the game mode with a simplified menu system that makes the gamer feel more at relaxed rather than needing a degree to navigate.

Lemnis Gate certainly takes inspiration from other shooters on the market but doesn’t try to imitate or replicate what has already been done, the gameplay feels fresh and brings something unique to the genre, it did take me a couple of goes to get used to the whole concept but after I did the game felt alot more fun and played out.

Working out your different team member’s strengths, working out which team member would be better carrying out what attack, but it is important to use your team and not try and “Rambo” it, trust me it doesn’t work and won’t end well.

If you are after an edge of the seat excitement filled shooting experience then you definitely need to look this up.

Graphics and Sound

Lemnis Gate definitely makes use of the next gen power as the game looks stunning one the Series X, smooth visuals with incredible detail. The game levels look amazingly detailed and have been worked out well to ensure competitive gameplay. The character animation is good and look like they should do, movement is smooth and not robotic.

I like the soundtrack really think it works well with the game, the in game sound effects are good with everything sounding as it should, all blends well adding to the overall top class feel of the game.

Summary

To summarise my thoughts of Lemnis Gate, without doubt one of the best FPS games I have played in sometime. I really enjoyed the gameplay experience with it’s fresh take on the FPS styling making it feel something new (which it basically is) Definitely one to add to the collection.

Verdict-Out of 5🌟

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Excellent

I give Lemnis Gate a full marks 5🌟 a fresh new FPS game that really does need to be in your collection, if you love futuristic shooters then this is definitely the one for you.

Grab your copy of Lemnis Gate on Xbox now click here

The game is also available on Xbox Gamepass.

XUAN YUAN SWORD 7 Review

Info

Developed By: Domo Studio, Softstar.

Published By: Eastasiasoft, Softstar.

Platforms Available On: Xbox One, PS4 and PC – Reviewed on Xbox, a code was very kindly supplied for the purpose of this review.

Overview

Journey through a fantastical reimagining of ancient China in this 3D action RPG! Xuan Yuan Sword 7 is an action RPG with frenetic real-time combat, visceral 3D presentation and a rich cinematic narrative. It is a celebration of ancient China’s landscape, civilization and culture, infused with the mystique of its own legends in stark contrast to anachronistic technological designs. It is a world that is both familiar and mysterious, one of both science and spirituality, one that is waiting to be explored.

Take the role of the calm and reliable swordsman Taishi Zhao as he fights to protect his family and uncover the truth of a blight threatens all of China. With a story deeply rooted in ancient Chinese history and mythology, Xuan Yuan Sword 7 reimagines both as one fantastical and chaotic realm under the governance of a new Xin Dynasty. Near the end of Western Han rule, the powerful prime minister of China superseded his Emperor, promising an era of peace and prosperity. But ten years later, that promise has never been fulfilled.

Instead, a decade of war and famine has left China in ruin, and its salvation seems to lie in the hands of a Mohist swordsman who gains control of a fabled artifact called the Elysium Scroll. Can the science-seeking Mohists revive their former glory, or will they fade into the pages of forgotten history?

Gameplay

I am interested in most ancient Japan/China stories and games, I love the Ghost of Tsushima game so when another title within that era immerges I kind of want to take a look, Xuan Yuan Sword 7 is an interesting reimagining of ancient China and its authentic story telling.

The game feels authentic from the off with all the speech in game and cutscenes in Chinese with English subtitles, although this does give an authentic feel to game it does make it difficult to follow the story at times, you do have to carefully follow the subtitles to keep track of the story.

The game flows pretty well with very little loading between areas with clear markers where you need to go, trust me you need these the game worlds are massive so the odd pointer definitely helps move the game along.

The combat seems and feels a bit rigid and blocky didn’t really feel natural to me, wasn’t really sure what to do unlike other similar games I have played that are full on action and a whole lot of fun, this game seems alot more in depth and thought out, something you need to put alot of work into.

A decent story with a good deal to do to progress your character, the world building mechanics are good and work well and the combat is easy enough to tackle but I can’t say it will be high on my list to go back to but certainly one I am intrigued enough to want to return.

Graphics and Sound

The overall game world graphics are great and very pleasing on the eye, for me the character animations are dated in the way they look, look more close to 360 graphics not quite up to next gen in my opinion, but playing through the game it certainly looks well enough to get into.

The soundtrack is good and works well with the overall look and feel of the game, in game the sound effects definitely add the realism to the gameplay, although I did find it hard to follow the story in Chinese with subtitles.

Summary

To summarise my thoughts of Xuan Yuan Sword 7, a good game with a realistic feel to it, let down slightly with the graphic side if things. If you’re into story led rpg titles then definitely look at this.

Verdict-Out of 5

🌟🌟🌟

Good

I gave Xuan Yuan Sword 7 a 3🌟 a decent overall game with some flaws but if your an rpg fan then definitely look it up.

Grab your copy of Xuan Yuan Sword 7 on Xbox now click here

ULTRA AGE Review

Info

Developed By: Visual Dart, Next Stage.

Published By: Dangen Entertainment, Next Stage and Intragames.

Platforms Available On: Nintendo Switch, PC and PlayStation 4.

Reviewed on PlayStation – a code was very kindly supplied for the purpose of this review.

Overview

Ultra Age is a high-speed, sword-swinging action game set in the far future that follows the story of young warrior Age, who embarks on a mission to save humankind from extinction. Use your blades to cut through robotic and mutant foes, explore futuristic locales, and unravel a vast conspiracy concerning the fate of the planet.

Far in the future, the resources of Earth have become insufficient, its ecosystem long ago changed irrevocably by a passing meteor. Humankind has divided into two: the people who have escaped Earth and relocated to the space colony, ‘Orbital Arc,’ and the others who have remained on Earth in a facility called ‘The Shelter.’

Humanity vanished from Earth after civilians from The Shelter failed an experiment that was meant to be the last hope for humanity, while people from Orbital Arc sent expeditions to Earth in search of resources. Failing to find any signs of life, a young sword-wielding warrior named ‘Age’ falls down from orbit to Earth. Accompanied by his floating android, Helvis, he must find the indispensable key to the survival of humankind.

-Unleash Combos with Blade-Changing Action-

Slash through foes with a variety of blades in high-speed, stylish action! Change blades on the fly with powerful moves to create linkage and run devastating combos. Different attributes and varied actions call for unique strategy against different types of foes.

-Narrow Gaps Using the Wire-

Launch the wire skill to pull smaller enemies toward you, or Quantum Warp to get instant access to larger foes! Use the wire to strategically overcome numerical inferiority, traverse gaps on land and quickly grab items.

-Get the Edge with Skills-

Gather elements to enhance your blades, expand your skills, and learn new combos. Install modules and power gear to level up Age and increase your arsenal of blades to take down the toughest of enemies. Use Helvis to burst into Critical Rage, cast Healing Pocket to recover, or Time Shift to loot more items.

-Experience a Post-Apocalyptic Earth-

Follow Age on his journey in the year 3174. Experience cutscenes that tell the story of Age’s mission across futuristic mecha, forests and deserts developed with Unreal Engine. Encounter mysterious characters and overcome menacing bosses to uncover the story behind the fate of humankind.

Gameplay

If you’re after a slasher exactly how it should be done then look no further than Ultra Age, it’s over the top in the best possible way big swords and even bigger battles, what more could you want.

You play as Age, humanities last hope, as he battles through post apocalyptic Earth using weapons and his skills to overcome different varieties of foes, some posing more of a challenge than others.

Ultra Age seems to have taken a leaf out of the yesteryear dev handbook with big over the top battles which are seriously so much fun to play out. The changing sword is a really cool touch, you are armed with a sword that can change in size depending the battle in front of you.

You are also equipped with what looks like an electric whip that you can use to either jump to different platforms or pull enemies closer to finish them off all making to pull off some epic combos.

The game itself is challenging but without it getting to the point of too over complicated and putting you off, it’s definitely worth the graft to get you through the levels.

I enjoyed the how the story is told through the game using some epic looking cutscenes that really look amazing. Ultra Age doesn’t have multiplayer but then a game like this doesn’t need that mode single player works best, gives you a more immersive experience and more indepth story.

Graphics and Sounds

The overall graphics of the game are at a really good standard the game works well with next gen consoles. The character facial animation looks slightly dated but overall I was very impressed with the look of the game.

The soundtrack is as you would expect from a game of this type dramatic and full of action and definitely works well with the game. The in game effects are good, the voice over acting works well with comedy thrown in for good measure.

Summary

To summarise my thoughts on Ultra Age, a good hacker slasher with gameplay that feels like it takes inspiration from the good old days of gaming and really takes it back to the pure enjoyment. Looks great, plays great kind of ticks all the right boxes for a good all round game.

Verdict-Out of 5🌟

🌟🌟🌟🌟

Good

I give Ultra Age a solid 4🌟 a good all round game that is non stop action, if slasher are your thing then most definitely look it up.

Grab your copy of Ultra Age on PlayStation now click here

GENSHIN IMPACT’S Version 2.2 Coming October 13th

Global interactive entertainment developer and publisher miHoYoannounced today that Genshin Impact’s Version 2.2 update, “Into the Perilous Labyrinth of Fog”,will be arriving on October 13, 2021. The update will introduce the last of the six major islands of Inazuma, a new playable character Thoma, and a series of new challenges and mini-games full offun and rewards. Meanwhile, players who have not claimed “Savior From Another World” Aloy will be able to receive this five-star crossover character for free.

Genshin Impact is a free-to-play open-world action RPG that brings players to the visuallystunning world of Teyvat. The player takes on the role of the mysterious “Traveler,” who sets offon a journey to discover the fate of their lost sibling and unveils the mysterious secrets of Teyvatalong the way.

Currently, players can explore Mondstadt, Liyue Harbor, and Inazuma, three of theseven major cities in Teyvat, each with unique cultures, stories, and vast surrounding landscapes,and offering a diversity of creatures, monsters, secrets, and hidden treasures for players to discover. Further cities, stories, characters, and seasonal events will be released as the game progresses.

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Tsurumi Island, the last major island of Inazuma, is finally open to Travelers with Version 2.2. Theisland is shrouded in dense fog, and players may easily get lost and encounter unprecedented challenges while exploring this area. The Rifthounds and the Rifthound Whelps are dangerous stealthy beasts lurking in the fog, waiting to launch a sneak attack. When an attack hits a character,all party members will be affected by the “Corrosion” status and continually lose HP regardless ifthey’re shielded or not.

In addition, Tsurumi Island appears to be the focus of recent research by ascholar from Sumeru. In the “Shadow of the Ancients” event, players have to accomplishinvestigation commissions across Mondstadt, Liyue, and Inazuma to defeat an “Anomalous ModelRuin Grader” that seems to be constantly drawing power from an unknown source of energy to regenerate itself.

Thoma, the popular “fixer” who made his debut in the Inazuma storyline, will be joining as a newfour-star playable character. Thoma holds a Pyro Vision and wields a polearm as his weapon. He isalso a reliable teammate in combat, providing strong defense and buffs. Players may recruit him inthe second Event Wish featuring Thoma and Hu Tao after Childe’s return in the first Event Wish.Hangout Events for Thoma and Sayu will also be available with Version 2.2.
A brand-new series of seasonal events is also here along with the new update.

In the “LabyrinthWarriors” event, players can venture into a mystic domain in Inazuma with “Childe” Tartaglia,Eleventh of the Fatui Harbingers and Xinyan, Liyue’s rock ‘n’ roll musician. You will also beaccompanied by a strange paper figure named “Shiki Taishou” who can provide special help andbuffs. Tough fights and valuable rewards in the event shop await brave warriors. With anotherseasonal event “Tuned to the World’s Sounds”, players can enjoy the rhythm game and playdifferent styles of music with Ningguang, Zhongli, Keqing, Xiao, Sangonomiya Kokomi,

Kamisato Ayaka, and the Raiden Shogun. With Version 2.2, plenty of optimizations will also be added to the current gameplay, andDualSense Controller support will be available on Genshin Impact’s PC version for the first time. More features are added into the Serenitea Pot, including a new Inazuma-themed realm layout”Silken Courtyard,” more Inazuma-style Furnishing Blueprints, a new furnishing type, FloatingPlatform, and flowers that can be used as furnishings from the limited-time “Dreams of Bloom” event.

Genshin Impact’s Version 2.2 update will be arriving on October 13, 2021. With the cross-savefunction, players can now continue their adventure across PlayStation, PC, and mobile. The game is available for download on PS4 and PS5 from the PlayStation Store, on Android fromGoogle Play, on iOS from the App Store, and on PC from Epic Games Store or the GenshinImpact official website (genshin.mihoyo.com).

First released in September 2020, the game hasbeen rated T for Teen by ESRB on PS5, PS4, PC, and Google Play, and 12+ on iOS. For moreinformation and updates, please visit the official Genshin Impact website (genshin.mihoyo.com)or follow @GenshinImpact on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

BUS SIMULATOR 21 Review

Info

Developed By: Stillalive Studios

Published By: Astragon

Platforms Available On: PS4/5, Xbox and PC – Reviewed on PC

A code was very kindly supplied for the purpose of this review.

Overview

Look forward to Bus Simulator 21, and the most comprehensive and advanced fleet in the history of the series. For Bus Simulator 21, a fleet of 30 officially licensed buses by well-known, international manufacturers such as Volvo, Alexander Dennis, Scania, BYD, Grande West, and Blue Bird will join the models by popular brands already included in the preceding installment (Mercedes-Benz, Setra, IVECO BUS, and MAN).

For the first time, you will have the chance to master the challenges of daily traffic in the cockpit of double-decker and electric buses. Get ready for the brand-new, impressive US map Angel Shores and a revamped version of the European Seaside Valley map from the previous game installment – including its map extension. The even greater open-world approach of Bus Simulator 21 means that you will get to experience the exciting daily life of a bus driver in two massive, freely explorable cities.

Different difficulty levels and play modes are also available for a wide range of player types. In Bus Simulator 21, you will not only become a capable driver with countless miles on the road – you also have the option to use extended management elements. Creating detailed timetables, buying and selling buses, and planning efficient routes that take into account the daily number of passengers at peak hours – these and more varied tasks are available for you to enjoy.

Gameplay

I was a big fan of the last installment of Bus Simulator when I was lucky enough to review it on the previous site I worked with, surprisingly entertaining to run a bus company and leisurely drive around Angel Shores collecting passengers going about their daily business, so when the opportunity came around to take a look at Bus Simulator 21 then I pretty much jumped at the chance.

This time around Angel Shores has been given a bit of a over haul looks wise and the layout with different areas to add to your routes, also Seaside Valley makes a return but this time with a bigger map with more than enough to keep you occupied.

Another area that has been improved is the character customisation with even the inclusion of covid masks which is bit of a cool touch, similar to the last game the customisation let’s you make the driver (you) have a more personal touch either looking like you or someone you wish you were !!

The detail once again is spot on with the bus controls at the driver seat all their to use bringing another level of realism to the game, also with the buses being fully licensed they are as they are in real life too which makes the game even more immersive. On the subject of buses this time the choice options are far better with the inclusion of double deckers, which I missed from the last game, and eco friendly electric buses giving you more options to add to your fleet.

The detail the devs have added in are second to none and really make you feel like you are actually driving a bus for real (kind of a boyhood dream) The ticket system is back giving out the correct tickets to people and taking/giving the correct money all helping you build up your transport empire. You also need to keep an eye on your driving as not obeying the rules of the road or even running over Maud waiting at the stop will result in heavy fines to your business so slow and steady wins the race with this one.

The handling of the buses is hard improved from last time with them now feeling more smoother to handle (once you do get used to them first) don’t forget your aren’t riding a pushbike here more of a heavyweight juggernaut so it is good to get used to the handling and controls before you head off on your journey.

A much improved multiplayer mode is included where you can work together on the buses or merely just both enjoy the sights and sounds of Angel Shores a d all it has to offer.

Graphics and Sounds

In the main the graphics look pretty polished, the buses look and feel realistic enough and the game worlds are stunning to take in, the one area that kind of let’s the game down are the NPC (customers) details, look a bit dated and move robotic which feels a bit of a let down in this current gen, but in all fairness the devs are being responsive in the community and patches are being put out to fix any bugs or issues so maybe that’s something that may be addressed.

The soundtrack is OK a bit like a soundtrack from a lift or supermarket at times but all good, the buses themselves sound great and bring a realistic feel to the sound effects.

Summary

To summarise my thoughts on Bus Simulator 21, a much improved model overall but still some niggles here and there but it’s early days so I’m sure they’ll be looked at. If you’re into life simulators then this will probably be up your street or even at your stop (apologies bad pun!!)

Verdict-Out of 5🌟

🌟🌟🌟🌟

Good

I give Bus Simulator 21 a solid 4🌟 well worth trying out if simulators are your thing.

Grab your copy of Bus Simulator 21 on Steam now click here

Super Rare Games Get into Heavy Metal with METAL UNIT Release

Super Rare Games are proud to announce our partnership with NEOWIZ with a release of their sprawling side-scrolling action-platformer Metal Unit, available in physical form for the first time on the Nintendo Switch™.

Only 4,000 copies total will ever be printed, which go on sale October 7th at 6pm BST (10am PT/1pm ET) – available worldwide exclusively at superraregames.com. 

In typical Super Rare Games tradition, this rare print physical release includes all the current content on its cart, a full-colour manual, interior artwork, an exclusive sticker, and trading cards. Fans won’t have long to wait, as Super Rare Games titles ship soon after going on sale.

Metal Unit is a sprawling side-scrolling platformer with roguelite features. Play as Joanna, a soldier on a mission to capture her treasonous sister. Wear the M-Unit 11 suit and battle against monsters and aliens while uncovering the truth about humanity.

A tragic tale – Follow new soldier Joanna on her epic journey to save humanity and get revenge on her traitorous sister who has taken up arms with an alien race. With Earth under siege from all directions, the fate of the planet hangs on you and your powerful M-Unit suit

Action-packed battle system – Dash to evade enemies or go on the offensive and chain multiple weapon attacks together to perform devastating combos. The wide of range of melee and ranged weapons at your disposal also gives you the ultimate flexibility to take out enemies any way you see fit

Huge & diverse environments – Choose to explore the sprawling surface of the planet or delve deep inside mysterious dungeons. Traveling around the world will progress the story, while going underground offers bigger rewards that may come at a heavy price…

Roguelite Elements – Upon death the game will convert all equipped items into permanent research points. The points can then be used to unlock new items and skills. You will constantly receive weapons of varying utility and will need to adapt your strategy to match your current equipment

For all players – The Assist Mode will allow you to customize your experience to suit your tastes, while players seeking thrilling difficulty will be able to tackle the Challenge Mode, stacking odds against them as they attempt to reap exciting new rewards

For more information, you can check out the official site. Follow Super Rare Games on Twitter for news and updates. 

theHUNTER: CALL OF THE WILD/RANCHO DEL ARROYO Review

Info

Developed By: Expansive Worlds

Published By: Expansive Worlds/Avalanche Studios Group.

Platforms Available On: ps4, Xbox and PC.

Reviewed on Xbox – a code was very kindly supplied for the purpose of this review.

Overview

theHunter: Call of the Wild offers the most immersive hunting experience ever created. Step into a beautiful open world teeming with life, from majestic deer and awe-inspiring bison, down to the countless birds, critters and insects of the wilderness. Every inch of the 50-square mile world is crafted using Apex, award-winning technology crafted by Avalanche Studios during a decade of developing explosive action games.

In addition to its rich single player experience, theHunter: Call of the Wild offers unique multiplayer options – cooperative and competitive – for up to 8 players. Share the ultimate hunting experience, and earn those bragging rights!

Gameplay

Now thanks to mainly reviewing over the years I’ve developed a liking for simulation games, one in particular that caught my eye when going through Game Pass was theHunter: Call of The Wild and it’s vast landscape to explore, when the opportunity arose to take a look at the game again plus the new DLC Rancho Del Arroyo I jumped at the chance.

The base game itself is a true as it can be to life hunting simulator with extremely stunning scenery to explore and simply breathtaking views, just wondering through the reserves is just a sight to behold. Whether it’s big game you’re after or more on the lines of a few pesky rabbits theHunter basically ticks all the boxes.

Tracking your prey or targets is pretty straight forward as you are able to follow track various animal footprints or droppings, also things like mating calls, but be sure to remember your bearings as you can easily go off track and be tricked into tracking another animal and before you know it you’ll be walking in circles and not getting far fast.

The best thing to do is hunt down the outposts and look out towers that are great for setting up fast travel routes or stashing supplies, if you don’t set up your outposts it’s an extremely long way back (albeit a nice looking walk back).

The customisation options are  about as vast as the gaming world you play in, choose your right weapon for the job or hunt in hand. When I said the game was big I really do mean it is big with different reserves for you to explore with more availablead DLC add ons, 50 square miles to explore from dense forest to wetlands and valleys all bringing with it different animal species to hunt.

Relating back to that part about the DLC reserve add ons, I was also lucky enough to check out the latest reserve Rancho Del Arroyo as mentioned before  this brings a whole different style of terrain to explore and many different animals to hunt. Situated in Mexico’s hottest desert landscape you need to navigate the tough terrain along with the climate to get that trophy hunt with you utilising a different skill set to achieve your goals.

Rancho Del Arroyo brings different challenges to the game as you have to dig in deep into your hunter arsenal to get the prize hunt you are after, different techniques are used and needed to used to create the best effect. There are different ways to get around, good old two feet which is probably to most effective, or my personal favourite the ATV, not the quietest way to get about but my God it’s probably the most fun.

Graphics and Sound

Although there is no specific next gen update available for theHunter when you put it in your  chosen next gen platform you will straight away be blown away, not only does the title stand up for itself on next gen (through backward compatible) it probably looks better than most next gen titles. I spent alot of my time just stopping on a hill side and just taking it all in, it really is a sight to behold.

The sounds are great with a nice and relaxing musical soundtrack and the realistic in game sounds everything makes for truly realistic hunting experience.

Summary

To summarise my thoughts of theHunter: Call of the Wild and the Rancho Del Arroyo DLC , overall a stunning immersive experience one that I will most definitely be going back to regularly.

Verdict-Out of 5🌟

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Excellent

I give theHunter:Call of the Wild and the Rancho Del Arroyo DLC a seriously solid 5🌟 if you’re a hunter you need this in your life, if you’re not then you still need this to get into hunting, you won’t be disappointed

Get your copy of theHunter:Call of the Wild on Xbox now click here also it is available on Game Pass.

The Rancho Del Arroyo DLC is available here

GAMERS Review (BOOK)

Info

Written By: Scott Hilsen

Published By: Morgan House Books

A digital copy was very kindly supplied by the author for the purpose of this review.

Synopsis

When virtual reality becomes real . . . Ren Thomas was a gaming prodigy by ten years old and his teens were a whirlwind of esports leagues, world tours, and packed arenas. But by twenty-two, both his electrifying play speed and rocketing gaming career were slowing down. Coincidently, or so it seemed, he was recruited by a secretive gaming company for a new, fully immersive, virtual reality game that had a million-dollar payout. Only the best gamers were invited to play and Ren jumped at the chance for fame again.

The illusion of VR is suddenly shattered when Ren gets a desparate warning from the game’s designer, a young woman with a shadowy past. They discover that the game is being manipulated to have deadly real-world consequences. As they frantically race to decode who is controlling the game, Ren has to play one last time to expose the shocking secret before it’s game over for them.

Gamers is the story of a young man’s journey into virtual reality, and his courage to look inside himself to find what is real.

Review

Now this is something a little different for the site, and maybe something I could make a regular thing, a book review. Gamers is the latest title from author Scott Hilsen, the book appealed to me with its obviously gaming theme but the more I read the more I became engrossed in the story and didnt want to put it down.

The story follows pro gamer Ren who falls out with the pro gaming scene both mentally and physically, feeling lost post gaming Ren didn’t really know what comes next that was until a chance meeting in his regular coffee shop promising him a way back into the gaming world and untold riches to go with it, missing the buzz of the pro circuit this offer is just too good to refuse – or should he have? don’t forget as they say “if something seems to good to be true then it probably is”.

To get a good feel of the story think of it as a mash up of Ready Player One and Mission Impossible (the Tom Cruise film series not the old TV show) that will bring you somewhere close to the feel of it.

The story started off as more of a biography, more like an inside look at the life of a pro gamer, that in itself would have appealed to me but then as I sat back in my chair with a nice cuppa for a laid back read BANG the action smacked me right in the face, and just like Ren’s Porsche car increasing the action in full turbo speed.

This was my first foray into the writing of Hilsen and it’s safe to say that it certainly won’t be the last, I will definitely look at the other titles he has written before.

Verdict-Out of 5🌟

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Excellent

I give Gamers a fully warranted full marks score of 5🌟 if you loved Ready Player One and love a bit of action to your reading then definitely check this out.

Grab your copy of Gamers from Amazon now click here

REMNANT: FROM THE ASHES COMPLETE EDITION Review

Info

Developed By: Gunfire Games

Published By: Perfect World

Platforms Available On: Xbox, PS4 and PC.

Reviewed on Xbox, a code was very kindly supplied for the purpose of this review.

Overview

Take home the complete Remnant: From the Ashes experience, as you fight through a post-apocalyptic world overrun by monstrous creatures – fighting to restore humanity while overcoming hordes of deadly enemies and epic bosses alone, or alongside up to two other players.

In the Swamps of Corsus DLC, delve deeper into the story of the Iskal Cult on the marsh world Corsus, and take on the intense challenge of the rogue-like Survival Mode – start with a pistol and scrap, and see how long you can survive in a single playthrough against enemies and bosses that grow stronger.

In the Subject 2923 DLC, pick-up where the Remnant: From the Ashes story left off, in a brand-new campaign where you will traverse unfamiliar zones, meet unexpected allies, and conquer new threats as you seek to put an end to the Root once and for all.

The Remnant: From the Ashes – Complete Edition includes: Remnant: From the Ashes Remnant: From the Ashes – Swamps of Corsus Remnant: From the Ashes – Subject 2923

Gameplay

There are a lot of FPS floating around on this and next gen but it’s hard to find the one that stands out from the rest, well in my eyes Remnant stands head and shoulders above, graphics and gameplay are fluid and the story is immersive, basically a triple threat that works really well together and pulls off a stunning game.

The character customisation is probably one of the best I have seen with most features there for you to change to give your character that personal touch, I went for a rugged, battle scared badass look, well you kind of have to right?

The game is vast and I mean vast and if you’re anything like me you’ll find yourself getting a bit lost at times but fear not just consult your map and you’ll be back on your way in no time and back to the mission, you can easily track your mission through checking the map.

Combat is pretty much full on from the off and that is most definitely a good thing, quick tip aim for the head nothing beats a quick headshot, you use weapons that you can craft and upgrade back at the base meaning you can wield some pretty badass weaponry. The enemies can be pretty straight forward to defeat but be careful a shot from a stray arrow can put you in a slow bleed that can lead to death, it’s all about using cover and choosing your shots.

Remnant has a great immersive storyline helped along by great cutscenes that really helps to tell the story. If you go for the Complete Edition you also get the DLC bundled alongside the base game, you get both the major DLC packs Swamps of Corsus and Subject 2923, both DLCs add more in depth story to an already massive game, Swamps of Corsus also brings the intense and full on Survival Mode which pits you against more enemies you could most probably handle with not much more than a pistol and a bit of scrap to help you on.

Graphics and Sound

Although at times the graphics of Remnant look slightly dated, especially the faces in the cutscenes, overall I thought the graphics of the game stand up well against the other survival big boys. The in game graphics run smooth and help to immerse the player into the game world bringing an full immersive experience.

The soundtrack from the game is good and adds to the atmospheric feel of the game. In game the sound effects are great and adds more realism and details to the game.

Summary

To summarise my thoughts on Remnant From The Ashes, I found it a great game that immersed me fully into a dark world full of action and intense combat, would fully recommend to any survival fans out there.

Verdict – Out of 5🌟

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Excellent

I give Remnant: From the Ashes Complete Edition a full marks 5🌟 a fully deserved full marks, definitely recommend to get this in your collection.

Grab your copy of Remnant: From the Ashes Complete Edition on Xbox now click here available at a discount is you have Game Pass

Or pick up the base game included on Game Pass click here

BIG RUMBLE BOXING: CREED CHAMPIONS Review

Info

Developed/Published By: Survivos

Platforms Available On: PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch and Xbox One

Reviewed on Xbox Series X.

A code was very kindly supplied for the purpose of this review.

Overview

Do you have what it takes to be a Champion? Step into the ring in Big Rumble Boxing: Creed
Champions to show off your boxing skills in a knockout arcade experience. Don the boxing
gloves of legends like Adonis Creed and Rocky Balboa, or fight as one of 18 other iconic
characters from the Creed and Rocky universe.

Challenge your friends and family in local multiplayer mode, where you can flex your hard-hitting boxing moves in intense, head-to-head matches. Or, practice your boxing moves in classic Creed and Rocky training montages and take on world-class opponents across a variety of thrilling locations, as you follow each character’s unique story.

Gameplay

I personally love a good arcade boxer and feel like we’ve been without one for quite a while now, step up Big Rumble Boxing: Creed Champions basically all my dreams come true a boxing game filled to the brim with characters from the Rocky/Creed films.

Although the game is filled with Rocky characters and iconic venues it isn’t a Rocky game, it feels more of a respectful nod at the icon as it pushes the arcade feel.

The game comes with the standard modes both single and two player with a very solid single player campaign which I found enjoyable, with lots of big over the top special moves. But on the slight downside I was slightly disappointed that the cutscenes are cartoon stills with subtitles, I would’ve loved to have seen a bit of a proper cutscene giving more depth to the story.

The gameplay is addictive as you can unlock different characters throughout your journey if you can defeat them and definitely brings that “just one more game” vibe, also the feeling of playing out some iconic matches from the films such as Rocky vs Drago and that feels so good.

The game really comes into it’s own when you hit the multiplayer, it brings so much fun to the game especially in the couch co-op side of things, playing boxing games exactly as they should be.

Graphics and Sound

You honestly can’t knock the graphics, for me the devs have definitely hit the nail on the head going for a slightly cartoon style but with a realistic feel and I love the over the top arcade feel throughout.

The soundtrack is as you would expect it to be iconic and littered with big bass tunes, the in game sounds are good but for example when you play as Rocky he says the same thing everytime he wins, his iconic Adrian line, although great to hear would’ve been nice to hear something else every now and then.

Summary

To summarise my thoughts on Big Rumble Boxing: Creed Champions, it’s a big arcade fighter with lots on offer, although it has its flaws I still thought it was a great game to play and will continue to do so.

Verdict – Out of 5🌟

🌟🌟🌟🌟

Excellent

I give Big Rumble Boxing: Creed Champions a solid 4🌟 a great arcade fighter with lots on offer, well worth checking out if you like fighting games not just the Rocky fans.

Grab your copy of Big Rumble Boxing: Creed Champions on PlayStation now click here