Title: Fallout 4
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Released: November 10, 2015
Platforms Available: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC Game
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 4
Article Reading Time: 10 minutes

Introduction

War…War never changes. That’s exactly how every episode of the now legendary Fallout series, which has been with us for 30 years, begins.

Story Overview

When we start talking about the story itself, one interesting aspect is that the story plays second, maybe even third or fourth fiddle… In short, it’s not one of the reasons why players would play this game. To set the scene, fans of the series know that you are thrown into the wasteland of a nuclear world after the opening intro, which is always perfectly handled by the animation. This episode went about it a little differently, starting you off in a home that could define the now well-known term American Dream – a gorgeous house in the suburbs, a wife, a son, a car, and a typical everyday morning. This might be true if not for the doorbell ringing at one point from a door-to-door salesman who tells you about a very shortlisted Vault 111 project, to which you subscribe, leading you to the Vault. You are one of the few who will not be directly affected by the nuclear bomb blast or the subsequent radiation exposure. Unfortunately, you’ll be frozen for a mere 200 years immediately afterward. When you wake up, they’ll manage to turn your life completely upside down. Then, as a so-called Vault dweller (an inhabitant of an underground hideout), you embark on a bloody revenge portrayed as nothing more than a rescue. So we have one of the film industry’s biggest clichés that won’t be remembered in a year.

Gameplay Mechanics

When talking about the game itself and the overall gameplay, one of the things I didn’t even notice at first gave me a lot of pause and, more importantly, disappointment. Doing a bunch of different quests is familiar in RPGs. Still, the thing that set Fallout apart was that you could decide how your character was perceived by others, right from the very first episodes. It all worked on a morality mode that filled in on the side of the villain or saint, or you could remain a neutral character. From that, you had a decent line of quests in the game that were only available at a given level of morality. If I’m correct, the third installment offered morality-related perks as well. Forget all that, and if you’ve played the game a few times to try out all the possible solutions and sides, chalk it up to the minus side because you won’t find it here. The authors have dropped this fairly popular system.

Settlement System

On the other hand, one of the absolute novelties is the system of settlements that you can develop and acquire new settlers. Initially, you have only one settlement in Sanctuary Hills, which you can generate by planting plants and creating a water supply system. You can also electrify the whole area and bring various amenities. Each activity requires unique materials depending on what you need to make. You must collect all the components worldwide, which you then disassemble and use for equipment. This way, you can build entire buildings and smaller shelters for your survivors. You’ll find stations in the settlements to prepare food and make chemicals, weapons, armor, and more to help you survive. You’ll use these, especially when upgrading your weapons and armor, as you can fully modify them. So it’s no problem to change the grip of your gun, add a silencer, and have a sight. Plenty of other options spice up the game in their own way. It’s definitely a plus, as you can tailor everything to your play style.
Similarly, you can upgrade the Power Armor, a unique armor used extensively by members of the Brotherhood of Steel as one of the factions of the franchise. This armor protects you from radiation and a large amount of damage. It has been around like many other things since the first game, only this time you don’t get it until the end, but right at the beginning, as the armor sustains lives using the rather expensive Fusion Core batteries. You can also upgrade this armor extensively to make yourself an indestructible machine.

Character Development

Character development and the perk or skill tree are really high in the game, and you have to think about what style of play you want to go for. Here, one could point to the rival Witcher, who needed to be more in the skill tree and offered fewer development options. On the other hand, you can tailor your character to your liking, deciding whether to be accompanied by a companion or instead be a lone wolf and gain specific perk bonuses. There are 6 categories for each trait, such as strength, intelligence, or luck, for example. The latter has a total of 10 additional perks that are directly dependent on the level of the trait. These also work in completely different realms, such as increasing your resistance to radiation. Still, when you upgrade the perk to the max level, the radiation will even heal you. So this system is made precisely for players who want to customize their character and know what they want from the start, which is understandably difficult when you’re just starting to get to grips with the game for the first time. Other perks can, for example, increase your damage with certain weapons, unlock more challenging locks, or hack the defense system. The perk system is one of the main draws I would only partially dismiss the game for and is one of the more considerable pluses. In addition to this tree, the game also includes special perks you unlock by, for example, finding certain magazines scattered around the world.

Combat System

The combat system and controls haven’t changed from previous installments, and everything remains unchanged. In fact, this means you can switch between first and third-person views, which can be applied both during quests and during action-packed battles. The main question for those unfamiliar with the series is how the combat system works. This can be used in the standard way as in other FPS games, the inspiration of Destiny for example is very much evident, so there is a much more interesting combat system known as V.A.T.S. To use it, you use action points marked as AP, and depending on the type of weapon, you can hit enemies several times from the full pointer. In this mode, you also choose where to hit the enemy, and can inflict severe damage. For example, suppose you only shoot him in the leg, after destroying all the health for that part, the enemy will start to limp. In that case, his mobility will be reduced and he will not be able to run away. This system uses your field of view and the accuracy of your weapon to calculate the actual accuracy with which you hit a given party. This plays a significant role in how quickly you kill a friend and in what manner. I like this system (as I have since the beginning of the series); however, using it is unnecessary, so you can play a game like Borderlands, for example. I’ll also point out that if you use the V.A.T.S. system, you charge up the critical missile pointer, which you can then use to hit with more significant damage and 100% accuracy, as I’ve never had this missile miss its target.

Technical and Graphical Aspects

The technical and graphical aspects of the game are a big theme in themselves. Although Fallout 4 is out on a newer generation of consoles this time, the gentlemen from Bethesda forgot about it, and the game runs on the updated Creation engine used in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. The game looks good, but we wouldn’t have to go far. For example, The Witcher, released in the same year, is entirely different in this respect. Graphically, the game does not offend outright. Still, it has much catching up, which also applies to the characters’ physics and behavior. Very often, a character is lying on the ground in a bizarre position, has a broken limb, and is made of rubber. All this comes from the engine, because there are a lot of bugs like this in the game, whether it’s characters walking through walls, broken quests, or a dog walking in the air. Although gamers are used to bugs in these big RPGs, the bugs here are beyond tolerable, as they are pretty frequent and often very glaring. Players could tolerate and accept it better if they knew the developers had created a new engine. So in this case, if they chose an older engine, they should have avoided the bugs as mentioned earlier like wall-crawling or object-caving, and not repeat the identical bugs that, for example, the Skyrim above suffered from. But the worst part is that this is the PlayStation 5 version I’m reviewing. Yet, it’s still possible to talk about the game as it was on its original release date in 2015… The only new and positive thing this “next-gen” version has brought is a higher frame rate (i.e., an increase from 30 to 60fps) and a slightly faster loading screen.

Music and Atmosphere

Music accompaniment has become essential to the games, adding to the whole experience.
In this respect, I must commend the developers because the game is accompanied by an ambient sound that can be completely turned off in addition to a perfect sound. And instead, choose a radio station broadcasting from the wilderness, which plays “period” classical music. I like this system, as you are not left to the creators’ choice but can at least partially choose what you listen to.

Conclusion

Fallout 4 was no longer God knows what kind of game on the release day, even though it has its undeniable qualities in many ways. However, this was not helped significantly by the “next-gen” version I played and reviewed (PlayStation 5). It offers several good experiences, varied quests, and a well-conceived character development system to play around with. On the other hand, it doesn’t bring anything significantly new to the series. It also has a lot of blind spots, whether it’s the older engine with weaker graphics for its time, which is also full of bugs even today, or the departure from some previously very successful things like moral decisions. Suppose you’re a franchise fan, like the post-apocalyptic atmosphere, or have played The Witcher. In that case, the fourth Fallout is somewhat out of the question to reach for. If you can survive the things above, you might even have fun with the game; just don’t expect something revolutionary that we have yet to have before.

Where to Buy Fallout 4

1. Steam (PC): Available for $19.99. Purchase it directly from Steam​
2. Epic Games Store (PC): The base game is priced at $19.99, and the Game of the Year Edition, which includes all six add-ons, is available for $39.99. Check it out on the Epic Games Store​
3. GOG (PC): The Game of the Year Edition is available for $15.99 (discounted from $39.99) on GOG.com
4. PlayStation Store (PS4, PS5): The standard edition is priced at $19.99, and the Game of the Year Edition is available for $39.99. You can purchase it on the PlayStation Store or get it free if you have Playstation Plus Extra at least
5. Xbox Store (Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S): The base game is available for $19.99, and the Game of the Year Edition is priced at $39.99. Check it out on the Xbox.com​. Its included in Game Pass and can be played on Cloud

The post Fallout 4: Revisiting a Post-Apocalyptic Classic appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Title: Terminator: Resistance
Developer: Teyon
Publisher: Reef Entertainment
Released: November 15, 2019
Platforms Available: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 5
Article Reading Time: 10 minutes

Introduction to the Resistance

As we already know from the Terminator movie series, in one of the future wars, humanity will win over robots, and the shooter Terminator: Resistance will hint at how high the price we will pay for it is. Right at the beginning, I can say that it is worth giving it a chance if you are a fan of the famous movie prequel, which is enriched with a new look at the Resistance against Skynet and offers a pleasantly old-world, although not flawless action with a pinch of adventure. Go for it!

Nostalgia

Although the new game was released almost as soon as the feature-length Terminator: Dark Destiny, its theme harks back to the first two installments of the well-known Terminator saga and Terminator 2: Judgment Day. Their memories will be right at home in the virtual adaptation. The game is connected to iconic films through authentic sets, familiar time-space loops, and some key characters, although it tells the story of the AI-dominated world in its own way. It all starts in Pasadena, California, hit by a wave of terror in 2028.

A Soldier’s Life in Skynet’s Shadow

The ruins of the once glittering skyscrapers are now commanded by T-800 terminators, accompanied by another tin cavalry sent to the city near Los Angeles to cleanse it of all things human by the autonomous network Skynet. The red eyes of the merciless robots are usually the last thing one looks into before death. But the game’s central character, Private Jacob Rivers of the US military’s Pacific Division, has been pleasantly surprised by fate and left alive for a critical mission. Rivers managed to fight off the steel monster raid, as did several other Resistance heroes led by the legendary John Connor. The survivors will attempt to defeat the AI in a decisive battle with the remaining military units in the Pasadena area. Despite the makeshift conditions, they managed to mobilize their forces relatively quickly. The Allies gather supplies, upgrade weapons, spy on Skynet, and, with the experience gained, enter new battles to disable the AI’s computing headquarters. They won’t be without the Rivers, as mentioned earlier, who is unexpectedly high on Skynet’s blacklist for elimination, and everything you do as him will affect the course and outcome of the story.

Stealth and Combat: Survival in the Ruins

Terminator: Resistance starts cautiously and intimately. In fact, you just run through the ruins of Pasadena without directly confronting the enemy. However, even a glimpse of the typically red robot sensors gets your heart racing, and it beats like a race in the subsequent few stealth missions, where the dreaded Terminators pass you by a whisker. Since Rivers has been relatively unprepared for a direct confrontation with the T-800 for quite some time, any giveaway means death. The atmosphere of the game is quite unique, even more so if you equip the hero with special goggles for seeing through walls and give him a glimpse of several deadly enemies in range. But thanks to Rivers’ teachable nature, he begins to exploit Skynet’s technical weaknesses more and more effectively. By hacking various gates and portals, he not only makes his way through space through previously locked sectors and surprises enemies from ambush, but by reprogramming machine gun nests, he even sends them against each other. Soon, the time will come when he’ll start dispensing justice in Arnold Schwarzenegger’s style.

Exploring Tactical Diversity

When the slower style of play would have started to feel routine, the hero gets plasma weapons and suitably durable armor to his kit and becomes an even match for the tin monsters. Dark sci-fi suddenly turns into a brisk shooter, while the role of RPG elements is highlighted, opening up new gameplay possibilities. From time to time, Rivers is tasked with missions that don’t come without ingenious technical aids, such as advanced spy goggles for taking pictures of enemy troops. He’ll also often be breaking complex locks, hacking electronic devices, destroying booby traps, and, of course, continuing to hack into the Skynet network. Meanwhile, he could only do advanced activities while continuously improving his skills.

The hero increases his level with points gained by successfully completing main or optional missions. He also upgrades his weapons with self-built parts and makes explosives, healing, and support devices – in short, he is a handyman of all kinds. Through crafting and the experience system, Rivers gradually becomes a better soldier in the field and a more effective spy. What gameplay style he excels at is up to you, and what RPG elements you invest in is also up to you. Versatile characters are most valuable for each approach in the game, as the campaign regularly emphasizes both play styles.

The game environment is also prepared for a different concept of action. The creators have interspersed the relatively narrow corridor with many alternative paths, so despite the modest size, the map looks open and offers multiple options for getting to different places or overcoming obstacles.

Some options you won’t even notice at first, which you may regret later. For example, I spent several dozen minutes gathering materials for an explosive to blow up a wall at the following location. At the same time, a ventilation shaft leading to the exact location was hiding nearby. The game often gives you several options for traversing the map, with the more elegant options leading through more advanced activities (hacking, picking locks) and the less elegant ones through brutal action or rather tedious junk collecting. Often confrontation is inevitable, but unfortunately, the game picks its weaker moments in the duels due to its weaker technical design.

The Flawed Machinery of War

Skynet’s artificial intelligence isn’t as sharp in the game as on the silver screen, and fights with robotic units could have been more entertaining. The Terminators usually just loiter in their corridors and try to approach you through the air when confronted, naturally “tripping” over every obstacle in their path.

A Mixed Bag of Innovation and Obsolescence

Studio Tayon still needs to get the best out of Unreal Engine 4, which is also clearly visible in the graphics and physics, which have mistaken the time by a good ten years. Corresponding with the outdated image are the clumsy character movement animations, the lackluster weapon manifestation, or the unbelievably processed projectile materials. While reinforced concrete structures can be shot to death, no splinter can fly off wooden pallets.

The Legacy of the Resistance

Humanity’s fictional clash with the computer brain has become a pop culture phenomenon. It has been told through six science fiction films, countless book titles, and dozens of video games, the quality of which has fluctuated greatly over time. Terminator: Resistance is one of the better ones, though it is far from perfect.

Beyond the technical problems, the game is plagued by half-baked details resulting from a limited budget and poor creative decisions. One can have reservations, for example, about trading found objects, of which an absurdly large amount are lying around the map, and over time, there is practically nothing to spend the earned fortune on.

Some other RPG elements could be more problematic. For example, collecting materials to work at the ponk soon gets tiresome, as does picking locks, the mechanism of which follows no explainable logic, and the opening of each is de facto a work of chance. Also questionable is the story’s moral dilemmas and decision-making system, which branches into several alternative endings based on critical moments. However, your sub-decisions don’t have much visible influence on the course of the campaign, and the game will only calculate everything in the very finale when the consequences of your actions finally come into play. Despite some setbacks, the film’s gameplay brand has returned to a worthy form. The authentic setting has created an action shooter with an imaginative environment and a pleasantly variable campaign that allows you to make and act freely. And that great soundtrack with iconic themes by Brad Fiedel… No, Terminator: Resistance is not a licensing embarrassment but a gem that is new in some ways, but the roots are undeniable and come to the surface at every turn, and everything smacks of the 80s when the phenomenon started.

A Gem Amidst the Rubble

My conclusion is that a great atmosphere against crappy technology, ingeniously designed environments full of dumb monsters, and lots of good ideas but also bad ones make Terminator: Resistance, where we fight not only against Skynet not perfect but still one of the best games in the brand. For fans of this iconic brand, it’s a must-play that will make you feel right at home with the atmosphere. Hats off to the guys at Teyon!

Where to Buy Terminator Resistance

1. Steam (PC): You can purchase Terminator: Resistance directly from Steam.
2. Epic Games Store (PC): Find more details and purchase Terminator: Resistance here on Epic Games Store.
3. PlayStation Store (PS4/PS5): The game is available for purchase and you can buy it from the PlayStation Store.
4. Xbox Store: You can find Terminator: Resistance here on Xbox.

The post Battling Skynet Again in Terminator: Resistance appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Title: Metro Exodus
Developer: 4A Games
Publisher: Deep Silver
Released: February 15, 2019 (PC, PS4, Xbox One), June 18, 2021 (PS5, Xbox Series X/S)
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 5 Playstation 4, PC
Platforms Available: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Mac
Article Reading Time: 14 minutes

Fourteen Years On: Metro Exodus’ Thrilling Path

This year, it’s been fourteen years recently since developers from Ukrainian studio 4A Games brought us the successful action game Metro 2033, which was based on the successful novel by Dmitry Glukhovsky. It is built on a dense atmosphere, stunning artwork, and fun action. The book’s author expressed several times that he liked the game’s treatment, and he was certainly glad that new readers found their way to his novels. Three years later, we have a free sequel, Metro: Last Light, which has already been released simultaneously for all major platforms. The developers have put all their experience to good use, and Metro has become a classic video game. So it’s no wonder that expectations were very high when the next Metro Exodus was announced. Find out if the developers managed to meet them in my review below. I’ll just reveal that it’s going to be quite a ride.

Metro Exodus has taken quite a leap forward with the PlayStation 5 version. The original PS4 version was great on its own, but the visual enhancements and technical innovations elevate the experience to a new level. I was immediately hooked on the PS5. The most significant change is the implementation of ray tracing, completely transforming the game’s lighting. Shadows are deep and realistic, and reflections on metal or water surfaces feel real. The environment has gained depth, making the atmosphere denser than before. The game runs at a smooth 60 frames per second on PS5, which noticeably improves gameplay.

Artyom’s Quest: Surviving in Post-Apocalyptic Russia

Metro Exodus, based on the novel Metro 2035, is a follow-up to the ending of Metro: Last Light. However, you haven’t played the previous installments. In that case, I recommend doing so, as the next installment follows its predecessor with only a slight distance this time. Anyway, the thing is, it’s been 23 years since the great war that wiped out nearly seven billion people, and the last remnants are still living in the Moscow subway system, having to deal with its aftermath every day, be it the omnipresent radiation or the various monsters. Among the survivors is the protagonist, Artyom, who hasn’t stopped dreaming of a place to live without fear of radiation and multiple monsters. Now, with his wife Anna, he occasionally makes his way to the surface, looking for a signal from possible other survivors. But the dream turns into a nightmare during one trip to the surface, when Artyom wonders if it was worth dreaming like this. Either way, along with Anna and a few other Special Forces members, he embarks on a journey through Russia and its wilderness on the Aurora train to find the paradise he so desires. I don’t want to give any spoilers here because the fantastic story is full of twists and turns, well-written characters, dialogue, and different communities, which everyone must enjoy for themselves. But the story definitely doesn’t disappoint anyone. It keeps you glued to the screen until the grand finale, which you will remember for a long time. It also concludes this unique trilogy very well.

Diverse Terrains: Beyond the Moscow Metro

You can see from the first minute of Metro Exodus that the developers now had much more ambition and budget after their previous successes, as everything is much more lavish and looks expensive compared to the first two installments. And I would compare Metro’s journey through this a bit to the Witcher series, where only with the third installment could the developers at CD Project RED fully realize what they always wanted. But it’s also worth mentioning that 4A Games hasn’t forgotten the previous installments and its fans, so they’re still building on their quality and popular foundations. Metro Exodus is still an atmospheric survival action game with horror elements, but now in a much more cinematic and spectacular way. I enjoyed the game immensely because of this, and I enjoyed every minute of it enormously. Plus, it’s hard to tear yourself away from it. Something is always happening, and the game keeps the player in suspense about how everything will continue. 

The fact that the developers had a much bigger budget shows in the levels themselves with their excellent design. Again, if you’re looking for a linear action game with a strong focus on story, you’ll find it here. You don’t have to worry about the game-changing dramatically. However, the developers have also prepared some more expansive levels; it’s a more miniature open world; I might compare it in style to the last God of War. You’re always set goals from the main storyline. Still, NPC characters occasionally give you some side quest you may or may not complete. The side quests are usually related to finding a particular item or exploring locations, which mainly enriches the game experience and reveals more about the local world.

What I liked during the quests is that the developers go a bit, well, instead, a lot old school and don’t lead the player by the hand. On the map, which you can call up at any time simply by pressing the touchpad, you only have the important places marked, but you no longer have an arrow to guide you to them; plus, you only get information and details about the quests from other NPC characters. This approach helps you explore the game world, making you feel and enjoy it more. This is the opposite of what we see in other similar games that lead you by the hand to a goal, which they still mark out so you don’t accidentally miss it in a meter-by-meter room. Here, you just know the location, and it’s up to you to explore it and find what you need and are looking for. 

As I mentioned above, the game takes place outside of Moscow this time, so you’ll visit more diverse locations that take you across the Russian wilderness. You’ll look to the Volga River, Siberia’s taiga, which radiation has virtually avoided, and the Caspian Sea desert, where I sometimes felt like I was in Mad Max. The greater variety of environments definitely helps the game. I always enjoyed arriving in a new one and the varied challenges you’ll face while playing.

PS5 Upgrades: Enhanced Visuals and Performance

The developers have also worked on using the DualSense controller’s haptic response, adding another dimension to gameplay. You can feel the gun shake as you shoot or the subtle vibrations that simulate the terrain you’re moving across. The colors have been slightly altered on the PS5, which may be a plus for some and a minus for others. While there were minor graphical glitches, such as occasional shadowing issues, overall, the PS5 version of Metro Exodus is the best you can play. It uses the console to its full potential and delivers a fantastic experience. If you have a choice, this version should be a clear priority. The game is still impressive on PS4, but the difference is noticeable.

What I also have to mention about the environment is that the developers have worked on the changing weather, so it starts raining heavily at the Volga River out of nowhere. At the same time, in the desert, a sandstorm comes again. Also, the time of day changes dynamically during gameplay, affecting the gameplay itself. While you encounter mostly human opponents during the day, at night, various mutants and other creatures come to the surface, and you have to deal with different problems that don’t exist during the day. You have to think whether a given mission is worth doing in the evening or during the day. 

Many players of the previous installments must wonder if Metro Exodus still offers those dark corners of the subway. The answer, of course, is yes. Although it occurs mainly on the surface, you’ll still be crawling through various bunkers and bases where daylight can’t reach. Of course, there are plenty of subway stations, but I won’t spoil any more.  

Combat and Strategy: Facing the Mutant Threat

Because the game occurs outside radiation-infested Moscow, Artyom no longer has to constantly wear a mask and change one filter after another. However, it still happens and is an important part of the gameplay when you venture into the contaminated parts of the world here. Survival elements are, therefore, ever-present and are linked to, for example, making first aid kits and various bombs, upgrading your suit with found materials, and then modifying various weapons. Artyom will also shoot pistols, shotguns, machine guns, crossbows, and other interesting toys you can change with the parts you find. This will make the weapons even more effective in the fight against human opponents and monsters. Modifying weapons or making bullets, first aid kits, and other items are handled simply. They will be accessible, even for a novice.

Even smaller but, from my point of view, a fundamental note about the weapons: this time, the developers have delivered a really detailed gunplay rich in visual and animation perfectly processed weapons from which it is really a pleasure to shoot and last but not least, of course, to listen to them. For me, as a lover of weapons in games, a huge thumbs up.

If you get attacked by monsters, the game contains several types. It’s a classic fast-paced shooter, but you must count every bullet. You don’t have enough of them on the higher difficulties, so every bullet that misses the target hurts like hell and can be helpful later. You constantly have to explore your surroundings, find hidden ammo boxes, and so on, so the core gameplay of Metro Exodus is similar to previous installments. Survival elements, which are also well-balanced, still play a crucial role. Fortunately, you can continually replenish your supplies with found materials at the workbenches scattered around the world and at the main base in the form of the Aurora locomotive. 

While encounters with mutants are all about action when you meet human opponents, you have more options thanks to a solid stealth system, so everything can be handled silently. In many situations, this is better, as enemies are outnumbered, and Artyom can take a few hits on higher difficulty. When it comes to the gunfights, they’re fun, although I do have a bit of a gripe with the AI. It could be better. Enemies tried to take cover, but I sometimes felt like they were just standing still or running around the level mindlessly. This shouldn’t have happened, but fortunately, I noticed this problem infrequently. 

Exploration and Discovery: Open World and Quests

As mentioned, Metro Exodus has many more open locations and is a semi-open-world game. This makes it hard to estimate how long it will take you to play through. I finished the main storyline on medium difficulty with a few side quests in about twenty hours and 100% in two playthroughs in about forty hours, which is a solid time for a story-driven action game. It’s worth giving it all a second go afterward for two reasons. The first is completing all of the quests while exploring the world (as I did as a fan of the series), which has many secrets that fans will definitely want to uncover; you can collect ribbons and various other collectibles, for example. The second reason is that your actions affect the fate of several side characters, so you have it in your hands whether they survive or not. The story can thus partially play out differently, and just trying out a different path is a decent enticement to replay. I was sorry to lose any of the characters from the train. I’ve developed a nice relationship with them throughout playing, so giving it your all again and trying to save them motivates players to play again.

It was clear from the first demo that Metro Exodus would be a stunning technological game. The developers, who created their own engine, may have presented it on a hyped-up PC. Still, the console version is undoubtedly nothing to be ashamed of. It looks absolutely fantastic. From the very first minute, you’ll be amazed at the gorgeous-looking environments, the highly detailed characters, and the various effects, which are breathtaking at many times. That’s just how I imagine a modern action game released in 2019. The developers knew that the game looked beautiful, so they also prepared a high-quality photo mode, allowing you to easily take stunning shots and share them with others. However, you’ll also want to know how the optimization is doing. And it’s pretty good right now. On PS5, the game runs at a nice 60Fps and has raytracing enabled, which is very pleasing, except for the bugs. I found a few here and there, but nothing to dwell on, and they will likely be polished by patches. 

Fantastic Sound of Radiated Russia

But back to the positive side, namely the fantastic sound which, together with the visuals, provides a very dense atmosphere that could be cut right down. Suddenly, with headphones on, you’ll feel right in the subway aisles or a world after a huge disaster. The musical accompaniment is also of high quality, containing some pleasant, touching, and, at a few moments, intensely emotional and melancholic songs that took me by the heart and made me love and relate to the story and the characters even more. Furthermore, dubbing the individual characters was excellent – especially the Russian one. Before I end my review, I have to mention the localizations into languages like Czech and others, as with the previous two episodes. This is again of high quality, so everyone can enjoy Artyom’s incredible story, even non-English speakers.

Metro Exodus : Wrap-Up

Metro Exodus is an excellent action game whose most vital point is a well-written story with believable characters that you will simply and easily like. Compared to previous installments, it’s also far more varied, offering more open levels with side quests and giving more freedom in general. Yet it retains the characteristic elements and, most importantly, the dense atmosphere of the post-apocalyptic world. The game is slightly brought down by the AI and occasional bugs, but that doesn’t change the fact that fans of both the previous installments and the genre itself will enjoy this game.

Where to Purchase:

Embark on a post-apocalyptic odyssey with Metro Exodus on Steam.
Experience enhanced visuals and haptic feedback in Metro Exodus for PS4/PS5 on the PlayStation Store.
Survive the Russian wasteland in Metro Exodus for Xbox One/Series X|S on the Microsoft Store.
Journey beyond Moscow’s metro in Metro Exodus, available DRM-free on GOG.
Uncover the secrets of a devastated world in Metro Exodus on the Epic Games Store.
Explore the official website of Metro Exodus for more information and purchase options.

The post Beyond Moscow’s Dark Corners: The Expaned World of Metro Exodus appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Title: Metro: Last Light Redux
Developer: 4A Games
Publisher: Deep Silver
Released: August 26, 2014
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 4
Platforms Available: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Linux, macOS
Article Reading Time: 7 minutes

The game was created under the supervision of Ukrainian game development studio 4A Games. In addition, the author of Metro 2033 and Metro 2034 collaborated on both games. This time, he was entrusted with the work of creating dialogues and stories. His script for Metro: Last Light was too long for the game to reach its full potential, so he reworked it into another book called Metro 2035. Even though only some things Dmitry Glukhovsky had in mind during the months of development was included in the game, the story is more than complex enough, and the same could be said for the rest of the game.

The Story of Glukhovsky’s Metro Game Continues

Last Light takes place a year after the events of the first installment, in which Artyom decided to launch a missile attack aimed at the Dark Ones, supernatural beings found around the subway that were killing everyone in their path for no reason. In Metro 2033, the game even had two possible endings, of which the creators decided to follow the worse of the two. By now, Atyom had become an official member of a group called Sparta, an elite unit of the city of Polis that had simultaneously taken control of the D6 military base from which the missiles were launched. However, the last Dark One has been found on the surface, and Artyom is ordered to kill him. But, of course, the whole thing goes wrong. After being captured by the Nazis and rendered unconscious, Artyom wakes up in a concentration camp putting him in an awkward situation from which he must shoot his way out.

Exploring the Depths and Heights of Post-Apocalyptic Russia

Of course, the dark corridors of Metro 2033 follow us into the sequel, although this time, we get to see the surface more often than ever before. This is where the adrenaline kicks in anyway, as you never know when you’ll run out of filter on your gas mask, which then forces you to hide back underground as quickly as possible, lest you accidentally become a mutated monster, which you’ll meet more than enough of here. 
The developers manage to build up a decent atmosphere by exposing the player to unexpected situations connected with the story, which take you by surprise and, at the same time, present you with a new challenge to overcome each time.

Gameplay Mechanics in Metro: Last Light

Before the game’s release, the developers talked a bit about sneaking around behind enemy backs, which helped hold me up in more than one of the many situations I had to deal with opponents. Admittedly, while I did my best in the rest of the game, they could spot me a little too quickly. The subsequent match of Rambo in a situation where many enemies are running at me from all sides doesn’t have that atmosphere anymore.

 Arsenal and Upgrades

There are enough weapons to choose from in the game for everyone to find the one that will be their salvation from any dangerous situation. After just a few minutes in the game, it’s possible to occupy all three weapon slots available to you, but taking out enemies will give you much more exciting and functional weapons. Hence, it’s pointless to settle for anything ordinary. You can also fit various upgrades to individual pieces, including thermal vision, silencers, faster reloads, larger magazines, or any of several other gadgets that will come in handy along the way anyway. Formidable enemies can, at most, be annoyed with one well-aimed shot to the head, and over time, it won’t be relatively as easy with any of your opponents. The talk of the constant fear of running out of bullets that we had with the previous installment is gone now, and there are enough of them even on harder difficulties.

AI Shortcomings and Atmospheric Inconsistencies

You can’t use this method against mutated enemies coming straight at you, but if you’re in an enclosed area with many enemies, just find a good spot, take one good shot, and you’re done. The blunt AI ensures that if you just sit in a narrow corridor and wait, almost everyone in the room will gradually appear in front of you. And once you’ve killed them off, which isn’t the only problem, you collect the fallen bullets from the 20 or so enemies stacked neatly on each other. By this point, you’re already deprived of atmosphere altogether and have to wait for the game to build some up again. Unfortunately, this is an easy way to fight that you’ll occasionally take advantage of unknowingly, which could be better.

Attention to Detail: Level Design and Immersion 

There are also some issues in the game, such as bugs and other minor bugs that made their way into the game during development. While they don’t cause any significant glitches that would render the game unplayable in a split second, it wouldn’t hurt if the developers dared to fix at least a few of them, as it would add greatly to the game’s overall feel. Despite this, the developers manage to work perfectly with level design. Every space you visit is unique and will impress you somehow. Here’s an enemy trapped under rubble begging for mercy; there are survivors imprisoned by enemy factions desperately begging for your help, but there’s nothing you can do about it. It’s little details like this that build the game’s magic.

Audio-Visual Excellence: Graphics and Soundtrack

Metro 2033 set a high bar for graphics, and its sequel continues the trend with stunning visuals. The soundtrack enhances the game’s atmosphere, providing an immersive experience. It effectively signals the presence of enemies, adding to the tension and immersion. However, some technical issues detract from the overall experience, although they are manageable.

Metro Sequel Folding Up

Metro: Last Light is not a run-of-the-mill shooter that can just be overlooked. Out of respect for the first installment, I was already looking forward to seeing what the developers would showcase. However, it was clear to me that there was still plenty of room for perfection. In any case, the sophistication of the game world, the great story, and the vibrant atmosphere convinced me that the game is worth playing, whether you liked the first installment or not. The truth is, however, that a lot more could have been worked on in terms of gameplay, as the moments when it comes to eliminating enemies are the ones where you sometimes feel almost indifferent to this aspect. Nevertheless, the game deserves a positive rating and is a solid sequel overall.

Metro: Last Light Redux – purchasing the game from these trusted retailers

Steam: Immerse yourself in the haunting atmosphere of the Moscow Metro on PC or Mac .
PlayStation Store: Survive the horrors that await you on PlayStation 4.
Microsoft Store: Fight for survival in the dark tunnels on Xbox One or Xbox X/S.
Nintendo eShop: Take the post-apocalyptic experience on the go with Nintendo Switch.
GOG: Get a DRM-free version of the game for PC.
Epic Games Store: Add Metro: Last Light Redux to your Epic library.
Visit the official Metro website for more information and purchase options.

The post Metro: Last Light Redux – Post-Apocalyptic Moscow Shooter Sequel with Great Story appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Title: Metro 2033 Redux
Developer: 4A Games
Publisher: Deep Silver
Released: August 26, 2014
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 4
Platforms Available: PC Game, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Linux, macOS
Article Reading Time: 7 minutes

Step into Metro 2033: A Post-Apocalyptic Survival Game 

The story is based on the book of the same name by Dmitry Glukhovsky. It takes place in Metro 2033 in the year 2033 (surprisingly!) in Russia after a nuclear war(surprisingly!). The Earth’s surface as we know it no longer exists. Harsh and inhospitable conditions prevail everywhere, and humanity has had to take refuge underground, in this case, in the vast complexes of the Moscow Metro. Some stations have been turned into small settlements teeming with the lives of dozens of people waiting to return to the surface once more. Unfortunately, even in the Metro, people are not safe. Most stations face constant mutant raids and, last but not least, a brand newly – horribly dark. 

The main character is a young man named Artyom, who also serves as the narrator in the game. His station has become the target of frequent attacks, resulting in a dwindling fighting force and never-ending waves of mutants. Artyom is tasked with traveling to the remote Polis station to seek assistance. It becomes evident that things will be more complex than they seem. “Metro 2033” was developed by the relatively new studio, 4A Games. Upon closer examination, it is revealed that its founders originally came from Ukrainian GSC Game World., the creators of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series, and this influence is apparent in the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Tutorial: Navigating the Dark Tunnels

The game opens with a brief tutorial, introducing players to fundamental gameplay mechanics such as using a gas mask and navigating through tight spaces. The story then shifts to the past as the protagonist, Artyom, begins recounting his experiences. With over 20 chapters, the game offers approximately ten hours of gameplay on normal difficulty. The initial gameplay experience is captivating, with the first half hour standing out as one of the most intense and engaging introductions in the video game industry at the time.

Immersive World-Building: Exploring the Populated Subway Stations

The populated subway stations are bursting with life. People are talking amongst themselves, small children are chasing each other amongst the adults, food or homemade weapons are being sold, pigs are being bred nearby, etc. Unlike in Stalker, however, you can’t dialogue with people, take side quests, or trade (with a few exceptions). 

You won’t find that in Metro. So everything just acts as a visual gateway that makes the world perfectly believable, and you get along with it beautifully. As I’ve already described, Stalker is similar in world and gameplay, but you have to forget about the vast world whole of side quests. There’s simply no room for anything like that in the dark tunnels of the Metro. 

The game is more similar to the Call of Duty series, where you go through a closed corridor from point A to point B without the possibility of getting lost, and with the help of many scripts, that make the game a truly luxurious experience. You’ll rarely be alone on your journeys through the subway tunnels, and the teammates, aided by dozens of scripts, draw you into the game perfectly.

Combat Encounters: Facing Human Enemies and Mutant Threats

As for combat, I have to differentiate between human and mutant combat. The humans, i.e., bandits, fascists, communists, and others that can be encountered in the tunnels, are good to fight against. Artificial intelligence may not work 100% at times, but it has its bright moments when the enemies cover and cooperate. Stealth techniques can be employed in places, where you’ll be turning off lamps, avoiding traps and pitfalls that would attract a curious patrol (broken glass, hanging cans), and trying to dispatch one by one in silence. Sometimes, it is possible to get through the parts this way, and sometimes not, but you can’t say that stealth is just for show.

Facing mutants presents an even more significant challenge due to their tendency to attack in large groups, their ability to endure multiple shotgun blasts to the head, and their knack for depleting your ammo reserves. Dealing with mutants can be incredibly frustrating and intense, creating a nightmarish experience within the game. Moreover, mutants often swiftly close the distance and engage in chaotic close-quarters combat, making it extremely difficult to aim precisely.

Weapon Variety and Ammunition: Usual Scavenging for Survival

There are just enough weapons in the game. In addition to a knife, pistol, and dynamite, you can also carry a shotgun and a submachine gun. They are nicely processed, but I missed some information about the effectiveness or accuracy of each weapon. Several times during the game, you will be at a shopkeeper who will offer you several new pieces, or you will have the opportunity to exchange your current one for one you just found. Still, you would look in vain for any comparison with the current one.

The game uses old pre-war ammunition as payment, which is far more effective than homemade ammo. You can rearm with it anytime, but I recommend doing so only in the most urgent cases, as you can practically shoot out all your “funds” that way.

Audiovisual Excellence: Crafting a Believable Post-Apocalyptic World

What the game really excels at is the audiovisual design. Rarely will you have a more immense expanse in front of you. Hence, the developers could play with even the finest details and design a believable post-apocalyptic world. The old and dark tunnels of a long-abandoned subway have never looked better. Several times during the game, you even get to the frozen surface of war-torn Moscow.

Minor Drawbacks and Final Thoughts on Metro 2033

As for the gameplay, I’d say that such a pure RPG might not be wrong, but at least a few elements, like in the Stalker mentioned above, would be enough. For example, an inventory or the ability to get better armor or parts to upgrade weapons. All that can be collected are weapons and ammo, and even more so, by collecting them directly from the bodies of fallen enemies. If the corpse of a bandit is lying on its stomach, for example, you can’t see if it has a machine gun clip attached to it at all. Hence, you need to be more alert and thorough in your search for valuable ammunition.

So, in the end, we get, as I said, a linear corridor shooter like Modern Warfare. The subway map is huge, but you only look at a fraction of the stations. However, a slightly more open world with a few optional stations made the game more lively.

Metro 2033 is an excellent survival action game. It stands out for its ultimate atmosphere of a post-apocalyptic world (which, by the way, was conceived initially) . These are smaller colonies of people in stations fight against aggressive mutants but also against each other. Game offers a tremendous audiovisual treatment, which presents a natural spectacle together with a bunch of scripts. It is spoiled by occasionally frustrating fights with mutants and a few minor bugs. it’s a super-decent game that, despite its similarities to the Stalker series, has its own identity that no action game fan should really miss.

Metro 2033 Purchase Options

Experience the haunting depths of post-apocalyptic Moscow in Metro 2033 Redux on Steam as PC Game, Mac Os Game or on Steam handheld.
Get Scared in fantastic postapo Metro 2033 Redux on PlayStation Store
Survive the mutant-infested tunnels by purchasing Metro 2033 on GOG.
Immerse yourself in the atmospheric world of Metro 2033 on the Xbox Store in a bundle.
Explore the dark and gripping story of Metro 2033 on the Epic Games Store.
Shake your hands with your Nintendo Switch playing Metro 2033 Redux

The post Metro 2033: Redux – Survive the Mutant-Infested Russian Underground appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Did you ever play a cat in the game? Well, yes, many have already—it’s a fantastic Stray game.

Although quite short, it’s a game that will definitely stay with us for a while. I did not even know Stray is already available on the Mac App Store! There is a catch for good-old-Pentium Mac users as this game is only for M1s and, further, sorry, Intelers

So go and catch with your claws and hunt human darks in this impressive “Cat” game. Not on Mac? No worries you can get it for PlayStation. Xbox . and PC on Steam

Nice Stray Game Review on Reddit/MacGaming from Beartalk Video. It’s his first English video, and great! Few SPOILERS ahead: VIDEO

Another Video: Stray Game Trailer on Youtube:

The post Stray “M1+” : Humanity Cat on Mac, but… appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Revisiting the Wasteland

In 2019, “Rage 2” emerged as an ambitious sequel for first-person shooters. A collaborative effort between Avalanche Studios and id Software, it sought to blend the iconic gunplay of “Doom” with an expansive, Mad Max-inspired open world. This sequel promised an eclectic mix of high-octane action and exploration set against a vibrant post-apocalyptic backdrop, a vision that continues to resonate with gamers today.

Bullet Symphony: The Dance of Destruction

The cornerstone of “Rage 2” is its combat – a robust, satisfying affair that evokes the spirit of id Software’s celebrated FPS expertise. The visceral thrill of combat is a standout, reminiscent of the frenetic pace found in “Doom” (2016). Engagements are a sensory feast, with each weapon and ability adding to the player’s destructive arsenal, turning each skirmish into a chaotic yet thrilling experience. However, while the game excels in its combat mechanics, the open-world exploration garners mixed reviews. The vast landscapes – from jungles to swamps to deserts – are visually diverse, yet they sometimes fall short in engagement and depth, leaving parts of the world feeling somewhat barren.

A Wasteland: Visuals and Performance

Technically, “Rage 2” impresses with its stability across platforms, maintaining a smooth performance essential for its fast-paced action. The game’s graphical prowess paints a post-apocalyptic world in vivid colors, contrasting the chaos of destruction with a certain aesthetic appeal. The game’s UI design enhances the combat experience, with visual cues like red skulls appearing above the reticle after a kill, adding to the overall immersion. However, on consoles like the PS4 Pro, players might notice delays when navigating the game’s menu, a minor hiccup in an otherwise fluid experience.

Echoes: The Story

The narrative journey in “Rage 2” is a mixed bag. The game continues the storyline from the original “Rage,” yet many players found the plot and characters lacking in depth. Walker, the player character, offers little relatability or development. The simplistic, black-and-white approach to storytelling contrasts starkly with the game’s vibrant world, leading to generic dialogues and forgettable characters. The exception is Doctor Antonin Kvasir, whose eccentricity sparks the interactions. The end of the campaign leaves a sense that the wasteland’s corruption is far from over, reflecting the game’s focus on gameplay over narrative richness.

Roads Less Travelled: The Bumpy Ride

Unfortunately, driving, a crucial aspect of traversal in “Rage 2’s” expansive world, falls short of expectations. Despite the involvement of Avalanche Studios, known for their work on “Mad Max,” vehicle handling and speed often feel underwhelming. The driving mechanics, while functional, lack the excitement and fluidity that could have elevated the open-world experience. This aspect, though serviceable, left many players opting for fast travel or on-foot exploration over engaging with the vehicular aspects of the game.

Frenzied Encounters: Combat’s Saving Grace

The real triumph of “Rage 2” lies in its fast-paced, action-packed combat. The game’s weapons and Nanotrite abilities ensure that battles are consistently dynamic and satisfying. In particular, the shotgun and the ‘Slam’ ability stand out for their effectiveness and enjoyment. Combat scenarios emphasize continuous movement and close-quarters engagements, deviating from the cover-based mechanics typical of many modern shooters. This approach to combat keeps the adrenaline high and the gameplay engaging, making it the game’s most lauded feature.

Wasteland Wanderings: Concluding the Chaos

“Rage 2” is a not far to reach the potential of blending an intense FPS experience with an open-world setting. While it excels in delivering exhilarating combat, it stumbles in its narrative depth and driving mechanics. It’s a game of contrasts – brilliant in its moments of frenzied battles but lacking in the elements that make an open-world game genuinely immersive. For fans of the genre, “Rage 2” offers a worthwhile journey, albeit one that could have reached greater heights with a more cohesive world and a compelling story.

You can unleash the rage and play the game on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC Steam.

Do you like First Person Shooting Baddies? Try maybe our 3 Wolfenstein reviews: The New Colossus, Youngblood and The New Order.

The post Rage 2: A Good Post-Apocalypse in a Wasteland of Potential appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home of Top Gamers.