Title: Deliver Us The Moon
Type of Game: Adventure, Sci-Fi Thriller
Developer: KeokeN Interactive
Publisher: Wired Productions
Released: October 10, 2019
Platforms Available: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Nintendo Switch
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 5
Level of Maturity: Mature
Reading Time: 7 minutes

Few game titles say as much about their content as Deliver Us The Moon. The developers from the KeokeN Interactive team have thought deeply about the state of our planet and, according to the result, have yet to come to a very positive conclusion. Their title offers a near-future vision in which planet Earth lacks essential resources and is depleted by the insensitive use of these resources. The situation is even so serious that humans are slowly approaching extinction.

Human Error Aftermath

As a result, people are starving or being plagued by unprecedented natural disasters. Mainly, severe sandstorms are typical. 2030 becomes the pivotal year in this dire scenario when a complete collapse occurs, leaving humanity without power and minimal chances of survival. However, man has once again shown himself to be an extremely resilient and adaptable organism capable of facing all kinds of disasters using science and technology. Thus, the WSA organization enters the scene, making it possible to colonize the Moon to extract helium-3.

This offers a solution by sending the energy produced back to Earth. Unfortunately, everything lasts; even for a while, this efficient process is hit by complications. After 22 years, life on the Moon has died down, and supplies have been cut off. Earth is on the verge of extinction. At this point, a former WSA employee enters the scene to investigate what has happened on the Moon and try to restore the power supply.

From Earth to the Void: A Shift in Atmosphere

The initial tutorial and introduction to control principles take place during one of the giant sandstorms on the spaceport. The early minutes make it clear that Deliver Us The Moon is heading in the direction of an adventure game full of exploration, journal reading, and mystery solving. The actual commissioning of the rocket module and subsequent launch is one of the most gripping moments of the entire game. However, the episode on Earth is only a short chapter of the title; the rest of the game takes place in space. Anyone expecting some scared horror experience will be disappointed. Deliver Us The Moon is a pure thriller that tries to build its atmosphere based on a serious theme and, in particular, an empty sense of loneliness.

An Isolated Rescue: The Weight of Solitude

You won’t come across a single survivor throughout the entire game. During the mission, you must make do with radio communication from Earth or replaying footage that sheds light on the facts that occurred on the Moon. The gameplay itself is then one of the problems. You are not on a trip but on a rescue mission. During this, you must operate various devices, find the most suitable routes, repair broken systems, provide oxygen to individual modules, etc. Everything looks quite lovely at first glance. Unfortunately, the developers failed to use several promising mechanisms to the maximum.

Lost Potential in a Vacuum

Thus, many activities are annoying with illogical sequencing or ridiculous results. Moreover, what the player is supposed to do is not always entirely clear. The irritating and outdated time pressure system in the form of lack of oxygen must also add to the big minuses. Thus, nothing is more frustrating than having to solve a logic puzzle in a weightless state in a time limit, which unfortunately isn’t as logical as it should be. The gameplay is not downright disastrous, but let’s say it is somewhat unbalanced. The developers failed to follow through on several promising themes and were left halfway in many ways. On the other hand, Ily appreciates the story’s presentation. It is revealed through on-board diaries or video footage, especially holograms, most of which I don’t even want to believe are optional as they illustrate significant moments and push the player’s experience further. This was also the case, by the way, with Deliver Us Mars, a sequel I’ve already reviewed and recommend watching.

Lunar Landscape: A Cold, Sterile Beauty

The most exciting thing about the whole title, however, is the treatment of the game environment, which, although somewhat sterile and monotonous, especially in the climate of complexes or orbital stations, is most in line with the theme. The most beautiful moments are then shown to the players during the ascent to the lunar surface, which are very emotional and impressive. In short, the Unreal Engine has done a decent job. In addition, the developers have gone the extra mile with the concept of gravitational attraction.

During gameplay, you will experience weightlessness and the different gravity on the Moon. I also appreciate the hilarious and atmospheric soundtrack accompanying the player on this rescue mission. It’s a pity that the soundtrack has been unnecessarily neglected, as much more could have been done here. The game’s downside is the optimization itself, which is relatively good in the case of the reviewed PS5 version. Apart from a few glitches, I didn’t notice anything, so there is nothing to complain about here.

Conclusion

Deliver Us The Moon is a above-average sci-fi adventure game that particularly benefits from an attractive setting and a compelling story that makes players think. The developers brought some interesting ideas, but failed to make the most of them at 100%. The result is still good but not extremely engaging and a bit repetitive gameplay. Even so, the title offers some memorable moments, vistas and delightful feelings that many space fans will appreciate.

Where to Buy Deliver Us The Moon?

Steam (PC): Available for $24.99. You can purchase it directly from Steam.
Xbox Store (Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S): Available for $24.99. Check it out on the Xbox Store
PlayStation Store (PS4, PS5): Available for $24.99. You can find it on the PlayStation Store.
Nintendo Shop (Switch): Available for $19.99. Purchase it from the Nintendo Shop.
GOG (PC): Available for $24.99. Purchase it from GOG.
Epic Games Store (PC): Available for $24.99. Purchase it from the Epic Games Store.

Official Page: Visit the official Deliver Us The Moon page for more information.
Subreddit: Join the discussion on the Deliver Us The Moon Subreddit.

The post Deliver Us The Moon – A Breathtaking Space Mission To Save Humanity appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Title: Deliver Us Mars
Type of Game: Adventure, Puzzle, Sci-Fi
Developer: KeokeN Interactive
Publisher: Frontier Foundry
Released: February 2, 2023
Platforms Available: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 5
Level of Maturity: Teen (T)
Reading Time: 6 minutes

I recently got my hands on the sequel to the exciting Delivery Us the Moon (2018), which takes us to Mars and continues the original story, which was very marginal, and only with this installment did the authors manage to come up with a decent script. If you’re considering this game, I recommend watching some gameplay or playing the original game to make the transition as smooth as possible and keep the story in your head, even if it’s unnecessary.

I have yet to play Deliver Us The Moon as I’m not interested in it yet, but after playing Deliver Us Mars, I will change that as well. But let’s take it one step at a time. Given the real-world developments, the prospect of space exploration and colonization is becoming more and more common. The game under review is about Mars -where we’re not likely to go right away, but that moon might have already been done in this century. But back to the review.

Red Planet Rendezvous: Kathy’s Quest Begins

Mars sent a distress signal, and our adventure began. The story’s protagonist, Kathy Johannson, takes her ship, the Zephyr, to the red planet to solve the mystery. Over time, she discovers that a mysterious company called the Outward has stolen the A.R.K. colony ships crucial for populating the planets. Fans of the previous installment will appreciate the return of mechanical companion A.S.E., who will assist throughout the story.

Logic and Laser: Puzzles and Platforming

If you’ve played Delivery Us to Moon, a lot of people were disappointed with the game time from what I’ve heard; here, you can look forward to roughly double that, about 8-12 hours, but of course, it will depend on how well you can complete the logic puzzles. As I mentioned at the beginning, Kathy sets off to Mars to solve a mystery but secretly hopes she might also find her father, who abandoned them for unknown reasons. Claire, Syrah Ryaen, and her mechanical sidekick A.S.E. (drone) accompany her on this journey.

After landing on the planet, plenty of logic puzzles and challenges keep the story moving forward. The logic tasks, often like puzzles of varying difficulty, sometimes give you a real hard time. On the other hand, the skill challenges will have you finding loopholes and paths with your drone, laser cutting parts of objects and stacking them up to set a path to traverse or, more often than not, jump over. Jumping and climbing is one of the main focuses of this gameplay. Rest assured that your ice axe will be chopping into rocks far more often than into enemies’ skulls.

Gameplay Grit: Mastering the Martian Terrain

This is where you’ll especially appreciate playing on a gamepad on consoles like I did on the PlayStation 5. There are times when the controls will annoy you, not with the difficulty, but with the controls themselves, which is a little annoying, but it’s nothing that I minded too much. What I’d like to add is that the game can be played in three modes: resolution mode with 30fps and higher resolution, Raytraced with 30fps and average resolution but as the name suggests with raytracing on, and lastly, performance mode with steady 60fps with which I also played the game and in my opinion, this is the most enjoyable way to play this game on a console.

Stunning Yet Scarred: The Martian Landscape

If you’re not jumping, you’re moving around a well-crafted red-planet landscape. You won’t just be walking; you’ll also be riding rovers. When the sandstorms start, you’ll be treated to beautiful graphics. During your adventure, you will find many places where your chin will drop very low. However, only some things are handled as this interesting game deserves. This is where the more minor team and budget are felt the most. Bugs and glitches will appear in every game, and one would understand it, but there are some weirdly empty spaces here. The “city” itself is lifeless, and that’s a bit of a bummer.

A Real Taste of Space

On the other hand, you’ll appreciate, for example, the ship controls, where you’ll set the start step by step, which feels incredibly believable. I played this part of the game twice. I felt like I was driving a spaceship.

Conclusion

Here, we have a somewhat linear game with a good story and lots of jumping and climbing. All this is complemented by the attractive Martian setting and the authors’ efforts to capture the atmosphere of the place. Weaker characters might even shed a tear, as the story occurs almost in a family circle, and some decisions get you. Give Deliver Us Mars a play; it’s short and even better priced than the A.A.A. games. My tip, though, is to play the predecessor beforehand. May you enjoy your expedition to Mars.

Where to Buy Deliver Us Mars?

Steam (PC): Available for $29.99. You can purchase it directly from Steam.
Xbox Store (Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One): Available for $29.99. Check it out on the Xbox Store.
PlayStation Store (PS5, PS4): Available for $29.99. You can find it on the PlayStation Store.
Epic Games Store (PC): Available for $29.99. Purchase it from the Epic Games Store.

Official Page: Visit the official Deliver Us Mars page for more information.
Subreddit: Join the discussion on the Deliver Us Mars Subreddit.

The post Deliver Us Mars – Amazing and Atmospheric Space Adventure appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Stellar Blade's planet Earth lies ravaged and abandoned; skyscrapers puncture its murky sky like monuments of fallen civilization; humankind now struggles for survival on distant space stations ejected by monstrous entities known as Naytiba; however there remains one spark of hope as Eve, an individual wielding an iconic Stellar Blade sword, descends upon it determined to recover what's been taken.

Does Stellar Blade Reminds of Other Games?

Stellar Blade's post-apocalyptic setting, where remnants of civilization struggle for survival amidst monstrous threats, may recall The Last of Us' dark and atmospheric world-building. (Just in case you did not played it - and I do not think there are too many real gamers who did not do it already - you must buy The Last of Us.) Both games feature an earth that has become hostile against humanity's efforts at survival - with abandoned skyscrapers contributing to feelings of desolation and despair that is present throughout both games.

Stellar Blade adds its own special twist by including elements of space travel and cosmic entities known as Naytiba into its sci-fi post-apocalyptic narrative, further creating an engaging experience for viewers. Eve's presence wielding Stellar Blade sword sets in motion an extraordinary journey focused on recovering what has been lost against impossible odds. The combat is very different between the games (and we will talk about it soon).

Post-Apocalyptic Survival and Cosmic Exploration

Stellar Blade creats its own identity in the action-adventure genre by mixing elements of post-apocalyptic survival with cosmic exploration, creating a compelling story around Eve's quest for redemption. Is the story engaging? It is engaging enough but quite linear, lacking any depth or mistery, pretty commercial if you ask me. (Check other games with similar combat in our article about exclsuive PS4 and PS5 games.) The Last of Us is a clear masterpiece where Stellar Blade is nothing of this kind, just a slightly above average single-player game that has superlative elements but also minuses in so many ways.

Steps for Making An Informed Deliberation.

So the question stands: is Stellar Blade worth spending space-bucks on? The answer will depend entirely on what appeals to you in a videogame experience.

Stellar Blade for Combat Connoisseurs:

Stellar Blade will offer an engaging combat system, rewarding skill and mastery through parries, evasions and Beta/Burst Gauges to unleash devastating attacks - providing gamers with an immensely enjoyable gameplay experience. Without a doubt, the main reason why someone will buy Stellar Blade is to experience the Sekiro-like challanging combat, the diversity of enemies and tough bosses. Of course, in a totally different setting, however, recognizable in the defense-driven approach of the award-winning Sekiro: Shaddow Die Twice.

Stellar Blade for Exploration Enthusiasts:

Stellar Blade offers an intriguing post-apocalyptic world just begging to be explored, perfect for anyone seeking adventure. Vast landscapes filled with crumbling cities and treacherous terrain offer ample thrills and spillover. For the truly daring spirit, this game may provide more than enough excitement!

Stellar Blade for Story Seekers:

Stellar Blade may leave some gamers wanting more, especially if narrative innovation is your top priority because this is a very linear tale lacking deepness, character development, and more. While its worldbuilding is exceptional, predictable plot points and character depth may cause them to disengage with it quickly, so these players are better served if they are looking elsewhere.

Conclusion

The story develops as Eve attempts to connect with what remains of human civilization while searching for four hypercores guarded by powerful bosses, each unlocking another piece of the puzzle: its secrets behind an apocalyptic event, exodus to space, and Naytiba origins. Combat is the main dish when it comes to Stellar Blade, and even if derivative, it is recognizable and similar to that of Sekiro: Shaddow Die Twice. After all, if you copy someone, choose that someone carefully. Although somewhat predictable in plot development and execution, its narrative doesn't lack charm and Eve is quite an attractive picture - exploring forgotten settlements while discovering stories about past inhabitants add emotional depth - creating a realistic world with crumbling buildings and abandoned street corners feeling lived-in rather than felt during tragedy's heavy weight.

Nuclear terror returns as an issue thanks to events during Ukraine's conflict and attacks against Chernobyl plant installations, prompting gamers to recreate scenarios revolving around them in this console game. Chernobylite is a first-person shooter at its core but it also has developed an important RPG base. Some label it as a hybrid, but I still believe it is a shooter-first video game. Stealth plays a role but shooting is the bread and butter of gameplay. The essence of the video game lies within its "mission completed, find materials, return to base - create something" cycle. If cyclical patterns appear boring to you, that may not be what this game offers you - at least not initially!

Similar to many but unique in its way... Chernobylite

Though an aesthetically appealing game, do not expect Horizon Forbidden West or similar open-world titles that take your breath away. While improvements have been made here there are visible increases in terms of atmosphere and lighting inside interior environments. It was compared with Fallout, Horizon Forbidden West, Wasteland 3, and more. There are commonalities but it is a safe assertion that Chernobylite is pretty different and if you're in the marketplace searching to buy PS4 shooting games, your search stops here. Technical improvements over earlier versions are obvious, with no deficiencies in terms of graphics and speed that make the game title appear more appealing compared to its counterparts on PS4 and Xbox One.

Technical improvements are obvious on PS5 and Xbox Series X

Chernobylite can reach 4K resolution at 30fps using PS5 graphics mode, providing Ray Tracing as well as enhanced textures and shadows; performance mode increases this resolution to 1080 px at 60 fps, boasting excellent graphic quality. Typically, objects and environments in PS5 tend to appear more realistic in terms of lighting effects such as shadowing and shadows than they do on PS4, although we must emphasize that we played it through on its version on PS5 for comparison purposes. One aspect that stuck out was how developers had to make compromises for Chernobylite to run properly on this specific hardware platform - not bad but certainly nothing that looked vibrant or polished.

Chrnobylite is a fantastic buy for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One

As soon as the PS5 version of my console game launched, my eyes were amazed to witness its superior graphics fidelity. Jagged edges that existed on previous generations of hardware no longer existed on PS5, while shadows provided for every leaf or blade of grass within their individual shadow. It's not surprising that if you buy PS5 games you'd prefer this version to the PS4. It is a good thing that developers offer free upgrades from PS4 to PS5 versions, so nothing is lost. There is much to appreciate in this collection; from its brilliantly designed systems that adapt easily, to fantastic vocal acting in English; to simple scavenging procedures like looking around your area for signs of fungal infection until collecting said fungal growth; everything here makes for an engaging adventure!

Conclusion

Overall, Chernobylite is an excellent shooter, and no matter what device you play, the good parts are much more important and will offset the bad parts. Particularly, I believe that is one of the top choices in the first-person shooter category for players who buy PS4 games. With modern hardware, immersion increases to such an extent that I no longer recommend any other means for playing Chernobylite; using modern hardware simply enhances this experience further. Though glitches do still occasionally arise, the major ones no longer pose as much of a hindrance compared to before. One such instance was when switching from inside structures into open-world zones where frame rates drastically dropped when transitioning out of structures into them; that issue no longer arises.

Wear your best attire against radiation exposure as we embark on an adventure that blends survival, management, and RPG elements with first-person action gameplay and supernatural elements - with Chernobylite now 4 years after its initial release, is still worth it? We look forward to sharing more about this underappreciated shooter game in our review... If you want to find out what I was thinking about this shooter when it was released, I suggest you read my previous review: Chernobylite - You Have to Survive in the Exclusion Zone. I did not change my views, but the rant about the developers is irrelevant now. Reviews belong to their time and moment, this is why I revisit the game today.

What is Chernobylite?

Chernobylite can best be described as an action RPG that combines shooter elements with base building/team management. While this combination might seem unlike anything you would typically play on PlayStation 4, I can honestly attest that at minimum it works extremely well together to keep you engaged for hours on end! Chernobylite is made for shooter players looking to buy cheap PS4 games. While its PlayStation 5 performance may occasionally not meet expectations (with occasional frame drops from time to time and loading times that range up to 20 seconds max), its excellent mind management properties more than makeup for its limited consistency when played in Performance Mode and loading time that ranges up to 20 seconds max!

Lots of RPG Elements in this Hybrid Shooter - RPG

Scrap metal is a great source of scrap and various other metals as we leave the base (electronic elements or fuel ...), from Chernobylite we can create various kinds of items and work tables, ranging from simple kitchens in which we can cook some meals and prepare medicines and tables that are specifically designed for crafting or upgrading weapons such as traps, ammunition or even armor. A mission that is soon put to waste due to the appearance of the mysterious Stalker who can kill one of Igor's fellows and hurts another. However, Igor gets some Chernobilite the bizarre substance Igor had been looking for, and permits opening "wormholes" to allow the transport to different areas.

The Narrative Experience Checks All My Boxes

Chernobylite excels as a narrative experience because its branching storylines allow players to make crucial choices that impact not only themselves but also other characters as they search for their missing fiancee. To me, if you buy PS4 shooting games in 2024, Chernobylite is a no-brainer. From choosing companions and resource allocation decisions to dialogue choices that change outcomes - your decisions in Chernobylite's branching story provide endless ways for outcomes to change the game!

Survival Is More than a Physical Strive

Chernobylite puts our readers into the shoes of Igor, an engineer at the Chernobyl power plant who, upon receiving mysterious images from his deceased wife who vanished after its explosion thirty years prior, decides to return back into work at its site. Survival in Chernobyl is not simply about physical survival - it also takes an emotional toll. Nuclear terror reemerged during Ukraine's conflict when attacks against Chornobyl's facilities occurred, leading to more speculations surrounding the nuclear disaster. This title brings this topic front and center.

Conclusion: The Gameplay Is Better Than Expected

In my opinion, that may be a little skewed in favor as I enjoyed this game, Chernobylite is among the best PS4 games you can buy in the first-person shooter space. The gameplay in The Zone itself is captivatingly entertaining: Resource management becomes paramount as you scour for materials to craft equipment to tackle its anomalies and hostile factions; combat is fast-paced but focused around tactical approaches utilizing the environment as you target enemy positions; it is never about mindlessly shooting at foes; each bullet counts. Furthermore, the base building adds another level of strategy, permitting crafting gear, researching upgrades, and forging alliances between survivors, all while the countdown to each mission ticks away inexorably.

Respawn Entertainment and Electronic Arts' latest title builds upon the strengths of its predecessor while addressing its weaknesses and embracing a grander scale. Cal Kestis returns, more seasoned and resolute than before, driven to dismantle the Empire. He now aligns himself with the Saw Guerrera rebel faction—an early incarnation of the resistance depicted in the movies. Where Fallen Order chronicled Cal's journey toward becoming a Jedi, Survivor focuses on upholding the Jedi Order's legacy. Star Wars Jedi: Survivor breaks new ground by delving into more nuanced themes. It's a departure from the simplicity of the first title, with its final storyline encompassing everything showcased, putting the characters and players through an emotionally charged experience. Along this journey, the allure of the visited planets, the companions met along the way, and even the NPCs are undeniable.

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor excellently portrays Cal Kestis' evolution into a Jedi Master. He retains some skills from the previous game while developing new ones as players progress. The level design structure remains consistent: often, obstacles require abilities or items unlocked later, encouraging replayability as players revisit planets to uncover more secrets. Adding a New Game+ mode adds to the game's replay value. The combat gameplay draws comparisons to titles like Star Wars Unleashed and Knights of the Old Republic, featuring acrobatic movements, Force-powered abilities, a diverse range of adversaries, and challenging gameplay. Although there are difficult options, the Hard Mode strikes a good balance. If you want to enhance your gaming experience, consider exploring places where you can buy cheap PS5 games. Despite some likening it to souls-like combat, Survivor leans more towards adventurous gameplay akin to Fallen Order.

Elevating the Gaming Experience

Players will find themselves immersed in hours of diverse and engaging content. They can delve into various challenges within the Tears of the Force arenas, embrace the role of a Bounty Hunter, pursue Legendary Creatures, cultivate their gardens, and partake in the captivating Holographic Matches minigame. Although the exploration is limited to a few planets, Koboh and Jedha are the primary settings, packed with numerous activities alongside the main storyline. Completing tasks and investing around 45 to 55 hours of gameplay is essential for those aiming to attain platinum status.

Inspiration from Uncharted 4 Elevates Star Wars Jedi: Survivor Quality

If you've managed to stick around through the whole analysis, you've probably realized that Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is worth your time. For fans out there, you can be assured that alongside Mandalorian, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor stands as one of the finest recent creations within this universe, inviting players to explore and enjoy the experience, and if interested, consider where to buy cheap PS5 games to expand their gaming collection. The game's level design has also been improved, much better than in the previous Star Wars games, with more intricate and detailed environments to explore, and making use of the new hardware of PlayStation 5.

Conclusion

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is not a money grab by any means and it stands out among its competitors due to its ambitious scope (that you decide if it was reached or not). The game features significantly more content than before, and is better than Fallen Order in any case, with greater levels of detail throughout the game, not to mention an expansive world containing everything from frozen tundras to lush forests awaiting you for exploration. I recommend buying Star Wars Jedi: Survivor because it offers plenty of extra gameplay through hidden areas, puzzles, and collectibles, so it packs quite a lot of replayability with many hours of additional gaming fun for players who finished the game. Although Jedi: Survivor requires quite a lot of storage space (139GB on my device) it boasts impressive loading times and smooth frame rates, clearly a game made for the current generation of consoles, while its graphics are captivating with highly detailed environments (true, there are some glitches) and character models that stand out.

Just recently, Underspace was patched with a Hotfix which includes the following fixes; options resetting on restart, optimization with storm effects to help with GPU load, starchaser ships properly colored, fixed issue with unstable jumpholes, fixed issue with campaign 10, storms properly saving, ships can now be optimized, fixed cargo dupe bug and some UI errors.

Now, if you are wondering what Underspace is? Well, it's a game I recently got for free from Lurkit.com and it's supposed to be a spiritual successor to one of my favorite games, Chris Robert's Freelancer. Yes, before Star Citizen and before Starfield there was Freelancer and it was and still is a very good space game.

I've played Underspace for almost 4 hours and I'm happy to say that Underspace captured the feeling of playing Freelancer. The open space, the trade lanes, the jump gates, the look and feel, the dog fights, the style and a lot of other things. If you are a fan of Freelancer then there is a big chance you'll at least like Underspace.

One feature that I really like that was not in the original Freelancer game was on-foot exploration. Unlike in Freelancer, in Underspace, you are free to walk around in first-person when you're docked on a ship or on a planet somewhere. Although, it's somewhat limited.

Currently, Underspace is in Early Access in Steam and it's not a very expensive game. It will only cost you around $10 US dollars which is a very much better deal than Star Wars Outlaws.

Anyway, that's all I have for you right now regarding Underspace. If you have any comments, questions or reactions then please post them in the comments section below.

IN THIS VIDEO: At the wreckage, to get the salvage, I had to shoot it and blow it up. Grabbed all of the ones I found and went back to the shipyard. I had some trouble docking but eventually learned how it was done.

Hello fellow gamers! I'm here playing and livestreaming Underspace. Underspace (https://lurk.ly/AB_fX6) is an open-world space arcade dogfighting game, where every star system is crafted by hand, and every star system has something to see or do. 

For comments, questions or reactions then please post them in the comments section below. Also, please like the video, share the video, follow the channel and enable notifications.

Thank you for watching!

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• VPN » ProtonVPN » https://go.getproton.me/SHtQ

PC Specs

• CPU » AMD Ryzen 5 3400G
• GPU » NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050
• RAM » 16 GB Generic Memory

FTC Disclosure: This post or video contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through my links.

IN THIS VIDEO: I continued with the mission, fighting with enemies in the Underspace and having problems seeing what's happening on screen. By the way, it's not the game's fault. I just have poor eyesight.

Hello fellow gamers! I'm here playing and livestreaming Underspace. Underspace (https://lurk.ly/AB_fX6) is an open-world space arcade dogfighting game, where every star system is crafted by hand, and every star system has something to see or do. 

For comments, questions or reactions then please post them in the comments section below. Also, please like the video, share the video, follow the channel and enable notifications.

Thank you for watching!

Links

• Rumble » https://rumble.com/register/kabalyero
• Twitter » https://twitter.com/kabalyero
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• Ko-fi » https://ko-fi.com/kabalyero
• VPN » ProtonVPN » https://go.getproton.me/SHtQ

PC Specs

• CPU » AMD Ryzen 5 3400G
• GPU » NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050
• RAM » 16 GB Generic Memory

FTC Disclosure: This post or video contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through my links.

IN THIS VIDEO: It was my first time in Underspace space for a mission and, just like in Freelancer, in-system fast travel is done with Trade Lanes. Combat was very similar to Freelancer too with some mild changes.

Hello fellow gamers! I'm here playing and livestreaming Underspace. Underspace (https://lurk.ly/AB_fX6) is an open-world space arcade dogfighting game, where every star system is crafted by hand, and every star system has something to see or do. 

For comments, questions or reactions then please post them in the comments section below. Also, please like the video, share the video, follow the channel and enable notifications.

Thank you for watching!

Links

• Rumble » https://rumble.com/register/kabalyero
• Twitter » https://twitter.com/kabalyero
• Website » https://www.kabalyero.info
• Ko-fi » https://ko-fi.com/kabalyero
• VPN » ProtonVPN » https://go.getproton.me/SHtQ

PC Specs

• CPU » AMD Ryzen 5 3400G
• GPU » NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050
• RAM » 16 GB Generic Memory

FTC Disclosure: This post or video contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through my links.

IN THIS VIDEO: Found the location of the Red Exclamation Mark and received my first mission in Underspace. Take off cinematics are very much like Freelancer which is the same in Starfield.

Hello fellow gamers! I'm here playing and livestreaming Underspace. Underspace (https://lurk.ly/AB_fX6) is an open-world space arcade dogfighting game, where every star system is crafted by hand, and every star system has something to see or do. 

For comments, questions or reactions then please post them in the comments section below. Also, please like the video, share the video, follow the channel and enable notifications.

Thank you for watching!

Links

• Rumble » https://rumble.com/register/kabalyero
• Twitter » https://twitter.com/kabalyero
• Website » https://www.kabalyero.info
• Ko-fi » https://ko-fi.com/kabalyero
• VPN » ProtonVPN » https://go.getproton.me/SHtQ

PC Specs

• CPU » AMD Ryzen 5 3400G
• GPU » NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050
• RAM » 16 GB Generic Memory

FTC Disclosure: This post or video contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through my links.

IN THIS VIDEO: Unlike in the original Freelancer game, here in Underspace, my character can walk around. The game froze though when I tried changing the game's graphics quality from Very High to High.

Hello fellow gamers! I'm here playing and livestreaming Underspace. Underspace (https://lurk.ly/AB_fX6) is an open-world space arcade dogfighting game, where every star system is crafted by hand, and every star system has something to see or do.

For comments, questions or reactions then please post them in the comments section below. Also, please like the video, share the video, follow the channel and enable notifications.

Thank you for watching!

Links

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PC Specs

• CPU » AMD Ryzen 5 3400G
• GPU » NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050
• RAM » 16 GB Generic Memory

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Beneath The Mask Is A Good Game, Maybe?

GOOD Beautiful, well-crafted environments.

BAD Incessant narration every five seconds.

WTF Leaving the best feature until the end of the campaign.

I love a great lore-rich experience. It’s one of the main reasons why I love videogames like Elden Ring and Assassin’s Creed. But to support the weight of that storytelling, it needs a solid foundation based on interesting gameplay, mechanics and pacing. Astor: Blade of the Monolith is what happens when that foundation isn’t as strong as it should be.

Astor is a cartoony hack-and-slash title that tells a lore-rich, interesting story about the implications of humans creating artificial life, and how that life interacts with the natural world. Unfortunately, the message is often lost behind waves of mundane combat, mind-numbing narration, and boring traversal mechanics.

Things open with the titular character and his friend Zan exploring an ancient temple to find artifacts of the past. Astor and Zan are masked puppet-esque androids who live in a sprawling fantasy world that’s been long-abandoned by humans. Astor then falls through the temple floor, collects a mysterious artifact, gets a magic sword, and finds out that he is “The Chosen” — a special member of their species that was meant to overcome an insurmountable evil.

After a lengthy tutorial, I soon learned Astor is a Diokek — puppet androids created by the humans who are no longer in this world. The Diokek are locked in a constant battle with the Hiltsik, which are similar masked androids, but evil. Both of these factions derive from the Monolith, a tall structure of black stone that towers over the land in Astor and emanates with dark energy. Later, a town elder gives a typical cut-and-paste quest structure where Astor has to go through three trials and come out the other side somehow.

My next few hours of gameplay were spent looking at Astor‘s environments while learning the basic mechanics, and the art direction in Blade of the Monolith is a shining light in a sea of mediocrity. Every environment is crafted with the intent of being a wonder to behold, featuring sweeping vistas and beautiful colors.

Yet while there are countless wonderful environments to explore, there’s not a lot to do once Astor is in them. He’s either fighting the same band of enemies for the fifth time in a row, collecting haphazardly-scattered resources to upgrade his combat abilities, or walking to the next mission. This is compounded by the incredibly annoying narrator, who quite literally spells out every single thing that happens to Astor, not leaving an ounce of space for original thought from the player to interpret their surroundings.

This monotony is extremely evident in the first world, the desert, as I had no other means to get to a distant objective other than to walk. Eventually, Astor unlocks the ability to traverse the environment more easily, but I didn’t get this until two-thirds of the way through — one of many small tweaks that could be made to the pacing of Blade of the Monolith that would make it far more enjoyable.

Additional tweaks are needed in Astor’s combat. The game tries its best to emulate Devil May Cry-esque flurries of light, heavy, and special attacks, stringing them together in elaborate combos, but the execution is lacking. For example, I’d smack a normal enemy with the starting sword, and then it would fly back, yet I’d still be in the combo so Astor would do a weird glitch-jump to continue it. None of the attacks have synergy with any other, and combos feel janky.

Furthermore, this janky combat would often distract me from crucial story moments. I’d spend entire gameplay sections not remembering what happened in the plot because I was too focused on how jarring the combat was, all while the narrator was spewing words at me.

Eventually, the combat does begin to click, but it soon becomes more of a chore than anything else, and a lack of enemy level scaling makes the entire last third of the campaign a cakewalk — but there’s a hidden beauty in that. The story that I wasn’t paying attention to in the first two thirds was now my only focus, and when I wasn’t toiling through boring encounters or walking to my next mission, I began to appreciate the slightly deeper meaning of the story in Astor, which is passable, save for the narration.

There’s a good experience buried beneath all the issues in Astor: Blade of the Monolith, I think. There’s no reason why some reworking of the combat, reordering certain elements to speed up the pacing, and putting some duct tape over the narrator’s mouth wouldn’t do wonders, but in its current state these flaws are simply too glaring.

Rating: 4.5 out of 10

— Jack Dunn

Disclosures: The game was developed by C2 Game Studio and published by Versus Evil and tinyBuild. It is currently available on PC, PS4/5, Switch, and XBX/S. This copy of the game was obtained via publisher and reviewed on PC. Approximately 9 hours was devoted to the game, and it was completed. There are no multiplayer modes.

Parents: This game has an ESRB rating of E for Fantasy Violence and Animated Blood. This is an action-adventure game in which players play as Astor, an android who goes on a quest to save his species from war with an evil faction of androids. Astor will get into sword combat with these evil androids, but these smaller fights have no blood and end in the enemies disappearing off the screen. A few of the boss fights have some animated blood in them, but it’s extremely few and far between. Outside of the combat, there is no violence in the game and it’s very tame in its themes.

Colorblind Modes: There are no colorblind options.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Gamers: The game offers subtitles. Subtitles cannot be resized. There are no audio cues needed for successful gameplay. This game is fully accessible.

Remappable Controls: The game features 4 preset controller settings, but no remappable controls.

Title: Titanfall 2
Developer: Respawn Entertainment
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Released: October 28, 2016
Platforms Available: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC Game
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 4
Article Reading Time: 6 minutes

Introduction

The first installment of Titanfall was a gem that blew many people’s minds. The new studio of the spiritual fathers of Call of Duty created a title that achieved a perfect compromise between a traditional shooter and innovative action, which makes the second installment all the more surprising as it lacks this level of imagination. It’s a safe bet that doesn’t offend but doesn’t impress.

A Safe Sequel

In short, it’s a safe sequel. The most significant new features in Titanfall 2 are the single-player campaign and the release of the PlayStation 4 version. The rest are rather cosmetic changes that could easily have been conveyed by an update to the first installment. Thus, the best benefit of the second installment was the expansion of the player base, which did not happen due to the unfortunate choice of release date. The title hit the shelves between Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare and Battlefield 1. And as they say, pride goes before a fall. As a result, the game sold worse than the first installment released in March 2014, which didn’t even come out in a PlayStation 4 version.

The Single-Player Campaign

Before release, the developers tried to convince the community that the solo game would be more than just a bombastic Call of Duty-style ride. However, the opposite is true, and the result resembles only a slightly more imaginative variation of the previous brand. The action is enlivened by a sophisticated movement system, allowing the developers to alternate between shooting passages and calmer moments that test your acrobatic skills. Titanfall 2, however, tries to set itself apart from the competition. As such, it only sometimes warns players which way the following path leads. While the hint can be activated via the assigned button, you can ignore it if you prefer to discover the progress yourself.

Sci-Fi Setting and Enemy Types

The sci-fi setting suits the game and makes for a more dynamic mix than most modern war action has been able to offer. In fact, the enemy types are more varied. Some have energy shields, others fire projectiles that fly in spirals, and there are exploding robots and melee-only opponents. Due to the imaginative nature of the fights, they are reminiscent of the second episode of Half-Life. A significant part of the story campaign are the titans, i.e. combat robots, which the player can mount and control. You also have one at your disposal, and its majesty is hinted at in scenes where swarms of enemies prefer to run away from it. Yours is called BT, and the story revolves partly around him. So you’re dealing with moments in the middle of the campaign when he disappears, and you have to search for him. Or you repeatedly repair it. It makes the game more varied. Sometimes, you take out opponents like a regular infantryman. Sometimes, they’re rained down by the titan’s volleys of missiles or crushed by his gigantic legs. BT is also a source of humorous moments. His brusque commentary, combined with an uncompromising pilot, leads to some charming dialogue.

Familiar Principles, New Dynamics

The solo part of the play feels like a compilation of tried and tested principles from foreign brands. Few surprises surprise and feel innovative. Most situations, on the other hand, make you feel like you’ve experienced them before. Still, the result works in a way that successfully avoids stereotypes. The game simply has the proper dynamics and momentum. One of the passages, for example, features imaginative games with gravity that obviously reference the film Inception. This is confirmed by the success the game gives you upon completion.

Multiplayer Excellence with Caveats

The multiplayer game is excellent. However, with one major caveat… Titanfall remains primarily a multiplayer experience. In that regard, the second installment delivers an addictive mix of gameplay principles and “one more game” moments. In other words, it’s tremendous fun. Titanfall 2 is thus a fantastic game in its own right, but it offers only minimal innovation over its predecessor. And not all of them are changes for the better. Once again, two teams are battling each other, and the action is made extra special by the presence of the titans. Again, an excellent movement system is present, with which you can run up walls perform double jumps and chain tricks with almost perfect grace. Once again, the primary mode is Hardpoint, where you take three key points and try to reach a pre-set score before the enemy team. New features include a tug-of-war rope, one of the optional extras. It makes moving around the environment even faster and perfectly complements the earlier movement elements.

Weapon Unlocks and Gameplay Tweaks

The weapon unlocking system has also changed. You can access your arsenal by gaining levels and then modify specific pieces after “leveling up” this or that piece. The gradual unlocking of weapons is spot on, thanks to a decent selection, and motivates you to explore the arsenal. However, the need to acquire individual upgrades is annoying and often forces you to play several matches exclusively with just one weapon. The result is usually a miserable score and a losing team. The rodeo, or cowboy jump on the enemy titan, also works differently. In the first game, this was a way of taking him down, but the opponent could leave the titan and shoot you down from the outside. This time, the rodeo is only used to steal a battery that can be used to boost a friendly robot. And as a result, it could be more helpful. The escape to the spaceship, which ends every match for one team, also works differently. In the first game, you had to jump into the transporter precisely, but in Titanfall 2, you only needed to get roughly close. For example, jumping twenty meters underneath to teleport into the craft. The original concept led to more fun action.

Visuals and Technical Observations

Titanfall 2 is a great game, but it only builds on the shoulders of the first installment. And without the slightest ambition to outshine it. The sequel came out a year and a half after the first installment, and it feels a bit rushed, whether due to the lack of significant innovations or the game’s optimization. Furthermore, closely examining the environment reveals some areas that feel stripped down. The sides of the buildings are often made of flat surfaces on which 3D details are merely simulated by graphical trickery. Moreover, many of the materials are reminiscent of the level of games from a few years ago. Titanfall 2’s visuals are inconsistent because of this. At times, it can conjure up impressive scenery. At other times, it looks miserable. In addition, textures are repeated in some rooms in a more reminiscent style of 1999. So, there is no significant graphical shift between the two works. On the other hand, the almost breathtaking character animation deserves to be highlighted. They often give a truly realistic impression.

Conclusion

As a result, Titanfall 2 is a title that can be recommended to two groups of players. The first are the die-hard fans of the first installment, whose player base has thinned out considerably. The other is people who missed the first game for whatever reason. For example, because it didn’t come out for PlayStation 4.

My impressions of the game are a little embarrassing, but I am glad I played it. If I disregarded the existence of the first installment, I was treated to an exceptionally entertaining action game. But after my experience with the previous title, Titanfall 2, apart from the story campaign, feels more like a first game but on asteroids.

Purchase Titanfall 2

1. Steam (PC Game): Available for $29.99. You can purchase the game directly from Steam Store
2. PlayStation Store (PS4): The game is priced at $19.99 (currently on sale for $4.99. Check it out on the PlayStation Store
3. Xbox Store (Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S): Available for $19.99 . Purchase it from the Xbox Store

The post Titanfall 2: An Entertaining Sequel to PS3 Legend with Familiar Thrills appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Title: Helldivers 2
Developer: Arrowhead Game Studios
Publisher: PlayStation Studios
Released: February 8, 2024
Platforms Available: PlayStation 5, PC
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 5
Article Reading Time: 20 minutes

Welcome to the War for Super Earth

Helldivers 2, released in February 2024, has burst onto the gaming scene with explosive force, redefining what cooperative shooters can be. Developed by Arrowhead Game Studios and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, this title quickly became a smash hit on both PlayStation 5 and PC platforms. The initial surge of players was so overwhelming that the servers had to hustle to keep up, a testament to the game’s incredible popularity.

One of the most striking features of Helldivers 2 is its relentless pace and the epic scale of its battles. Players are constantly on the move, juggling numerous actions within seconds. Precision and quick reflexes are key, but the thrill of successfully navigating these intense firefights is well worth the effort. The transition from the original game’s isometric view to a third-person perspective has transformed Helldivers 2 into a visually stunning, blockbuster-worthy experience. This new perspective, combined with top-notch graphics and immersive sound design, has significantly broadened its appeal, drawing in a wider audience.

The community’s reaction has been electric. Helldivers 2 has not only maintained its dedicated fanbase but has also drawn in a flood of new players, particularly through Steam. The game’s humor and satirical take on spreading “managed democracy” add a unique twist that resonates with fans. Technically, the game impresses with detailed environments, even if the frequent fog hints at a deeper story about humanity’s impact on alien worlds.

Humor is a big part of Helldivers 2’s charm. The game is peppered with witty quotes and humorous hints that keep the tone light-hearted amidst the chaos. One memorable loading screen hint advises players: “Don’t die.” This kind of tongue-in-cheek humor, reminiscent of Starship Troopers or Outer Worlds, adds a delightful layer of charm to the game, making it as fun as it is challenging.

Helldivers 2 is a whirlwind of action, stunning visuals, and sharp wit that keeps players hooked and entertained. The chaotic battles, the immersive world, and the satirical humor combine to create a game that’s as engaging as it is challenging.

From Top-Down Tactics to In-Your-Face Action

Helldivers 2 takes a bold step forward by transitioning from the original game’s isometric view to a dynamic third-person perspective. This change significantly enhances the gameplay experience, making every encounter feel more immediate and intense.

Enhanced Immersion

The third-person perspective in Helldivers 2 draws players directly into the heat of battle. The detailed environments and character models create a more immersive experience, making the alien landscapes feel alive and threatening. This shift makes every firefight more personal and engaging. The new perspective allows players to better appreciate the stunning graphics and meticulous design of the game’s world.

Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay mechanics in Helldivers 2 have evolved to match the new perspective. Movement is now more fluid and responsive, with abilities like diving into a prone position and executing quick evasive maneuvers adding depth to the tactical gameplay. These additions make positioning and mobility crucial for survival, requiring players to constantly adapt to the chaos around them.

Aiming and shooting have been refined to be more intuitive and satisfying. The use of the DualSense controller on the PS5 enhances the experience with tactile feedback, making each shot and movement feel impactful. The combination of visual and mechanical improvements ensures that every firefight is intense and rewarding.

Unique Tactics for Different Enemies

In Helldivers 2, players face off against two primary enemy factions: Terminids and Automatons. Each faction requires a different approach and set of strategies. The Terminids, resembling swarming insects, can easily overwhelm players with their sheer numbers. They have specific weak spots that players need to target, often requiring heavy firepower and defensive stratagems to manage the hordes effectively.

Automatons, on the other hand, are intelligent robotic enemies that use advanced tactics. They can spot players from a distance and call for reinforcements, making them more challenging to deal with. Players must use cover effectively and employ precision weapons and armor-piercing attacks to take down these robotic foes. The need to adapt to these two very different enemy types keeps the gameplay fresh and challenging.

Environmental Interaction

The diverse landscapes in Helldivers 2 play a significant role in shaping the player’s strategy. Higher vantage points can be used for sniping, while rugged terrain might offer cover from enemy fire. Utilizing stratagems like jump packs allows players to navigate these environments more effectively, adding another layer of strategy to the game. Predicting enemy movements based on the terrain and planning accordingly can be crucial for mission success.

Team Dynamics and Humor

Interactions with other players add a layer of unpredictability and humor to the game. Friendly fire is a common occurrence, leading to tense yet often hilarious moments. The need to constantly be aware of teammates’ positions and actions adds to the chaos and fun of the game. However, this can also lead to frustrations, such as being kicked from a game just before completing a hard mission. Despite these occasional annoyances, the cooperative nature of Helldivers 2 fosters a strong sense of camaraderie.

One humorous moment might involve accidentally throwing a grenade at a teammate, only to have to rush to revive them while still under enemy fire. These moments, while sometimes frustrating, contribute to the game’s unique charm and keep players engaged.

Helldivers 2’s third-person perspective, refined mechanics, and immersive environments create a game that is both challenging and incredibly engaging. The new abilities and stratagems required to succeed add depth and excitement to the gameplay, ensuring that players are constantly on the edge of their seats.

Democracy and Destruction – Gameplay Mechanics

Helldivers 2 is a masterclass in balancing chaos and strategy. The core gameplay mechanics are designed to keep players constantly engaged, requiring quick reflexes, sharp strategic thinking, and seamless teamwork.

Core Mechanics

The core mechanics of Helldivers 2 revolve around fluid movement, precise shooting, and strategic use of stratagems. The game is fast-paced, with players needing to manage their positioning and actions meticulously. The third-person perspective makes aiming and shooting more intuitive, while the responsive movement controls allow for quick dodges and tactical repositioning. The use of the DualSense controller on the PS5 adds a layer of tactile feedback, making every action feel more immersive and satisfying.

Mission Objectives

Missions in Helldivers 2 are varied and challenging, ensuring that players remain engaged throughout. Primary objectives can include exterminating hordes of Terminids, destroying enemy structures, or rescuing captured allies. Each mission requires different strategies and approaches, keeping the gameplay fresh and dynamic. The game’s persistent universe means that the outcomes of these missions can have a lasting impact on the overall war effort, adding a sense of importance to each task.

Stratagems and Weapons

Stratagems are a key component of Helldivers 2’s gameplay, providing players with powerful tools to turn the tide of battle. These can include defensive turrets, airstrikes, and supply drops, which are called in using specific input combinations. The strategic use of stratagems is crucial, especially when facing overwhelming odds. Different missions and enemy types may require different stratagems, adding a layer of depth to the strategic planning.

The game features a wide variety of weapons, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players can customize their loadouts to suit their playstyle and the specific challenges of a mission. Whether it’s a high-powered sniper rifle for picking off distant targets or a heavy machine gun for mowing down swarms of enemies, the right weapon can make all the difference.

Adapting to Enemy Types

In Helldivers 2, players face two primary enemy factions: Terminids and Automatons. Each requires a different tactical approach. Terminids are insect-like creatures that swarm in large numbers, making crowd control and area-of-effect weapons essential. Identifying and exploiting their weak spots, such as their underbellies and legs, is key to taking them down efficiently.

Automatons, in contrast, are intelligent robots that utilize advanced tactics. They can spot players from a distance and call in reinforcements, requiring players to stay on their toes. These enemies are more susceptible to energy weapons and armor-piercing attacks. Effective use of cover and strategic positioning are crucial when dealing with Automatons, as their ranged attacks can quickly overwhelm an unprepared team.

Environmental Interaction

The diverse environments in Helldivers 2 play a significant role in shaping player strategies. Terrain features such as elevated positions, cover points, and chokepoints can be used to the players’ advantage. Using a jump pack to gain a high vantage point for sniping or finding natural cover to protect against enemy fire are just a few ways the environment can be leveraged strategically. Understanding and utilizing the terrain is often the difference between success and failure in missions.

Solo Play vs. Cooperative Play

While Helldivers 2 shines in its cooperative multiplayer mode, it also allows for solo play. Even the most challenging missions can be tackled alone, providing a different kind of thrill and requiring careful planning and execution. However, the game truly comes to life when played with others. The co-op element adds a layer of camaraderie and teamwork that enhances the overall experience. Joining a squad and embarking on missions together is highly recommended, as it amplifies the fun and strategic depth of the game.

Humor and Cooperative Dynamics

Humor is an integral part of the Helldivers 2 experience. The game is filled with witty quotes and humorous moments, from the “Don’t die” loading screen hint to the chaos of friendly fire incidents. These elements add a light-hearted touch to the intense gameplay, making the experience more enjoyable.

The cooperative nature of Helldivers 2 means that teamwork is essential. Players must coordinate their actions, communicate effectively, and support each other to succeed.

Persistent Universe – The Galactic War Effort

Helldivers 2 takes cooperative gameplay to another level by immersing players in a persistent universe where their actions have lasting consequences. This galactic war effort adds a layer of depth and continuity to the game, making every mission feel significant in the grand scheme of things.

The Persistent Universe

In Helldivers 2, players are part of a larger war effort to spread “managed democracy” across the galaxy. The game’s persistent universe means that each completed mission contributes to the overall control of various planets. The outcomes of these missions affect the balance of power in the galaxy, with regions potentially falling under enemy control or being secured by the Helldivers.

Galactic Campaign

The galactic campaign is a dynamic and evolving conflict. Players can see the progress of the war effort on a galaxy map, which shows the territories controlled by Super Earth, the Terminids, and the Automatons. This map updates in real-time, reflecting the successes and failures of players worldwide. The sense of being part of a global community working towards a common goal adds a unique layer of engagement to the game.

Impact of Player Actions

Every mission, whether it involves defending a planet, launching an assault, or completing specific objectives, contributes to the larger war effort. Players’ actions can lead to significant shifts in control, impacting the availability of resources and strategic advantages. This interconnectedness ensures that individual efforts feel meaningful, as they directly influence the overall success of the Helldivers.

Collaborative Strategy

The persistent universe encourages collaborative strategy among players. Teams must coordinate not only within individual missions but also in planning their contributions to the galactic campaign. Choosing which planets to defend or attack can be crucial, as losing key locations might give enemies the upper hand. This strategic layer adds depth to the cooperative experience, requiring players to think beyond immediate objectives.

Events and Major Battles

Helldivers 2 features dynamic events and major battles that can significantly influence the galactic war. These events might include large-scale invasions by enemy forces, special missions with unique objectives, or opportunities to reclaim lost territories. Participating in these events can yield substantial rewards and have a lasting impact on the war effort.

Community and Player Involvement

The community plays a vital role in the persistent universe. Players often share strategies and coordinate efforts through forums and social media, discussing the best ways to approach the galactic campaign. This communal involvement enhances the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose, making the game’s universe feel alive and interactive.

Evolving Storyline

The persistent universe also supports an evolving storyline. As players achieve milestones and complete critical missions, new elements are introduced, advancing the overall plot. These developments are influenced by player actions, ensuring that the plot feels dynamic and responsive to the community’s efforts.

Personal Investment and Rewards

The persistent universe fosters a strong sense of personal investment. Knowing that their actions contribute to a larger cause motivates players to engage deeply with the game. The rewards for participating in the galactic campaign, such as exclusive gear and upgrades, provide tangible incentives to stay involved and strive for success.

Moral Dilemmas in the War Effort

The game introduces moral dilemmas that affect strategic decisions within the persistent universe. Players might face choices that have ethical implications, such as deciding whether to deploy anti-tank mines or save civilians in distress. These dilemmas add a layer of complexity and encourage players to consider the broader impact of their actions.

Helldivers 2’s persistent universe and galactic war effort create a rich, interconnected experience that goes beyond traditional cooperative gameplay. The dynamic campaign, collaborative strategy, and evolving plot ensure that every mission feels significant, fostering a strong sense of community and purpose among players. This innovative approach to game design sets Helldivers 2 apart, making it a compelling and immersive title in the cooperative shooter genre.

Visuals and Technical Triumphs

Helldivers 2 stands out with its impressive visuals and technical capabilities, showcasing what a cooperative shooter can deliver in terms of graphics and performance.

Graphical Fidelity and Visual Design

Helldivers 2 immediately impresses with its detailed and dynamic visuals. The transition to a third-person perspective enhances the immersive experience, bringing the richly textured alien landscapes to life. From the grotesque forms of the Terminids to the sleek designs of the Automatons, the game’s visual design is top-notch. The foggy environments add an extra layer of atmosphere, hinting at the broader story about humanity’s impact on alien worlds.

Lighting and particle effects are particularly effective, with explosions lighting up the battlefield and dynamic shadows creating a more realistic environment. The attention to detail in both character and enemy models makes each encounter visually engaging and intense.

Performance and Technical Stability

Despite its high graphical fidelity, Helldivers 2 maintains solid performance across both PlayStation and PC. Even during intense battles, the game runs smoothly, ensuring that players can rely on precise control and quick reflexes.

Initial launch issues included server stability and matchmaking problems, largely due to the unexpected influx of players. Arrowhead Game Studios responded quickly, rolling out updates that significantly improved stability and performance. These technical improvements have helped maintain a consistent and enjoyable gaming experience.

Sound Design and Immersion

Sound design is a critical component of Helldivers 2’s immersive experience. Sharp and clear audio cues provide essential feedback during battles. The distinct sounds of different weapons, the roar of explosions, and the eerie cries of the Terminids all contribute to the game’s atmospheric tension.

The DualSense controller on the PS5 adds another dimension to this immersion. Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers make each shot and movement feel tangible, enhancing the connection to the game. The tactile sensation of firing a weapon or feeling an explosion through the controller adds depth to the overall experience.

Environmental Detail and Interaction

Environments in Helldivers 2 are not only visually impressive but also strategically significant. Each landscape is designed to offer both challenges and opportunities. Elevated positions can be used for sniping, dense foliage for cover, and destructible environments force players to constantly adapt their strategies.

Players can use environmental features to their advantage, setting traps or funneling enemies into kill zones. The diversity of environments, from barren wastelands to lush alien jungles, keeps the gameplay experience varied and engaging.

Community Response and Feedback

The response from the community regarding Helldivers 2’s visuals and technical aspects has been generally positive. Players appreciate the detailed graphics and smooth performance, which enhance the overall gaming experience. The humorous and satirical tone of the game is also reflected in its visual style, adding to its charm.

However, some criticisms have been noted. The foggy landscapes can obscure important details, making navigation difficult at times. Additionally, while the game’s performance is generally stable, occasional bugs and glitches have been reported, particularly in the early days following the release.

Despite these minor issues, Helldivers 2’s combination of detailed visuals, immersive sound design, and solid performance creates a compelling and engaging experience. The game’s technical achievements contribute significantly to its appeal, ensuring that players remain captivated by its dynamic and immersive world.

Satirical Storytelling – The Heartbeat of Helldivers 2

Helldivers 2 isn’t just about intense firefights and strategic gameplay; it’s also rich with satirical storytelling and dark humor that add depth and character to the game. The plot revolves around the tongue-in-cheek concept of spreading “managed democracy” across the galaxy, providing a satirical take on militaristic patriotism.

Satirical Tone

The game is built around the idea of the Helldivers, elite soldiers tasked with enforcing the will of Super Earth. The game’s satire pokes fun at the often over-the-top nature of military propaganda and the idea of spreading democracy by force. This is evident from the game’s introductory tutorial, which features exaggerated patriotic language and dramatic flair, reminiscent of classic satirical works like Starship Troopers.

The story is delivered through various in-game elements, including mission briefings, propaganda broadcasts, and loading screen hints. These elements combine to create a cohesive and amusing backdrop for the gameplay, keeping the tone light-hearted even as players face the game’s numerous challenges.

Humorous Moments and Quotes

Helldivers 2 is filled with witty quotes and humorous moments that keep players entertained. Loading screen hints like “Don’t die” are a perfect example of the game’s playful tone. The dialogue and interactions between characters are often laced with humor, adding to the overall charm of the game.

One memorable moment comes from the mission briefings, where the commanding officers often deliver lines with exaggerated seriousness, creating a humorous contrast with the chaotic nature of the missions themselves. These moments help to keep the game’s tone consistent and engaging, providing a welcome respite from the intensity of the battles.

Player-Driven Elements

The persistent universe of Helldivers 2 allows players to influence the broader story through their actions. Each mission completed, and each enemy defeated contributes to the overall war effort, impacting the control of various planets within the galaxy. This player-driven element adds a layer of depth, making players feel like their actions have real consequences in the game’s universe.

Connecting to the Original Game

Helldivers 2 maintains a strong connection to the original game through its humor and plotlines. The game’s world picks up where the first left off, with humanity continuing its struggle to spread “managed democracy” across the stars. Returning players will appreciate the continuity and the familiar satirical tone, while new players will quickly be drawn into the game’s unique world.

Community and Engagement

The game’s community also plays a role in its storytelling. Players often share their own humorous and dramatic experiences from missions, creating a shared narrative that extends beyond the game itself. This communal aspect enhances the overall experience, making the game’s world feel more alive and interconnected.

Critical Reception

The humor and player-driven elements of Helldivers 2 have been well-received by critics and players alike. The satirical take on military themes and the clever use of humor set the game apart from other shooters, providing a unique and memorable experience. Reviews often highlight the game’s storytelling as one of its standout features, praising its ability to balance humor and action effectively.

Helldivers 2’s storytelling is a blend of satire, humor, and player-driven elements that create a rich and engaging experience. The game’s unique approach to storytelling, combined with its intense gameplay and cooperative dynamics, makes it a standout title in the genre.

A Chaotic and Comedic Masterpiece

Helldivers 2 combines intense action, strategic depth, and a satirical edge to create a challenging and entertaining experience. The game’s blend of humor and chaos sets it apart, making it a standout title in the cooperative shooter genre.

Intense Action

Helldivers 2 delivers non-stop action, requiring players to stay alert and responsive. The fast-paced gameplay demands quick reflexes and sharp strategic thinking. Whether you’re dodging enemy fire, coordinating airstrikes, or deploying defensive stratagems, the intensity never lets up. This relentless pace keeps players engaged and ensures that every mission feels like a high-stakes operation.

Strategic Depth

Beneath the chaotic surface lies a deep layer of strategy. The diverse range of enemies, each with their unique strengths and weaknesses, requires players to adapt their tactics constantly. The variety of stratagems, from defensive turrets to powerful airstrikes, adds a strategic element to the gameplay, requiring careful planning and execution. The persistent universe and the galactic war effort further enhance the strategic depth, making every decision impactful.

Satirical Edge

The satirical edge of Helldivers 2 provides a humorous and critical perspective on militaristic themes. The exaggerated patriotic rhetoric and humorous in-game quotes create a unique atmosphere that balances the intense action with light-hearted humor. This approach keeps the game engaging and entertaining, even during the most challenging missions.

Community Engagement

The cooperative nature of Helldivers 2 fosters a strong sense of community among players. The shared objectives and collaborative strategies create a bond between players, enhancing the overall experience. The game’s persistent universe and evolving storyline encourage players to stay engaged and invested in the ongoing war effort.

Technical Excellence

The technical aspects of Helldivers 2, from its stunning graphics to its immersive sound design, contribute significantly to its appeal. The game’s smooth performance, detailed environments, and responsive controls create an immersive and enjoyable experience. Using the DualSense controller on the PS5 adds another layer of immersion, making every action feel tangible and impactful.

Overall Impact

Helldivers 2 is a chaotic and comedic masterpiece that combines intense action, strategic depth, and a satirical edge to create a unique and engaging experience. The game’s blend of humor, chaos, and community engagement sets it apart in the cooperative shooter genre, making it a must-play title for fans of intense and immersive gameplay. With its dynamic gameplay, persistent universe, and technical excellence, Helldivers 2 stands out as a shining example of what cooperative shooters can achieve.

Where to Buy Helldivers 2

1. Steam (PC): Available for $39.99. You can purchase the game directly from Steam
2. PlayStation Store (PS5): The game is priced at $59.99. Check it out on the PlayStation Store
3. GameStop (PC, PS5): Prices range from $37.99 to $59.99. Various editions are available including the Super Citizen Edition. You can explore more on GameStop

The post Helldivers 2: Managed Democracy’s Chaotic Crusade appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

For those who don't know, the Hugo Awards are the penultimate sci-fi and fantasy awards. Their judges pick the best books, novels, and other related media that stand out from their peers and give them the notice they deserve. Held yearly, the nominations for the best novels of 2023 have been announced, with the winner to be revealed on August 11th. 

Sci-fi and Fantasy are wide genres, covering a lot of ground and types of novels. Curious about this year's nominees? Wondering if any would fit the type of book you're looking for? Here we'll go over this year's nominees, why they deserve the nod, and discuss what kind of readers might get the most enjoyment from each book.

Starter Villain by John Scalzi

John Scalzi is no stranger to the Hugos, having been nominated multiple times and won once. He's an author who runs the gamut as far as writing style goes, having written space operas that explore humanity's desire to grow, as well as fun romps that elicit giggles more than anything else. Starter Villian would seem to trend to the latter rather than the former, but beyond a goofy and hilarious exterior are some solid critiques of late-stage capitalism and the current villains of our age.

Imagine Ron Stoppable inheriting his deceased uncle's supervillain business, complete with an island lair, as well as a suite of enemies still looking to take what's theirs. The premise is as fun as it sounds, but what got this book nominated are the critiques that come later. While the Uncle was an old type of supervillain, those that are coming after him are the newer type: Tech bros backed by hedge funds, CEOs of giant corporations, and the nepo baby powerful born with money, having earned nothing themselves.

For readers who are looking for a bit of a laugh, who love the idea of talking spy cats, or who just like seeing the ultra-wealthy fail, this will be the book for you.

Some Desperate Glory by Emily Tesh

Emily Tesh is a newer name to the Hugos, but her nomination is no less deserved. Some Desperate Glory is a deconstruction of the Space Opera genre, showing the darkness that lurks beneath many of the near-future human societies that we root for. Tesh masterfully dissects the things we don't question that we maybe should, showing a new way forward that subverts the traditional structure of many classic sci-fi epics.

Our main character is one of the last remaining humans, raised from birth the enact vengeance on those that crossed them. Excelling at combat and frustrated with her role as a breeder to keep humanity alive, she sets out against orders to enact the vengeance she had been trained for. While vengeance is a powerful motivator, anger is also perfecting at blinding us to the evils we ourselves commit. Tesh questions the nature of such ruling governments and how they use sexism, racism, eugenics, and more, throwing back the curtain that readers for years have been fine never looking behind.

For those who love subversions of standard tropes, tales of vengeance gone awry, or who want a YA-adjacent novel that asks harder questions than you would expect, Some Desperate Glory is a solid choice.

Witch King by Martha Wells

Martha Wells is a well-known name in the sci-fi genre, with her Murderbot series already having several accolades. She seeks now to prove that no one genre can contain her as we move into her new Witch King novel, a fantasy thriller. Wells continues doing what she does best in this novel, creating incredibly real-to-life characters and throwing us into their world. While the world-building can feel breakneck for some, this gives us more time to understand the cast of characters that are introduced, endearing us to them in ways few authors can achieve.

The novel tells two stories, both following the titular Witch King, Kai. The narrative is told from two perspectives, one past and one present, building a history of a world that Kai sought to overthrow and a future after he was betrayed and imprisoned for years. Wells is a master of passive worldbuilding, so expect bits and pieces to be doled out over the whole course of the novel rather than large explanations. Still, as always, the inner workings of Well's characters truly bring it home. No one writes a protagonist quite like Wells, and she doesn't falter with the Witch King.

For those who love a good antihero, want to be immersed in a deep world without infodumps, or just love character over everything else in a story, read The Witch King.

The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi by S. A. Chakraborty

Chakraborty made a name for herself with her City of Brass series, bringing to life a world of Middle Eastern mythology that hasn't seen as much fiction written about it. In the Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi, we are graced with the same intelligent writing and well-researched world-building that we expect from her, but now used to tell a tale about reaching for glory one last time.

The story follows the eponymous Amina al-Sirafi, once feared pirate of the Indian Ocean, now retired and living with her daughter in solitude. Still, when an opportunity comes for one last score, she can't resist the itch that calls her back. The book has the feel of many heist novels, following Amina as she gets the gang back together for one last score. Still, the book is separated from the rest by vivid descriptions and incredible historical and mythological research that makes the world feel so much more alive, as well as the discussion and interest it gives to Amina's plight, being a mid 40's woman seeking to get back into a world she left behind.

For those who want some good old swashbuckling action, want to read about a world and mythology that isn't focused on often enough, or who want to read a thoughtful discussion of the give and take of returning to a life you left behind, this book will be perfect.

The Saint of Bright Doors by Vajra Chandrasekera

Perhaps the most literary title on this list, The Saint of Bright Doors is a lot of things. It is a look at the mythology of Sri Lankan Buddhists, a takedown of religion-led societies, and a discussion on colonialism, all wrapped in a surrealist shell that defies effort to define it. The book sinks itself into these questions and themes, moving at a slower pace to give readers ample time to understand the author's points or to form questions of their own.

The book follows Fetter, a once-destined assassin who forwent his calling, now wandering the world unsure, instead focusing on bright doors that have begun appearing in his home city. The book can often be hard to follow, shifting between more standard passages and incredibly dreamlike ones, where the focus and narrative shift constantly. Still, for those that stick with it, the payoffs are wonderful, bringing to life a vibrant and alive city and in a way that is breathtaking to read.

For those who love to get lost in prose, often read more literary works on the side, or want to explore a surreal and beautiful world of mythology retold, pick up Chandrasekera's novel.

Translation State by Ann Leckie

Leckie won a Hugo previously for the novel Ancillary Justice. In Translation State, we return to this same universe, though the book can be read as a standalone for the uninitiated. The book is full of Leckie's usual charm, endearing characters fighting for what they believe in, told in a way that feels cozy and inviting. This novel once again focuses on the issues of the future, but rather than focusing on the danger of empires and other Space Opera tropes, Translation State instead chooses to focus on social aspects. 

The book focuses on three separate characters, each with their problems but with one overarching thread tying them together: How do our genetics affect us? Do they determine who we are? Are we bound by these ideas predetermined at birth? The characters each grapple with this question in their own way, exploring from many angles the ideas of self-determination rather than our genetics deciding who we are and the trials we must go through to enact change that allows us to live in the ways we want. 

For those who like books that ask questions of the future, enjoy good character as a primary motivator, or want a great way to understand many of the social quandaries that affect us today, read Translation State. 

The post Who Are the Nominees for This Year’s Hugo Award for Best Sci-Fi/Fantasy Novel? appeared first on Destructoid.

Není nikde psáno, že ty největší špičky ve svém oboru spolu musí soupeřit. Ba naopak, když se dvě dominující jednotky spojí, může vzniknout něco jedinečného. Tato situace nastala na českém komiksovém rybníčku, kde své síly spojili Michal Suchánek a Jonáš Ledecký, kteří si skrze Afterpunk splnili svůj dětský sen.

Oběma umělcům se podařilo na 120 stran vměstnat 10 povídek, které si se svými hrdiny nepočínají zrovna v rukavičkách. Před vydáním se do světa Afterpunku jsem neměl pochyb o tom, že povídky budou zajímavé, originální a nápadité, a spíše mě zajímalo to, jak dopadne přímé srovnání stylů obou umělců. Jejich tvorba mi přišla totiž dost odlišná a obával jsem se, že kvůli tomu budou různé povídky působit příliš kontrastně.

A svým způsobem tomu tak opravdu je, ale překvapivě to na mě nepůsobilo jako pěst na oko a Ledecký se se Suchánkem skvěle doplňují. Nevím, zda to byl záměr, ale díky výtvarným rozdílům se od sebe lépe rozdělují příběhové linky. Na první pohled totiž kniha může působit tak, že na sebe příběhy navazují. Tomu tak ale ve skutečnosti není, což mi autoři potvrdili v krátkém rozhovoru během letošního Comic-Conu v Praze.

Na tomto popkulturním svátku jsem se také autorů zeptal na povídku Vetřelci, která se mi z celé knihy líbila nejvíce. Jonáš Ledecký, tedy autor této povídky hned přikývnul, že je to i jeho nejoblíbenější povídka a svěřil se, že hlavní inspirací pro Vetřelce byla pohádka Máša a tři medvídci. Původně měly být všechny povídky inspirovaný pohádkami, ale z toho nakonec sešlo a takových příkladů je zde jen několik.

Dalším faktorem, který na knize musím ocenit, je zvolená paleta barev. Na videu z listování knihou můžete vidět, že autoři zvolili syrovější a přízemnější barvy, jenž lépe vystihují náboj a atmosféru postapokalyptických povídek. Ty už ze své podstaty většinou nemají happyendy a čím blíže jsem byl konci knihy, tak jsem ztrácel naději, že se nějakého veselého konce vůbec dočkám. Přece jen zde končetiny létají na všechny strany, děti vraždí děti a na celém světě už snad není ani jedna poslední máslová sušenka… Ledecký se Suchánkem mě v závěru překvapili něčím jiným, a to nášupem jednostránkových povídek, které se mi sice po všech směrech zamlouvaly, ale z jejich zasazení na konec knihy jsem byl jemně rozmrzelý.

Nakonec to ale přišlo. Onen Happy End v knize nakonec je. A je mnohem lepší, než jsem si během čtení představoval. Čtenářům se zde naskytne možnost podívat se pod postapo pokličku a zjistit, jak takový komiks vlastně vzniká a jak spolu vůbec dokáží oba autoři ohledně tvorby komunikovat.

Afterpunk je bohatý kulturní zážitek a do sbírky každého čtenáře nepatří jen díky výtvarnému zpracování a zajímavým příběhům, ale i díky odvaze autorů pustit se do temných témat a vybrat z nich to nejnápaditější. Původně jsem si chtěl knihu šetřit, aby mi vydržela alespoň týden. Ale atmosféra, kterou dokázali autoři nastolit, byla příliš pohlcující. Pevně věřím, že stejný účinek bude mít i na ostatní čtenáře.

Vydavatel: CREW

Scénář: Jonáš Ledecký

Kresba: Jonáš Ledecký, Michal Suchánek

Žánr: Sci-fi, horor, thriller

Kniha: 120 stran, pevná vazba s přebalem

Za poskytnutí knihy Afterpunk děkujeme vydavatelství CREW.

Článek RECENZE: Afterpunk – Na pivko s lidožroutem se nejdříve objevil na GAME PRESS.

Title Detroit: Become Human
Developer: Quantic Dream
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Released: May 25, 2018 (PS4), December 12, 2019 (PC via Epic Games Store), June 18, 2020 (Steam)
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 4
Platforms Available: PlayStation 4, PC
Article Reading Time: 8 minutes

From Fahrenheit to Detroit: A Legacy of Choice

Detroit: Become Human is the latest release from French studio Quantic Dream, which has long been at the top of the story adventure genre. From the first-class and dark Fahrenheit to the drenching Heavy Rain to the emotional and gripping Beyond Two Souls, which, despite its quality, unfortunately, didn’t garner as much fame as expected initially. However, Detroit: Become Human manages, thankfully, to change that once again with ease, as you will see in my following text.

Not Your Average Action Game

I will be okay, though, and I’ll be the first to specify what Detroit is not. Look elsewhere if you expect frantic action, brutality, or a colorful open world. Detroit follows in the footsteps of its predecessors. It offers a more interactive film packed to the ceiling with a brilliantly branching narrative, elaborate characters, and the traditional ability for the player to influence the course to a degree not seen in games. You really want to experience this experience. 

Blade Runner Vibes: Dark, Dystopian, Delicious

Detroit takes you to a not-too-distant future where androids and artificial intelligence are the order of the day. Artificially created helpers are an integral part of our lives, helping in the home, serving as sex objects, and relieving humanity of a multitude of manual labor. But that also means lots of unemployed people, “racial” hatred of androids, and other issues that are very relevant even today. The game draws powerful inspiration from the cult of Blade Runner, which will definitely please fans of the movie classics.

Connor, Kara, Markus: Three Androids, One Epic Story

This futuristic world tells the story of three androids – Connor, Marcus, and Kara. Each has their own status and their own lives. Connor is an android sent by the CyberLife corporation to help police officers in a recent murder. Markus is an ordinary assistant to an aging artist. At the same time, Kara is a newly purchased maid the family’s father brings home. 

Although it doesn’t seem like it at first, the fates of all the characters are very closely intertwined and naturally meet several times throughout the story. Still, each views the issue of androids and their potential rebellion against humanity differently. It is with the first murder, which hints at a severe problem with android obedience, that begins a sequence of events that take you across the city of Detroit and eventually the entire United States to try again and again to find the answer to the question – “How far are you willing to go to achieve freedom?”

When Your Choices REALLY Matter

As you will have gathered, Detroit is true to its predecessors and is more of an interactive film than a game. The developers give you enough freedom and interaction at specific points so you do not feel deprived. Still, the reins are firmly held by the story above all else. It moves forward steadily, and I’ve yet to experience such an engaging narrative where I wasn’t so actively involved in the action. Each chapter builds on the next, with one crucial decision after another being thrown at the player. As is the way with Quantic Dream, almost everyone can cost you your life. 

Yes, even here, you’ll encounter many choices and decisions that take the story in unexpected directions. If one of the characters dies, there’s no turning back. However, this is one of the game’s great strengths – there are so many story branches that you can play the game six times and constantly encounter something new. At this point, I’ve played the game for about the third time and still know I have yet to discover everything. And that’s very, very respectable for a game that is very linear in its own way.

The Emotional Rollercoaster You Didn’t See Coming

Moreover, the developers have managed to meticulously think through all the characters so that after a few initial moments, you’ll be invested in the lives of each of them, hoping with every conversation that you don’t mess something up and that your favorites stay alive for at least a bit longer. Even the likes of Connor, who looks pretty robotic and aloof at the start, eventually becomes an incredible assassin who could high-five John Wick and grow on almost everyone. The development of the characters throughout the story is portrayed brilliantly, and more importantly – everything is entirely in your hands.

When Games Look THIS Good, Who Needs Movies?

Thanks to the game’s relatively closed structure and concept, the developers have let their imagination and graphic engine run wild. Detroit is one of the best-looking games in the world today. In fact, you’ll often wonder if you’re not playing a CGI movie because the graphics are the best to be found at the time. Everything is of the highest standard, whether we’re talking about animations, detail-rich environments, lots of little particle effects, or the fluidity of the surroundings. 

Of course, you’ll come across slightly choppy animations here and there, especially when moving characters, but that’s due to the specific genre and is understandable. On the other hand, the facial animation and the acting are top-notch. Watching your favorite characters during dialogues that, through no fault of your own, can go awry at any second is a treat. 

Detroit is, in short, visual porn, and it doesn’t matter how many times you play it. The excellent news for everyone will be the bravura use of the language you have set up, which is not only present in the dialogue in the form of subtitles but is also integrated into all the text in the game. All the magazines, dialogues, interactions, and other elements are in the language you set, so you can enjoy the game even if you are unfamiliar with English or any other language.

Why Detroit Belongs on Your Spotify Playlist

The soundtrack is a chapter unto itself. The developers recruited three composers for the official soundtrack, each caring for one character in the story. This gives each character a unique musical score that conveys their mood, atmosphere, or “personality.” The music is also interactive, perfectly matching what’s happening on screen. During quiet moments of exploration, a few instruments strum while epic loops kick in during thrilling chases and engulf you entirely. Here, we have another soundtrack you can safely play on your phone and out of the game, for example. 

Bonus Content: Unlocking Detroit’s Story Secrets

In addition to the story campaign, which you can play endlessly, the game also offers smaller bonuses that you can unlock with the points you accumulate while playing. These are little things like artwork, developer diaries, behind-the-scenes glimpses of development, complete 3D models of all the characters in the game, soundtrack samples, and trailers. Of course, you can’t expect multiplayer but other additional content, but that’s understandable.

The Game That Makes You Question Humanity

Detroit: Become Human might not be a game that suits everyone’s taste. Nevertheless, it is a remarkable example of how a video game can transform into an interactive work of art that competes with classic movies. If you are a Quantic Dream’s games fan, then you are in for a treat with their best game yet. Everything is almost flawless, from the characters to the music and the graphics. It will leave you with a lasting emotional impression. In short, it is a masterpiece of interactive storytelling!

Purchase Detroit Become Human

PlayStation Store: The game is available on the PlayStation Store for PS4 at a price of $19.99. There is also a Digital Deluxe Edition available for $29.99, which includes additional content​ (PlayStation Store)​​.

Epic Games Store: On the Epic Games Store, “Detroit: Become Human” is priced at $39.99. This version boasts enhanced visuals and full PC compatibility, including support for 4K resolution and 60fps​ (Epic Games Store)​​ (VG247)​.

Steam: The game is also available on Steam, where it integrates well with Steam’s features like achievements and cloud saves​ (Steam Store)​.

The post Detroit: Become Human – Blade Runner Fans, This Game is for You! appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Star Wars Outlaws: Ubisoft’s Latest Gamble – Release Date Revealed, Skepticism Warranted

Ubisoft has finally revealed the upcoming open-world Star Wars action adventure Star Wars Outlaws. The game will be released on August 30th, 2024, and pre-orders offer enticing incentives and expanded content. However, a healthy dose of skepticism is justified, considering Ubisoft’s track record and the hefty price tag attached to premium editions. Along this great news there is a new Story Trailer released

Fans eager to step into the boots of a spacefaring outlaw won’t have to wait long. Star Wars Outlaws releases this August, but those willing to pony up for the Gold or Ultimate Editions can jump in three days early. These deluxe versions also include the base game and a season pass, promising additional content post-launch.

Early Access and Pricey Extras

Fans eager to step into the boots of a spacefaring outlaw won’t have to wait long. Star Wars Outlaws releases this August, but those willing to pony up for the Gold or Ultimate Editions can jump in three days early. These deluxe versions also include the base game and a season pass, promising additional content post-launch. But would fans will be willing to give 110$ respectively 130$ for these?

Cause for Concern?

While the Star Wars universe holds undeniable appeal, Ubisoft‘s recent offerings leave room for hesitation. Several recent AAA titles like “AAAA” Skuls and Bones from the publisher have fallen short of expectations, marred by bugs, lackluster gameplay, and aggressive monetization. Additionally, the price point for deluxe editions of Star Wars Outlaws, exceeding $100, raises further questions about value for money.

Proceed with Caution

The promise of exploring the Star Wars galaxy as a charismatic outlaw undoubtedly sparks excitement. Still, Ubisoft’s recent history warrants a cautious approach. It’s advisable to hold off on pre-orders until more gameplay footage and reviews are available so that you can make an informed decision.

The post Star Wars Outlaws: Out on 30th of August 2024! appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

The South Korean Video Games Council rated Star Wars Outlaws as “Not for Teen” because of its mature content. The same happened with the Australian Government Classification for Star War Outlaws, rated as ‘M’ (Mature). This may be because the game contains gambling only, but let’s see.

What may be wrong with it—It would be the first Star Wars game not rated by P, which, on the other hand, may not be wrong.
On the other hand, it’s a good sign that we may all be much closer to release than we thought so far. So, let’s give the galaxy space to make us all happy about this Ubisoft top anticipated project for 2024.

What are your thoughts on this franchise’s most expected new game ? Will Ubisoft be able to live up to the hype?

The post Star Wars Outlaws: Signs we are closer than we think? appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Title: The Callisto Protocol
Developer: Striking Distance Studios
Publisher: Krafton
Released: December 2, 2022
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 5
Platforms Available: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC
Article Reading Time: 9 minutes

Dead Space Reminiscence

The author of the legendary hardcore action Dead Space, Glen Scofield, has returned to where he feels at home, in the Callisto universe. The plot here, as in his previous masterpiece, is bravura and is more cinematic than Dead Space, which the game shows you right at the very beginning when you are blown away by perhaps the most beautiful graphics I have ever seen in games up to that point. .. the main character played by Josh Duhamel looks just like him, unreal, the sound here also went further than it ever has been, this sound is just precise and it absolutely mesmerized me, the soundtrack and ambient music was also absolutely incredible… As I said, and I have to say again, audiovisually, it totally blows you away to the universe, except for Callisto… The story is Dead Space-like again… you suspect nothing, things happen to you, and you find yourself in a prison where more and more and more things happen to you, but it all gets beautifully rendered, and it all makes sense by the end. 

Into the Story

The game takes place in the year 2320, when the main character, Jacob, and his partner, Max, work for the UJC (United Jupiter Company) and deliver their last shipment. Then, with this job, they want to jump ship and enjoy their retirement. Only a woman named Dani gets on their boat with a so-called Terrorist Unit and damages the ship. Jacob has to make an emergency landing and asks for permission to land, which is denied, but the ship is so damaged that a landing/crash is inevitable. Leon Ferris – the prison’s chief security officer – gets him out of the boat and makes sure everything goes as it should… only Jacob has broken landing protocol and has the Terrorists with him – so he gets his prison number and goes behind bars. The player then discovers what the prison and Jacob actually are. The other characters have a place here; none are random NPCs. 

The game has no HUD, and everything is on the main character. It’s explained perfectly, which I liked more than on the DS, where it “just is.” Since the game is in prison, it doesn’t have firearms like the DS but close combat, which is absent in the DS.

Monsters in Environment

The monsters are also explained; their origins are revealed as you play, and everything falls into place. Since there are really few bullets and weapons, most of the monsters are literally smashed to pieces.. no really, that’s not a typo, but really totally smashed to pieces, arms, legs, heads, guts, blood all flying all around you and Jacob is covered in blood throughout the game, the only part where he’s clean is in the sewers. Thanks to the excellent haptics, You can feel the weight of every punch in the controller. It’s a shame to shoot someone here because you’re just setting yourself up for a bloodbath. The firearms here are classics, from pistols to shotguns and submachine guns. What’s missing here is some BFG, but I understand we’re in a prison.

The environment is a dark prison, which is very well-designed and well-interwoven. There are paths outside the story, but this is where I see the first negative of the game – the orientation around the environment. I understand that Glen wanted to make this as hardcore as possible and that you are in prison in the unknown. Still, the lack of a map or signposts to where the main story goes and where it doesn’t is just a wrong move. It probably doesn’t matter, but with my illness, collecting everything the game has to offer is quite a problem as you can’t go back; there’s no chapter or chapter selection; you just miss something and have to go there in ng+, and hope you remember where to go. This, for me, is not a problem anymore, I’ve played the game a few times, and it’s exactly the type of game like DS or RE where the first playthrough takes around 10-15 hours, and you can do the game in 4-5-6 hours. Another negative is the absolutely unfeeling level splitting. There are actually 8 chapters in the game, but it still needs to be done like the DS. Here, you just play you open a door or go in somewhere, and the screen goes black, and it writes the chapter name and throws you behind the door. I don’t understand why it can’t be done with the feel of the DS that you go through the door, and the chapter is written on the screen, and you move on; here, it’s just like that… Recycling puzzles, mostly finding something, putting it somewhere to unlock the next part, and so on, where it feels like a missed opportunity for a more elegant solution.

Heat Goes Up

But high praise goes to the second part of the game, where you look outside the prison and even discover the original colony, reminiscent of the legendary Last of Us passage – the dungeon with the elevator. Here, you’re in awe, and how it’s done and explained is just a huge thumbs up. This is precisely why one plays horror games. The game gives you a solid feeling of unease and discomfort that you will carry for a long time…

In an environment with a worse design and a heartless chapter ending, we should now look at another weakness: monsters, unfortunately…

There are so few of them in the game, not that there isn’t something to bash. Still, I mean, the variation could be counted on one hand… the monsters are disgusting and pretty simultaneously, but they are desperately few. Later in the game, there is the so-called mutation mode, where each monster mutates into something that is always supposed to be original, but the reality is that the mutations are all the same. Saying that the game is epic and spectacular compared to the DS is a fact. There are epic scenes, but mostly some escape scenes or exploding things. As for the monsters, there are maybe two or so, and then the game introduces you to its biggest bastard, which is awe-inspiring. The combat is really luxurious, but again, the illogical recycling of the monster, where the game puts it in the arenas over and over again and ruins the feel of the beast completely, and it can be seen as laziness or lack of time to do quality work with the game. Another laziness and annoying element is the constant recycling of jump scars using a single monster; I’m telling you, you’ll hate that damn pop-up head and curse the developers for years after you’ve finished playing; this is true laziness and recycling, perhaps Ubisoft does with Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry.

The game recycles monsters, jump scares, and even the shafts are annoying because when you see it, you know what’s coming next. Launching through the sewer and riding the “slide” was fun for the first minute, but when that scene lasts literally 5minutes you tap your forehead and don’t understand why… for the first playthrough it doesn’t even matter. You don’t notice it as much, but when you play the game multiple times, you just can’t help but notice it.

Err..the Difficulty

The other problem is the difficulty. The game has a choice of 3 difficulties – so you could grade the combat into 3 options for your suffering and Jacob’s suffering.

– on the easiest difficulty you will survive three mistakes. On medium difficulty, two errors and the most challenging difficulty will punish you after more than one slightest mistake, you will get a second hit, and you are dead… personally, I don’t mind this. I like more challenging games, and this is precisely what I want. Moreover, the get-good rule applies precisely to this game; you will learn the moves of the enemies and the combat system and go through the game like a terminator, destroying everyone without the slightest problem. You learn it’s not until you become a “master.” The combat works by locking yourself into a combo with a monster and using the move lever to do dodges. It works great. Some criticism when there were more monsters was that it didn’t work very well, but the opposite of what others may say is true… it works great. It works exactly the same as with one monster, only there are two, and you have to concentrate more and give combos after 2-3 shots, wait, block, dodge 1-3 shots, help myself with the shotgun, and voila… I walk away without a single wound. Weapons are created here using the prison printer, upgrades, and inventory, like DS; again, there is no HUD. Everything is integrated into your character. You still have a glove to help you grip, and you can throw the monsters around the room as you please, and the best way to do that is to stow them away in a fan or “meat grinder.”

Have a good taste!!! 

Jacob

I would also like to praise the main character, Jacob; I find him well-acted; his emotions and expressions underline precisely what is happening; his voice is your guide, his anger your engine. Then, the Divine Dani is one of the best pairings in the gaming world since Joel and Ellie. And if there was a poll for the most sweaty and astonishing game, Jacob… I mean, Callisto would win it on all fronts… The best part is Jacob’s reactions to everything that happens to him and his expressions, plus how he’s covered in various mud, blood, and other crap all the time… I FUCKING HATE THIS PLANET! As Jacob would say…

I believe that Callisto did well, but the expectations were unrealistic. The fact that Glen Scofield came back and created a new world that is pretty similar to the one in Dead Space and the overall feel of the game is like playing a close combat dead space for which Glen took quite a bit of heat, but if you are a die-hard fan of horror and quality horror with a good story, Callisto is the game for you, it’s not a revolution or anything more than Dead Space. However, it’s still a quality title in the genre that goes its own way while taking a lot from its predecessor and even surpassing it in some places, and I don’t mean the audiovisual treatment.

Last Rites

 I am sorry to hear that the game did not fulfill the sales, and probably the sequel will not be made… but I will pray that it will be announced at some point because there are very, very few games like this…

When you do not have enough good reads on survival horror games, follow with review on Last Of Us Remake for PlayStation 5.

Purchase The Callisto Protocol at:

• Striking Distance Studios Website: The Callisto Protocol – Official Page and Blog
• PlayStation Store: The Callisto Protocol – PlayStation Store
• Xbox Store: Buy The Callisto Protocol | Xbox
• Steam: The Callisto Protocol on Steam
• Epic Games Store: Search for “The Callisto Protocol” on the Epic Games Store

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