Category Archives: Metal Jesus Likes

The Porsche Boxster is a half-price 911. And it’s better.

After driving a Porsche 992 911 Carrera S for three days, I decided to buy a pre-owned 981 Boxster Base with PDK. Along all the same roads, it beat the 911 in more ways than expected. So, this is my love letter to this utterly brilliant machine.

The Porsche Boxster epitomizes the perfect balance between performance, luxury, and affordability within the realm of high-end sports cars. Its mid-engine layout, combined with precise engineering and meticulous attention to detail, results in an exhilarating driving experience that rivals even more expensive models in its class. The Boxster’s flat-six engine, available in various configurations, delivers a symphony of power and agility, ensuring that every drive is a thrill. Its lightweight construction and superb handling dynamics make it a joy to navigate through winding roads, providing a sense of connection between driver and machine that is truly unparalleled. Furthermore, the Boxster’s elegant and timeless design exudes a sense of understated sophistication, offering a level of aesthetic appeal that stands the test of time.

In addition to its impressive performance credentials, the Porsche Boxster represents an outstanding value proposition within the luxury sports car market. Despite its pedigree and engineering excellence, the Boxster comes with a price point that is remarkably competitive when compared to other high-end sports cars. Its relatively accessible entry price includes a host of premium features and cutting-edge technology that come standard, ensuring that buyers get a taste of true Porsche quality without breaking the bank. Moreover, the Boxster boasts strong resale value and relatively low maintenance costs, further solidifying its status as a sound investment for enthusiasts seeking both performance and value in a luxury sports car. The combination of its exceptional driving dynamics, luxurious appointments, and accessible pricing make the Porsche Boxster a standout choice for those looking to experience the thrill of Porsche ownership without compromising on value.

New iPhone 15 Pro Max Is A Gaming Console! Hands-On Testing

The new iPhone 15 Pro Max armed with a blazing-fast A16 Bionic chip, this device offers unparalleled processing power and efficiency. The improved CPU and GPU architecture deliver lightning-quick performance, ensuring that even the most demanding games run with buttery-smooth frame rates. The advanced thermal management system prevents overheating during extended gaming sessions, providing a consistent and comfortable experience for gamers.

The iPhone 15 also boasts a stunning Super Retina XDR display, showcasing vivid colors and deep blacks. The ProMotion technology, with its 120Hz refresh rate, elevates the gaming experience to new heights, providing ultra-responsive touch input and silky-smooth animations. Additionally, the spatial audio capabilities create an immersive audio environment, allowing gamers to pinpoint sound cues with remarkable precision. With support for the latest augmented reality technologies, the iPhone 15 opens up a whole new dimension of gaming possibilities, seamlessly blending the virtual and real worlds. With its exceptional performance and cutting-edge features, the iPhone 15 solidifies its position as a top-tier gaming phone, delivering an unrivaled gaming experience for enthusiasts and casual gamers alike.

Voltage Periscope – Bearing Down On Me (Troy Nelson of KEXP)

Voltage Periscope’s debut video “Bearing Down On Me”. Directed by Black Daisy Engineered and Produced by Erik Blood Written by Troy Nelson and Cody Hurd

A little bit about KEXP:

KEXP stands as an exceptional radio station that has captivated audiences worldwide with its unique blend of music discovery, community engagement, and unwavering commitment to independent artists. Renowned for its eclectic playlists and diverse range of genres, KEXP consistently introduces listeners to cutting-edge music that transcends mainstream boundaries. The station’s carefully curated playlists not only spotlight well-established artists but also champion emerging talents, giving them a platform to reach a broader audience. KEXP’s dedication to showcasing underrepresented voices and fostering a sense of musical exploration has cultivated a passionate global following, making it a hub for those seeking fresh and innovative sounds.

What truly sets KEXP apart is its strong emphasis on community and connection. With its home base in Seattle, the station actively engages with its local and global audience through live in-studio performances, interviews, and events. By bridging the gap between artists and listeners, KEXP creates a genuine and intimate environment that transcends traditional radio experiences. Its commitment to celebrating diversity, both in music and listeners, has turned KEXP into a cultural institution that fosters a sense of belonging and shared passion. In an era dominated by algorithmic playlists, KEXP’s human touch and genuine enthusiasm for music make it a beacon of authenticity and a driving force in shaping the future of radio.

More Graphically Impressive SEGA Saturn Games

Even though the Sega Saturn is nearly 3 decades old now, some games that released for the console are still graphically impressive to this day! Join TVGS as I take a look at some gameplay of the best looking, visually and graphically impressive Sega Saturn games the console ever received!

The Sega Saturn, released in 1994, holds a distinct place in gaming history as a console that brought forward several innovative features and noteworthy games. One of its standout attributes was its cutting-edge hardware, boasting dual CPUs and a strong graphics processor. This architecture enabled developers to experiment with 3D graphics and complex gameplay mechanics that were ahead of its time. Titles like “Virtua Fighter” and “Nights into Dreams” showcased the Saturn’s graphical prowess, pushing the boundaries of what was achievable in the mid-1990s. Moreover, the Saturn was a pioneer in local multiplayer experiences, offering support for up to 10 players in some games through its multitap accessory. This paved the way for memorable couch gaming sessions with friends, contributing to its appeal.

In addition to its technical strengths, the Sega Saturn cultivated a library of unique and diverse games that catered to various tastes. While it faced stiff competition from Sony’s PlayStation, the Saturn featured an impressive lineup of exclusives such as “Panzer Dragoon Saga,” a critically acclaimed RPG, and “Shining Force III,” a strategic masterpiece. These titles, alongside beloved franchises like “Sonic the Hedgehog” and “Street Fighter,” garnered a dedicated fan base. The console’s willingness to experiment was evident in its support for unconventional genres and experimental gameplay mechanics, ensuring that players could find experiences beyond the mainstream. While the Sega Saturn’s commercial success was overshadowed by its competitors, its technical innovations, multiplayer capabilities, and distinctive game library remain defining features that continue to be celebrated by gaming enthusiasts and historians alike.

Ultimate 20th Century Fox / Atari 2600 Tier List – ALL RELEASED GAMES RANKED

In this video, we’re diving deep into the vault of Atari 2600 classics, focusing on the games published by the iconic 20th Century Fox. 🕹️ Get ready to relive the excitement and frustrations of these vintage titles as we rank them all, from the bottom of the barrel to the cream of the crop!

The Atari 2600 stands as a captivating and nostalgic system for collectors, offering a unique blend of historical significance and diverse gaming experiences. As one of the pioneers of home gaming consoles, the Atari 2600 holds a special place in the hearts of both veteran gamers and newcomers to the retro gaming scene. Collectors are drawn to the system not only for its iconic wood-paneled design, which exudes a distinct vintage charm, but also for its role in shaping the foundation of modern video gaming. Owning an Atari 2600 is like holding a piece of gaming history in your hands, allowing you to connect with the roots of the industry and experience firsthand the games that ignited the passion for gaming in countless enthusiasts.

What truly makes the Atari 2600 a joy to collect for is the expansive and diverse library of games that it offers. Ranging from classic arcade adaptations to imaginative original titles, the system boasts a wide array of gameplay styles and genres. Collectors are treated to an assortment of pixelated wonders, from the frenetic excitement of titles like “Space Invaders” and “Pac-Man” to the strategic challenges of games like “Pitfall!” and “Adventure.” Each cartridge represents a snapshot of a bygone era of game development, reflecting the creative limitations and breakthroughs of the time. This diversity in gameplay ensures that collectors can constantly discover new gems that align with their personal gaming preferences. The thrill of the hunt for rare cartridges, limited releases, and unique variants further adds to the appeal, creating an engaging and rewarding experience that keeps collectors captivated by the Atari 2600’s enduring charm.

ROG Ally vs Steam Deck vs Nintendo Switch

Having spent a bunch of time with both now, I wanted to share my thoughts on how the ROG Ally compares to the Steam Deck, with a couple thoughts thrown in for how they relate to the Nintendo Switch. Looking at comfort in handheld mode, button and sticks layout, battery life, game performance, gameplay while docked, and how the general experience is different for each one.

The ROG Ally, Steam Deck, and Nintendo Switch are all gaming devices that cater to different segments of the gaming community, each with its own set of features and target audience.

The ROG Ally is a product by ASUS under their Republic of Gamers (ROG) brand, primarily focused on high-performance gaming laptops and peripherals. While specific details about the ROG Ally might have emerged after my last knowledge update in September 2021, ASUS often emphasizes powerful hardware components, customizable RGB lighting, and advanced cooling systems in their ROG lineup. The ROG Ally is likely to offer a more traditional gaming laptop experience with a wide range of games from various platforms, making it suitable for gamers seeking a comprehensive gaming and computing solution.

On the other hand, the Steam Deck is Valve’s venture into the handheld gaming market. It runs on a custom AMD APU, blending a quad-core Zen 2 CPU with RDNA 2 graphics architecture, which brings substantial gaming power to a portable device. The Steam Deck is designed to provide a dedicated handheld PC gaming experience, allowing users to access their existing Steam library, as well as other PC platforms like Epic Games Store, GOG, and more. It essentially functions as a portable gaming PC, offering more versatility and potential for productivity tasks compared to traditional gaming consoles.

The Nintendo Switch, released in 2017, pioneered the concept of a hybrid gaming console. It seamlessly transitions between a handheld mode and a TV-connected mode. The Switch’s focus lies in Nintendo’s first-party game lineup, offering exclusive titles like “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,” “Super Mario Odyssey,” and “Animal Crossing: New Horizons.” Its unique Joy-Con controllers and family-friendly gaming experience have contributed to its widespread appeal. However, the Switch’s hardware capabilities are more limited compared to the other two devices, making it less suitable for graphically demanding games available on other platforms.

In summary, the ROG Ally is likely to offer a high-performance gaming laptop experience, the Steam Deck provides a portable PC gaming experience with access to various storefronts, and the Nintendo Switch focuses on exclusive Nintendo titles and versatile hybrid gameplay. The choice between these devices ultimately depends on the user’s preferences, gaming library, and desired gaming experience.

Star Wars: Dark Forces Remastered – Official Announcement Trailer

Get your first look at the remaster of the classic 1995 Star Wars first-person shooter Dark Forces, which is being developed by Nightdive Studios, the same team responsible for the recent remasters of Quake 2 and System Shock. Star Wars: Dark Forces Remastered is in development for all major platforms (PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch).

“Star Wars: Dark Forces” is a classic first-person shooter video game released in 1995, and it holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers and Star Wars fans. The game’s appeal can be attributed to several key factors:

1. **Immersive Star Wars Universe:** The game is set in the beloved Star Wars universe, allowing players to experience its iconic characters, locations, and technology in a new interactive way. This immersion taps into the nostalgia and excitement that fans have for the franchise.

2. **Engaging Storyline:** “Dark Forces” introduced a compelling original storyline that expanded on the Star Wars narrative. Players assume the role of Kyle Katarn, a former Imperial soldier turned Rebel agent, as he battles against the sinister plans of the Galactic Empire, including the development of the feared Dark Trooper project.

3. **Gameplay Innovation:** At the time of its release, “Dark Forces” was innovative in its blending of first-person shooting action with puzzle-solving elements. Players had to navigate complex levels, find key items, and solve environmental puzzles, offering a diverse gameplay experience beyond just shooting enemies.

4. **Varied Environments:** The game featured a wide range of environments, from Imperial bases to starships, desert planets to space stations. This diversity kept gameplay fresh and provided a sense of exploration and adventure.

5. **Iconic Weapons:** The game introduced a variety of weapons, including the Bryar Pistol and the classic E-11 Blaster, as well as more powerful weapons like the Thermal Detonator and the iconic Lightsaber, which was available in later levels. These weapons added to the player’s sense of empowerment and choice in how to approach challenges.

6. **Technical Achievement:** “Dark Forces” was a pioneer in the realm of 3D graphics and sound design for its time. It showcased advanced graphics technology and atmospheric audio that enhanced the overall immersive experience.

7. **Modding and Community:** The game’s active modding community allowed players to create and share custom levels, modifications, and total conversions. This extended the game’s longevity and creativity, enabling players to continue enjoying new content long after completing the base game.

8. **Legacy and Influence:** “Dark Forces” laid the foundation for subsequent Star Wars video games, especially in the first-person shooter genre. It influenced titles like the “Jedi Knight” series, which expanded on the adventures of Kyle Katarn and introduced lightsaber combat and Force powers.

In summary, the appeal of “Star Wars: Dark Forces” lies in its ability to transport players into the Star Wars universe while offering engaging gameplay, a compelling storyline, and technical achievements that were impressive for its time. The game’s legacy continues to resonate with fans and stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Star Wars franchise in the realm of interactive entertainment.

Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon Review

Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon’s stellar customization options feed into its excellent mecha combat, and the result is challenging combat puzzles that kept my attention all the way through its 15-hour campaign and beyond. It’s let down by a dull story, but lands direct hits where it counts. Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon review by Mitchell Saltzman on PlayStation 5. Also available on PlayStation 4, Xbox, and PC.

The Armored Core series of games holds a unique appeal for a variety of reasons, making it a beloved franchise among gamers, especially those who enjoy mecha combat and customization-driven gameplay. Here are some of the key factors that contribute to the series’ appeal:

  1. Mech Customization: One of the standout features of the Armored Core series is the deep and intricate mech customization system. Players have the freedom to build and modify their mechs (known as Armored Cores) with an extensive range of parts, weapons, and equipment. This level of customization allows players to create truly unique machines tailored to their preferred playstyle, strategy, and aesthetic preferences.
  2. Tactical Gameplay: Armored Core games often emphasize strategic gameplay and tactical decision-making. The battles are not just about raw firepower; players need to consider factors like terrain, positioning, weapon loadouts, and defensive capabilities. This adds a layer of depth and complexity to the combat, appealing to gamers who enjoy thought-provoking challenges.
  3. Challenging Difficulty: The series is known for its challenging difficulty, which attracts players who seek a rewarding and engaging experience. Mastering the intricacies of combat mechanics, optimizing loadouts, and learning to adapt to various opponents provides a sense of accomplishment as players progress through the game.
  4. Engaging Storytelling: While the focus is primarily on mech combat and customization, the Armored Core series often incorporates intriguing and immersive narratives. The games explore futuristic dystopian worlds, corporate intrigue, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding the use of powerful mechs. This adds a layer of depth to the experience and keeps players invested in the game world.
  5. Online Multiplayer: Several installments of the series feature online multiplayer modes, allowing players to pit their custom-built mechs against others in intense battles. The competitive aspect enhances replayability and provides an opportunity for players to showcase their unique creations and combat strategies.
  6. Aesthetic Design: The design of the mechs, environments, and overall visual style of the Armored Core series has a strong appeal to fans of futuristic and sci-fi aesthetics. The attention to detail in mech design and the portrayal of futuristic landscapes contribute to the overall immersive experience.
  7. Evolution of Technology: The series spans multiple generations of gaming platforms, showcasing the evolution of technology and graphics capabilities. This evolution allows players to see how the franchise has grown over time while experiencing advancements in gameplay mechanics and visual fidelity.
  8. Niche Appeal: The Armored Core series caters to a specific niche within the gaming community – fans of mecha and sci-fi combat. This focused approach helps the games resonate deeply with players who are passionate about the genre.

In summary, the appeal of the Armored Core series lies in its intricate mech customization, tactical gameplay, challenging difficulty, engaging storytelling, online multiplayer options, aesthetic design, and its ability to cater to a dedicated niche audience of mech and sci-fi enthusiasts. These elements come together to create a gaming experience that is both unique and rewarding for those who enjoy the intricacies of mecha combat and customization.

Ultimate Coleco/Atari 2600 Tier List – ALL RELEASED GAMES RANKED

In this video, we’ll be diving headfirst into a selection of captivating classics brought to us by Coleco and rank all thirteen titles on a tier.

Coleco, a prominent toy and video game company of the 1980s, made a significant impact on the gaming industry with its line of Atari games. Recognized for its innovative products and dedication to gaming, Coleco developed a series of popular titles for the iconic Atari 2600 console. One of their standout releases was “Donkey Kong,” a highly successful arcade adaptation that showcased the console’s capabilities and became a best-seller. Additionally, Coleco’s “Venture” introduced players to a captivating dungeon-crawling adventure, garnering praise for its engaging gameplay. The company’s commitment to quality gaming experiences extended to other platforms as well, with ColecoVision, their home video game console, gaining a devoted following for its impressive graphics and library of exciting titles. Despite challenges in the gaming market during the video game crash of the mid-1980s, Coleco’s contributions to Atari games left an indelible mark on gaming history and cemented its position as a respected player in the industry.

Can The Steam Deck Run Ratchet & Clank Rift Apart?

Ratchet and Clank Rift Apart brings one of PlayStation’s best franchises to the PC. Of course it’ll be great to see this run on a powerful PC at 4K with Ray Tracing. But we’re here to see how the Steam Deck handles Ratchet and Clank Rift Apart

The Steam Deck, being a handheld gaming device that aims to provide a PC gaming experience, faces several challenges in achieving optimal performance for PC games. One of the main hurdles is hardware limitations. While the Steam Deck boasts impressive specifications, such as a custom AMD APU, it still falls short of the raw power and capabilities of high-end gaming PCs. This means that some demanding AAA titles might require graphical compromises or lower framerates to run smoothly on the device. Additionally, managing thermal performance in a handheld form factor is challenging, as intense gaming sessions can generate significant heat, potentially impacting overall performance over extended periods. Another obstacle is game optimization; PC games are not always designed with handheld devices in mind, leading to potential compatibility issues or inefficient resource utilization. Furthermore, the wide variety of hardware configurations on PC presents a challenge for game developers to ensure consistent performance across all devices. Despite these challenges, the Steam Deck’s promising hardware and Valve’s dedication to fine-tuning the user experience could lead to significant strides in handheld PC gaming, making it an exciting prospect for gamers seeking a portable gaming solution.