Tag Archives: Review

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Star Wars Outlaws Review – “A New Hope” or “Holiday Special”?

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Star Wars Outlaws is like that moment when Han Solo realizes he owes Jabba the Hutt way too many credits—but stretched out into an entire video game. Set between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, it introduces us to Kay Vess, who is basically the galaxy’s coolest new smuggler since, well, the original smuggler. She’s got a knack for getting into trouble, but luckily, she’s got a loyal companion, Nix—a little creature that’s part dog, part ferret, and all adorable. Think of Nix as the Chewbacca to Kay’s Han, only furrier and with fewer growls.

The game lets you explore the underbelly of the Star Wars universe like never before. You’ll be flying around in your own ship, pulling off heists, and making morally questionable decisions—because what’s a good outlaw without a little ethical flexibility? Imagine all the stuff Luke, Leia, and the rest were too busy with the whole “saving the galaxy” thing to do, and that’s what Kay’s up to. It’s like they took the Mos Eisley cantina and made it a lifestyle.

This is ACG’s review of the game and performance.

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Stray – A Magical Catventure w/ Dexter The Xbox Cat

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Dexter The Xbox cat told me that Stray had gotten a stealth physical release on the Xbox. So we decided to check it out.

“Stray” is like the ultimate cat simulator mixed with a dystopian adventure, offering you the chance to live out your dream of being a feline in a world that’s both whimsical and a bit post-apocalyptic. Imagine if a cat knocked over a dystopian novel and a cyberpunk movie, and the resulting chaos was somehow turned into a video game—voilà, you have “Stray.”

As you navigate through a neon-lit cityscape that’s oddly devoid of humans but filled with quirky robots, you’ll find yourself doing all the classic cat activities: knocking things off shelves, squeezing through impossibly tight spaces, and of course, napping whenever the mood strikes. It’s like the developers took notes from their own pets’ daily antics and decided, “Hey, let’s make this into a game, but with more futuristic vibes and existential themes.” So, if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be a cat on a mission to uncover the mysteries of a robot-inhabited world, “Stray” is your purrfect escape.

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Stellar Blade Review (PS5) – A Solid Game With a Couple Cracks

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Stellar Blade Review (PS5) from ACG.

Kim Hyung-tae (Developer Shift Up) is a prominent South Korean artist and game developer known for his work in the video game industry. He is particularly recognized for his distinctive art style, which often features highly detailed and beautifully crafted character designs. Kim Hyung-tae gained widespread acclaim for his work as the art director of the popular video game series “Magnacarta” and “Blade & Soul.”

His artwork is characterized by its intricate detailing, vibrant colors, and a unique blend of fantasy and realism. Kim Hyung-tae’s contributions to the gaming industry have earned him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim, establishing him as one of the most influential artists in the field.

Featured, PC Games

Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster (2024) REVIEW

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Nightdive Studios remastered the classic Star Wars Dark Forces game for modern consoles and PC, upgrading the graphics & music as well as including a bunch of developer behind the scenes content. Can they improve on one of the best Star Wars games ever made? Check out my review!
More info: https://www.nightdivestudios.com

“Star Wars: Dark Forces” stands as a seminal milestone in the realm of video game adaptations of the beloved science fiction franchise. Released in 1995 by LucasArts, this first-person shooter immersed players in the expansive Star Wars universe, offering a gripping narrative set within the Galactic Empire’s oppressive regime. Players assumed the role of Kyle Katarn, a skilled mercenary tasked with thwarting the sinister plans of the Empire, including the development of the dreaded Death Star. Through a combination of intense action sequences, intricate level design, and a richly crafted storyline, “Dark Forces” captivated audiences, earning widespread acclaim for its innovative gameplay mechanics and faithful adherence to the Star Wars mythos.

With its groundbreaking features, “Star Wars: Dark Forces” left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape, influencing subsequent titles in the genre and cementing its status as a classic. The game introduced players to an array of iconic Star Wars locales, from the industrial depths of Imperial bases to the sprawling expanses of alien worlds. Furthermore, its dynamic blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense combat offered a multifaceted gaming experience that resonated with audiences of all ages. Even decades after its release, “Dark Forces” continues to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers, serving as a testament to the enduring power and cultural significance of the Star Wars franchise in the realm of interactive entertainment.

Featured, System Reviews

* NEW * Retro Shooter Light Gun – New Version Review

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Review of the new Retro Shooter light gun package for the Pandora Box. MORE INFO: https://retroshooter.com

Light gun arcade games have had a significant impact on gaming culture. Here are five of the most popular and influential ones:

  1. Duck Hunt (1984): One of the earliest and most iconic light gun games, bundled with the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Players used the NES Zapper to shoot ducks on the screen.
  2. Time Crisis series (1995 – present): Known for its pedal system allowing players to take cover, this series revolutionized light gun gameplay. It introduced the cover mechanic, adding depth to arcade shooters.
  3. House of the Dead series (1996 – present): This franchise brought horror-themed arcade shooting to the forefront. Players faced hordes of zombies and creatures in various installments, using light guns to survive.
  4. Point Blank series (1994 – 2017): Offering a different experience from traditional shooters, Point Blank focused on mini-games and challenges requiring precise shooting skills. It stood out for its variety and humor.
  5. Lethal Enforcers (1992): This game utilized digitized graphics and realistic settings, setting itself apart during its time. Players took on the role of a law enforcement officer, taking down criminals.

These games have left a lasting impact on the arcade gaming landscape and continue to influence modern gaming experiences.

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New 1/4 Scale Space Invaders Mini Arcades Review – Gamester81

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Gamester81 reviews the new mini 1/4 scale Space Invaders arcades by Numskull. This includes both Space Invaders and Space Invaders Part II aka Space Invaders Deluxe. My Space Invaders arcade is signed by the creator Tomohiro Nishikado.

More info about them can be found here: https://numskull.com/quarter-arcades/

“Space Invaders” holds immense significance in the history of video games as a groundbreaking arcade game that revolutionized the industry. Launched in 1978, it was one of the earliest shooting games, establishing many conventions and tropes still present in gaming today. Its simple yet challenging gameplay, coupled with its iconic pixelated alien enemies descending in waves, captured the public’s imagination and popularized the concept of high scores, fostering competitive gaming culture. Its success helped establish video games as a viable entertainment medium, contributing to the growth of arcades and the gaming industry at large, laying the foundation for future game design and influencing countless titles that followed. Its cultural impact endures, making it a timeless classic that remains an essential milestone in gaming history.

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Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon Review

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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.