REVIEW: Dakar Desert Rally (2024 Video Game) - On Xbox

Review by Jon Donnis

Dakar Desert Rally, developed by Saber Interactive, promised to be the ultimate off-road rally racing adventure, and with its expansive open world and diverse vehicle lineup, it certainly has the potential to be a standout title in the genre. However, the road to greatness is currently marred by some significant bumps and potholes.

Let's start with the positives. The game is visually stunning, with impressive graphics that bring the vast, open-world terrain to life. The seasonal and dynamic weather effects add a layer of realism, making each race a unique and challenging experience. The sound effects contribute to the immersive atmosphere, enhancing the overall gameplay, and I quite like the music too.

The inclusion of real-world courses and licensed vehicles from motorcycles to trucks adds authenticity to the Dakar Rally experience. The larger vehicles, particularly the trucks, stand out as the most enjoyable to drive, providing a surprising twist given the rally's historical focus on cars. The tracks, with multiple routes along semi-linear paths, offer variety and excitement.

However, for every high point, there's a corresponding low. Despite a recent bug fix, frame rate problems persist, and the game occasionally crashes, interrupting the overall experience. Vehicle handling varies, with quad bikes receiving particular criticism for being unwieldy. Cars, the presumed focus of the game, fall short of expectations.

Even in Sport (Arcade) mode, navigation can be confusing, and the checkpoint system is not foolproof. Players may find themselves disoriented, leading to frustrating slowdowns at checkpoints. The crash recovery process is far from seamless, with lengthy loading times detracting from the arcade-style gameplay the developers aimed for. I also found myself turning the HUD off completely as it just became distracting and didn't really help me navigate. Why can't we have a simple on screen map, so we at least know the general direction we should always be heading in?

The recently released USA Tour DLC adds a vast new map inspired by iconic American landmarks, but the focus on expanding content raises questions about prioritizing fixes for existing issues. 

"The premium USA Tour DLC introduces a vast, 256-square-kilometer map spanning the Great American West and Southwest, letting drivers explore incredible locations inspired by renowned landmarks like the Grand Canyon, Nevada desert, and Yellowstone National Park! Experience the thrill of 20 new stages in Sport game mode and 12 stages in Professional game mode in competitive rally raids. With 140 new treasures out there to discover, are you up for the challenge?" - Dakar Desert Rally’s USA Tour DLC is available now for Season Pass owners. It can also be purchased separately for 8.99 GBP | 9.99 EUR | 9.99 USD.

The potential for greatness is there, but the current state of the game feels like a missed opportunity.

In conclusion, Dakar Desert Rally is a game with immense potential that is currently hindered by technical issues and gameplay shortcomings. The dedication of the developers to releasing updates and fixes gives hope for improvement over time. If you're willing to be patient and trust in the ongoing support, Dakar Desert Rally could eventually evolve into a fantastic addition to your racing game collection. However, for those seeking a polished experience immediately, it might be wise to wait until the dust settles. In its present form, Dakar Desert Rally earns a generous 7 out of 10, acknowledging its potential while recognizing the hurdles it must overcome to reach it.

Out now on Xbox

https://amzn.to/3SrEV32

REVIEW: Gray Dawn (2023 Video Game) on Xbox

Review by Jon Donnis

"Gray Dawn," developed by Romanian independent game studio Interactive Stone, ventures into the horror genre with a distinctive religious theme. Set on Christmas Eve in 1920, players assume the role of Father Abraham, unraveling a mysterious plot involving the disappearance of altar boy David and allegations of child murders. The game combines survival horror gameplay with psychological elements, presenting a narrative-driven experience.

The gameplay immerses players in a first-person perspective, exploring eerie environments, solving puzzles, and collecting images of Christ to shape the story's outcome. Voice-overs, subtitles, and optional recordings enhance the storytelling, providing depth to the narrative. While the game balances walking simulator elements with engaging puzzles, the absence of a persistent villain may leave some longing for a more intense horror experience.

"Gray Dawn" delves into religious themes, navigating the delicate line between portrayal and artistic interpretation. The specific Eastern Orthodox religious elements might be polarizing, potentially offending some players. However, this unique backdrop adds a layer of distinctiveness to the horror genre.

The plot, a cornerstone of the game, weaves a tale of mystery, guilt, and redemption. Father Abraham's journey to clear his name and solve the disappearance of altar boy David unfolds through dream-like sequences, gradually revealing the truth. The multiple endings contribute to the game's replayability, offering emotional payoffs for players invested in the narrative.

The game's atmosphere is heightened by impressive graphics, creating a consistently creepy vibe. Seamless transitions between environments contribute to a surreal and dreamlike experience, leaving players questioning the boundaries between reality and imagination.

Despite its strengths, "Gray Dawn" has its drawbacks. Players susceptible to motion sickness should exercise caution, as extended play may trigger discomfort. Additionally, the absence of a hint system can lead to frustration when stuck, impacting overall enjoyment.

In conclusion, "Gray Dawn" stands as an intriguing horror game with a religious twist. The incorporation of psychological horror elements, engaging puzzles, and a compelling narrative sets it apart in the indie gaming landscape. Despite some shortcomings, the game offers a unique experience and earns a solid score of 8.5 out of 10 for its contribution to the horror genre.

Out now on Xbox

https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/games/store/gray-dawn/9pblfjmclw33

@gamingcouchspud

REVIEW "Gray Dawn," developed by Romanian independent game studio #InteractiveStone, ventures into the horror genre with a distinctive religious theme. Set on Christmas Eve in 1920, players assume the role of Father Abraham, unraveling a mysterious plot involving the disappearance of altar boy David and allegations of child murders. The game combines survival horror gameplay with psychological elements, presenting a narrative-driven experience. The gameplay immerses players in a first-person perspective, exploring eerie environments, solving puzzles, and collecting images of Christ to shape the story's outcome. Voice-overs, subtitles, and optional recordings enhance the storytelling, providing depth to the narrative. While the game balances walking simulator elements with engaging puzzles, the absence of a persistent villain may leave some longing for a more intense horror experience. #GrayDawn #IndieHorror #IndieGame #GameDev #Gaming

♬ original sound - Jon

REVIEW: SPIDER MALL! (2023 Video Game) on PC (Steam)

Review by Jon Donnis

SPIDER MALL! is a fun, choice-based Full Motion Videogame (FMV) that transports players back to the 1990s, providing a nostalgic experience with a unique blend of horror, humour, and interactive storytelling. Developed by Ghost Dog Films and available on Steam, the game follows the escapades of urban explorer 'X' (played by Aaron Jeffcoate) as he infiltrates an abandoned shopping mall, only to find himself trapped with both irate security guards and a gigantic arachnid.

The storyline is engaging, weaving a tale of survival as X attempts to escape the eerie mall while contending with security guards and a hungry spider lurking in the shadows. The choice-based live-action FMV gameplay adds an interactive layer to the horror, allowing players to decide X's fate and influencing the destiny of other characters in the game. The VHS/body cam-style video footage, complete with 80s lo-fi effects, adds a nostalgic touch to the overall experience.

The game's major strength lies in its replayability, offering over 13 combinations of game endings based on player choices. Each play-through, lasting 30-40 minutes, promises a different experience, ensuring that players can enjoy multiple rounds of excitement. The humour injected into the survival horror theme lightens the mood and sets SPIDER MALL! apart from other FMV games out there.

However, like many FMV games, SPIDER MALL! suffers from a relatively short playtime. Despite the variety of endings, the necessity to replay the game multiple times to explore all outcomes may feel tedious for those not enamoured with the genre. This is a common drawback inherent to FMV games, and SPIDER MALL! is no exception.

In conclusion, SPIDER MALL! delivers an enjoyable and nostalgic experience for fans of FMV games. The game's blend of horror, humour, and interactive storytelling, combined with its multiple endings, makes it a standout title in the genre. While the short game time may be a drawback for some, the overall fun factor and replay-ability make SPIDER MALL! a solid choice. I rate it an entertaining 8 out of 10, especially for those seeking a trip down memory lane with a dash of horror and humor.

Out now on Steam

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2596670/SPIDER_MALL/

REVIEW: Laika: Aged Through Blood (2023 Game on Xbox)

Review by Jon Donnis

Laika: Aged Through Blood, developed by Brainwash Gang and published by Headup Games, is a masterfully crafted action-adventure Metroidvania (Motorvania?) that delivers a unique and emotionally charged experience. Set in a post-apocalyptic world dominated by anthropomorphic animals, the game follows Laika, a mother coyote on a perilous quest to save her people and protect her family.

The game's standout feature is the exhilarating vehicular combat on Laika's fast and agile motorbike. The seamless integration of high-speed racing, daring jumps, and slow-motion shootouts adds a dynamic layer to the traditional Metroidvania gameplay. It's a testament to the developers' creativity that they managed to bring such an intense, unique and engaging experience to the genre.

One of Laika's most compelling aspects is its hand-drawn, post-apocalyptic world. The visuals are stunning, with each frame painted meticulously, creating a beautiful yet haunting backdrop to the unfolding narrative. The game successfully captures the desolation of a world ravaged by war and the struggle for survival, making exploration a visual treat.

At its core, Laika is more than just an action-packed adventure. The narrative dives deep into themes of vengeance, loss, and the complex dynamics of a mother-daughter relationship. The story unfolds organically as Laika navigates through a world consumed by conflict, making every boss battle and mission feel significant and emotionally charged.

The variety in the game world, coupled with epic boss battles, ensures that players are constantly engaged and motivated keep going. Laika: Aged Through Blood manages to present a fresh take on the Metroidvania genre, blending ruthless combat with a captivating side-scrolling environment. The storyline is both touching and dramatic, adding layers of emotional depth to an already gripping gameplay experience.

While the game excels in many aspects, it's not without its flaws. The mechanic of shooting enemies while riding a motorbike can be initially tricky for some players. However, with perseverance, players can adapt to this unique gameplay element, and it becomes a minor inconvenience in an otherwise exceptional gaming experience.

In conclusion, Laika: Aged Through Blood is a remarkable addition to the Metroidvania genre, earning a strong score of 8.5 out of 10. Its combination of intense vehicular combat, a visually stunning world, and a deeply emotional narrative make it a standout title that will leave a lasting impression on players. Despite its minor gameplay challenge, Laika delivers a thrilling and memorable adventure that is well worth the journey.

Out Now on Xbox.

And it is also worth checking out the awesome soundtrack which is available now at https://amzn.to/47rsIj1

REVIEW: Tangles on PC (Epic Store)

Review by Jon Donnis

Tangles, a psychological horror and mystery game by Hamad Al-Humaidan and Saham Studio, delivers a short but intense experience that captivates players with its mysterious plot and eerie atmosphere.

One of the standout features of Tangles is its accessibility, the game is entirely free to play with no hidden costs or in-app purchases. This generosity allows players to fully immerse themselves in the story without any financial barriers. The game's design embraces elements of horror and suspense, providing a thrilling and immersive experience with occasional jump scares and psychological horror elements.

Visually, Tangles excels with impressive graphics that contribute to the overall eerie ambiance. The deserted island setting and the mysterious military camp create a haunting backdrop for the unfolding mystery. The game successfully integrates simple puzzles and item interactions, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny of the environment. Regularly revisiting areas is rewarded, as the storyline evolves, keeping players engaged throughout their journey.

However, Tangles does have its drawbacks. The game's brevity stands out as a notable downside, as it can be completed in a single sitting. While the free-to-play model mitigates this concern, players craving a more extended experience may be left wanting. Additionally, the protagonist's slow movement speed might be a point of frustration for some players, even though a faster option is available, but I would rather not have to hold down a button to move at my desired speed.

There is also a potential concern with the possibility of triggering motion sickness in susceptible players. The game's first-person perspective and movement mechanics could be unsettling for some, impacting their overall enjoyment.

Despite these drawbacks, Tangles manages to deliver a gripping psychological horror experience that leaves a lasting impression. Fans of the genre will appreciate the game's free-to-play approach, impressive graphics, and the unsettling atmosphere created by the mysterious narrative. Although short-lived, Tangles is a worthwhile venture into the realm of psychological horror, earning a solid 8 out of 10.

Out now at https://store.epicgames.com/en-US/p/tangles-e99298