REVIEW: Planet of Lana II (2026 Video Game) - On Xbox

Review by Jon Donnis

Planet of Lana II picks up two years after the events of the first game and brings players back to the mysterious world of Novo. Developed by Wishfully and published by Thunderful Publishing, the sequel sticks closely to the formula that made the 2023 original memorable. It remains a 2.5D side scrolling puzzle platform adventure built around atmosphere, environmental storytelling, and the bond between Lana and her small cat like companion Mui. The result is a game that often feels warm and familiar, though not always in ways that benefit it.

From the moment the journey begins, it is clear that the visual presentation remains one of the series' greatest strengths. The hand painted environments are striking. Frozen mountain ranges, deep ocean spaces, and ancient ruins unfold across the screen with a quiet sense of scale and detail. The world feels alive without the need for spoken dialogue. Characters communicate through an alien language while the environment and music carry the emotional weight. It is a confident storytelling approach that invites players to read between the lines rather than be told everything directly.

The orchestral score plays a huge part in that atmosphere. The music gently moves alongside the action, swelling during moments of discovery and pulling back when the story becomes more intimate. It is consistently pleasant to listen to and helps maintain the calm cinematic tone the series is known for. Combined with the visual design, it gives the game a polished and thoughtful presentation that is easy to admire.

Lana herself feels more capable this time around. Set a couple of years after the first adventure, she is older, more confident, and noticeably more agile. Players can now wall jump, dash, slide, and move through the world with greater freedom. Mui also receives expanded abilities. The small creature can hack machines and use telepathic powers to briefly control other creatures in the environment. These skills feed directly into the puzzle design, which relies heavily on cooperation between the two characters.

Many of the puzzles are genuinely clever. They often ask players to observe their surroundings carefully, time actions correctly, and use Lana and Mui together in small but satisfying ways. Compared with the first game, some challenges are more layered and make better use of the characters' expanded abilities. When the design clicks, solving a puzzle feels natural and rewarding rather than overly mechanical.

The story also deserves praise. The narrative explores the consequences of technological progress on Lana and Mui's home world. New inventions promise advancement but also bring greed and imbalance among the planet's tribes. As the journey unfolds, the pair uncover buried truths about the planet and hints about Mui's origins. It is an emotional thread that encourages players to care about the characters and stay curious about what comes next.

Despite these strengths, the sequel struggles to feel like a true step forward. One of the most noticeable issues lies in the pacing. The adventure lasts roughly six hours, yet stretches of that time are spent simply running across environments while little happens. The scenery is attractive, but extended quiet sections can make the experience feel padded rather than purposeful.

The puzzles themselves are also inconsistent. While some are clever and satisfying, others feel strangely simple or unnecessarily convoluted. At times the game introduces an idea only to resolve it quickly without much challenge. This uneven balance removes some of the tension that puzzle platform games thrive on.

Controls present another frustration. Lana's new abilities expand what she can do, but the movement never feels quite as smooth as it did in the original game. Something about the responsiveness feels slightly off. Actions can seem less intuitive, which is surprising given the additional movement options. Instead of making progress feel fluid, the extra mechanics sometimes slow things down.

Audio design is another mixed area. The orchestral music is excellent throughout, yet the character sounds are less successful. The laughter, chirps, and fragments of alien language can become grating over time. What is meant to add charm occasionally ends up distracting from the otherwise strong atmosphere.

The short length of the adventure also raises questions. A six hour journey is not necessarily a problem for a story driven game, but here it feels slightly thin. The original title offered a more consistent flow of puzzles and discoveries. In comparison, this sequel contains fewer memorable puzzle sequences and more stretches of simple traversal.

The ending does little to resolve that feeling. The story closes on a cliffhanger that feels abrupt rather than exciting. After investing several hours in Lana and Mui's journey, the conclusion arrives quickly and leaves more questions than answers. For some players that may hint at a future continuation, though it risks feeling unsatisfying in the moment.

Taken as a continuation of the first game's story, Planet of Lana II works well enough. The characters remain likeable, the world is still beautiful, and the emotional tone is intact. However, as a full sequel it never quite improves on what came before. The original game felt tighter, more focused, and more confident in its design.

That sense of familiarity is both the sequel's strength and its weakness. Returning fans will appreciate revisiting Lana and Mui, yet the experience rarely evolves beyond the foundations already established. In some ways it almost feels closer to an extended follow up episode rather than a major new chapter.

For players who already subscribe to Xbox Game Pass, it is certainly worth a look. The atmosphere, music, and character driven storytelling remain engaging even when the gameplay falters. Those expecting a significant leap forward from the first game may come away a little disappointed.

Planet of Lana II is still a charming and thoughtful adventure, but it struggles to escape the shadow of its predecessor. What should have been a confident next step instead feels like a smaller return to familiar ground.

Score. 6.5 out of 10.

Out Now on Xbox

REVIEW: BOULDER DASH 40th Anniversary (2026 Video Game) - On Xbox

Review by Jon Donnis

BOULDER DASH 40th Anniversary is a fitting tribute to one of the most enduring puzzle games in video game history. From the very first moments, it is clear that this edition has been crafted with care for both long-time fans and newcomers. You guide Rockford through perilous caves, collecting diamonds while dodging enemies and avoiding falling rocks, a simple premise that has endured for four decades because it is genuinely fun and rewarding. The gameplay is just as addictive today as it was in 1984, and the modernised engine keeps it feeling fresh without losing the essence of the original.

The game offers a choice between authentic 8-bit graphics and updated HD visuals. The retro mode is a faithful recreation of the classic Atari, C64, ZX Spectrum, and Apple II aesthetics, and it hits all the right nostalgic notes. It feels like stepping back in time, and for anyone who played the originals, the experience is pure joy. The HD mode, meanwhile, brings new life to the 320 levels, six new worlds, and six exclusive fan-designed worlds. The new game elements, such as growing walls, slime, enemy generators, and eggs, add layers of strategy that keep even veteran players on their toes. The level editor and community content are welcome additions, offering endless replayability and creativity.

Chris Huelsbeck's soundtrack deserves a special mention. It is lively, memorable, and perfectly complements the frantic pacing of each cave. The option to play as one of six unique Rockford characters drawn from the series' history is a charming touch that rewards those familiar with the franchise. There is a strong sense that the developers respected the legacy while giving players plenty of reasons to explore and enjoy the new content.

On the downside, the classic games, while enjoyable, feel very dated next to modern standards. Younger players might find the retro visuals charming but will likely prefer the new levels and HD graphics. It is also hard not to reflect on the passing of time when playing something that first appeared 40 years ago. It is a reminder of just how far the industry has come, and it does make you feel older than you would like.

Overall, BOULDER DASH 40th Anniversary is a brilliant puzzle game. It is easy to pick up, fiendishly hard to master, and offers hours of entertainment. Whether you are revisiting a childhood favourite or discovering the series for the first time, there is plenty here to keep you busy. I give BOULDER DASH 40th Anniversary a solid 8 out of 10.

Out Now on Xbox

https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/games/store/boulder-dash-40th-anniversary/9nf27s57jq02

REVIEW: Mirage 7 (2026 Video Game) - Released on Playstation 5

Review by Jon Donnis

Mirage 7 on Playstation 5 is a dark fairytale adventure that blends fantasy and sci‑fi in a striking way. Players follow Nadira, a young girl traversing a harsh desert with her pet lizard Jiji, in search of the fabled oasis of Jala. The story spans multiple timelines or worlds, as Nadira attempts to find Princess Taishma in the Moon Palace to save her sister. From the very start, the narrative draws you in with its mythic tone and a sense of mystery, mixing human emotion with fantastical and technological elements.

The game excels visually. The desert landscapes are wide and imposing, with clear skies, shimmering sands, and ruined temples that reward careful exploration. Character models are expressive, and environmental details make the world feel lived‑in. Small touches, like Jiji's movements or how the environment reacts to Nadira's presence, add to the immersion. There is a sense of loneliness in the vast desert that is balanced with moments of wonder when hidden secrets or ancient temples are discovered.

Puzzle‑solving is where Mirage 7 really shines. The game encourages observation and creativity without ever feeling punishing. Jiji's abilities add a clever layer of strategy. You can send the lizard ahead to trigger switches, collect items, or even eat deadly scorpions to protect Nadira while she rests. These mechanics are introduced early and remain useful throughout, offering a unique hook that keeps exploration feeling fresh. Unlocking secret passages or piecing together environmental puzzles gives a real sense of accomplishment.

Combat is serviceable but occasionally underwhelming. Nadira wields a dagger and slingshot, and encounters range from small desert creatures to monstrous foes in underground caves and temples. While the mechanics are solid, combat rarely feels challenging or varied enough to match the rest of the game's depth. At times, the pacing slows during long stretches of travel or exploration, which can make the gameplay feel sluggish, though it allows the story and world to breathe.

One of the strongest aspects of Mirage 7 is the narrative. The dual timelines, the secrets of the underground military base, and the quest to bring Nadira's sister back create a story that is both engaging and emotionally resonant. Players uncover layers of myth and mystery at a measured pace, and the combination of atmospheric exploration and environmental storytelling makes each new discovery satisfying. The writing and pacing support the visual and gameplay design, making it feel like a complete, carefully crafted experience.

Overall, Mirage 7 is a visually appealing and narrative‑driven adventure that rewards patience, curiosity, and creativity. The dual gameplay with Jiji, the puzzle design, and the richly imagined desert and temple environments make it stand out, even if combat could be stronger. For those willing to persevere through the slower sections, the game offers a memorable journey full of secrets and surprises. I score Mirage 7 a solid 7 out of 10.

Out on Playstation from 6^th of March

https://store.playstation.com/en-au/concept/10005852/

REVIEW: Resident Evil Requiem (2026 Video Game) - On Xbox

Review by Jon Donnis

Resident Evil Requiem arrives as the ninth main entry in Capcom's long running survival horror series, following the events of Resident Evil Village from 2021. Rather than simply continuing the formula of its immediate predecessors, the game takes a slightly different path. It introduces a new central character, FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft, while also bringing back one of the franchise's most recognisable figures in Leon S. Kennedy. The result is a game built around two distinct perspectives, both in terms of gameplay and tone, and it makes for one of the most confident entries the series has produced in years.

The story alternates between Grace and Leon in a structure reminiscent of Resident Evil Revelations and its sequel. Grace's sections lean heavily into survival horror. Resources are limited, danger feels close at hand, and every movement through the environment demands caution. Much of her story unfolds inside a hotel where she is relentlessly pursued by a monster that behaves in a way fans will immediately recognise. Much like the intimidating stalkers seen in earlier games, the creature hunts the player throughout the environment, appearing at unpredictable moments and forcing constant awareness. Hiding under tables, crouching through dark corridors, and slipping quietly past danger becomes essential. Even simple tools can create tension. Grace carries a lighter to illuminate dark areas, but the faint glow can attract the attention of the creature stalking her.

Capcom reinforces that sense of vulnerability with mechanics that reward patience and observation. Players can collect glass bottles scattered around the environment and throw them to create distractions. At times it feels like a careful puzzle, balancing visibility, noise and movement while the monster creeps somewhere nearby. The threat is heightened by the creature's ability to track the player through walls and ceilings, which keeps the pressure firmly in place even when the immediate path appears clear. These sequences capture the uneasy atmosphere that defined Resident Evil 7 and Resident Evil Village, and they provide some of the most nerve fraying moments the series has produced.

Leon's chapters sit on the other end of the spectrum. Where Grace spends much of her time avoiding danger, Leon runs directly towards it. His gameplay leans into action, drawing clear inspiration from Resident Evil 4. Firearms take centre stage, but Leon is equally capable in close combat. His hatchet serves as a melee weapon with limited durability and can be used to parry incoming attacks, adding a satisfying layer of timing and precision during fights. Enemies can also be disarmed, allowing Leon to grab their weapons and use them against them. These sequences move at a faster pace and provide explosive encounters with zombies that contrast sharply with the slow burn tension of Grace's storyline.

One of the most notable design choices is the ability to switch between first person and third person perspectives at any time. Grace's sections default to first person, which heightens the sense of vulnerability and makes every shadow filled corridor feel oppressive. Leon's sections default to third person, a perspective that suits the more action focused gameplay and provides better spatial awareness during combat. The flexibility to switch between these viewpoints works surprisingly well. It allows players to tailor the experience to their own preferences without disrupting the flow of the game.

What ultimately makes Resident Evil Requiem stand out is how effectively its two protagonists complement one another. Grace's cautious survival horror creates tension and dread, while Leon's action driven chapters deliver spectacle and release. The contrast keeps the pacing fresh across the entire campaign. Capcom has clearly embraced the dual protagonist structure as the backbone of the experience, and it results in storytelling that feels more deliberate and more cinematic than many previous entries in the series.

The game also plays heavily on the history of the franchise without slipping into empty nostalgia. Familiar ideas return, yet they are presented with confidence and polish. Strong set pieces and explosive combat moments appear throughout Leon's story, while Grace's quieter sequences capture the eerie atmosphere that has always defined the best Resident Evil titles. It feels like a genuine love letter to the series rather than a simple attempt to repeat what worked before.

That said, the story itself can occasionally feel like little more than a framework for the spectacle. While the dual protagonist structure works well for gameplay, the narrative sometimes serves mainly as an excuse to move the characters between dramatic encounters. The game borrows liberally from past ideas, and although it executes them with skill, some players may notice how familiar certain elements feel.

Even with that minor criticism, Resident Evil Requiem stands as a remarkable achievement for Capcom. It blends survival horror and high intensity action in a way that feels both fresh and faithful to the series. Grace Ashcroft proves to be a strong addition to the franchise, Leon's return adds weight and familiarity, and the flexible perspective system allows both styles of gameplay to shine.

Resident Evil Requiem feels like the series operating at full confidence. It is tense, thrilling and surprisingly balanced in its approach. For long time fans it feels like a celebration of everything the franchise has done well, and for newcomers it offers an accessible entry point into one of gaming's most enduring horror series.

Resident Evil Requiem earns a strong 9 out of 10.

Out Now! - https://amzn.to/4rHIMbp

GUIDE: How to Get Call of Duty Game of the Year Edition PC DVD Working on Windows 10 and Windows 11

Installation Guide by Jon Donnis

This guide explains how to install and run the original DVD version of Call of Duty Game of the Year Edition on a modern Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC. The DVD release uses an older disc protection system called SafeDisc, and Windows 10 and 11 no longer support that system. Because of this, the game will not launch from the disc without updating it. The steps below use the final official patch released for the game, which removes the need for the DVD to be in the drive.

First, insert the Game of the Year Edition DVD and install the game as normal. If the installer does not start automatically, open This PC, double click your DVD drive, and run Setup.exe. Follow the on screen instructions and install the game to the default location unless you have a reason to change it. Once installation finishes, do not try to launch the game yet.

Next, install the official 1.5 patch for Call of Duty. This is the final update released for the original 2003 version of the game and it removes the disc check that causes problems on Windows 10 and 11. Make sure you download the correct 1.5 patch specifically for the original Call of Duty, not United Offensive. Run the patch file and allow it to update the installed game. When it completes, the game no longer requires the DVD in the drive to start.

After patching, it is important to make sure certain Windows features are enabled. Press the Windows key, type Windows Features, and open Turn Windows features on or off. In the list that appears, find Legacy Components and make sure DirectPlay is ticked. Click OK and allow Windows to install it if prompted. This helps older games run correctly.

You should also install the DirectX 9.0c runtime, as Call of Duty was designed for that version. Windows 10 and 11 include newer DirectX versions, but they do not automatically include all older components. Installing the official DirectX 9.0c End User Runtime ensures the required files are present.

Now locate the game's main executable file. By default it is found in C, Program Files or Program Files x86, Call of Duty. Right click cod.exe, choose Properties, then open the Compatibility tab. Tick Run this program as an administrator. If the game still refuses to launch, also tick Run this program in compatibility mode and select Windows XP Service Pack 3. Click Apply, then OK.

You should now be able to launch the game directly from cod.exe without the DVD in the drive. If everything has been done correctly, Call of Duty should start normally on Windows 10 or Windows 11.

This guide applies specifically to the original 2003 release of Call of Duty in its Game of the Year Edition PC DVD form.

Links:

Buy the game from Amazon at https://amzn.to/4tTKXKe

Call of Duty 1.5 Patch file for the original game executable update:

https://www.moddb.com/games/call-of-duty/downloads/call-of-duty-v15-patch 

This is the official patch that updates Call of Duty to version 1.5, which removes the DVD check and lets the game launch on newer versions of Windows.

DirectX End-User Runtimes (June 2010):

https://legacyupdate.net/download-center/download/8109/directx-end-user-runtimes-june-2010 

This package from Microsoft's archived download centre adds the older DirectX 9.0c side-by-side libraries that many older games need to run on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

If you cannot reach that archived package for DirectX, Microsoft's official DirectX web installer links can be found by searching for "Microsoft DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer" on Microsoft's download site.

These URLs are correct as of the time this was checked and match the files needed to update the original Call of Duty PC DVD release to work on current versions of Windows.