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3 Dec 2024

REVIEW: Stilt (2024 VR Game) – On MetaQuest

Stilt

Review By Jon Donnis

"Stilt" is a bold and wildly imaginative VR platformer that redefines what it means to navigate a game world in virtual reality. Armed with springy stilts attached to your furball-like protagonist's arms, the game plunges you into a chaotic, colourful adventure brimming with challenges, creativity, and the kind of laughter-inducing moments that make VR experiences truly memorable.


From the outset, the concept of using stilts as your primary means of locomotion feels utterly bizarre. However, it quickly becomes apparent that this mechanic is not just unique but also surprisingly intuitive. The stilt-based movement system invites a sense of physicality and engagement rarely found in VR platformers, blending precision, strategy, and reflex-based gameplay. It's a clever homage to classic platformers like Super Mario, but with a dynamic twist that makes it feel fresh and exciting in a VR context.

The single-player campaign is so much fun. After a mischievous volcano-dwelling octopus scatters your spaceship cargo across a series of vibrant hills, you set out to retrieve the lost parcels. The levels are intricately designed, encouraging exploration and problem-solving as you bounce, balance, and spring your way through treacherous terrain. Each stage is peppered with traps, chasms, and secrets, ensuring that every moment feels engaging. The abundance of collectibles, hidden treasures, and power-ups injects plenty of replay value, rewarding those willing to revisit levels to uncover every nook and cranny.


Visually, Stilt opts for a bright, cartoonish style that perfectly suits its whimsical tone. While the environments are undeniably charming, they can begin to feel somewhat repetitive over time. Despite this, the game's vibrant palette and quirky design choices ensure it remains visually appealing, even during extended play sessions.

The game's sense of humour also shines through in its eccentricity. The sheer absurdity of bouncing through a level as a determined furball, Stilt embraces its silliness with gusto. This randomness is a major part of its charm, making each moment feel unpredictable and fun.

The multiplayer modes deserve special mention, adding another layer of joy to the experience. With cross-play support across PCVR, Quest, and PSVR2, players can duke it out in modes like Smack-em-all! and Balloon Hunt, or strategise to dominate Area Bash and Electric Tag. The PvP arenas are chaotic and lively, fostering a sense of camaraderie and competition that's perfect for parties or casual gaming sessions. The shared lobby area is also a delightful touch, creating a social space where players can interact before diving into the action.


However, Stilt is not without its flaws. While the core gameplay is polished and satisfying, the lack of an emotional connection to the protagonist or the stakes of the story can make the experience feel somewhat superficial. Additionally, some boss battles verge on frustrating, occasionally hampering the otherwise smooth flow of the game.

Overall, Stilt delivers an innovative and highly entertaining take on the platformer genre, making it a must-try for VR enthusiasts. Its inventive movement mechanics, challenging levels, and light-hearted multiplayer modes ensure hours of fun, despite minor shortcomings in graphical variety and narrative depth. For those seeking a blend of nostalgia and novelty, Stilt is a fantastic addition to any VR library.

Score: 8.5/10

Out On Meta Quest Now - 


27 Nov 2024

REVIEW: Wall Town Wonders (2024 VR Game) - Meta Quest 3

Review by Jon Donnis

Wall Town Wonders is a delightful mixed-reality experience that transforms your living room into a bustling, miniature world. From the moment you step into the game, it's clear that the developers have crafted a charming and inviting environment where relaxation and creativity take centre stage. The concept of watching a tiny town spring to life around you is enchanting, and it's executed beautifully. The vibrant graphics and quirky animations bring the miniature citizens and buildings to life, making it hard not to smile as you explore and expand your virtual town.
The gameplay itself is soothing and accessible, designed for players who enjoy a more casual pace. Progression comes naturally as you complete simple quests and unlock new buildings, each bringing fresh surprises and interactive mini-games. These mini-games are undeniably one of the game's highlights. Whether you're fending off pests with a tiny crossbow, guiding planes with hand gestures, or fishing on your living room floor, there's an endearing creativity to the variety on offer. The seasonal updates and customisation options are another welcome touch, ensuring that the game stays fresh and inviting over time.

Where Wall Town Wonders truly shines is its use of mixed-reality technology. It's impressive to see your physical space so seamlessly integrated into the digital experience. The hand-tracking feature, while innovative, does have its shortcomings. At times, it can feel unresponsive, which led me to switch to using controllers for smoother interactions. Despite this minor setback, the immersion is undeniable, and it's a thrill to feel as though you're truly part of this tiny world.
However, while the game excels in charm and innovation, it may feel a little shallow for some players. It's undeniably a casual experience, with little in the way of challenge or complexity. For those looking for deeper mechanics or high-stakes gameplay, Wall Town Wonders may not scratch that itch.

Despite these minor drawbacks, Wall Town Wonders is a joy to play and an excellent showcase of what mixed reality can achieve. Its easy-going nature makes it perfect for unwinding after a long day, and the unique premise is sure to capture the imagination of players of all ages. If you own a Meta Quest headset, this game is an easy recommendation.

I'd score Wall Town Wonders a solid 8 out of 10. It's a cosy, charming, and highly enjoyable experience that reminds us of the magic VR can bring into our homes.



20 Nov 2024

REVIEW: Starship Troopers: Continuum (2024 VR Game) - Meta Quest 3

Starship Troopers: Continuum

Review by Jon Donnis

Starship Troopers: Continuum is an absolute blast, and I've had an awesome time playing it on the Meta Quest VR platform. If you're a fan of the Starship Troopers franchise, you're going to love this game. Not only do you get to dive back into the iconic world of the Federation vs. the Arachnids, but you also get to control the battlefield in a way that's fresh and exciting. Plus, it's got Casper Van Dien reprising his role as Johnny Rico, which adds that extra bit of nostalgia.


The story picks up 25 years after the Battle of Klendathu, and while the war with the Arachnids is deadlocked, there's a game-changing new weapon called the Continuum. It's a psychic technology that lets you control troopers on the battlefield. And that's where the real fun begins. You play as a PsyCommander, with advanced psychic powers that allow you to take direct control of your squad. This isn't just another first-person shooter – it's got that tactical edge where you have to manage your squad, rank them up, and even choose their perks to build the perfect team. This system makes the game feel dynamic and rewarding because it's not just about surviving the waves of bugs; it's about developing your troopers into elite soldiers with the best weapons and abilities for the job.

The gameplay loop is really satisfying. You'll go on missions where you and your troopers fight through waves of Arachnids. The missions vary from objectives like planting and defending nukes to fighting off enormous bosses like Tankers and Plasmas. The combat itself is fast-paced and intense, with plenty of opportunities to blow through hordes of bugs with over 20 weapons, from your standard rifles to heavier artillery. You'll need to reload fast, aim accurately, and always stay on your toes because the Arachnids can strike from any angle. The waves of enemies keep things thrilling, and the game does a good job of keeping you on your toes. As you progress through missions, the stakes get higher, and so does the challenge.


In addition to the main campaign, there are Patrols that act as smaller side missions, where you defend key points or survive wave after wave of bugs. These patrols are a great way to rank up your PsyCommander, as well as your individual troopers, and unlock credits to spend on upgrading weapons. One cool thing about the game is that there's a bit of a rogue-like element when it comes to your troopers. They have one life, and if they die, you're back to square one with a new trooper at Rank One. This gives the game a bit of replayability because, even though you're progressing with your PsyCommander, each new trooper feels like a fresh start with new weapons to buy and new perks to unlock. The challenge comes in maintaining a connection to your troopers and making sure they survive long enough to gain enough rank to make a real difference. Plus, once a trooper reaches a certain rank, you can choose to promote them to civilian status, which rewards you with bonuses towards your own progression as a PsyCommander. It adds a layer of depth that makes the game feel even more strategic.

The game's graphics are impressive for VR, and the visuals really help bring the world to life. The environment is immersive, with plenty of atmospheric settings that make you feel like you're in the trenches with your squad. The bugs are creepy as ever, and the design of the enemies really stands out. Whether you're fighting swarms of smaller Arachnids or going head-to-head with a massive Tanker, the action feels tense and immersive. The VR experience makes the combat even more intense, with every explosion, gunshot, and bug attack feeling like it's right in front of you.


One of the standout aspects is the humour. The Starship Troopers films are known for their satirical, over-the-top style, and this game doesn't shy away from that. The voice acting, especially from Casper Van Dien, nails the tone, and there are some genuinely funny moments that bring the campy spirit of the movies into the gameplay. Sure, the humour might go over the heads of younger players, but if you've seen the original film, you'll appreciate the tongue-in-cheek dialogue and the occasional absurdity.

That said, there are a few areas where the game could improve. I did notice some minor audio glitches, particularly when firing weapons. These don't totally ruin the experience, but it's something that could be patched out to improve immersion. Also, while the game is a lot of fun solo, it really shines in co-op mode. Teaming up with friends to fight off the Arachnids and strategising together adds a level of depth that solo play can't quite match. There's some grind to be done in the single-player campaign, especially when you have to level up your PsyCommander rank in order to proceed to the next missions, but that's part of the fun. It's the kind of game that becomes more enjoyable when you've got a solid group to play with, but if you're a solo player, you might find yourself repeating missions a bit more than you'd like.


Starship Troopers: Continuum is a fantastic VR experience. The mix of fast-paced combat, strategic squad management, and a great progression system makes it a standout game. The action is fun, the humour hits the right notes for Starship Troopers fans, and the graphics are top-notch. If you've been waiting for a VR game that combines arcade shooter action with a solid tactical layer, this is definitely one to check out. It's definitely better with friends, but even solo players will have a good time. I'd give it a solid 8.5 out of 10 – it's a thrilling, immersive experience that keeps you coming back for more.

Out Now on Meta Quest


12 Nov 2024

REVIEW: Songs of Conquest on PC (Steam)

Songs of Conquest

Review by Jon Donnis

Songs of Conquest is a beautifully crafted tribute to classic 90s turn-based strategy games, particularly the much-loved Heroes of Might and Magic III, and it's clear that Lavapotion poured their heart into making this game both an homage and a fresh experience. At its core, Songs of Conquest combines strategic kingdom management with tactical turn-based combat, set against a vibrant, nostalgic fantasy world. It's a genre blend that feels like a rewarding throwback, yet also delivers with enough modern touches to feel relevant and immersive.


Players are introduced to four distinct factions, each with its own flavour and tactical nuances. These factions aren't just reskins; they're balanced with great care, encouraging players to try multiple playthroughs to appreciate the unique abilities and strategies of each. As the rulers of these factions, players command Wielders, powerful sorcerers who harness a blend of might and magic to steer the fate of their kingdoms. These Wielders aren't simply token heroes but come with rich backstories and unique abilities that add a nice layer of tactical depth. Building up your Wielders and strategising their strengths with carefully chosen units is addictive, tapping into that nostalgic compulsion to level up, manage resources, and explore new lands.

Lavapotion's decision to weave in pixel art with 3D environments and volumetric lighting pays off impressively. The visuals are both striking and nostalgic, bringing an old-school style into the modern day. The intricate 2D pixel art is dazzling, and the game shines with vibrant landscapes, enchanting lighting effects, and detailed animations. The way that the visuals complement the combat scenes and map exploration enhances the experience and makes the player feel genuinely immersed in a magical world. It's rare to find a game that bridges past and present aesthetics so seamlessly, and Songs of Conquest nails this aspect.

The gameplay itself is engaging, with each turn requiring thoughtful consideration. Building structures, recruiting Wielders, and upgrading units all demand careful planning and resource management, which in turn makes the battles feel meaningful and earned. The tactical combat skirmishes are satisfyingly challenging, requiring the player to be aware of each unit's positioning and abilities, rather than just throwing them at the enemy. The combat system has enough depth to keep players on their toes without feeling overly complex or inaccessible. The thrill of testing different combinations of units and abilities to see how they work against different factions is one of the most satisfying aspects of the game.


Songs of Conquest also deserves praise for its original score, which adds to the game's nostalgic yet immersive atmosphere. The music is wonderfully composed, giving each region and battle an emotional resonance. The soundtrack complements the visuals beautifully, making each adventure feel grand and timeless. You get a sense that Lavapotion has crafted each detail to elicit a specific mood, which amplifies the overall experience of the game.

For all its charm, however, Songs of Conquest might feel a bit too familiar to players looking for something truly groundbreaking. Its roots in Heroes of Might and Magic III are so evident that some players might see it as a mere modernisation rather than a true evolution. Yet, one could argue that Lavapotion's respect for the genre's foundations isn't a flaw at all but rather a testament to the timelessness of classic gameplay mechanics. Songs of Conquest doesn't try to reinvent the wheel, but it does make it shine and roll smoothly for modern players, which is a feat in itself.

Another highlight is the extensive content available, including robust support for community-generated maps and mods, which hints at a dedicated player base that will likely keep the game alive for years. It's refreshing to see a game in this genre acknowledge the importance of community involvement, and Lavapotion has made it easy for players to share and create their own campaigns, maps, and challenges. This focus on player-driven content gives Songs of Conquest a potentially long lifespan and ensures that there will always be something new for dedicated fans to return to.


Songs of Conquest is a love letter to turn-based strategy fans, particularly those who hold a soft spot for the golden era of 90s games. With its nostalgic visuals, captivating music, and rewarding gameplay mechanics, it proves that this genre still has so much to offer. While it may not introduce dramatic innovations, it's an enchanting experience that balances the old with the new in a way that feels respectful and fresh. Songs of Conquest is a stellar game for anyone who longs for the satisfying, strategic depth of classic fantasy adventures. I'd confidently score it 8.5 out of 10, with high marks for its art, music, and ability to evoke the magic of a beloved genre without diluting its essence.

Out Now
Also out now on Xbox and PS5

10 Nov 2024

The Blocky Beginnings and Evolution of Minecraft: A Story of Creativity, Survival, and a Dash of Chaos

Minecraft

By Jon Donnis

Imagine it is 2009. Markus Persson, or "Notch" as his fans know him, is tinkering with this quirky little idea for a game. He had this simple but totally new concept: a game where you could build and explore anything you wanted without following a storyline or set goals. Everything was in these chunky, retro-styled blocks. And just like that, Minecraft was born. It did not seem like much at first, just a simple indie game with pixelated graphics, but there was something magical about the freedom it offered.

Over time, Minecraft grew from that humble beginning into one of the best-selling games ever. With over 200 million copies sold, it is now everywhere: PCs, consoles, even phones. People all over the world have built, mined, and battled through its worlds, creating a whole community and culture around it.

Survival Mode: Where the Adventure (and Chaos) Begins
If you are diving into Minecraft for the first time, you will probably head straight into "Survival Mode." Here is the setup: you are dropped into this massive, randomly generated world with no supplies and no plan. Step one? Punch a tree! That is actually how you start. It might sound weird, but trust me, it works; you need wood to get those first tools going. Once you have got them, it is time to find some kind of shelter because when night falls, things get a little dicey.

When it is dark, the mobs come out: zombies, skeletons, spiders, and the infamous creepers, all looking to make your life a nightmare. So, if you do not want to get wiped out before your first sunrise, it is time to hustle and build some walls. As you explore, you will start to gather other resources like coal, iron, and maybe even diamonds if you are lucky. Survival mode is not just about building a nice cabin though; you have to manage hunger, upgrade your gear, and face all kinds of threats. And if you are looking for a real challenge, there is Hardcore mode. In Hardcore, if you die, that is it. No respawning, no second chances. It is intense.

Anarchy Mode: The Wild West of Minecraft
Then there is the wild world of Anarchy servers like https://adventuresinminecraft.com. Minecraft does not officially have an "Anarchy Mode," but players created it anyway. These servers are basically free-for-all chaos zones where anything goes. No rules, no protections. If you manage to survive more than a few hours, you are either really good or just very, very lucky. Anarchy servers are all about raiding, griefing, and just going wild. Nobody is worried about getting banned here. One moment you are building a base, the next it is reduced to rubble by a stranger just because they felt like it.

Some people love anarchy servers because they are unpredictable and raw. You never know what is going to happen, and you have got to stay on your toes if you want to keep anything safe. There is even a kind of community that forms within the chaos. Alliances, secret bases, and betrayals are all just part of the fun. For players who want total freedom (and are not afraid of a little madness), Anarchy servers are the ultimate test of survival and creativity.

The Social Side: Multiplayer, Mods, and Custom Servers
One of the things that keeps Minecraft fresh after all these years is its multiplayer scene. You can hop on a server with friends or meet new people, and the range of things you can do together is endless. Maybe you will team up to build a massive fortress, or you will end up in a PvP (player vs. player) battle where it is every person for themselves. Some servers are just a small group of friends, while others are huge communities with thousands of players all online at once.

And let's talk mods for a sec. They are like pure magic, adding everything from new items to whole new worlds players have dreamed up. There are mods that let you explore space, ride dragons, or even live as a medieval farmer if that is your vibe. If you are on the Java Edition (the original version for PC), it is easy to install mods and join modded servers where entire communities are built around specific themes. For players on Xbox, PlayStation, or other platforms, there is the Minecraft Marketplace, which has approved mods, maps, and mini-games so everyone can get a taste of that modded magic.

Mods and custom servers mean Minecraft never has to be the same game twice. You can always find something new, and no two modded servers are exactly alike.

PS. You can find me on the servers at https://adventuresinminecraft.com if you are interested.

The Community: Where Minecraft Really Shines
Honestly, Minecraft would not be anywhere near what it is today without its community. People all over the world are constantly sharing their builds, recording tutorials on YouTube, and streaming their adventures on platforms like Twitch. Some players take on huge projects, building replicas of real-world landmarks or creating their own fantasy worlds. Others keep it simple, focusing on survival, exploring, or just hanging out with friends.

Then there is MineCon, a massive fan event where players, creators, and developers come together to celebrate the game. Minecraft has become a cultural phenomenon, with everything from creeper memes to massive fan art communities. Over time, it has gone from just a game to a shared experience that connects millions of people, whether they are building, surviving, or just goofing around in creative mode.

The community also keeps the game alive with endless new ideas. Mojang, the developers behind Minecraft (now owned by Microsoft), keep updating the game with new biomes, mobs, and features that are often inspired by player feedback. Recent updates have added lush caves, deep oceans, and all kinds of new creatures to interact with. Every update brings something fresh to explore.

Why Minecraft Matters
So what keeps Minecraft going strong after all these years? It is the kind of game that grows with you; whether you are just here to build a cozy cabin, take on Hardcore survival, or jump into an anarchy server just to see what happens. It is about creativity, adventure, and, yeah, sometimes watching your hard work get blown to bits by a random creeper. But that is what keeps us coming back. In Minecraft, there is always something new to try, and a whole community to share it with. It is a game that feels as big as your imagination, and that is why it is still capturing people's hearts over a decade later.