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.

Out Now on Quest 3 for £15.99 - https://www.meta.com/en-gb/experiences/wall-town-wonders/6103056399797843/

REVIEW: Asgard's Wrath 2 on Meta Quest VR

Review by Jon Donnis

Asgard's Wrath 2, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2019 hit, has finally landed on the Meta Quest series, and it's nothing short of a triumph for Sanzaru Games and Oculus Studios. This action role-playing game takes players on an immersive journey through Norse and Egyptian mythology, offering a compelling story, engaging gameplay mechanics, and a vast open-world VR experience.

The game's narrative picks up where its predecessor left off, with players assuming the role of a Norse god seeking revenge on Loki. The twist lies in the ability to possess mortals with important destinies, adding a unique layer to the gameplay. The shift to Egypt introduces interactions with gods from another mythology, enriching the overall experience.

Asgard's Wrath 2 truly shines in its gameplay, setting a new standard for VR open-world RPGs. The pacing is well-crafted, and the story unfolds seamlessly, keeping players invested from start to finish. The title offers a diverse range of activities, from exploration and puzzle-solving to engaging in combat with formidable foes. The addition of minigames and the ability to possess four characters, each with their own story and skill tree, adds depth to the overall experience.

The game's combat and puzzle-solving mechanics are praiseworthy, delivering a satisfying blend reminiscent of popular non-VR RPGs like Zelda and Skyrim. The expansive world encourages exploration, with various weapons and abilities waiting to be discovered. The inclusion of followers who assist in combat further enhances the depth of the gameplay.

While Asgard's Wrath 2 excels in many aspects, some limitations are noticeable. Certain elements feel constrained by traditional non-VR RPG conventions, and the graphics, while impressive for VR, may fall short of the standards set by non-VR games. The Meta Quest 3 VR platform imposes some constraints, leading to graphics that, while serviceable, may not match up to the highest standards.

In conclusion, Asgard's Wrath 2 earns a near-perfect score of 9 out of 10. It stands as a must-have VR game of the year, showcasing the potential of the Meta Quest series. The game's exceptional storytelling, satisfying combat, and intricate RPG systems make it a standout title that competes with the best role-playing games across all platforms. If you own a Meta Quest VR unit, this game is a definite must-buy, delivering an unforgettable VR experience that sets a new benchmark for the genre.

You can buy a Meta Quest unit with Asgard's Wrath 2 exclusively at https://amzn.to/3TxpqaG