REVIEW: Astro Flame: Starfighter - Xbox

Review by Jon Donnis

Astro Flame Starfighter takes players on an exhilarating journey through the stars, offering a captivating blend of classic scrolling shooter gameplay and modern 3D graphics. Released on various platforms, including Xbox, this game promises a nostalgic yet cutting-edge experience that will leave players engaged and enthralled.

In Astro Flame Starfighter, players assume the role of a skilled spaceship pilot, venturing through 15 levels of intense, action-packed gameplay. The game's allure lies not only in its challenge but also in its stunning visual effects that amplify the immersive experience. Each encounter with relentless enemies becomes a visually impressive spectacle, and the satisfaction of eliminating them is truly gratifying.

The title excels at offering a range of features that enhance the gameplay. Upgrades to the spaceship and weaponry provide a strategic layer to the adventure, empowering players to face off against powerful bosses guarding each level. The game's various difficulty levels, along with the ability to toggle auto fire on/off, accommodate players of all skill levels. The 2.5D perspective and the freedom to move around the screen add depth to the gameplay, while the health bar system and the option to shoot down enemy projectiles enhance the tactical dimension.

Astro Flame Starfighter not only captivates with its gameplay but also excels in the technical department. The graphics are commendable, boasting modern 3D visuals that are both striking and immersive. The manageable download size of just under 500MB is a definite plus, ensuring that players can jump into the action quickly. The inclusion of achievements/trophies adds an additional layer of accomplishment for those who seek to fully master the game.

Despite its strengths, there are a few areas where Astro Flame Starfighter falls short. The absence of tutorials might deter newcomers looking for a smoother entry into the game. Inability to rebind controls and limited real game options could potentially hinder player customization and accessibility. The lack of descriptions for ship upgrades can leave players guessing, and at times, the visibility of enemy projectiles can be a challenge.

The game's pacing is a bit uneven, with moments of intensity alternating with lulls. The soundtrack, unfortunately, doesn't do justice to the action on screen and may not fully complement the immersive experience that the visuals provide.

In conclusion, Astro Flame Starfighter is an adrenaline-pumping adventure that effectively blends the nostalgic charm of classic scrolling shooters with modern graphics and engaging gameplay. It brings the excitement of spaceship battles to life, offering players a chance to explore the cosmos, confront challenging bosses, and upgrade their ship for even more thrilling encounters. Despite a few minor shortcomings, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a title well worth picking up for fans of the genre and newcomers alike.

I score Astro Flame: Starfighter on Xbox a very respectable 7/10

Out Now on Xbox

https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/games/store/astro-flame-starfighter/9P8M382HXBKH

REVIEW: The Expanse: A Telltale Series on Playstation

Review by Jon Donnis

The Expanse: A Telltale Series takes players on an engaging narrative journey through the uncharted territories of space, and while it offers a compelling experience, a few aspects prevent it from reaching the highest ranks of interactive storytelling.

Deck Nine Games, renowned for its work on the Life is Strange franchise, brings its expertise to the fore in The Expanse. The game thrives on the tried-and-true Telltale formula of decision-making, but with a novel twist: it places paramount importance on relationship-building and exploration. As a single-player game, it hands the reins of destiny over to the player, creating a personalized experience.

The game shines the brightest in its moments aboard the Artemis, where conversations serve as the linchpin for significant narrative progress. What sets The Expanse apart, however, is its sandbox-style salvaging segments. These segments elevate decision-making beyond binary life-or-death choices, allowing players to truly shape the story through their actions. This is where Telltale's promise of consequential decisions finds its truest expression, and it's a welcome evolution in the studio's approach.

The Expanse stands as a prequel to the beloved book and television series, with a spotlight on fan-favorite character Camina Drummer, portrayed by Cara Gee. The game weaves an original story, delving into Drummer's background and personality. This addition to the Expanse universe offers a fresh perspective and enhances the lore for both newcomers and longtime fans.

The game's mechanics aren't spoon-fed to players; instead, they're discovered through hands-on exploration. The opening chapter lets players navigate and scavenge with relative freedom, encouraging immersion. The Expanse leverages every exploration decision to impact future episodes, making it an intricate web of choices that can affect crew members' fates.

However, the game isn't without its shortcomings. The lack of initial guidance might alienate some players, as they grapple with unfamiliar mechanics. Some optional items scattered throughout the wreckage feel inconsequential, bordering on superfluous. Additionally, the depth of the conversational segments might feel unbalanced based on players' approach to alone time, leading to occasional uneven pacing.

The narrative's strength lies in the role of Camina Drummer. The Expanse introduces players to her struggles, the dynamics of her crew, and the weight of her decisions. Cara Gee's reprisal of her television role adds authenticity to Drummer's character, and players will find themselves invested in her journey.

In the realm of gameplay, the zero-gravity exploration and the interactivity within space environments are commendable achievements. Walking on walls and ceilings with mag boots and navigating Zero-G thrusters add a layer of immersion that sets The Expanse apart.

The Expanse: A Telltale Series succeeds in delivering a captivating spacefaring experience with an emphasis on relationships and exploration. The evolution of Telltale's approach to decision-making is evident, though some minor issues prevent it from attaining perfection. Nevertheless, for fans of The Expanse universe and those who enjoy intricate narratives, this game offers an engaging adventure that is well worth the journey.

The Good

Captivating exploration mechanics and interactivity in space environments.

Relationship-building and sandbox-style decision-making shine.

Camina Drummer's character is well-developed and portrayed.

Expands the Expanse universe with an original prequel story.

The Bad

Initial lack of guidance may be off-putting for some players.

Some optional items feel inconsequential.

Conversational depth can be uneven based on player choices.

Overall

I score The Expanse: A Telltale Series on PlayStation a fair 7.5/10

A spacefaring adventure that hits many high notes, delivering on Telltale's promise of consequential decisions while exploring the beloved Expanse universe from a fresh perspective. A few minor issues hold it back from reaching the pinnacle of its genre, but it's a journey well worth embarking upon.

Out now on PlayStation
https://store.playstation.com/en-gb/concept/10004308

Episode 1: Archer's Paradox (Available July 27, 2023)

Episode 2: Hunting Grounds (Available August 10, 2023)

Episode 3: First Ones (Available August 24, 2023)

Episode 4: Impossible Objects (Available September 7, 2023)

Episode 5: Europa's Folly (Available September 21, 2023)

REVIEW: Spectrolite on Xbox

Review by Jon Donnis

Spectrolite offers a fresh and distinctive approach to first-person platformers, delivering a blend of immersive atmospheric levels and adrenaline-pumping timed challenges. The game introduces reimagined traditional platforming mechanics, enhanced with powerful abilities that bring a new level of precision to the genre.

Players will appreciate the expansive hand-crafted levels, each thoughtfully designed with diverse environments and accompanied by an original soundtrack that complements the gameplay experience. Additionally, the game's tight and precise controls ensure a responsive and smooth gameplay feel.

For those seeking an extra thrill, Spectrolite presents bite-sized time trials that provide an opportunity to compete globally on leaderboards. Players can measure their skills against others and strive to improve their personal records in this mode.

One standout feature of the game is the incorporation of ghost data from other players' speedrunning challenges. By observing these ghost runs, players can learn from mistakes and master each timed trial, enhancing the overall challenge and sense of achievement.

At its base this is a first-person platformer, get for the starting point to an end point, as fast as you can, and try not to die on the way. The game does its best to help guide you regarding the controls, but the first-person viewpoint is probably your biggest hindrance, which is a problem when that is the main point of the game.

The Good

Nice simple graphics, a strong sound track, and some well designed levels which present a decent challenge.

The Bad

As mentioned above the first-person viewpoint is a problem with precision platformers. This game I assume is out on VR? and would work well in that setting, but on a TV screen it struggles. The controls are a problem, the run and slide against a wall mechanic I simply couldn't get the hang over, when you fail 20 times at a simple jump, it becomes beyond frustrating, and left me looking at alternative ways to traverse the landscape. This is ok, but it totally takes you out of what should be a quick parkour type game. Instead of I walking slowly and carefully, trying to find the right spot to jump from, when in reality I should be zooming through the level.

Overall

The concept of the game is a good one, and in a VR setting this game should be great, but using a controller and playing it on a TV screen, the game ends up being more frustrating than fun.

A tweak in the controls, and fixing the wall slide mechanic, and I think my enjoyment of the game would increase massively.

I score Spectrolite a generous 7/10 in its current form.

Out Now on Xbox

https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/games/store/spectrolite-speed-life/9nbflgg4b86x

REVIEW: Adore - Xbox

Review by Jon Donnis

Gamers everywhere, prepare yourselves for an interesting journey into the realm of Gaterdrik with "Adore," an immersive Action Creature Collecting game out now on Xbox. Developed with innovation and player customization in mind, Adore offers quite a unique experience where players step into the shoes of Lukha, an apprentice adorer, on a quest to summon, control, and master a diverse array of creatures to combat the curse that has befallen the world.

Adore introduces a new time of gameplay mechanic that revolves around summoning and controlling creatures to fight alongside the main character, Lukha. This distinctive feature sets the game apart from conventional action games.

The heart of Adore lies in the remarkable depth of creature customization. Each creature comes with distinct characteristics and abilities, allowing players to tailor their approach to match their preferred style. The game offers a range of options, from fierce attackers to cunning strategists, enabling players to curate a team that resonates with their tactical inclinations.

The Synergy System is a pivotal aspect of Adore's gameplay. Creatures in your arsenal can work harmoniously together, forming synergies that unlock additional abilities or modify the behaviour of individual creatures. This encourages players to experiment with various combinations, uncovering synergies that can turn the tide of battle in their favour.

To enhance the individuality of each creature, Adore introduces a captivating expedition mechanic. By seeking out statues of Draknar, the god of creatures, players can bestow their creatures with traits that make them stand out. This adds a layer of depth to creature collection, as traits have the potential to dramatically alter how a creature performs in combat.

Every creature possesses a special ability that becomes available once their energy bar is fully charged. Mastering the strategic use of these abilities can be a game-changer in battles, but choosing the right moment to unleash them is crucial. It adds an element of anticipation and planning to the combat experience.

Adore is not just about summoning creatures and battling foes; it's about mastering the art of being an adorer. To succeed, players must delve deep into the intricacies of their creatures. This involves understanding when to summon each creature, positioning them effectively, recalling them strategically, and optimizing artifact and rune usage. The journey toward becoming a true adorer is quite challenging.

The inclusion of Runes and Artifacts adds another layer of strategy to Adore. Players can equip and upgrade these items to complement their creature team's qualities. Selecting the right combination of Runes and Artifacts can make the difference between victory and defeat.

Adore surprises players with a unique cooking mechanic. Gathering ingredients during your adventures and crafting specialized dishes can provide substantial advantages to both you and your creatures during battles. This ingenious addition intertwines exploration and preparation, further enriching the gaming experience.

The narrative of Adore is as interesting as its gameplay mechanics. Lukha's journey to revive Draknar unveils not only the secrets of the world of Gaterdrik but also exposes a web of conspiracy that led to Draknar's demise. This gripping storyline adds emotional depth to the gameplay, keeping players invested in the outcome of Lukha's mission.

The Good

Nice clean graphics, and a pretty original gameplay mechanic makes this game stand out. I liked the ability to teleport around the map, which helps save time. And when you use one of your collected creatures you use an arrow to direct them, and then they just attack away. To capture an enemy, you need to face it in a certain direction, while holding down a button, if done for long enough you collect that creature and they become yours to use. Everything felt very original to me, which is a rare occurrence these days.

The soundtrack is really nice, and compliments the game well.

The Bad

There is one problem with this game, and that is that sometimes you just want to go hack and slash at the baddies, and you can't, as that is not the game, this is frustrating, as you will find yourself running away while you hope your creatures will get the job done for you, it takes away a slight feeling of accomplishment when defeating an enemy.

Some of the maps feel a bit samey, the tutorial needs improving as some mechanics of the game you will just need to figure out for yourself.

Overall

"Adore" offers Xbox gamers a pretty original experience that seamlessly blends action, strategy, and creature collecting into an immersive gameplay adventure. With its innovative creature summoning mechanics, the depth of customization, and the strategic elements that come into play, Adore invites players to embark on a journey that challenges their tactical prowess, creativity, and strategic foresight. Prepare to become a true adorer and unlock the potential of creatures as you unravel the mysteries of Gaterdrik and work towards the restoration of balance in a world plagued by a sinister curse.

I score Adore an original 7.5/10

Out now on Xbox

https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/games/store/adore/9PDS04TXBRMS/0010

REVIEW: Side Decide on Nintendo Switch

Review by Jon Donnis

"Side Decide" is a labour of love brought to life by solo developer Brendan Votano, operating under the studio name Blue Volcano. Four years of dedication and an idea that took root nearly eight years ago have culminated in a delightful puzzle game that graced the Nintendo Switch on August 3rd.

Boasting an equilibrium between serenity and challenge, "Side Decide" stands as a testament to the developer's commitment and creativity. The game's aesthetics draw inspiration from wooden blocks, evoking a sense of nostalgia that resonates deeply. This simplicity doesn't just manifest in the visuals, but also extends to the gameplay, making it accessible and engaging for players of various skill levels.

A standout feature of "Side Decide" is its tranquil musical score, one that gracefully adapts to the player's progress. This harmonious soundscape serves as a companion on the puzzling journey, enhancing the immersive experience and adding an extra layer of depth to the gameplay.

The game's heart lies in its 10 distinct block types, each harbouring its own set of mechanics. This variety not only adds complexity to the puzzles but also encourages players to approach each level with a fresh perspective. The inclusion of Gold, Silver, and Bronze star ratings/achievements injects further incentive for seasoned players to chase excellence, aiming for mastery in every intricate challenge the game presents.

With an impressive count of 121 levels awaiting exploration, "Side Decide" stands as a testament to its rich content. Aspiring to attain a perfect score of 363 stars across these levels may seem daunting, yet the satisfaction derived from overcoming each trial is undeniably rewarding.

"Side Decide" encapsulates the essence of nostalgia with its wooden block-themed puzzles. The primary objective, guiding a wooden cube to its destination, is deceptively simple. However, the cube's diverse sides, each sporting unique shapes, introduce an element of strategic complexity. Rolling onto circles adds an ingenious mechanic, enabling players to rotate the cube and unveil new avenues for progress. Teleportation, wildcards, and precarious falling blocks further elevate the challenge, ensuring that players are consistently engaged.

Bridging the gap between accessibility and complexity, "Side Decide" is a title that should resonate with a wide audience. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or a riveting challenge, the game accommodates your preferences. Its allure lies in its ability to provide a serene ambiance for casual players while still catering to completionists yearning for a thorough test of their skills.

The Good

A great looking game, that is easy to play but tough to master. Nice relaxing soundtrack. Easy to pick up and play either for a few minutes or longer. I played on the Switch Lite and it works well on the smaller screen.

The Bad

The menu to choose levels confused me at first, instead of automatically going to the next level after completing the first, you have to choose the next level by moving the block. This isn't clear at first and could do with the choose level system being simplified or automated.

The game gets "challenging" pretty quick, and that toughness may put off some players who perhaps don't have the patience.

Overall

"Side Decide" is a testament to Brendan Votano's dedication and vision, capturing the essence of childhood nostalgia within its wooden block puzzles. With its harmonious blend of accessibility and challenge, a symphony of unique mechanics, and a treasure trove of levels, this game rightfully claims its spot as a captivating addition to the puzzle genre on the Nintendo Switch.

I score Side Decide a solid 8/10

Out now on Nintendo Switch

https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/Nintendo-Switch-download-software/Side-Decide-2422835.html