REVIEW: The Great Rebellion on PC (Steam) by Kvltgames

Review by Jon Donnis

"The Great Rebellion" emerges as a vibrant amalgamation of nostalgic gameplay and dystopian storytelling, inviting players into a cyberpunk Europe teeming with rebellion against technocratic dominance. Crafted by Kvltgames, this 2D platformer, twin-stick shooter, and rogue-like adventure game for PC (Steam) transports gamers to the year 2085, where every pixel pulsates with retro-styled glory.

Set against a backdrop of authoritarian control and digital transcendence, players assume the role of a freedom fighter thrust into the heart of a burgeoning rebellion. The narrative unfolds amidst the chaos of a world seeking to enslave humanity within the confines of blockchain and digital immortality. As the protagonist, players navigate through dynamically generated levels, each playthrough offering a fresh tapestry of challenges, companions, and weapons.

One of the game's standout features is its algorithmic level generation, ensuring that no two adventures mirror each other. This dynamic gameplay element infuses each session with renewed excitement, granting players the freedom to carve their own path through the dystopian landscape. Moreover, the inclusion of a HUB world, "The Waldgang," serves as a sanctuary for progress and interaction, elevating the sense of immersion and continuity within the game.

"The Great Rebellion" excels in its arsenal of fantastical weapons, each offering unique mechanics and playstyles. From laser beams to explosive projectiles, the game encourages experimentation and discovery, enriching the gameplay experience with strategic depth. Furthermore, the incorporation of pop culture references and cheeky nods to European stereotypes adds a layer of humour and familiarity, resonating with players on multiple levels.

Visually, the game dazzles with its pixel-perfect graphics, evoking a sense of retro charm that harkens back to gaming's golden era. Coupled with an infectious soundtrack and immersive sound effects, "The Great Rebellion" succeeds in creating an ambiance that is both captivating and immersive.

However, the game does have its drawbacks. Some players may find the lack of customization options for gamepad controls frustrating, particularly those accustomed to specific layouts. Additionally, the overt political stance may alienate certain segments of the audience, mainly Liberals, so perhaps that isn't really a bad thing. This game is unashamedly BASED.

In conclusion, "The Great Rebellion" stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of retro gaming fused with contemporary storytelling. With its engaging gameplay, charming aesthetics, and dynamic narrative, it offers a nostalgic journey into a cyberpunk future ripe for rebellion. Despite its minor flaws, this "based" adventure earns a solid 9 out of 10, making it a must-play for fans of old-school platform shooters and retro enthusiasts alike.

Out now on Steam

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2732820/The_Great_Rebellion/

REVIEW: Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown on Nintendo Switch

Review by Jon Donnis

"Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown" heralds a triumphant return to the illustrious franchise, weaving a tapestry of enthralling action, intricate puzzles, and time-bending adventure that will ensnare players in its spell from the very outset. This latest installment introduces Sargon, a spirited warrior hailing from The Immortals clan, thrust into a perilous journey to the cursed city of Mount Qaf, where the kidnapped Prince Ghassan awaits his rescue.

The gameplay mechanics of "The Lost Crown" are a masterful symphony of agility and strategy. As players guide Sargon through the labyrinthine landscapes, they are empowered with an array of acrobatic feats, from nimble jumps to graceful slides, all seamlessly integrated into the 2.5D side-scrolling platformer format. Sargon wields a formidable pair of blades, engaging adversaries with swift strikes and well-timed parries to charge his Athra's Glow, unleashing devastating abilities upon his foes.

Yet, it is the introduction of time-based powers that truly elevates the gameplay experience. With Rush of the Simurgh, Sargon can propel himself forward through time, evading danger and traversing obstacles with unparalleled speed. Meanwhile, Shadow of the Simurgh allows him to manipulate time itself, marking checkpoints to aid in his perilous journey through the cursed city. The incorporation of talismans further diversifies Sargon's arsenal, offering players the opportunity to tailor their playstyle with a myriad of customizable abilities.

Beneath the surface of "The Lost Crown" lies a richly woven narrative, teeming with intrigue and mystery. Players are drawn into a world brimming with ancient lore and enigmatic characters, as they unravel the secrets of Mount Qaf and the dark forces that threaten to engulf it. The journey is fraught with perilous encounters and challenging puzzles, each serving to deepen the player's immersion in the immersive world of Prince of Persia.

With its breathtaking visuals, captivating storyline, and polished gameplay mechanics, "Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown" stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the franchise. It is a tour de force that seamlessly blends the essence of its predecessors with innovative new features, setting a new standard for the Metroidvania genre. For fans of action-adventure games, "The Lost Crown" is an absolute must-play, earning a resounding score of 8.5 out of 10.

Out now on Nintendo Switch at https://amzn.to/3SV8CJR

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/