REVIEW: Dead Man´s Diary (2024 Video Game) on Playstation 5

Review by Jon Donnis

While I typically avoid revisiting games for reviews, the revamped release of Dead Man's Diary on PlayStation 5 intrigued me enough to reconsider. However, rather than rehashing everything, I'd encourage you to check out my original review of the PC version from a few years ago at http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2022/03/review-dead-mans-diary-on-pc-steam.html. This will provide insight into why I felt compelled to give this game another chance.

Dead Man's Diary, the narrative-driven survival adventure game from TML-Studios, ventures into the post-apocalyptic realm with promising visuals and an immersive premise. Launched on PlayStation 5 after its initial stumble on other platforms, the game aims to deliver a captivating experience amidst a desolate world.

Visually, Dead Man's Diary shines on the PlayStation 5, boasting stunning environments ranging from eerie forests to desolate ruins, all powered by the Unreal Engine 5. The graphical prowess sets an immersive backdrop for players to delve into the game's narrative.

The audio production complements the visuals, with intense internal monologues and emotive music guiding players through the protagonist's journey. However, despite these strengths, the game falls short in some key areas.

The narrative premise, while intriguing, is hindered by repetitive gameplay and unresolved issues carried over from previous releases. Despite enhancements, including a revamped tutorial and dynamic help options, fundamental problems persist. The inability to skip cutscenes, clunky menu systems, and frustrating mechanics like managing meters and swapping tools detract from the overall experience.

While the game incorporates survival elements like managing hunger and scavenging for resources, they feel underdeveloped and fail to add depth to gameplay. Additionally, the presence of "invisible" walls and limited healing items further dampen the immersion.

Despite its flaws, Dead Man's Diary does have redeeming qualities. The lock-picking mini-game and occasional horror elements add variety to gameplay, and the help system proves valuable for newcomers. However, these highlights are overshadowed by the game's persistent shortcomings.

In conclusion, Dead Man's Diary shows promise with its captivating premise and impressive visuals on the PlayStation 5. However, unresolved issues and repetitive gameplay hinder the overall experience, resulting in a frustrating journey for players. While the help system is commendable, it's not enough to salvage the game's fundamental flaws. With a generous score of 4 out of 10, Dead Man's Diary falls short of its potential, leaving players craving a more polished and engaging experience.

Out now at https://store.playstation.com/en-gb/product/EB0129-PPSA16657_00-DEADMANSDIARY000

REVIEW: BMX Gravel on PC (Steam)

Review by Jon Donnis

"BMX Gravel" offers a thrilling ride through its gravelly terrain, combining BMX skills with an adventurous twist. With its easy-to-learn yet hard-to-master gameplay, this 2D side-scrolling arcade-style game promises plenty of fun as you tear through the levels, pulling off impressive tricks and discovering hidden gems along the way.

One of the game's standout features is its clean and visually appealing graphics. The artwork and custom graphics add to the immersive experience, creating a distinct environment for players to explore. Controlling the bike and performing flips and tricks is undoubtedly enjoyable, adding a layer of excitement to each level.

However, "BMX Gravel" isn't without its flaws. Some certain aspects of the game physics feel off, detracting from the overall experience. Control of the bike can sometimes feel a bit light, leading to moments where players may feel less in control than desired. Additionally, the game's format may leave some players feeling like it's better suited for a browser or mobile platform rather than a full-fledged PC game.

In conclusion, "BMX Gravel" earns a fair score of 6 out of 10. While it delivers on its promise of providing some fun and excitement, it may not offer enough longevity to keep players engaged for extended periods. Nonetheless, for those looking for a casual gaming experience with a BMX twist, "BMX Gravel" is worth a spin.

Out now on Steam for a few quid.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2754670/BMX_Gravel/

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