REVIEW: Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore (2024 Video Game) - on PC (Steam)

Review by Jon Donnis

Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore delivers a nostalgic experience reminiscent of the classic CD-i Zelda games, offering players a hack-and-slash adventure in the enchanting land of Faramore. Controlling the courageous Arzette, players embark on a quest to thwart the sinister plans of the demon lord Daimur, engaging in 2D action platformer gameplay enriched with animated cutscenes. The game flawlessly captures the essence of the CD-i era, drawing inspiration from beloved classics while infusing its own unique charm. The gameplay may feel familiar to veterans of the genre.

The narrative of Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore is a captivating tale of heroism, betrayal, and redemption. Set in the kingdom of Faramore, players witness the treacherous onslaught of the demon lord Daimur, aided by the duplicitous Duke Nodelki. As Princess Arzette, accompanied by her unlikely allies, sets out to vanquish the darkness threatening her realm, players are immersed in a richly crafted world filled with intrigue and peril. The journey to reclaim the shattered Jewel of Faramore is not only a test of skill but also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The game masterfully weaves together elements of fantasy and adventure, culminating in a satisfying conclusion that leaves players eager for more.

Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore excels in paying homage to the classic CD-i Zelda games, capturing the essence of the beloved titles with remarkable authenticity. From its art style to its gameplay mechanics, the game exudes retro charm, appealing to fans of the genre and newcomers alike. The attention to detail is commendable, with lovingly crafted environments and character designs that evoke a sense of nostalgia. The inclusion of fun cutscenes adds depth to the storytelling, immersing players in the fantastical world of Faramore. Despite its homage to the past, the game manages to carve out its own identity, offering a fresh take on familiar concepts.

While Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore succeeds in many aspects, it does falter in its difficulty level. Some players may find the game to be too easy, lacking the challenge they seek in such an adventure. This discrepancy in difficulty may hinder the overall experience for those craving a more rigorous test of their skills. However, this minor flaw does little to detract from the overall enjoyment of the game, which remains a delightful journey through a nostalgic landscape.

In conclusion, Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore is a well-crafted homage to the classic CD-i Zelda games, offering players a nostalgic adventure brimming with retro charm and engaging gameplay. While its ease of difficulty may deter some players, its captivating storyline, charming visuals, and immersive world more than compensate for any shortcomings. Overall, Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore is a delightful experience that pays tribute to its predecessors while carving out its own place in gaming history. I wholeheartedly score Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore an admirable 8 out of 10.

Out now on Steam

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1924780/Arzette_The_Jewel_of_Faramore/

REVIEW: Ultros (2024 Video Game) - On PC

Review by Jon Donnis

"Ultros," developed by Hadoque and published by Kepler Interactive, is a mesmerizing journey through a surreal and visually stunning world trapped in a time loop aboard the enigmatic ship known as the Sarcophagus. As players awaken in this bewildering setting, they are thrust into a narrative that blurs the lines between reality and dream, confronting them with a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, bizarre flora and fauna, and cryptic encounters with the ship's remaining inhabitants.

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Gameplay in "Ultros" revolves around the player's mission to prevent the awakening of the eponymous demon, Ultros, imprisoned within the ship. The overgrown vessel serves as a labyrinthine playground where players navigate through hordes of alien creatures, engage in combat with bosses driven mad by the time loop, and harness the power of seeds obtained from interactions with the ship's denizens. These seeds allow players to cultivate edible plants, enhancing their abilities and facilitating progression through the ever-shifting environment.

The combat system evolves from a simple hack-and-slash mechanic to a nuanced and precise swordplay experience as players unlock new abilities. The incorporation of elements from roguelites and metroidvanias adds depth to the gameplay, offering a captivating blend of exploration and progression. The time loop mechanic introduces a dynamic aspect to the world, allowing players to influence future iterations through their choices and actions in previous loops.

Visually, "Ultros" is a feast for the eyes, boasting vibrant aesthetics and imaginative creature designs that contribute to its otherworldly atmosphere. However, the game's complexity may occasionally lead to frustration, with some mechanical aspects feeling overly vague. Additionally, while combat is engaging, some encounters may lack challenge, and certain control issues could be addressed for a smoother experience.

In summary, "Ultros" is a bold and innovative entry in the metroidvania genre, offering a richly immersive experience that captivates players with its stunning visuals and enthralling gameplay. Despite some minor flaws, its unique blend of elements from various genres sets it apart as a standout title, earning it a strong recommendation and a score of 8 out of 10.

Out Now on Steam at

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2386310/Ultros/

Cheapest price I have found to buy Ultros is from CDKeys which is 5 quid cheaper at 

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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/