REVIEW: AVOPUG SHOW (2024 Video Game) - On PC (Steam)

By Jon Donnis

Avopug Show attempts to break free from the conventions of typical arcade racing games, offering a refreshing and innovative experience that challenges players in unexpected ways. Developed by solo indie game maker "Marakesch," this game is a testament to creativity and dedication.

The game introduces a novel concept where players navigate through tracks that constantly reveal themselves, adding an element of uncertainty and excitement to each race. With tracks spanning diverse environments, from the clouds to outer space and even vintage cartoons, Avopug Show keeps the experience fresh and engaging. You will collect a few different kinds of power ups, including a shield and speed ups. Watch out for obstacles as you do have a health limit you need to keep an eye on.

One of the highlights of Avopug Show is its striking graphics, which contribute to the immersive experience. The attention to detail in the environments and track designs is commendable, adding to the game's overall appeal. I also really enjoyed the soundtrack, which has  a good selection of different songs, all decent and enjoyable.

However, Avopug Show isn't without its flaws. Some players may find the initial vehicle controls challenging to master, although with perseverance, it becomes more manageable. Additionally, the field of view used in the game may trigger motion sickness in some players, limiting their playtime. I suffer with motion sickness with some games, going back to the days of Mario Kart on the SNES. I am not sure what it is exactly in some racing games that sets me off, but if you suffer with this too, then be aware you may only manage 20 minutes at most before you start to feel it.

In summary, Avopug Show is a commendable indie arcade racing game that dares to break away from the norm. While it may not be perfect, its ambition to offer something new and different in a crowded market deserves recognition. With its mix of innovation, challenge, and charm, Avopug Show earns a solid score of 7 out of 10.

Out Now on Steam

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2141250/AVOPUG_SHOW/

German Computer Game Awards 2024: Celebrating Innovation, Creativity, and Accessibility in Gaming

Image: (German Computer Game Awards 2024)

By Jon Donnis

 The gaming industry in Germany gathered in full force at the prestigious German Computer Game Awards 2024, held in Munich. The event, which took place on April 18th, honored the outstanding achievements of game developers across various categories, showcasing the diversity and talent within the German gaming landscape.

Among the highlights of the evening was the recognition of exceptional titles and the creative teams behind them. The coveted award for 'Best German Game' was bestowed upon ROCKFISH Games for their captivating space adventure, EVERSPACE 2. Additionally, the survival horror game Ad Infinitum, developed by the emerging talents at Hekate, swept three categories, including 'Best Debut,' 'Best Story,' and 'Best Audio Design,' showcasing their prowess in game development.

The accolades didn't stop there. Pixel Maniacs from Nuremberg was rightfully named 'Studio of the Year,' while the audience award for 'Player of the Year' was deservedly claimed by Maurice Weber. A special commendation, the 'Special Jury Award,' was granted to the initiative 'Gaming ohne Grenzen' (Gaming without Borders), emphasizing the importance of accessibility in gaming.

The event, hosted at the Eisbach Studios in Munich, welcomed distinguished guests from government, culture, society, and the gaming industry. Notable personalities, including Minister-President of Bavaria Dr. Markus Söder, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action Michael Kellner, comedian Marti Fischer, actor Özgür Karadenis, streamer Layna, and journalist and author Ronja von Rönne, graced the occasion as award presenters, adding to the grandeur of the ceremony.

Sponsored by the Federal Government, represented by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, and game – the German Games Industry Association, the German Computer Game Awards underscore the significance of governmental support in fostering the growth and innovation of the gaming sector. This year's ceremony was further sponsored by the Bavarian State Ministry for Digital Affairs, emphasizing the collaborative efforts to bolster the gaming industry in Germany.

Michael Kellner, Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, commended the winners for their remarkable achievements and reiterated the government's commitment to supporting the gaming industry through new funding initiatives. The aim is to harness the industry's potential and facilitate the development of world-class games within Germany.

Felix Falk, Managing Director at game - the German Games Industry Association, lauded the winning titles as a testament to the creativity and innovation thriving within the German games industry. Despite economic challenges, the German Computer Game Awards showcased the resilience and ingenuity of game developers, highlighting Germany's prominence as a hub for gaming excellence.

The awards ceremony also recognized excellence beyond borders, with the inclusion of international titles such as Baldur's Gate 3 by Larian Studios, demonstrating the global impact and recognition of gaming craftsmanship.

In addition to celebrating exemplary games and talent, the German Computer Game Awards serve as a platform to champion inclusivity and accessibility in gaming. Initiatives like 'Gaming ohne Grenzen' exemplify the industry's dedication to ensuring that gaming experiences are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their abilities or limitations.

As the curtains close on the German Computer Game Awards 2024, the spotlight shines brightly on the remarkable achievements of game developers, highlighting their contributions to the vibrant and dynamic world of gaming. With continued support from government entities, industry associations, and passionate creators, the future of the German gaming landscape appears brighter than ever, promising new adventures, innovations, and experiences for gamers worldwide.

Amazon Offers Fallout 76 for Free: A Prime Deal for Gaming Enthusiasts

As the gaming world eagerly enjoys the release of Amazon's live-action Fallout series on Prime Video (You can watch that at https://amzn.to/3JkQ9kl), the tech giant has surprised fans with a generous offer: Fallout 76 for free on Xbox and PC through Prime Gaming. This move not only capitalizes on the buzz surrounding the upcoming series but also underscores Amazon's commitment to providing value to its Prime subscribers.

Sign up FOR FREE to Prime Gaming exclusively at https://amzn.to/3UgdtGe

Prime Gaming, a perk included with an Amazon Prime subscription, offers a plethora of benefits to gamers. Subscribers gain access to free monthly games and exclusive bonuses for popular titles such as FC 24, Overwatch, and Pokemon Go. And the best part? You can test out Prime Gaming for free with a 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.

The timing couldn't be better, with Amazon's Fallout series already receiving rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. The live-action adaptation of the beloved franchise is available for streaming at no extra cost to Prime members, creating a synergistic relationship between the series and the gaming community.

Fallout 76, released in 2018, represented the latest installment in the Fallout universe. Serving as both a spin-off and a prequel to the main series, the game offers an immersive open-world multiplayer experience set in a post-nuclear America. Players assume the role of a Vault Dweller emerging from Vault 76 on Reclamation Day, 2102, tasked with rebuilding civilization in the aftermath of nuclear devastation.

To claim their free copy of Fallout 76, Prime members simply need to sign up for Prime Gaming and redeem their code through the Microsoft Store. This offer is available until May 15, allowing ample time for fans to dive into the wasteland and embark on their post-apocalyptic adventures.

Sign up FOR FREE to Prime Gaming exclusively at https://amzn.to/3UgdtGe

But Fallout 76 isn't the only gem in Prime Gaming's treasure trove. Subscribers can also enjoy complimentary access to titles like Chivalry 2, Black Desert, and Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel. Additionally, Amazon Luna offers a selection of cloud games, including classics like Fallout: New Vegas and Fallout 3, along with popular titles like Fortnite and Rocket Racing.

Prime Gaming extends beyond free games, offering subscribers a range of in-game bonuses and perks. From gaming packs for FC 24 to character skins for Overwatch and Super Potions for Pokemon Go, Prime members can enhance their gaming experience across multiple platforms.

You can alsopick up Fallout 4 Game Of The Year Edition for a great price at CD Keys 

Just £6.49 at cdkeys.pxf.io/Kj5BYx

REVIEW: Storyblocks: The King (2024 Video Game) - On Nintendo Switch

Review by Jon Donnis

Storyblocks: The King invites players into a tranquil journey where storytelling and puzzle-solving intertwine seamlessly. Set in a medieval realm, this Nintendo Switch game offers a serene escape as you guide a young dreamer on his quest to become king. The game's premise is simple yet intriguing: solve puzzles to forge pathways and uncover the next chapter of the narrative.

One of the game's standout features is its flexibility in narrative exploration. Players have the freedom to craft their own journey, shaping the story with each decision. With 18 books to complete and four possible endings, there's ample room for discovery and replayability. The minimalist visuals and original soundtrack complement the serene atmosphere, enhancing the immersion into the medieval world.

However, Storyblocks: The King is not without its flaws. On the Nintendo Switch Lite, the controls can be overly sensitive, detracting from the overall experience. Furthermore, the lack of clear instructions may leave players feeling adrift, struggling to grasp the mechanics without guidance. While the adjustable camera angles offer some flexibility, they fail to address underlying issues with navigation.

The puzzles themselves, while integral to the gameplay, lack the depth to provide a substantial challenge. The requirement to use all path pieces in each level feels more restrictive than strategic, diminishing the puzzle-solving aspect of the game. As a result, Storyblocks: The King may leave some players craving more complexity and engagement.

In conclusion, Storyblocks: The King offers a charming blend of storytelling and puzzle-solving, making it an enjoyable experience for fans of wholesome games. However, its sensitivity issues on the Nintendo Switch Lite, coupled with a lack of challenge and clear instructions, hinder its potential. While the concept is promising, execution falls short in delivering a fully immersive and satisfying gameplay experience. Despite its shortcomings, Storyblocks: The King remains a pleasant diversion for those seeking a tranquil journey through medieval tales.

Final Score: 6 out of 10

Out Now on Nintendo Switch at

https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/Nintendo-Switch-download-software/Storyblocks-The-King-2550385.html

REVIEW: Art of Stunt (2024 Video Game) on PC

Review by Jon Donnis

Art of Stunt, a 2.5D side-scrolling motorbike game in the mould of Trials, propels players into a world of daring stunts and adrenaline-pumping challenges. With over 80 levels, the game promises a variety of heart-stopping scenarios, from leaping off skyscrapers to navigating treacherous mountain paths. However, beneath its flashy exterior lies a game struggling to find its balance.

One of Art of Stunt's redeeming qualities is its visually appealing graphics. From industrial landscapes to perilous mountain ranges, the game's environments are well-crafted and immersive. Each level presents a new backdrop for players to explore, adding to the game's sense of adventure.

However, the game falls short in its execution of controls. While the motorbike controls are touted as realistic, I found them cumbersome, particularly when using a keyboard. Gamepad control, while an improvement, still leaves much to be desired, hindering the overall experience. Additionally, poor level design further compounds these issues, detracting from what should be the game's main draw: exhilarating stunts.

In comparison to similar titles like Trials, Art of Stunt lacks the polish and intuitive controls that make for a truly engaging experience. While it offers glimpses of potential with its diverse levels and stunt opportunities, these are overshadowed by its fundamental flaws.

Ultimately, Art of Stunt falls short of its promise. Despite its visual appeal and potential for excitement, the game's lackluster controls and poor level design prevent it from reaching its full potential. With room for improvement, it's clear that Art of Stunt has yet to master the art of delivering a truly thrilling stunt biking experience.

I score Art of Stunt 4 out of 10

Out Now on Steam

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1913610/Art_of_Stunt/