GAMING NEWS: The Sandbox and Virtual Brand Group Partner to Bring "The Voice" Experience to the Metaverse

Image: ITV Press

By Jon Donnis

The Sandbox, a prominent decentralized gaming platform under the umbrella of Animoca Brands, has just announced an exciting partnership with the Virtual Brand Group (VBG) and ITV Studios. Together, they're introducing 'The Voice Coach Battle,' a cutting-edge Web3 gaming experience based on ITV Studios' globally acclaimed 'The Voice' TV format, boasting an impressive 155 adaptations worldwide.

In this groundbreaking venture, 'The Voice Coach Battle' invites fans from every corner of the globe to step into the shoes of a celebrity coach, taking center stage in the show's iconic red chair. With the power to hit the infamous big red button, players embark on a journey to guide talent to stardom, with each decision shaping a unique experience.

What sets 'The Voice Coach Battle' apart is its integration with the current season of NBC's 'The Voice.' Players gain exclusive access to participate in the action of season 25, earning limited edition NFTs by accurately predicting winners. Additionally, participants stand a chance to win from a generous prize pool and even secure tickets to live tapings of 'The Voice' across five different countries.

From blind auditions to interactive quests preparing talent for the live stage, players are immersed in a dynamic gameplay experience mirroring the real-life journey of 'The Voice' coaches. Selecting music, curating wardrobes, and offering advice are just a few of the tasks players undertake as they mold their chosen artists for success.

Adding a new dimension to gameplay are four virtual celebrity coaches exclusive to The Sandbox. With unique musical backstories and expert guidance, these coaches aid players on their path to the grand finale, enriching the experience with their diverse insights.

At the Live Show, players witness the culmination of their efforts as their chosen artist takes the stage, dressed in their selected outfit against a backdrop of player-designed stages. With the implementation of innovative game logic, each playthrough promises a fresh and exhilarating experience, encouraging repeated engagement.

Arthur Madrid, CEO and co-founder of The Sandbox, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting The Sandbox's commitment to fostering creativity and self-expression in a digital landscape. Justin W. Hochberg, CEO of Virtual Brand Group, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the groundbreaking nature of the partnership and its potential to revolutionize entertainment globally.

Jurian van der Meer, EVP Brand Licensing, Global Partnerships, ITV Studios, underscored the significance of the collaboration in advancing the esteemed 'The Voice' franchise into new realms of innovation and engagement.

'The Voice Coach Battle' represents a convergence of physical and digital worlds, offering enthusiasts and fans an unprecedented opportunity to immerse themselves in the excitement of the TV show like never before. With real-world prizes, exclusive opportunities, and dynamic gameplay, this innovative gaming experience is poised to captivate audiences worldwide and redefine the intersection of entertainment and technology.

Check out sandbox.game/en/experiences/ by clicking here

PREVIEW: Soulmask (2024 Video Game) on PC

By Jon Donnis

Embark on an epic journey of survival with Soulmask, the highly anticipated video game from CampFire Studio and Qooland Games. Scheduled for an early access launch on June 18th, 2024, Soulmask promises to redefine the genre with its gripping narrative and immersive gameplay experience.

Set in a vast open-world environment, Soulmask plunges players into a world teetering on the brink of chaos. As a survivor fleeing from a deadly sacrificial ritual, you stumble upon an ancient artifact known as the Soulmask. This mystical mask holds untold power, reshaping the very fabric of reality and forever altering the world you once knew.

At the heart of Soulmask lies its revolutionary mask gameplay mechanic. Players wield the power of ancient masks to control NPCs, unlock supernatural abilities, and shape their destiny. As you progress through the game, you'll discover new masks imbued with the spirits of ancient heroes, each granting unique powers and abilities. From immortality to stealth and combat prowess, the possibilities are endless.

Survival in Soulmask is not just about fending off the elements; it's about building a thriving tribe in the face of adversity. Recruit up to 20 tribesmen, each with their own distinct personalities and skills, to fortify your clan and conquer the challenges of the wilderness. With powerful AI and command support, players have the freedom to customize and manage their tribe's workflow, from farming and crafting to base defense and exploration.

Combat in Soulmask is a dynamic and visceral experience, with a diverse array of weapons and skills at your disposal. Engage in physics-based combat with eight weapon types and over 75 skills to master. Whether you prefer close-quarters melee combat or long-range tactics, Soulmask offers endless possibilities for strategic gameplay.

With seven distinct maps to explore, including new biomes such as volcanoes and snow-capped mountains, players will discover a world ripe for exploration and adventure. Uncover the mysteries hidden behind the enigmatic mask as you delve deeper into the lore of Soulmask's expansive world.

While still in its early access phase, Soulmask has already garnered attention for its ambitious scope and innovative gameplay mechanics. Though rough around the edges, the game promises a deeply engaging experience for survival enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Prepare to embark on an unforgettable odyssey when Soulmask arrives on PC via Steam on June 18th, 2024.

Wishlist on Steam now at

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2646460/Soulmask/

Netflix Unveils Exciting Lineup of Exclusive Mobile Games for May

Images provided by Netflix Games Press

By Jon Donnis

In a move sure to delight gamers and entertainment enthusiasts alike, Netflix has announced the release of five new exclusive mobile games for its members this May. From iconic franchises to captivating original stories, the lineup promises something for every gaming taste.

Leading the pack is SEGA's beloved classic, "Sonic Mania Plus," available now for eager players. Join Sonic, Tails, or Knuckles on a nostalgic adventure filled with high-speed thrills and epic boss battles. Packed with '90s nostalgia and modern twists, this homage to the world's fastest blue hedgehog is a must-play for fans old and new.

Next up, on May 14, Netflix members can dive into the enchanting world of "Braid, Anniversary Edition." Traverse through interconnected worlds, manipulating time as you search for a mysterious princess. With 40 new levels and exclusive content for Netflix members, this remaster of the award-winning platformer promises to captivate players with its stunning visuals and thought-provoking gameplay.

Following closely on May 21 is "Paper Trail," a cozy top-down puzzle adventure set in a charming paper world. Join Paige on her journey of self-discovery as she leaves home for the first time, uncovering secrets and solving puzzles along the way. Named Best Mobile Game at Tokyo Game Show, "Paper Trail" offers players an immersive experience filled with memorable characters and inventive gameplay mechanics.

For fans of interactive fiction, "Netflix Stories: Virgin River" arrives on May 29, inviting players to escape to the idyllic town of Virgin River. Navigate romance, friendship, and unexpected challenges as you interact with beloved characters and make choices that shape your own story. Whether you're seeking adventure or romance, "Virgin River" promises an unforgettable gaming experience.

Rounding out the lineup is "Katana Zero," a stylish neo-noir platformer that combines sleek pixel art with fast-paced action. Embark on a journey of revenge as a samurai assassin, slicing through enemies and navigating deadly obstacles. With its retro aesthetics and immersive storytelling, "Katana Zero" is sure to keep players on the edge of their seats.

Best of all, these exclusive Netflix Games are included with all Netflix memberships, free from ads or in-app purchases. Whether you're a Sonic enthusiast, a puzzle aficionado, or a fan of interactive storytelling, Netflix's May lineup promises hours of entertainment for gamers on the go. Get ready to dive into a world of adventure and excitement this May, exclusively on Netflix.

Human Fall Flat Launches Successfully in China, Tops Nintendo Switch Chart

In a groundbreaking move, British games publisher Curve Games and Lithuanian studio No Brakes Games have joined forces with Tencent to successfully launch the popular multiplayer platformer Human Fall Flat into China on the Nintendo Switch.

The game, which has already shipped over 50 million copies across all platforms worldwide, debuted last week and immediately soared to the top of the official store chart in China.

Nick Powell, Executive Producer of Human Fall Flat, expressed his excitement about the game's success in China, saying, "We have worked closely with our partners Tencent and Nintendo to get this game absolutely right for the Switch consumer in China." Powell added, "We are delighted to have hit number one and expect significant sales through the official store for many years."

Human Fall Flat has been a major success on the Nintendo Switch in Asia, particularly in Japan, where it has sold almost two million units alone. Its arrival as the biggest third-party release in the Chinese Nintendo Switch market since December 2020 marks a significant shift in the market, traditionally dominated by first-party releases.

Described as a hilarious, light-hearted physics platformer set in a world of floating dreamscapes, Human Fall Flat offers players a diverse range of environments to navigate, from mansions, castles, and Aztec adventures to snowy mountains, eerie nightscapes, and industrial locations. The game's multiple routes through each level and playful puzzles reward exploration and ingenuity. However, players must navigate their Human's wobbly movements, making every jump, climb, carry, or swing a potential source of hilarious mishaps.

With this successful launch in China, Human Fall Flat continues to solidify its position as a global gaming phenomenon, bringing its unique brand of entertainment to players around the world.

REVIEW: Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes (2024 Video Game) - On Xbox

Review by Jon Donnis

"Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes" marks a triumphant return to the classic JRPG genre, delivering a captivating experience that seamlessly blends nostalgic charm with innovative gameplay mechanics. Developed by Rabbit and Bear Studios and published by 505 Games, this title immerses players in the sprawling continent of Allraan, where political intrigue, magic, and war intertwine to shape a richly crafted narrative.

The story of "Eiyuden Chronicle" unfolds against the backdrop of a diverse world populated by humans, beastmen, elves, and desert dwellers. The discovery of rune-lenses, magical artifacts that amplify power, has led to the rise of the Galdean Empire, whose relentless pursuit of dominance threatens to plunge the land into chaos. Players embark on an epic journey as Seign Kesling, a promising imperial officer, and Nowa, a humble villager, whose fateful encounter sets them on a path fraught with peril and discovery. The narrative deftly explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the consequences of power, inviting players to unravel the mysteries of Allraan while forging their own destinies.

One of the game's standout features is its expansive cast of over 100 unique characters, each with their own distinct personalities and backstories. From battle-hardened warriors to enigmatic mages, every ally brings depth to the adventure, enriching the player's experience as they traverse the world of Allraan. The high-quality 2.5D graphics breathe life into vibrant towns, lush landscapes, and dynamic battlefields, while the stirring soundtrack enhances the immersive atmosphere of exploration and discovery.

At the core of "Eiyuden Chronicle" lies its strategic turn-based combat system, which demands mastery over tactics and resource management. Players must carefully position their party members, form alliances, and adapt to changing terrain to emerge victorious in battle. The inclusion of combo attacks and rune customization adds depth to the gameplay, allowing for dynamic strategies and satisfying encounters.

Party customization is taken to new heights, empowering players to meticulously craft their lineup to suit their tactical preferences. The town upgrading system adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, rewarding players with new enhancements and mini-games as they progress through the story. From engaging in Beigoma battles to honing culinary skills in cooking challenges, the game offers a variety of mini-games that provide entertainment and rewards beyond the main adventure.

While "Eiyuden Chronicle" excels in many areas, it is not without its flaws. Slow traversal, an empty world map, and tedious dungeons detract from the overall experience, making exploration more cumbersome than it should be. Additionally, some players may find the storyline, characters, and mini-games to be relatively simplistic, with a significant amount of micromanagement required to progress.

Overall, "Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes" is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic JRPGs, offering a compelling tale, excellent characterization, and engaging gameplay. Despite its flaws, the game stands as a worthy successor to beloved titles of the past, earning a solid 8 out of 10. Fans of the genre will find much to love in this epic adventure across the land of Allraan.

Out Now on Xbox, PS5 and Switch

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