REVIEW: Aqua Strike (VR Game) on MetaQuest - Racing, Combat, and Splashes of Fun

Review by Jon Donnis

Aqua Strike makes waves as the first boat racing game on Meta Quest, giving players a fresh mix of speed, strategy, and action-packed battles on the water. It throws you into vibrant aquatic courses where the aim is not just to race but to outgun your rivals as well. While it may not be the most polished or lightning-fast VR racer out there, it delivers plenty of fun with intuitive controls and an addictive progression system that makes it easy to keep playing.

From the moment you launch into your first race, the game feels simple to grasp but still engaging. You can choose from a range of boats and jet skis, customising them to match your style, whether you prefer raw speed or a heavier build packed with weapons. The ability to arm your vessel brings an extra layer of excitement to the races. Firing at opponents as you navigate tight corners and unpredictable waves makes every event feel like a challenge. The Race and Chase modes offer just enough variety to keep things interesting, with some tracks designed for pure racing thrills and others packed with combat chaos.

The control system is one of the game's highlights. Steering with two hands using a virtual handle feels surprisingly realistic and makes it easy to guide your boat through sharp turns or quickly adjust your speed. It adds a satisfying physicality to the experience, making each manoeuvre feel more immersive. What's even more impressive is how well the game manages motion sickness. For a VR title set on water, where constant movement could easily cause discomfort, Aqua Strike feels incredibly smooth. Even players prone to nausea in VR will likely find themselves able to play for long sessions without issue.

On the visual side, the game is a bit rough around the edges. The graphics are basic, with environments that lack the detail and richness seen in higher-budget VR games. While this simplicity might help prevent motion sickness and keep the game running smoothly, it does detract from the overall excitement. The sense of speed can also feel underwhelming at times. Boats move steadily rather than with the heart-racing velocity you might expect, which slightly dampens the adrenaline rush that typically comes with racing games.

Despite these drawbacks, Aqua Strike remains a fun, accessible experience. Unlocking new boats, skins, and tracks adds a satisfying progression element, giving you a reason to keep coming back for just one more race. It may not be the most visually stunning or fastest-paced racer, but the combination of intuitive controls, enjoyable combat, and thoughtful comfort features make it a worthwhile addition to any Meta Quest library.

For a low-priced game with a small download size, Aqua Strike punches above its weight. It is an entertaining and easy-to-play title that fills a unique gap in the VR market. While it might not blow you away with blistering speed or jaw-dropping visuals, it offers a solid, enjoyable racing experience with enough personality to keep you coming back. A fair score would be 7.5 out of 10, and if you are looking for something different to add to your VR collection, this game is definitely worth a try.

Out Now on MetaQuest

https://www.meta.com/en-gb/experiences/aqua-strike/8349315541842358/

REVIEW: Moorhuhn VR Blast (2025 Video Game) - A Nostalgic Yet Limited VR Shooter

Review by Jon Donnis

Moorhuhn VR Blast brings the long-running chicken-shooting franchise into the world of virtual reality, offering a fast, frantic, and highly entertaining experience that stays true to the series' arcade roots. Built from the ground up for VR, the game provides intuitive controls that make aiming and shooting feel natural, ensuring that players can jump straight into the action without much of a learning curve. The premise is as simple as ever, shoot as many Moorhuhns as possible while dodging their incoming eggs in a bid to climb the global leaderboards. It is a game that thrives on quick reflexes and accuracy, rewarding those who can rack up combos and discover hidden tricks in each level.

The game features a selection of weapons that keep the gameplay feeling varied. The standard shotgun delivers that satisfying old-school feel, while the more advanced weaponry, like laser guns, adds a futuristic twist. Unlocking these weapons through time trials creates an incentive to keep improving, and each gun has its own advantages that can change how you approach the action. Beyond the weapons, power-ups scattered throughout the levels provide temporary boosts, such as instant reloads or more powerful shots, which can turn the tide of a match and add an extra layer of strategy. The game's interactive environments also play a role in boosting scores. Shooting barrels to create explosions, unlocking secret boxes, and finding ways to release high-value Moorhuhns keeps each level engaging and encourages players to experiment with their surroundings.

There is a good amount of content in terms of locations, with levels designed as callbacks to previous games in the series. Each area has a distinct feel, and the chickens themselves change outfits depending on the setting, adding a bit of personality to the experience. The game includes two main modes, Arcade and Endless Survival. Arcade Mode sticks closely to the traditional Moorhuhn formula, where the goal is to rack up as many points as possible before time runs out. Endless Survival ramps up the challenge by throwing more and more chickens at the player while testing their ability to dodge incoming eggs. The inclusion of cheats and costumes adds another layer of fun, with gameplay modifiers that can make chickens larger, remove the need to reload, or add absurd cosmetic changes to the chaos.

While Moorhuhn VR Blast succeeds in creating a fun and chaotic shooter, it does not offer much in the way of long-term depth. The core gameplay loop is undeniably enjoyable, but the focus on high scores and unlockables means there is little to keep players engaged beyond leaderboard competition. The game is at its best in short bursts, making it a great pick-up-and-play title but perhaps not one that will hold attention for long sessions. Despite this, the developers have done a solid job of modernizing the franchise while keeping its signature humour and simplicity intact. Fans of the Moorhuhn series will find plenty to enjoy, while newcomers looking for a lighthearted and fast-paced VR shooter will have fun as well. It may not be the most complex VR experience out there, but as a casual arcade shooter, it delivers exactly what it promises, pure, unfiltered chicken-blasting chaos.

Out Now on Meta Quest

https://www.meta.com/en-gb/experiences/moorhuhn-vr-blast/25427773600143043/

REVIEW: Mostroscopy (2025 Video Game) - On Xbox

Review by Jon Donnis

Mostroscopy is a fighting game that takes inspiration from the horror and Luchador films of 1950s Mexican cinema, creating a visually unique experience with a roster of masked wrestlers and classic monsters. The game embraces a retro presentation, combining simple controls with an accessible fighting system. While it excels in style and atmosphere, its gameplay may not have enough depth to satisfy more experienced fighting game fans.

The first thing that stands out is the aesthetic. The game feels like an old horror film brought to life, with grainy textures, dramatic lighting and expressive character designs. Each fighter, from Luchadores to vampires and werewolves, has a distinct look that fits perfectly into the world the game has built. The presentation is further enhanced by a 3D mode that mimics the classic anaglyph effect, though this is more of a fun novelty than a core feature.

The gameplay follows a simplified system inspired by Smash Bros. and Street Fighter x Tekken. Each character has a normal attack, a special attack and a guard button, making it easy to pick up and play. The two-button combat is intuitive, though it may feel limited for those used to more complex fighting games. While each character has unique moves, the lack of depth means that battles can sometimes feel repetitive, especially in longer sessions.

The game offers several modes, including arcade mode where players can take on a final boss and see their character's ending. There is also a versus mode for local multiplayer, an online mode with random matches and custom rooms, a challenge mode for practicing combos and a training mode for refining skills. While these modes add variety, the lack of customization options is disappointing. More control over graphical settings or gameplay tweaks would have been a welcome addition.

The audio is another strong point. The soundtrack captures the eerie yet exciting tone of vintage horror, with a mix of dramatic pulpy rock themes. Sound effects are satisfying, adding impact to every punch, kick and monstrous roar.

While Mostroscopy is an enjoyable game, it has a few shortcomings. The simplified mechanics mean that experienced fighting game fans may lose interest quickly. The online mode, while a great inclusion, suffers from occasional lag that can disrupt matches. The lack of options also feels like a missed opportunity, as more customization could have improved the experience.

Mostroscopy is a fighting game designed more for casual players who appreciate its aesthetic rather than those looking for a deep competitive experience. It is stylish, fun and easy to pick up, but its simplicity may not hold attention for long. The game excels in its presentation and character design, making it a great tribute to classic Mexican cinema, but whether that is enough to keep players engaged will depend on what they are looking for in a fighting game.

Score: 7/10

Out Now on Xbox - https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/games/store/mostroscopy/9NGJL4RCWNQ7

REVIEW: Driving Is Hard (2025 Video Game) A Punishing but Satisfying Test of Patience

Review by Jon Donnis

Driving Is Hard is one of those games that sounds simple in theory but quickly reveals itself as a brutal test of skill and endurance. This physics-based driving game on PC challenges you to control a bathtub on wheels, navigating treacherous terrain where every mistake can send you tumbling back to the start. It is unforgiving, frustrating, and at times infuriating, yet somehow keeps pulling you back in for one more attempt.

Visually, the game is bright and colourful, with detailed environments that keep things interesting as you progress. The controls are tight and responsive, which is crucial for a game where precision is everything. On top of that, you have a parachute that automatically deploys when falling, offering just a little bit of extra control to stop complete disaster. That does not mean the game is easy, though. You will need to master jumps, air control, and the tricky physics of the bathtub itself. The difficulty is relentless, and it is very much designed for players who enjoy the challenge of perfecting their technique. If you make a mistake, there is no safety net to catch you. You will fall, sometimes all the way back to the beginning, forcing you to try again.

What makes Driving Is Hard stand out is that it is not just a frustrating physics challenge. There is also a story running beneath it all, following Jeff as he deals with self-doubt, family struggles, and personal growth. It adds an emotional element that is unusual for a game in this genre, making the journey to the top feel a little more meaningful. There is also a nice incentive to keep pushing forward, with collectible soaps scattered throughout the levels and different bathtub skins to unlock.

The game is being actively updated by the developer, with regular bug fixes and improvements, which is always a good sign. However, it is not a game for everyone. If you do not have the patience for games that constantly punish you, this is not for you. It is the kind of experience that will have you gripping your controller in frustration, or in some cases, throwing it across the room. That is not a flaw of the game itself, but rather a feature of the genre.

If you enjoy brutally difficult driving games that demand precision and patience, then Driving Is Hard is a great example of the genre. If you do not have the time or tolerance for setbacks, you may find yourself giving up before reaching the end.

 

I personally enjoyed it to a point, but my patience wore thin after too many failures. I give Driving Is Hard a solid 7.5 out of 10.

Out Now

https://store.steampowered.com/app/3175860/Driving_Is_Hard/

REVIEW: Campbell and Fremont Office/Gaming Glasses from Gunnar Optiks’ Luma Collection

Fremont 

Images provided by GUNNAR

Review by Jon Donnis

Gunnar Optiks continues to lead the way in blue light-blocking eyewear, and their new Luma Collection is proof of that. Designed for professionals and digital enthusiasts who want stylish protection without the gamer aesthetic, the Campbell and Fremont glasses offer a sleek, modern look while reducing eye strain, fatigue and headaches.

Fremont 

Both pairs are made from a combination of stainless steel and acetate, giving them a premium feel and a lightweight yet sturdy construction. The Campbell features a sharp rectangular design that feels polished and sophisticated, while the Fremont has a timeless round frame that adds a touch of classic style. Each pair has flexible spring hinges, ensuring a comfortable fit for all-day wear. The subtle temple vents add a refined detail that makes these glasses stand out without being overly flashy.

Fremont 

Now the technical stuff, both are available in both Amber and Clear Pro tints, these lenses filter harmful blue light, provide 100 percent UV protection and include a smudge-resistant, anti-reflective coating. The Amber lenses enhance contrast, making them perfect for long gaming sessions, while the Clear Pro option maintains true colour accuracy, making them ideal for professionals working with visuals. The slight focusing power in the lenses helps to relieve eye strain, which becomes noticeable after hours in front of a screen.

Campbell 

After testing both pairs, the difference was clear. Long gaming sessions felt easier on the eyes, and working at a computer for extended periods was far more comfortable. My partner, who used the Campbell frames in an office setting, also noticed fewer headaches and less eye strain by the end of the day. These glasses do exactly what they are designed to do, and they do it well.

Campbell 

Aside from their effectiveness, they look fantastic. I received multiple compliments while wearing the Fremont frames, while my partner preferred the sharp structure of the Campbell. It is rare to find blue light-blocking glasses that look this stylish, and Gunnar has done an excellent job of blending fashion with function.

Campbell 

Gunnar Optiks is proving time and time again why they are one of the best in the business. The Campbell and Fremont glasses are both stylish and practical, offering real relief from the effects of prolonged screen time. If you spend hours in front of screens, whether for work or gaming, investing in a pair of these glasses is a decision you will not regret.

Freemont available at

https://gunnar.com/collections/shop-all/products/fremont

Campbell available at

https://gunnar.com/collections/shop-all/products/campbell

Disclaimer:

Both glasses were provided for review purposes by Gunnar, this review is an honest and original unpaid review and opinion of the glasses.