REVIEW: DOOM™: The Dark Ages (2025 Video Game) - on Xbox

Game and artwork provided by Bethesda

Review by Jon Donnis

Doom: The Dark Ages is the latest instalment in the legendary first-person shooter franchise, developed by id Software and published by Bethesda Softworks in 2025. Marking the eighth main entry and the third in the modern series, it takes players back in time, setting the story long before the events of the 2016 reboot. This prequel explores the origins of the Doom Slayer, immersing players in a gritty techno-medieval war between humanity and the demonic forces of Hell.

Unlike its fast-paced predecessors, Doom: The Dark Ages shifts the gameplay towards a more grounded and deliberate style. The combat feels weighty, reflecting the Doom Slayer's transformation into an ironclad force of nature. Enhanced melee options add a layer of tactical depth, and the introduction of slow-motion glory kills allows players to feel in control even amidst chaotic battles. The game's standout innovation is the Shield Saw, a versatile tool that can block, parry and attack with a single input, rewarding skill and timing over frantic shooting. This fresh combat mechanic redefines encounters, requiring players to engage carefully rather than relying solely on speed and reflexes.

The arsenal expands with new weapons such as the Skull Crusher, a unique gun firing bone fragments that fits perfectly with the dark medieval setting. Alongside traditional melee weapons like the iron mace and flail, these tools diversify combat styles, encouraging experimentation. Another new feature is the ability to pilot massive machines, including a cybernetic dragon and a towering 30-storey Atlan mech, adding spectacular moments that break up the combat flow and showcase the game's grand scale.

Narratively, the game delves deeper into the Doom Slayer's past, adding layers of complexity to his motivations and the brutal war he fights. Set in the kingdom of Argent D'Nur, players witness the brutal conflict between the Night Sentinels and Hell's armies, led by the cunning Prince Ahzrak. The story is richer in character development, enhanced by well-crafted cutscenes that elevate the game beyond mindless shooting. It explores themes of control, betrayal and resilience, particularly through the relationship between the Slayer and his manipulative master, Kreed Maykr.

The game's world is atmospheric and immersive. The techno-medieval aesthetic blends grim castles and ruined fortresses with otherworldly Hellscapes, creating an environment that feels both ancient and futuristic. While the graphics are solid, they tend to lean towards a muted palette, which fits the setting but may lack some of the vibrancy seen in earlier entries. The sound design is atmospheric, though the musical score does not quite reach the iconic heights of previous Doom games, which might disappoint some fans expecting bombastic metal anthems.

Despite the deliberate pacing, combat remains engaging, demanding patience and strategy rather than pure aggression. The Shield Saw system rewards mastery and keeps encounters fresh, while the variety of enemies and the introduction of massive mechanical foes prevent the gameplay from becoming stale. However, some players might find the slower pace less thrilling than the relentless action they are used to. 

Doom: The Dark Ages offers a bold new direction for the franchise. It blends weighty, strategic combat with a compelling story set in a richly imagined world. Although the soundtrack and visuals may not impress everyone, the game's innovative mechanics and atmospheric setting make it a worthwhile experience. It is a welcome challenge for fans of first-person shooters seeking something a little different, and it sets a strong foundation for future additions to the series. I score Doom: The Dark Ages a solid 8 out of 10.

Out Now on Xbox

https://amzn.to/4jF6b8J

REVIEW: The Precinct (2025 Video Game) Law, Order, and a Touch of Neon Noir - Out On Xbox Now

Game provided free by Fallen Tree Games

Review by Jon Donnis

In an era where open-world games often lean toward playing the villain, The Precinct dares to flip the badge. Developed by Fallen Tree Games and published by Kwalee, this action-adventure title puts players in the polished shoes of rookie officer Nick Cordell Jr., patrolling the rain-slicked streets of Averno City, a fictional metropolis modelled after 1980s New York. Instead of carjackings and chaos, you'll be issuing tickets, responding to 911 calls, and slowly uncovering the truth behind your father's mysterious death.

This is more than just another sandbox title. It's a love letter to classic cop dramas and a rare attempt to blend police simulator mechanics with high-octane chases and cinematic flair.

A Living City in 1983

Averno City is the star of the show. With its neon-lit back alleys, foggy parks, and graffitied subway platforms, it drips atmosphere. Dynamic weather and a day-night cycle bring life to the world, and while the map isn't massive by modern standards, it is densely packed with detail. From the financial district's towering glass monoliths to the crumbling tenements of the inner boroughs, The Precinct captures the look and feel of a noir-styled East Coast city on the brink.

What sets this city apart is its vibrancy. Pedestrians go about their lives. Criminals break into cars or sprint through traffic. You're not just chasing scripted events. The game generates crimes across the map, prompting you to respond in real time. It makes every shift feel unique.

Cop Drama, With a Twist

You play as Nick Cordell Jr., son of the late police chief, and the story threads that follow his personal and professional life are surprisingly engaging. The narrative unfolds gradually, rooted in gang conspiracies, political cover-ups, and the legacy of his father's death. It's nothing revolutionary, but it serves the tone well and gives purpose to your beat patrols.

Gameplay mirrors the duties of a real patrol officer, taking cues from titles like Police Quest. You'll write parking tickets, read Miranda rights, book suspects at the station, and call for backup. Your starting kit includes a .38 revolver, baton, and taser, all of which feel authentic. The use-of-force system encourages restraint, rewarding players who follow proper procedure rather than blasting through every situation.

Of course, the action heats up often enough. Car chases, shootouts, and helicopter pursuits punctuate the quieter moments, keeping the pace varied. The combat can feel a little rough early on, particularly in shootouts, but the aiming assistance options help smooth that out quickly.

Playing in Shifts

The Precinct thrives in shorter play sessions. The structure of completing a "shift" works naturally with the game's slightly repetitive loop. It doesn't quite hold up for marathon sessions, but it is perfect for dipping in and out. A quick 30-minute stint still feels meaningful, whether you're busting a drug ring or just calming down a heated parking dispute.

Voice acting and sound design are top notch. The chatter of the streets, the crackle of the radio, the crunch of tyres on wet pavement, all of it feeds into the immersive, cinematic mood. The synth-heavy soundtrack feels period-appropriate and drives home that noir cop drama aesthetic.

A Few Scuffs on the Badge

There are a few minor issues. Occasionally, bugs crop up, such as NPCs glitching or animations stuttering, but nothing game-breaking. The combat, particularly firearms handling, lacks polish early on. However, the more you play, the more natural it feels.

More critically, the gameplay loop can begin to feel repetitive. There is plenty to do, but the core tasks cycle back quickly. This is where post-launch support and DLC could make a huge difference. The game world cries out for expansion.

Final Verdict

The Precinct is a refreshing take on the sandbox genre. It succeeds in creating a compelling cop simulator that is both fun and atmospheric. Its strongest asset is its ability to make you want to play "just one more shift". Between the rich setting, the noir-infused storytelling, and the satisfying gameplay systems, there's a lot here to love.

It is not perfect, but it doesn't need to be. What matters is that The Precinct delivers a new kind of open-world experience, and it does so with real style. With future updates or expansions, it could easily grow into a beloved franchise.

Score: 8.5 out of 10

Out Now on Xbox - https://amzn.to/4jjraO2

NEWS: Xiaomi Showcases Mobile Photography Innovation at Photo London 2025

Photography by Josh Dowler, captured using Xiaomi 15 Ultra

By Jon Donnis

Xiaomi has marked a major milestone in the evolution of mobile photography with its powerful and emotional showcase at Photo London 2025. As the Official Photo Book Market Partner for this year's 10th anniversary edition, the tech giant is using the world-renowned photography fair to spotlight how smartphones can redefine storytelling through imagery.

Staged at Somerset House from 16 to 18 May, Xiaomi's installation titled "Humanity: Emotions in Focus" offered visitors an immersive journey through everyday emotional moments captured with the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. Shot entirely by UK-based photographer and Xiaomi Creator Josh Dowler, the collection explores the depth and detail that mobile technology can now deliver, both technically and emotionally.

The exhibition acts as a spin-off of Xiaomi's broader creative initiative designed to explore how emotion and innovation intersect in mobile photography. Dowler's work, intimate and candid, is a compelling testament to the capabilities of the Xiaomi 15 Series, which is co-engineered with Leica. The combination of hardware and vision allows fleeting, personal moments to be frozen in time with remarkable clarity and feeling.

Jia Wei, Head of Marketing at Xiaomi Western Europe, explained the brand's direction:

"Mobile photography has evolved into one of the most accessible and expressive art forms of our time. With the Xiaomi 15 Series and the 'Humanity: Emotions in Focus' experience, we aim to show that mobile photography is not only a technical marvel but also a deeply human way to tell stories."

Xiaomi's broader campaign includes digital photo itineraries, highlighting moments of emotion and creativity through the lens of its mobile devices.

Michael Benson and Fariba Farshad, co-founders of Photo London, also recognised the significance of Xiaomi's participation:

"We're pleased to have Xiaomi join us in this anniversary edition. Their presence reflects an exciting shift in photography – one where innovation and emotion go hand in hand, expanding the creative possibilities for photographers everywhere."

By showcasing "Humanity: Emotions in Focus" in this context, Xiaomi is not only presenting its latest flagship device but also making a statement about where photography is heading. This year's presence at Photo London cements Xiaomi's role as both a technology innovator and a creative enabler, championing a new era where everyday storytelling is at everyone's fingertips.

REVIEW: GUNNAR Optiks Kista Collection – ELIN, INGRID & SOFIA - Gaming/Office Glasses

Review by Jon Donnis

The Kista Collection from GUNNAR Optiks sets out to do something quite specific: give women who live and breathe digital life a stylish, functional way to protect their eyes. Inspired by Nordic fashion and driven by performance, these glasses cater to anyone from creative professionals to hardcore gamers. My girlfriend wore each pair in both office and gaming settings, and her feedback was clear. Each style works, each one feels good, and each one looks the part.

ELIN: Sleek, Lightweight, Functional

The ELIN model is a standout in terms of versatility and comfort. The slim, full-rim rectangular shape brings a subtle Bayonetta flair without tipping into cosplay territory. These frames are light and feel very high quality, and the saddle bridge sits securely without digging into the nose.

She wore these while working long hours in front of her monitor and then switched straight into evening gaming sessions. Her verdict? These offered the best all-round fit and comfort. There was no slippage, no eye fatigue, and no need to take them off mid-session. The Amber tint made a noticeable difference for screen use, softening glare and helping prevent the dry-eye feeling that normally creeps in after a few hours.

Verdict: Clean, smart, and durable. A great balance of fashion and function.

INGRID: Sophisticated with a Sharp Edge

If ELIN is your everyday go-to, INGRID is the pair you reach for when you want to add a little edge. The narrow cat-eye frame immediately elevates your look while still serving the same core purpose: reducing screen-related strain.

My girlfriend described these as her "Zoom call glasses." The shape gave her a more polished appearance on camera without feeling overdressed. More importantly, they stayed comfortable through full workdays and still provided the same clarity and protection with both lens tint options. She noted that the Amber tint gave impressive relief when gaming.

Verdict: Stylish enough for video calls, practical enough for marathons in front of the screen.

SOFIA: Retro Charm, Modern Function

SOFIA is the most distinct of the trio, thanks to its rounded retro frame and keyhole bridge. It might not suit everyone's face shape, but for those who can pull it off, it's a winner. My girlfriend initially thought these were the least likely to fit her, but they surprised her. Once on, they looked flattering and had a slightly softer feel than the others.

The snug keyhole bridge and sculpted nose pads gave a secure but gentle grip. She particularly liked how these performed during longer late-night sessions. Whether scrolling endlessly or playing narrative-heavy games that go on for hours, SOFIA kept her eyes feeling fresh. The Amber tint helped reduce blue light exposure, and the design added just enough personality to stand out.

Verdict: Retro-inspired without being gimmicky. Great for extended use.

Shared Strengths

All three pairs feature GUNNAR's well-known Blue Light Blocking Lens Technology, which continues to be one of the most effective solutions available for screen-related eye strain. Across all three, my girlfriend reported reduced dryness, fewer headaches, and better focus over long periods.

Each frame is available in three colour options and both Amber and Clear tints, which gives users solid flexibility for their setup, environment, or personal style. The premium engineered polymer feels high-quality across the board, without adding bulk or discomfort.

Final Thoughts

GUNNAR Optiks has once again shown why they lead the way in gaming and office eyewear. The Kista Collection feels thoughtfully designed, not just as a "women's range" but as a serious piece of optical gear wrapped in confident, feminine style. Whether you are bossing it in the boardroom, raiding in an MMO, or just binge-watching your favourite series, these glasses support your eyes without asking you to sacrifice personal style.

Excellent glasses from an excellent company.

Thank you to GUNNAR Optiks for providing the glasses for review.

The glasses are available now at the links below.

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

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

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

REVIEW: Spirit of the North 2 (2025 Video Game) on Xbox

Review by Jon Donnis

Spirit of the North 2 builds upon the charm and beauty of its predecessor, offering a visually stunning but mechanically flawed follow-up. You once again take control of a lone fox, now accompanied by a raven companion, (so he is not a lone fox any more!) as you travel through an ancient world in search of the lost guardians. The core themes of solitude, discovery, and quiet resilience remain, though not always with the same impact.

The world itself is still the star. From frozen peaks to forgotten crypts, each biome offers something visually compelling. There is a relaxing rhythm to the experience, and the soundtrack enhances this beautifully. The environments encourage exploration and reflection, with plenty of hidden lore for those willing to read and dig deep. For fans of tranquil single-player adventures, it delivers some strong moments.

Unfortunately, this sequel also introduces several frustrating elements. Performance issues are noticeable, which should never be an issue on consoles, since it is not like you can upgrade the graphics card on an Xbox Series S. The new jump mechanic requires directional aiming before you leap, which feels awkward and interrupts natural movement. It's a step backward that I found frustrating.

There are also bugs. Some are minor visual glitches, but some can impact navigation or puzzle completion. The early cave section alone can take far too long due to lack of clear direction. Unlike the original, which had better flow despite its simplicity, this game often leaves you unsure of what to do next, look I get it, the developers want people to figure things out without a deep rule set of what to do, but give the player the option, some people just want to know where to go and what to do next.

The raven companion also disappoints. While useful in concept, it suffers from clunky animation and feels more like a distraction than a helpful partner. Given how elegant the fox itself looks and moves, the disparity is stark.

Spirit of the North 2 isn't a bad game, but it does feel unfinished. The new abilities and expanded world should make it superior to the original, but instead, several design choices make it feel less polished. There's still plenty here to enjoy, especially for those who loved the first game, but expect more frustration and less magic this time around.

Score: 6.5 out of 10

 

Out Now on Xbox

https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/games/store/spirit-of-the-north-2/9MTFLR6C8RQ2