REVIEW: Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro (2025 Release)

Images Courtesy of Xiaomi

Review by Jon Donnis

The Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro are one of those pieces of tech that genuinely feel like a leap forward. I was interested in them because I wanted a proper wireless option for gaming on my phone, something light that wouldn't get in the way or make my head feel like it was in a vice. These earbuds completely nailed that brief. They're small, neat and sit snugly in the ear, and despite how lightweight they are, they never once felt like they were going to drop out. Even after a few hours, they stayed comfortable, and I barely noticed I was wearing them. Not only that they compare very well with full over the ear headphones which are a favourite for gamers.

I took them on a flight recently and that's when I really appreciated the noise cancellation. It cuts out all the usual hum and fuss of being on a plane, and it makes listening to music or a podcast feel like you're in your own quiet space. It's not just a gimmick either, it genuinely works, and makes a huge difference. That clarity is backed up by some really solid audio performance. There's a richness to the sound, with enough bass to keep things feeling lively but without drowning everything else. The mids and highs are well-balanced too, and you can switch EQ profiles depending on what you're listening to. It just all feels very polished and thought-through.

A feature I didn't expect to use as much as I have is the recording function. You just press the case button a few times and it starts capturing audio. I was in a café when I heard a song I liked and had no idea what it was. I quickly started a recording and later used it to identify the track. It was one of those small things that makes a big impression. It's also handy in work settings, especially if you're someone who likes to capture quick voice notes or meeting highlights.

There's also support for dual-device connectivity, which is great if you're juggling your phone and laptop. Switching between them is seamless. Add to that the fact that you get up to 40 hours of use including the case, and you're looking at a very capable all-rounder. A 10-minute charge gives you 4.5 hours of playback too, which has saved me a couple of times when I forgot to charge them overnight.

The only real downside, and it's a bit of a funny one, is that they're too comfortable. Because they're so light and unobtrusive, it's easy to forget you've even got them in. That's great for comfort, but not so great if one were to fall out and you didn't realise. They're small, and like all wireless earbuds, if they're lost, they're properly lost. It's not a flaw in the product, more just something to be aware of.

Overall, I've been seriously impressed by the Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro. They look sharp, sound amazing, and pack in features that you'd usually expect in far more expensive models. With everything from studio-quality audio to real-world practical functions like voice recording and multi-device pairing, they tick all the right boxes. They've been a brilliant addition to my daily routine, and I'm happy to give them a solid 9 out of 10.

Thank you to Xiaomi for providing the Ear Buds for review purposes.

Check out the official page for all the technical details.

https://www.mi.com/uk/product/xiaomi-buds-5-pro/

REVIEW: American Arcadia (2025 Video Game) on Xbox

Game provided by Out of the Blue Games

Review by Jon Donnis

American Arcadia is a stylish, story-driven puzzle-platformer from Out of the Blue and published by Raw Fury, which delivers one of the most original and polished indie experiences of recent years. Set in a retro-futuristic 1970s metropolis, the game follows Trevor Hills, an ordinary man whose life is turned upside down when he discovers that his entire existence has been broadcast to the world as part of a reality TV show. When his popularity ratings drop, he becomes a target for elimination. What follows is a thrilling escape, aided by a backstage technician named Angela Solano who works to guide Trevor out of the illusion and into the real world.

The game presents two distinct gameplay styles. Trevor's story unfolds through side-scrolling platforming sequences, filled with clever puzzles and interactive elements that require timing, precision and observation. Angela's segments take place in first-person and focus on hacking, surveillance and environmental manipulation. The transitions between these modes are seamless, and in several inventive moments, players must control both characters simultaneously. This dual-character structure is executed with confidence and creativity, never feeling gimmicky. Instead, it forms the backbone of the experience, creating tension and variety throughout.

American Arcadia builds its world with flair and precision. Arcadia itself is a vibrant, pastel-soaked city where everything seems perfect on the surface, but sinister truths lurk beneath. The retro-inspired visuals are rich and distinctive, while the environments remain grounded enough to make Trevor's escape feel believable. The storyline draws heavily from the concept explored in The Truman Show, but brings its own flair, layering in social commentary about surveillance, media control and the loss of privacy. The writing is sharp and intelligent, with a pace that keeps the narrative engaging from start to finish.

What truly elevates the game is its voice cast. Yuri Lowenthal brings emotional range and quiet desperation to Trevor, making him a compelling and sympathetic protagonist. Krizia Bajos as Angela delivers a performance full of resolve and subtle humour, creating a strong and believable partnership between the two leads. These performances anchor the story, making even the more surreal elements feel grounded.

While the platforming sections are consistently enjoyable, the first-person segments with Angela can feel less engaging by comparison. They serve the story well and add variety, but the pace sometimes slows, and the mechanics, while competent, lack the same spark. Even so, the experience remains cohesive, with the alternating gameplay styles reinforcing the dual narrative and keeping the player invested.

American Arcadia succeeds on almost every level. It looks fantastic, sounds great and tells a gripping, well-paced story filled with tension, emotion and humour. The puzzles are satisfying, the platforming is smooth, and the alternating character perspectives are used to full advantage. It captures the paranoia of being watched, the absurdity of media spectacle and the human desire for freedom, all within a tightly crafted adventure. It may not reinvent the wheel, but it polishes it to a shine few games achieve. This is one of those rare indie titles that combines technical quality with artistic ambition, and it delivers something unforgettable.

A clear highlight of the year, American Arcadia is an experience worth seeking out. Whether you are drawn in by its clever gameplay, compelling narrative or eye-catching world, this is a game that earns your time and delivers a near perfect ride from start to finish.

I score American Arcadia a near perfect 9.5 out of 10. Game of the year on consoles so far?

REVIEW: Monster City: A Monster College Story (2025 Graphic Novel)

Review by Jon Donnis

Monster City: A Monster College Story is a weird, funny, and even at times a heartfelt ride through the world of moody vampires, sexy monster girls, and awkward supernatural university life. Built in the same universe as Monster College, this spin-off gives the spotlight to Adam Thorne, a young vampire with iffy powers, a dodgy family history, and an unfortunate knack for getting into trouble. He's not exactly the most traditional hero, but that's half the charm.

What starts as your typical first-day-at-monster-college scenario quickly becomes something more layered. There's humour, yes, but also some proper emotional weight as Adam tries to find his place in a world that doesn't quite know what to do with him. The writing doesn't take itself too seriously, but it knows when to slow down and let you connect with the characters. Most of them start off as exaggerated archetypes, the moody landlady, the misunderstood orc, the overconfident dragoness, but they're all given time to grow. Some of the surprises tucked away in their backstories are genuinely clever.

It's a Ren'py visual novel, so you know what to expect in terms of format. There's a lot of reading, clicking, and choosing your path through dialogue, but this one's packed with over 120,000 words and more than 6,000 HD images. It looks fantastic. Each character has a striking design and the backgrounds are rich with detail, even if the game doesn't go heavy on animation. Still images dominate here, which might not work for everyone. Some players might miss the fluidity found in other titles, but for a static VN, it pulls off atmosphere well with strong art direction and a decent soundtrack to back it up.

As for the story, it doesn't try to reinvent the genre, but it blends romance, supernatural drama, and comedy in a way that's easy to stick with. The dialogue feels natural, and the humour lands more often than not. Adam's sarcastic inner voice helps cut through some of the heavier scenes without undercutting them. There's also an optional sandbox element, though it's fairly light. You're not thrown into open-world chaos, but there's just enough exploration to keep things feeling varied between chapters.

The girls of Monster City are the main draw, and the game knows it. From invisible shy girls to nerdy dullahans and icy exchange students, there's a lot of variety in both design and personality. Relationships are handled well. They're not all about instant gratification, some routes take time to unlock, which gives the sense that your choices actually matter. There are multiple endings too, so there's reason to replay if you're the completionist type.

What holds it back a little is the lack of motion. With such high-quality images, it's a bit of a shame that more animation wasn't worked in. Some scenes could have used that extra visual flair. Also, depending on your tolerance for VN pacing, the sheer amount of text might wear thin if you're not in the right mood for it. But those are minor complaints in the bigger picture.

Monster City doesn't just coast on its looks. It delivers a story that's genuinely fun to read, backed by strong character writing and a good sense of place. If you liked Monster College, or if you're into supernatural romance with a bit of edge, it's a solid follow-up that doesn't take itself too seriously but still puts in the work.

Out on PC (Steam) from June 17th

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