The annual Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2) wrapped up about a month ago, but we’re still reeling from some of the incredible cosplay that was showcased at the event. From Marvel superheroes like Iron Man and the Fantastic Four to cinematic icons like Mrs. Doubtfire. Attendees at C2E2 pulled out all the stops to present the very best in creative cosplaying.

Now, let’s take a deeper dive into the amazing cosplay from Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo 2024 courtesy of this amazing video by Patrick Goelz!

That’s a wrap on Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo 2024. If you missed out on all the excitement, be sure to check out their website for all the details on next year’s event.

If you’re still in the mood for some more cosplay, be sure to check out some of our more recent cosplay articles featuring Anhyra, Snytchery, and this compilation of Fallout inspired TikToks. Tune in next week for another cosplay feature that is sure to blow your mind.

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A dedicated fan of The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim, known as GingasVR, has taken their virtual reality (VR) setup to the next level by integrating two haptic feedback suits, adding an unparalleled level of realism and immersion to their gaming experience.

GingasVR, showcased on X/Twitter and reported by GamesRadar, has expanded their already extensive VR rig, comprising an HTC Vive headset, three Vive trackers, microphones, face trackers, and an array of mods. The latest additions include an OWO haptic feedback suit and a haptic feedback vest, complemented by smart plugs connected to fans.

The OWO suit delivers electric shocks to simulate in-game damage, while the vest provides vibrations for sensations like water and other environmental effects. Temperature changes are replicated through the fans, activating in colder regions of Skyrim and deactivating in warmer areas.

In a demonstration video, GingasVR tests the pain simulation against various Skyrim inhabitants, including Whiterun residents, mages, and even a dragon. Utilizing mods like OpenAI for adaptive dialogue and immersive interactions, coupled with a microphone setup and speech projection mod, GingasVR achieves lifelike exchanges with NPCs.

As fans await The Elder Scrolls 6, GingasVR’s inventive modifications exemplify the enduring appeal of Skyrim, inspiring players to discover new ways to engage with the beloved title. Recent player endeavors, such as accumulating bounties by “killing everything” and recreating Skyrim in different games, underscore the game’s lasting impact even after 12 years since its release.

The enduring allure of Skyrim is palpable, as players continue to revisit their original characters on legacy consoles, underscoring the profound impact of Bethesda’s seminal RPG on gaming culture. Since its initial release in 2011, Skyrim has captivated players with its expansive open world, rich lore, and boundless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

For many gamers, Skyrim represents a cherished part of their gaming journey, evoking nostalgia and fond memories of epic quests, memorable encounters, and personalized adventures. The game’s immersive world and countless quests offer endless replay value, enticing players to return time and again to the snowy peaks of the province of Skyrim.

SOURCE

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A blast from the past is almost ready to return the gaming world. The puzzles of the 90’s are getting ready to be unleashed in a ground-up remake built with Unreal Engine 5. That’s right, today, Cyan Worlds is happy to announce that their puzzle adventure Riven, is coming once again to flatscreen and VR platforms in 2024. The Myst sequel is being remade with the intention of retaining a major connection to its roots. However, the new version of the game is aiming to take the interactive storytelling medium to new heights with modern-technology. Of course, a new teaser trailer gives players a glimpse of the game’s updated look. 

Riven is widely regarded as a standard setter for the 90’s. A sequel to Cyan Worlds’ Myst, the game invites players to enter the D’ni Empire and explore the decaying age of Riven. Of course, with modern technology at developer’s disposal, the game is ready to offer immersion on a whole new level. In fact, players can experience a larger and more puzzle-filled world. Now, players will also be able to explore with free movement as they travel across the various islands of the game. Importantly, each island is home to its very own intricate puzzles. Additionally, the remaster of the game includes familiar and brand new storylines that will further immerse players in the world that begins to take shape around them.

Interestingly, a new trailer gives players a look at Riven. Of course, the teaser trailer shows off the remastered graphics and gameplay of the upcoming release. Check out the trailer below.

Riven is set to release on platforms later in 2024. Fans can stay up to date on the remaster by following Cyan Worlds on X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.

SOURCE: PRESS RELEASE

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Sony Interactive Entertainment CEO Hiroki Totoki recently disclosed in a financial call that Sony’s first-party gaming lineup will experience a notable hiatus, with no major PlayStation franchise titles slated for release before April 2025 at the earliest. Totoki elaborated that while significant projects are in progress, Sony’s primary focus for the upcoming fiscal year, ending on March 31, 2025, will revolve around bolstering its live-service offerings rather than launching new installments in established franchises.

In Totoki’s words, “Regarding first-party software, we aim to continue to focus on producing high-quality works and developing live-service games. But while major projects are currently under development, we do not plan to release any new major existing franchise titles next fiscal year like God of War Ragnarok and Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. Although the burden of acquisition-related costs will ease next fiscal year, we expect profit from first-party software to decrease slightly from this fiscal year due to the impact of the decrease in sales.”

While enthusiasts may have to wait longer for new Spider-Man or God of War installments, the absence of major franchise releases in 2025 also suggests a delay in anticipated sequels from other iconic Sony series such as Ghost of Tsushima or The Last of Us. Nevertheless, Sony’s gaming horizon is not devoid of excitement, with new video game franchises like FairGame$, Marathon, and Concord actively in development. Additionally, the forthcoming year promises a plethora of PlayStation timed exclusives including Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, Rise of the Ronin, and Stellar Blade, offering players a diverse array of gaming experiences to anticipate.

In other revelations from the briefing, Sony acknowledged its failure to meet the ambitious sales target of 25 million PS5 units for the current fiscal year, revising the projection down to 21 million sales. Notably, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 has surpassed 10 million copies sold, underscoring the continued success of Sony’s flagship titles. Furthermore, the company disclosed that the PS5 has entered the “latter stage” of its lifecycle, hinting at potential shifts in its future gaming strategies and hardware endeavors.

SOURCE

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VR Skater SL Pro Series Tour DLC from DEFICIT Games brings more content to VR Skater. That includes more maps, more gameplay modes, more leaderboards, new PSN Trophies, and the ability to skate the new maps in both directions.

As mentioned in our game review – here – the game is as close as being on a real skateboard you can get. VR Skater simulates an activity that is mostly controlled by one’s lower body with your hands. And does so brilliantly. All thanks to the PSVR 2’s motion controllers that handle steering, speed, and braking more naturally than ever before.

While VR Skater handles the mechanics of skate boarding with aplomb, the game environments are somewhat flat. There are no pedestrians, no vehicles – moving or otherwise, or any activity. The environments are static and sterile. The biggest deficiency is you can only travel in one direction.

DEFICIT Games have addressed that failure with the release of the VR Skater SL Pro Series Tour DLC. The Pro Series Tour comprises five new maps that allow the player to go in either direction. These maps are based on courses from real-life professional street skateboarding championships. They are enclosed spaces with ramps to gain air, railings to grind on, obstacles – such as spikes – to jump over, and half-pipes at each end to reverse direction.

There are five skating parks in the Pro Series Tour that expand upon the gameplay. Each track has five modes, one of which is a practice mode. All the track surfaces are smooth concrete, which enables the player to attain the desired speed to pull off tricks, aerial moves, and, most importantly, facilitate the opportunity to chain them in combos. Combos really let you rack up points.

More Modes

There are two gameplay modes in the Pro Series: Mission Run and Pro Run. Mission runs focus on such things as collecting objects in the environment in a specified time period. These include such things as the letters that spell out VR Skater. The Pro Run challenges you to pull off a series of moves with a specified score target.

What this DLC has accomplished is to elevate VR Skater up to the Virtual Reality Equivalent of the Tony Hawk series of games. Each of the pro maps will test all your skateboard skills. To get a real gauge of your skills and see how you rank against the world, there are fifteen new leaderboards that include three ranked modes for each map.

To be the world’s best VR Skater and sit atop the leaderboards will undoubtedly take much practice and many runs. For Playstation trophy hunters, there are also four new PSN Trophies to collect.

PRO content has been to the Skate Shop. Besides the previous decks and trunks, there are nine new SL Pro exclusive ones to really make your board stand out from the crowd.

Coming to PSVR 2 & Steam

For PSVR 2 players, the VR Skater Pro Series Tour DLC released on January 15th, 2024. There will also be a VR Skater PRO bundle that includes the base game and the DLC.

PC gamers can rejoice too later with the game coming out of Early Access on February 22nd.

DEFICIT Games have made a great effort to expand upon the initial release of the game, which lacks the freedom one associates with a skateboard game. The DLC also elevates the challenge level and raises the game to a level from where comparison with the big skateboarding videogame franchises is now valid.

***VR Skater PS5 code provided by the publisher***

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PlayStation CEO Jim Ryan, a stalwart in the gaming industry for three decades, is bidding farewell. Sony recently revealed that Ryan will retire in March 2024, marking the end of his illustrious career. In his stead, Hiroki Totoki will step up as Chairman of Sony Interactive Entertainment in October 2023, before officially taking on the role of interim CEO on April 1, 2024.

Ryan shared his sentiments about his departure, saying, “After 30 years, I have decided to retire from SIE in March 2024. I’ve cherished the opportunity to work in a remarkable company with great colleagues and partners.”

Totoki expressed his gratitude, praising Ryan’s exceptional contributions, especially in the launch of the PlayStation 5. Ryan’s legacy isn’t just limited to console launches. He recently made headlines by opposing Microsoft’s bid to acquire Activision Blizzard. Jim was seen voicing concerns about the potential exclusivity of Call of Duty. He championed competition in the gaming sphere.

Moreover, Ryan’s tenure witnessed Sony’s dominance with the PS4 and the subsequent introduction of the PS5. He responded to fan backlash by reversing the decision to close the PS3 and PS Vita digital storefronts and spearheaded an initiative focused on games as services.

In addition, Ryan played a pivotal role in Sony’s strategic acquisitions, including Insomniac Games, Bungie, and Housemarque. His departure signifies the end of an era in the gaming world, leaving gamers with a legacy of memorable achievements and industry-shaping decisions.

SOURCE

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Beat Saber is a unique title that allows players to slash through some of the best beats in music history. At the PlayStation Showcase, the game’s developers announced that the title is now available on the PlayStation VR2. The game is currently available on PC VR via Steam, Rift and Humble Store, as well as the PlayStation VR. Furthermore, the company has released the Queen Music Pack, which allows players to slash out with one of their favorite bands.

In the trailer at the PlayStation Showcase, fans get a great look at the game’s fast-paced nature as well as a sneak peek at the Queen Music Pack. Players will enjoy a variety of titles from the historic band including We Are The Champions, We Will Rock You, Killer Queen and Somebody to Love.

The game is described as follows, “Swing your sabers, match the color and the right direction to slash the cubes, and keep up with the adrenaline-pumping music… This game is gonna make you dance!” Furthermore, players will enjoy a challenging campaign where they can enjoy new objectives daily. Also, the Virtual Reality aspect of the game allows players to immerse themselves in unique gameplay while getting a pump through some fast-paced and fun exercise.

Moreover, there were several major announcements at the PlayStation Showcase. Some other games that were shown include Alan Wake 2, Spider-Man 2 and Street Fighter VI.

What are your thoughts on Beat Saber? Have you tried the game before on other platforms? Do you enjoy the PlayStation VR experience? Do you own a PlayStation VR2? Will you be trying Beat Saber on the PlayStation VR2? What did you enjoy most about the PlayStation Showcase? Let us know in the comments below or on Twitter and Facebook.

SOURCE

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Resident Evil is a fantastic horror franchise, where players are put into tense positions against various creatures. Resident Evil 4, which originally released on the Nintendo GameCube, was recently remade for modern platforms. The remake released to very positive and impressive reviews, as critics and fans alike enjoyed the experience. At the PlayStation Showcase, Capcom announced the Resident Evil 4 Remake VR Mode, which will be available on the PlayStation VR2. Unfortunately, besides a teaser trailer, the company did not confirm a release date.

Furthermore, the VR Mode has been described as follows, “Get even closer to Leon S. Kennedy’s critically acclaimed story of survival with the Resident Evil 4 VR Mode free downloadable content coming exclusively to PlayStation VR 2 for those who own the game on PlayStation 5.” Moreover, players will be able to use the PSVR 2 intuitive controller to parry enemy attacks for a very immersive experience. Also, players can look forward to more content over the next few months.

Additionally, at the PlayStation Showcase, several companies unveiled information about their game, ranging from trailers to release dates.

What are your thoughts on Resident Evil 4? Have you tried the Remake since its release recently? What do you think about Virtual Reality games? Are you interested in trying out the game’s upcoming VR Mode? What aspect of the game mode are you most excited for? Did you enjoy the PlayStation Showcase? Let us know in the comments below or on Twitter and Facebook.

SOURCE

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If you’ve played a video game over the past twenty years, odds are that you’ve heard a number of composer Jason Graves‘ scores. He’s a prolific composer, but more than that, his music has underscored some popular and critically respected games. A very partial list would include Command and Conquer 4: Tiberian Twilight, Tomb Raider (2013), Devil May Cry, The Order 1886, Far Cry Primal, Until Dawn and The Dark Pictures Anthology,

The man has range.

Jason’s back in the spotlight thanks to the just-released remake of Dead Space. Graves scored the original in 2008, as well as the game’s two sequels. I had the opportunity to chat with Jason about his scores for Dead Space, which preserves the original’s outstanding and innovative music.

Extended Techniques

That big sound-making factory known as an orchestra has changed and evolved over the centuries. Starting with a handful of instruments in some rich patron’s parlor, by the late 19th century, the typical orchestra had dozens of musicians. It became capable of an immense range of sounds. But the orchestra wasn’t done evolving. In the 20th century, composers began to ask musicians to do some innovative things. In the service of telling a story, movie — and later, video game — composers started mixing and matching styles. Traditional sounds blended with the weird.

The scores Dead Space and its sequel are great examples. Both the tension-filled sections and more traditional orchestra sounds come from the same collection of musicians. “It really was a 100% orchestral score from the very start. I liked the idea of using the orchestra as a “musical necromorph.” The Necromorphs in the game were originally the human crew, transformed by the Marker. It’s all very gross but also very organic,” Graves said. “There are no additional effects or computer edits to the orchestra sounds. That’s just how the instruments sounded when the players performed! It’s the rather unusual techniques they were asked to play that made their instruments sound unnatural and spooky.”

Composers have a name for those “different” ways of playing: extended techniques. Graves said “One of my favorites was, of course, one of the most simple, but it just worked so well. The instructions on the sheet music were for all the string players to perform ‘any random note as soft as possible’ and we held that “chord” for about 30 seconds. It was this beautiful, lush, sixty-note chord that sounded like something out of a Cole Porter songbook, but with something not quite right. Those chords make up all of the “safe music” you hear in the game whenever you are upgrading your RIG or going through your inventory.”

Telling the Tale

Composers for film and games never have the musicians make sounds just because they’re interesting, but because those sounds help tell the story. Sometimes the narrative is best served by traditional, tonal music. Sometimes, by more unsettling textures. Graves said that “ it was more about having a few “normal,” tonal cues in the very beginning of the game. Like, “everything is seemingly ok, maybe just some mechanical malfunctions.” As we delve further into the interiors of the ship and discover more and more horrors, the music never looks back. The rest of the score is essentially “everything is definitely NOT ok, in fact, it seems to keep getting worse and worse!”

The score for Dead Space 2 was more of the same, except when it wasn’t. “I wanted everything to be bigger and even scarier than the original. But how could I make the music feel even bigger than the biggest, ugliest score I had ever composed?” The solution was to focus on one character’s storyline. Graves said “There’s a storyline through the entire game about Nicole, Isaac’s dead girlfriend, and how’s he emotionally coping with his guilt.

‘I thought, what if I used something very, very quiet and comforting, like a string quartet, that’s recorded very up close and personal, to underscore all the scenes with Nicole? That would be quite the contrast to the huge, angry assault on our ears of the full orchestra. So the intimate string quartet makes the full orchestra feel even bigger in contrast.”

Jason Graves in VR

For us mere mortals, pivoting between the horror of Dead Space and the gentle world of Moss would be whiplash-inducing. For Jason Graves, the musical challenges of those two scores make the job interesting. And to Graves, they share some similarities. “Both Moss scores are grounded in the fantasy setting of their games. Our hero, Quill, is a very tiny but equally brave and agile little mouse. I liked the idea of a tiny band in a little pub in the mouse village. If we were to walk in there and see them, what instruments would they be playing? I assembled a band of “mouse-sized” instruments, or, at least, the smallest ones I could find around my studio – Celtic harp, ukulele, dulcimer, and smaller hand percussion were all recruited.”

The pandemic lockdowns impacted many games in development, including Moss 2. For Graves, the task of recording remotely was entirely familiar. “For Moss 2 all of the musicians recorded themselves at home and I  produced the entire score in my studio. Most of it was done during lockdown, so there weren’t many options. But that’s the same way I wrote the original Moss, so really I would have made this score the same way, regardless.”

The Risk/Reward Equation

Like any creative endeavor, writing music for film or videogames brings a unique set of puzzles to be solved. Game composers have the opportunity to approach every project a little differently. Graves’ appreciation for his profession comes through loud and clear. “Being able to genre-jump, from one day to the next, is definitely the most fun part about music for games. Game developers are fearless and courageous with their creativity and they prefer their musical scores to be equally unique. It’s very refreshing to have permission to be completely free, creatively-speaking.”

Of course, meeting each game’s requirements and solving its musical puzzles can be challenging. For Graves, the problems are as engaging as their solutions, “It’s a challenge I embrace every morning with child-like glee. I’m quite literally a kid in a candy store – my studio is the candy store and I’m paid to eat all the candy and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Special thanks to Jason Graves. 

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When launching a new platform, it’s important to ensure that there are a ton of exciting games to entice an audience. From franchise tie-ins to new IPs, there are a huge number of titles set to launch with the PSVR 2. With such an impressive list, I’ve taken on the mammoth task of selecting the very best of the bunch. Find out which games should be on your radar below. 

Cities VR: Enhanced Edition

Cities VR aims to offer an unprecedented level of immersion for the genre. While building your city from the ground up is always a joy, now you will be in the midst of your creation which will heighten your sense of pride and ownership. Due to this, it is a must for those interested in simulators.

Cosmonious High

From the folks that brought you Job Simulator and Vacation Simulator, comes a zany title that puts you in an alien high school. As with their other games, you will take part in menial activities that result in hilarious outcomes. With humor at the forefront of Owlchemy Labs’ ethos in design, this is sure to have you giggling throughout classes.

Demeo

Social games are a highlight in VR. Titles like Werewolves Within and Star Trek: Bridge Crew, built a cult following due to the addictive gameplay that focused on communication. Demeo could be the next title to keep you hooked. You embark on an epic tabletop adventure to rid the world of evil. With friends or strangers, you will need to work together in order to overcome procedurally generated dungeons. With a cult following already on PCVR, this is sure to be a hit when it rolls on to PSVR 2.

Gran Turismo 7

In a surprise move, Sony shifted its legendary racer into top gear by announcing a free update that makes the game fully compatible with the PSVR 2. With its incredible attention to detail, you will be able to take the driver’s seat in a plethora of iconic cars and drift to glory on a number of famous courses.

Hello Neighbor: Search and Rescue

There’s nothing worse than the feeling of being followed. The constant worry that something is after you builds tension to make the moment-to-moment gameplay in Hello Neighbor an anxiety-filled nightmare. Built from the ground up in VR, this game will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience.

Horizon Call of the Mountain

Horizon Call of the Mountain is a statement by Sony to show the power and capability of the PSVR 2. You play as a new character and trek through a robot-infested world on a journey that promises to be like no other. The level of immersion is heightened through the use of haptic feedback which is even within the headset. All previews suggest that this is going to be the pièce de résistance and an essential title for anyone grabbing the unit.

Moss and Moss: Book II

Polyarc delivered to of the finest VR games with Moss and its sequel. You control Quill, an adorable mouse in a delightful adventure. There is a lovely tactile element that permeates the game, which is only achievable through VR. You will literally reach out and help Quil traverse the environment. With the announcement that both of these are getting an update, fans can rejoice as they will be able to play the definitive versions and newcomers will be able to experience a true masterpiece.

No Man’s Sky

The journey of No Man’s Sky is remarkable. After failing to meet the expectations upon its release, Hello Games have continued to work on it to build a fascinating experience. The game aims to take advantage of the PS5’s power to make your voyage through deep space a beautiful one. You will be able to discover new planets and encounter new species in your search to see what lies at the center of the universe.

Resident Evil Village

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard was fully playable on PlayStation’s first foray into the medium. While the game was exhilarating in VR, the awkward control and pixelated visuals hindered the experience. Resident Evil Village promises to be the terrifying trek that we have been craving. With iconic moments like Lady Dimitrescu’s mansion and House Beneviento fully rendered in VR, the game is sure to be a highlight of the launch titles.

Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge – Enhanced Edition

A childhood fantasy for many is to wield a lightsaber and be the lead in a Star Wars adventure. Now with the power of VR, you can do exactly this in Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge. With C-3PO and R2D2 at your side, you will battle the First Order in an epic. You will travel across Batuu, and meet new and returning characters in an epic tale. Due to the popularity of the franchise, this is sure to be a big seller on the platform.

The Dark Pictures: Switchback VR

A spiritual sequel to Rush of Blood, Switchback VR looks to crank up the horror levels by taking advantage of the unique features within the PSVR 2. With four distinct scenarios on offer, you will face all manner of situations that are sure to scare the crap out of you. Considering the quality of its predecessor, this is going to be special.

There you have it, those are my picks for the absolute best games that launch with the PSVR 2. Is there a game I’ve missed? Which out of these are you most looking forward to? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for some great video game content.

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The PSVR successfully brought virtual reality gaming to the masses. With only a PS4 required, it was easier than ever to plug in and get lost in a new world. While the platform suffered from its reliance on aging technology, there were still a number of incredible titles. As the PSVR 2 release date is on the horizon, I explore which games should get a new lease of life on Sony’s latest piece of kit.

Werewolves Within

Based on the popular party game, Werewolves Within is an incredibly addictive title that relies on social deduction. You sit in a circle with several people who are either villagers or werewolves. Your goal is simple: sniff out the wolf! However, not all is as it seems. There are a number of character cards that give particular abilities which can throw the scent off the beasts. While the game had a hardcore following, the player base dwindled. Now that the genre is at its most popular due to games like Among Us, I think a PSVR 2 upgrade would help the game rise from the ashes.

Tetris Effect

Tetris is probably my favorite puzzler of all time. Although there have been a ton of games that sport the iconic name, only a hand full have added something new to the format. Tetris Effect manages to do this through its combination of audio and block building. As you progress through stages, the music builds to create an epic finale for each level. While you can play the flat-screen version of the game, this is definitely a game that is a lot better when playing in VR. The immersion increases as you drift through a psychedelic, puzzle paradise.

Superhot VR

Ever wanted to be in the Matrix? Well, Superhot VR captures that. You are tasked with methodically eliminating a number of foes in quick succession. As time only progresses when you move your arms, you are able to plan several steps ahead to conquer a room and feel as unbeatable as John Wick. The stylized aesthetic works perfectly in VR as you are able to determine enemy locations and which items are interactable instantly. As this is available on almost every VR headset, it needs to shoot its way to PSVR 2.

Iron Man VR

Being able to step into the boots of Tony Stark is a comic book fan’s dream and this was made a (virtual) reality by Camouflaj. Even though the game had some incredible, cinematic moments, the hardware made this a clunky experience. The lack of an analog stick on the Move controllers and unreliable tracking hindered the game which makes this a prime title to get a PSVR 2 update.

Sparc

Sports in virtual reality should be a match made in heaven, however, only a handful of titles have managed to serve up an enthralling contest. One of which is the magnificent Sparc. The fast-paced, futuristic sport has you lobbing a ball at one another in order to score points. Its wonderful and addictive gameplay loop made this an absolute joy on the PSVR. As the servers were closed in 2022, I think CCP Games should relaunch Sparc in 2023.

Blood and Truth

Blood and Truth is an over-the-top action experience where you will take part in car chases, jump from falling buildings and much more. Impressively, the game maintains its cinematic flair throughout the entirety of the campaign to make this one of the most memorable VR titles. Even on the PSVR, it looks great, but with the power of Sony’s latest piece of tech, it could look incredible. As the game is exclusive to the platform, it makes sense to get this updated for the PSVR 2.

Astro Bot Rescue Mission

Astro Bot has slowly become a mascot of Sony. Introduced in The Playroom in 2013, he has now featured in a number of titles and even led the charge on the PlayStation 5 in the surprise hit, Astro’s Playroom. Arguably his best outing is Astro Bot Rescue Mission. Built from the ground up for VR, Team Asobi uses perspective in innovative ways to create a groundbreaking platformer. While the PSVR 2 won’t necessarily add to the game, the implementation of haptic feedback would add to the adventure.

So those are my picks for games that I’d like to see on PSVR 2. Which titles would you like to see upgraded? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for some great video game content.

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It’s time for PSVR players to step into a unique and fascinating new world. Are you looking for Japanese folklore? How about a steampunk setting? You’re in luck. Today, Amata K.K. is happy to announce the release of their action-adventure VR game, The Tale of Onogoro, on the PSVR. Introducing players to a world of puzzles and combat, the game aims to give players a unique VR experience. A press release provides more details on the PSVR version of the game. A Quest Launch trailer from earlier this year gives players a look at the game. 

The Tale of Onogoro invites players to a magical world and its fate is in your hands. Ushered into a new world by a maiden of the shrine named Haru, players will take up the Celestial Weapons and defend this secret world. Travelling around the island of Onogoro players will face off against various giant monsters, known as Kari, in intense battles. Additionally, players will help Haru solve puzzles that range from simple to sprawling puzzles of vary difficulty. Of course, as you work your way across the island your bond with Haru and others across the island deepens and more of the story will become revealed to you. 

Importantly, players can check out the release trailer from earlier this year for the Quest. The trailer gives players a look at the art style and gameplay. Check it out below. 

The Tale of Onogoro is out now for the PSVR. Currently the game is also available in the The Tale of Onogoro + Last Labyrinth VR Adventure Pack. The pack is available now for $54.99 on the PlayStation Store. So, are you ready to experience Onogoro Island? 

SOURCE

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While Christmas may usually be a day about spending time with family and giving gifts there’s nothing wrong with checking out the biggest and best accessory deals so you can treat yourself a little extra this holiday season. These could be the upgrade you’ve been looking for or the perfect new accessory to help you achieve all your gaming dreams in 2023. Whatever the reason, there’s a bunch of great sales right now for every platform in your life. What an extra special way to say Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Happy browsing.

Logitech G PRO X Gaming Headset – League of Legends Edition (PC) – $59.99 ($70.00 off)

HyperX SoloCast USB Condenser Gaming Microphone – $39.99 ($20.00 off)

Logitech G305 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Mouse – $29.99 ($20.00 off)

Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – $83.00 ($46.99 off)

Razer Barracuda Wireless Gaming Headset (PS4, Switch, P & Mobile) – $119.99 ($40.00 off)

PSVR Aim Controller (PS4) – $89.99 ($40.00 off)

Turtle Beach Recon Wired Gaming Controller (Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One & PC) – $44.95 ($15.00 off)

Logitech G435 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset (PS5, PS4, Switch, PC & Mobile) – $49.88 ($30.11 off)

Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard – $119.99 ($40.00 off)

Logitech G733 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Headset (PS5, PS4 & PC) – $119.00 ($30.99 off)

PowerA Spectra Infinity Enhanced Wired Controller (Xbox Series X|S) – $38.99 ($6.00 off)

Razer Viper Ultimate Lightweight Wireless Gaming Mouse – $59.99 ($70.00 off)

SteelSeries Arctis 9 Dual Wireless Gaming Headset (PS5, PS4 & PC) – $129.99 ($70.00 off)

Razer Wolverine Ultimate Controller (Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One & PC) – $109.99 ($50.00 off)

Did you end up scooping up some sweet new gear? Let us know in the comments below, or give us a shout on Facebook and Twitter. Make sure to check in again tomorrow as we have a list of the very best game deals on offer and don’t forget to share the wealth with your friends and fellow gamers out there!

The post League of Legends Logitech G Pro X Gaming Headset Is $70 off This Christmas appeared first on COGconnected.

The tunneling never ceases. It’s time to hop back into the dirt and continue digging. Today VRKiwi is happy to announce that their action adventure game, Cave Digger 2: Dig Harder, is receiving its first post launch content update. The update, titled The Return of the Chompys, is bringing a host of new content to the game and is releasing on November 21st. A press release provides more info on the update. Furthermore, the full release trailer gives players a look at the game and what it is about.

Cave Digger 2: Dig Harder is the sequel to, best-selling VR game, Cave Digger. The game places you in the mining boots of of a prospector. The game starts players off in a small camp. Of course, players will need to mine for resources to get more funding. With funding, players can purchase better tools to dig even deeper. However, the deeper you go, you learn you’re not alone. 

The Return of the Chompys update sees a lot more coming to the game. For instance players can expect to see more enemies, endings, and above all more Chompys. The new Chompys include the miner, punk, and hellraiser. Each with their own unique task to do and with their own mechanics to learn. Additionally, players can also look forward to new costumes and even more to explore. Check out the trailer below for a look at the game.

Cave Digger 2: Dig Harder’s newest update is releasing on November 21st. Currently the game is available on Steam, Meta, and PSVR. So, are you ready to get back to digging? 

SOURCE

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Summer is coming to an end and while some are not happy to have shorter days and less sun, most gamers have never been happier. Fall is the time for gamers to get cozy and play through their backlog. So, it seems that now is the best time to spruce up your gaming setup before jumping into all of those games. Especially since there’s a lot of good deals right now on a variety of gaming accessories. Like $45 off the HyperX QuadCast S Microphone. With deals like it means no breaking the bank for some much needed upgrades! Happy browsing.

4TB Seagate External Hard Drive Portable HDD (Xbox Series X|S & Xbox One) – $139.99 ($14.01 off)

Razer Orochi V2 Mobile Wireless Gaming Mouse – $59.99 ($30.00 off)

Logitech G PRO X Gaming Headset (PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch & PC) – $119.99 ($50.00 off)

HyperX QuadCast S RGB USB Condenser Microphone – $130.70 ($44.67 off)

OIVO Xbox One Controller Charging Station (Xbox Series X|S & Xbox One) – $29.99 ($13.00 off + $6 coupon)

Razer BlackShark V2 Gaming Headset (PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch, PC & Mobile) – $99.99 ($40.00 off)

SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard – $52.98 ($27.01 off)

Xbox Wireless Controller – Shock Blue (Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One & PC) – $59.96 ($15.03 off)

Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 Wireless Gaming Headset (PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Switch & PC) – $109.95 ($40.00 off)

Star Wars Mandalorian Cable Guy Phone & Controller Holder – Ahsoka Tano – $12.49 ($12.50 off)

For the Big Spenders:

PlayStation Marvel’s Iron Man VR Bundle – $349.96 ($100.04 off)

Did you end up scooping up some sweet new gear? Let us know in the comments below, or give us a shout on Facebook and Twitter. Make sure to check in again tomorrow as we have a list of the very best game deals on offer and don’t forget to share the wealth with your friends and fellow gamers out there!

The post Pick up the HyperX QuadCast S for $45 off During the Last Weekend of Summer appeared first on COGconnected.

COGConnected was recently invited to attend a Saints & Sinners Chapter 2 Preview. Here are our reactions.

There are a plethora of Walking Dead games and some of them are in VR. Easily, the best of the bunch was developer Skydance Interactive’s – The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners released for PSVR on January 23, 2020. It featured top-notch physics, an engrossing storyline, a solid crafting system, and excellent VR implementation. The game quickly became one of the standout releases on PSVR.

Saints & Sinners 2 is so good that the game vies for the number one spot as the best all-time PSVR game with Resident Evil 7.

The first game ended on Day 69 with the looming presence of The Tower in downtown New Orleans before you. In The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners – Chapter 2: Retribution, the object, besides having one of the longest game titles, is to continue the story.

In the Saints & Sinners preview you play as The Tourist, and face a new story campaign with all the new challenges it will entail. You leave the suburbs and head to downtown New Orleans, the French Quarter to be specific. This means you will explore new maps, meet new characters, and face greater danger. Of course, that requires new and more lethal weapons. The sequel literally picks up from the original as you start the next chapter on Day 70.

Going Downtown New Orleans

Your base of operations this time is Sonny’s Pawnshop. It is here you will return to rest, craft, and interact with Sonny to find out useful details.

As with any sequel, Chapter 2 aims to up the ante in enemies and carnage. You’ll fend off more walkers, now able to fall from one level to the next to continue their unstoppable pursuit, as well as more complex battles against armed human opponents guarding The Tower. In Chapter 1, you got to wield a fire axe. In Chapter 2, say hello to your little friend, the chainsaw. Knowing the physics based actions of the first game, this new addition will no doubt push the envelope further in terms of immersive tactile feedback.

The weapons fun doesn’t stop there though. You’ll tout a sawed-off shotgun and a submachine gun for maximum visceral carnage impact. To aid in aiming of sited weapons, a laser site will be available too – this also applies to the bow and arrow. Silencers will also be possible to allow you to keep oh so, crucially silent. All this, and dual weapon wielding too!

You’ll venture into the Quarters of New Orleans to face new combat challenges. One new challenge is located in a bar, The Speakeasy. Here an alarm is set off which triggers music that is blasted on speakers located all throughout the establishment. You’ll fend off walkers, some falling from upper levels, as you struggle to silence every speaker. Never has the 3D audio present in VR games ever been put to such vital use!

All Paths Lead to the Tower

As you push towards The Tower, you’ll face a new combat wrinkle, Boss Enemies. One such baddie is named Gerrick. He’s a big, heavily armored opponent against which your chainsaw has no effect. Good thing there are expanded crafting options for you to explore.

In the first game, the night equated to death. When the day-ending bell started to toll, it was time for you to get out of dodge and back to your home base. Or face certain death. In Saints & Sinners2, you can choose to do certain missions at night. Besides your flashlight, you’ll be able to use UV goggles or flares.

It will be up to the player to decide whether or not to tackle missions in the night or during the day. However, even though night missions bring greater danger they also greater rewards. The same mission done during daylight may prove to be much more difficult.

Saints and Sinners is one of the best PSVR games ever. Based on the preview, The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners – Chapter 2: Retribution is a sure-fire sequel that will not only continue the story but elevate it by introducing new gameplay elements that are VR enhanced. The game is scheduled to be released for the PSVR and other platforms in late 2022. What is even more exciting is the prospect of it being one of the first PSVR 2 games when the headset launches in, now confirmed by Sony, early 2023. With the improved visuals and haptics, this is poised to be a big release.

Thank you for keeping it locked on COGconnected.

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The post The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners – Chapter 2: Retribution is Awesome appeared first on COGconnected.

Here are some helpful tips on how to play Moss 2, because Quill is back!

Moss launched on PSVR back in 2018 and is one of the best games for the platform to date. While Astrobot is officially the Playstation mascot, to many PSVR players, the diminutive but mighty mouse, Quill, is their real mascot. This little hero took PSVR players on a magical journey to restore order to her world.

We all clamored for a sequel and developer, Polyarc, has answered the call. Moss 2 is out on PSVR with a bigger, bolder and more campaign. Check out COG’s review of –  Moss 2.

As with all sequels, Moss 2 adds new gameplay elements. The puzzles are similar but the levels are longer and there is more combat. So to help out all you virtual mouseketeers, here is a collection of helpful – How To Play – tips:

Tip 1) Watch Quill for Hints

Not sure where to go next? Watch Quill and she’ll give you some pointers.

Tip 2) Look for Green Dash Arrows

At some point in the game, Quill will receive a new Dash ability. The best spots to use the dash are highlighted by green dash arrows scattered through out the levels.

Tip 3) Look for Glowing Roots and Bare Branches

Another new ability has to do with the Reader being able to grow plants. These can either create new pathways or turn bare branches into vines, which Quill can climb.

Tip 4) Explore Every Nook and Cranny

Work together with Quill to explore every area of a level. For Quill these means covering every accessible area. For you the Reader, this means that if you are playing sitting, stand up and lean forward to see everything. From a seated position certain areas of a level may be hard to see.

Tip 5) Don’t Just Be the Reader – Be A Doer Too

There are many more battles in Moss 2. Don’t forget to not only help Quill fight by reaching out to disable enemies temporarily but also heal Quill when she takes damage.

Finally:

Tip 6) Not Sure What To Do Next?

When in doubt, bring up the menu and check your objectives.

These are a few tips that should help you and Quill on your virtual journey.

Happy adventuring!

The post Moss 2 Essential Tips and Tricks appeared first on COGconnected.

We’re so happy to once again bring you the weekly COGconnected cosplay feature. In previous iterations, we’ve showcased the brilliant Meagan Marie, the beautiful Maru, and some incredible recreations by beloved community members at Megacon Live 2022. We’ve even posted coverage on the best cosplay couples! This week, we turn our attention to Giulietta Zawadzki.

Giulietta is a graphic design artist who also works in photography. She’s also a commissioned artist, so be sure to check out the link to her site at the bottom.

Without further ado, here’s the work of Giulietta Zawadzki!

Continue on to page 2 for more from Giulietta.

The post Giulietta Zawadzki’s Cosplay Can’t Be Missed appeared first on COGconnected.

Quill’s first adventure was a landmark title for Virtual Reality games. Not only did it solidify the platform as a new medium to tell emotional stories but it was also a catalyst for the format, broadening its appeal. 4 years later and the adorable mouse is back in Moss: Book II. Will this new adventure expand on its solid foundations or be more of the same?

Restricted by the tyrannical claws of the Arcane army, the world of Moss is in dire straits. In order to restore peace to the beloved land, Quill takes it upon herself to venture through dangerous terrain in a beautiful and heart-wrenching journey. Polyarch perfectly paces the plot so that a strong connection is built between the player and the protagonist. Due to this, you want to protect Quill as her trials and tribulations resonate. This leads to strong emotional bonds which accentuate moments of peril. Similar to its predecessor, Moss: Book II tells its fairytale-like fable through the pages of a hardback and narration. This echoes that of a loved one reading a bedtime story and instantly transports you to fond memories of yesteryear.

You control both the endearing Quill and the Reader, an otherworldly entity. As your perspective is through the eyes of this presence, you have a stunning diorama view of the environment. As you maneuver Quill around the terrain, you can interact with areas to alter the surroundings. While this helps the chirpy heroine progress, it also strengthens your relationship. This is an excellent example of how VR storytelling can reach heights that are unattainable in traditional gaming. The intimacy is powerful and evokes emotions that leave a lasting mark.

Perfecting A Masterpiece

Moss: Book II feels familiar at the start but soon branches into new territory. In the previous iteration, Quill only had limited forms of attack but now her arsenal has more depth. You can wield a large hammer that deals destructive damage and strike at distance with the chakram. Adding further variety, as the Reader, you can also support your furry friend by taking control of enemies to obliterate the array of foes at hand. Similar to the original, Quill can dodge attacks but now can perform a quick dash to scurry across longer distances. This gives further freedom for combat, vastly improving the basic system that was established in its predecessor. Unfortunately, the button mapping isn’t particularly intuitive and can take a while to become ingrained.

Puzzles are innovative in their implementation. You can now use your weapons as well environmental items to solve conundrums. Some are logical challenges whereas others test your speed and skill. New abilities feed into this as you can use your powers to grow vine bridges and climbable walls for Quill to traverse. The diverse range of puzzles is a welcome change from the simple scenarios that were in the first game. Although many of these require you to carefully think of solutions, Polyarc ensures that they aren’t challenging to the point of frustration, thus creating a satisfying experience. 

A Work of Art

A highlight of Moss: Book II is the incredible vistas and stunning set pieces. Each area packs character and beckons you to physically lean in and take note of the minor details that adorn the world. The charming environments feel alive due to the enchanting characteristics that thrive in the backdrop. Nuances in design capture a growing community that allows you to lose yourself within the magic. Not only does Quill travel to snowy mountains and dank caverns in this new adventure, but you can also revisit past levels to find collectibles nestled inside. This adds replayability to the relatively short journey, giving completionists further incentive to trek back through the multitude of locations.

Polyarc pushes the technology to its limit and the aging system does struggle under the strain. Even though you are instantly pulled into the universe, small issues arise from time to time. While this doesn’t break the immersion, it merely highlights the possibilities of what the talented dev team could do on the PSVR 2.

Moss was PSVR’s standout title and therefore it’s fitting that Book II is the platform’s swan song. Even on old tech, Polyarc manages to forge an adventure for the ages. From the art direction to the emotional storytelling, each aspect of the original has been improved, making this a truly remarkable sequel.

*** A PlayStation key provided by the publisher ***

The post Moss: Book II Review – Cute, Charming and Captivating appeared first on COGconnected.

Vertigo Games is a multi-platform VR publisher and developer. The team has grown its portfolio in VR games for quite some time and has released various titles. Some of these titles include Arizona Sunshine, Unplugged VR and After The Fall. The company is part of the Koch Media Group. Vertigo Games has continued to expand the content of their latest VR title and have announced the release of the Boulevard Update, following the latest patch on March 10th. The Boulevard update will give fans more stuff to enjoy. and is available on all platforms now for free!

The Boulevard Update introduces the Harvest Run where players take to the frozen streets of Hollywood and fight against The Skimmer. The Skimmer requires a different approach and the newest LMG is the perfect weapon for him. Besides the updates, players will also have access to Free For All PVP modes, Stockpile PVP map and more. Furthermore, fans of the game should note that in April, the team will release more skins, consumables, devices and special weapons.

After The Fall is an action-packed VR FPS where squads of four players venture into Los Angeles to fight against undead enemies and scavenge for survival. The game also features PVP and other competitive modes. The Launch Edition is available for $39.99USD while the Deluxe Edition is available for $49.99USD. After The Fall’s physical edition will release in the U.S. on April 12th and is currently available in Europe and Japan.

What are your thoughts on Virtual Reality video games? Are you interested in After The Fall? What do you think about the latest update? What content are you most interested in? Let us know in the comments below or on Twitter and Facebook.

SOURCE: Press Release

The post Vertigo Games Has Released After The Fall’s Boulevard Update appeared first on COGconnected.

NFL Communications, a media website for the NFL, has announced the league’s intention to create a new game series. It goes untitled at the moment, but apparently this NFL VR game will be an annual release.

As you may know, Football coach and commentator legend John Madden died in late 2021. He was also the namesake of the Madden NFL game series. The series has been an annual release since 1990 and Madden NFL 23 would be the first since Madden’s death if/when it is announced. Though Madden 23 is probably an inevitability, the NFL could be starting a rivaling VR game series.

Annually releasing games are a challenge to keep fresh. However, series like NFL, NHL, FIFA, MLB, and NBA titles are cash cows. If the NFL is trying to do that with VR, they will need to nail it the first time to keep players coming back for more.

Not only does it need to be good, but VR would need to be more widely available if they want to pump out an NFL VR game every year. Instead of working with EA Sports for this franchise, they are partnering with StatusPRO.

Statements on this partnership can be read on NFL Communications from Joe Ruggiero, SVP, Consumer Products at NFL, as well as co-founders of StatusPRO Andrew Hawkins and Troy Jones. It is unclear when the game will be officially revealed or what it will even be called. Hopefully, we will get a convincing look at it in due time.

The untitled NFL VR game will be coming to PSVR devices and MetaQuest.

Would you like to try a VR football game? Let us know in the comments below.

SOURCE

The post NFL Looking to Make an Official NFL VR Game Series appeared first on COGconnected.

Virtual Reality is one of the newest sectors of the gaming industry that is growing exponentially. Fans now have access to a few devices including the Oculus and PSVR systems. Moss: Book II is an upcoming video game set to release on PlayStation VR on March 31st. Today, as the release date nears, the developers have unveiled some gameplay footage that shows a new weapon along with cool aspects of the game. The PlayStation crew looks at new enemies, locations and Quill’s mighty hammer weapon.

The twelve minute long trailer gives fans some insight into various aspects of the game. The video first takes players to the castle which is quite bright and beautiful in design, but contains some scary enemies. Other places that were showcased include the Foundry beneath the castle where weapons are made for the Arcane. In the Foundry, Quill is gifted a hammer to utilize on the field. Additionally, new enemies await including The Bomber who tosses explosive mines and more.

In the sequel, players will once again adopt the role of Quill as he sets out on a journey to save Moss and finally end the merciless rule of the Arcane. Along the way, players will meet new allies, old friends and guide Quill as he makes himself a legend.

The briefing ends with the team assuring fans that they have a lot to look forward to and that they should look forward to more stuff before the game’s release.

What are your thoughts on Moss: Book II? What did you think about the gameplay footage? Are you excited for its release? Do you enjoy VR games? What VR games have you tried thus far? Let us know in the comments below or on Twitter and Facebook.

SOURCE

The post Moss: Book II Latest Trailer Shows Off New Weapon and Fun Gameplay appeared first on COGconnected.

Ah, LucasArts click’n point adventure games – Full Throttle, Monkey Island, Day of the Tentacle, and my favorite – The Dig. Those were some great games. Another entry was Sam & Max. They are a dog and rabbit duo that uses the tried-and-true buddy cop formula. Sam’s the straight guy and Max is the snarky one. It’s been awhile but the duo return in Sam & Max: This Time It’s Virtual.

Together they run the Free Lance Police Academy. Sam and Max recruit you to join their team and enroll you in their academy. This premise serves as the game’s structure, which comprises a mix of mini-games, puzzles, and story. The strength of this approach is a wide variety of game mechanics. No doubt the developers, HappyGiant, took this tack because of the additional game mechanics VR offers.

However, there is a clash between the original games and this VR version. The strength of Sam and Max games is the witty banter and interplay between the two. That type of story-driven, point-and-click adventure makes your role mainly passive. Solve a puzzle and your reward is a Sam and Max comedy stand up sequence which, for the time, was fine. With the move to VR, that flow doesn’t work nearly as well.

When you play a VR game, you want control. ‘This Time It’s Virtual’ keeps you stuck in the old gameplay loop, where the game constantly takes control away from you. You complete a mini-game and then Sam and Max take over. Rinse. Repeat. Rinse some more. Repeat some more.

Clash Between Original Gameplay and VR

How well you tolerate constantly switching from participant to observer depends on your affection for the characters. If you are a big Sam and Max fan, the constant loss of game control may be no biggie. If not, you may lose desire to complete the game instead of sitting and doing nothing for long periods of time.

While it’s understandable that the developers wanted to preserve the dynamics of the original games, they should have focused more on the possibilities of VR. The ones implemented are little more than a collection of party games. You shoot targets, climb or throw items and those mechanics are thin. On the plus side, the game locations take advantage of VR. For example, you battle demons in a mini-mart or fight a five-headed dragon on main street.

The nine challenges you have to complete are all rudimentary. They are mostly of the carnival challenge types with a comedic bent: throwing bombs through a basketball hoop, throwing darts, etc. You can complete the game in three to four hours dependent on how well you score on each of them. While they are easy, the instructions on how to complete them are not always clear. Some appear to be only possible through the use of teleportation. This is an issue if you chose to walk.

You get to do some actual detective work by being able to question witnesses. These interchanges are often funny and more so because you get to do them instead of watching Sam and Max.
Another thin facet of the VR experience is the control scheme. Control mappings differ from the accepted standards used by other games. There are fewer VR options, especially for turning. There is no smooth turning, only snap turning, an immersion breaking mode.

Clunky VR Controls

The crudeness of the VR implementation shows up in other areas. Clipping is a major issue. Sam and Max will walk through walls and, more disturbingly, through you, too. Another control oversight is the lack of a crouch button. If you drop something, it can be out of your reach and the range of the camera. Loading from an earlier save point is the only solution, so you butterfingered players out there, take care.

On the plus side, you can select which level to play. This is an especially helpful option to use on two counts. One is for trophy hunting, which means a redo of challenges until you score high enough. The other reason is because of bugs such as the previously mentioned lack of a crouch button, making it impossible to pick up dropped objects.

Graphically, the presentation is very much in the same animated style as the original games. Everything is colorful, low textured, and emphasizes wackiness. On the audio side, things sound good and the voice acting of Sam and Max is very good.

The bugs, awkward control scheme, janky controls, and the long periods of sitting through Sam and Max dialogs place a limit on the audience for this game. Fortunately, for PSVR players, the game sells for a modest price of $20 US, which is $10 cheaper than the launch price charged when the game appeared on other VR platforms.

Sam & Max Fans Will Have Fun

Sam & Max: This Time It’s Virtual is a textbook case that proves not all games are easy to transition from a traditional to virtual presentation. Dialog heavy games can work in VR if you are an active participant. Not so much when you are a mere observer. This problem is further exacerbated by the lack of polish of the game’s controls. What still works is the banter between Sam and Max. The writing is good as is the soundtrack. If you are a fan of these characters, you’ll probably be able to deal with the game’s shortcomings. For the rest, your time is better spent elsewhere.

***PSVR code provided by the publisher for review***

The post Sam & Max: This Time It’s Virtual – Falls A Little Flat appeared first on COGconnected.

République: The Anniversary collection is now out on the Nintendo Switch. This Big Brother-esque stealth game has quite the history behind it, beginning in 2012. Funded via Kickstarter, République was released as an IOS game title before making its way to consoles in 2016. Now, seven years later, it’s finally been released on the Nintendo Switch, adding to the already amazing library of games.

You begin with Hope, staring into a camera and pleading for help. After guards knock forcefully enter her room, we find that she’s been caught with some forbidden reading material. After a swift interrogation, Hope is immediately arrested. Taken to another facility, Hope awaits erasure but finds out that there is someone out there willing to help. With us hacking the mainframe, Hope must find a way to escape the Overseer.

Escaping Big Brother 

In order to help Hope escape her captors, players will assume the role of the mysterious digital helper. Once you’ve entered the camera mode, you can switch the camera views to scan posters and hack codes. You’ll also be able to scout ahead to see what’s on the path to find lurking guards. You’ll also be able to help by closing doors behind Hope or distracting guards by hacking other items. Once you’re out of this mode, you take control of Hope, maneuvering around the facility with classic tank controls. The controls can take a bit to get used to, especially if you’ve never played older games.

The tank controls in the movement aren’t the most intuitive. Luckily, you can also tap the screen to have Hope run to where she needs to go if you’re playing in handheld mode. And with the added fixed camera angle, it really gives players a unique perspective on the stealth genre while giving us a throwback in gameplay, reminiscent of the older Resident Evil series.

For a game that was released on mobile, the controls from the camera perspective feel good and fluid; however, trying to control Hope can take a bit of time to get used to. As she moves room to room, the camera angle will automatically change to a position that can better see her. Unfortunately, this can become a bit frustrating as sometimes the angle change happens despite Hope still being in the previous room, losing sight of her completely. Thankfully using the touch control while in handheld mode in combination with the joysticks for the camera made my experience much more enjoyable.

Help Hope As The Camera Operator

The level designs are really well done, varying in size and with different ways to complete it. Some levels will give you more time and space to roam around. However, you’ll have to be discreet as the guards will be about. Hope can use this to her advantage and either pickpocket them for items, shock or spray them into submission or simply sneak by without suspicion. There’s also a fair bit of puzzles that you’ll need to solve in order to progress adding more variety to the gameplay. The puzzles aren’t too challenging and won’t have you tearing out your hair trying to solve them. It adds another very welcome element to an already pretty solid game, especially considering its roots as an IOS game.

Taking on an episodic structure, each chapter will take about 2-3 hours to complete and will take about 12-15 hours to beat the game depending on how much you explore. There is some replayability to this title as there are different game modes you can play, which is selected by selecting specific outfits, such as difficulty level, speedrunning and etc. There’s also a ton of little Easter eggs and collectables you can obtain, passports that provide further information on the guards and characters, story-centric items and much more.

An Old Game With Plenty of Tricks

It’s interesting to think that an IOS game from back in 2012 had such complex gameplay and held such replay value. It also helps that the level design is very well done and the voice acting is spot on. The game does show its age in some cases but for the most part, everything looks really good, especially on the Nintendo Switch. However, we could have gone without the annoying robotic voice that guides you through the game.

There’s a lot to like and very little to dislike about République. The tank controls can take some time to get used to. And the auto-switching of the camera angle can be a pain among some other small annoyances. But quite honestly for an old IOS game, this title is surprisingly packed with content and replayability. It also offers an interesting and unique way to play stealth games. If you’re a fan of these kinds of games, I would certainly recommend giving République a go!

*** Nintendo Switch Code provided by the publisher ***

Thank you for keeping it locked on COGconnected.

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The post République: Anniversary Edition Review – A Unique Dystopian Future appeared first on COGconnected.

Have you ever wanted to serve weird space drinks to aliens? Well you can soon. Developer Foggy Box Games’ upcoming bartending simulation, Startenders, gives players the chance to mix drinks for a galaxy of peoples. A press release provides not only the release date but details on the features of the game. 

Startenders puts players in the role of a new intern at the Startenders Academy. Here you will learn a whole host of skills that you will need to use on patrons. Behind the bar you will need to shake, slice and dice, cryo, blast, and serve patrons to level up and gain new skills. Additionally you can test your skills in various game modes from the story mode to free mix. In each mode you’ll encounter alien species, experiment with crazy new cocktails, you can even compare your skills with the rest of the world in challenges. 

Players get a glimpse of all of this bartending action in the Meet Startenders trailer. Additionally the trailer provides players with a look at the art style of the game. 

Furthermore the mixing of drinks isn’t limited by puny earth ingredients. Instead you’re going to be mixing up cosmic cocktails with help from the most recent advancements in drink-making technology. 

“We wanted each player’s Startenders experience to be unique, so we built a system that can provide endless procedurally generated shifts, with different customers and orders each time you play.” Said Chris Youles, Creative Director of Foggy Box Gamesin the press release. 

Startenders is set for a March 17th, 2022 release. The game will be available on Meta Quest, Meta Quest 2 and PlayStation VR. It will cost $14.99. So, what will be your specialty? 

SOURCE

The post Startenders, VR Bartending, Coming to VR Systems Next Month appeared first on COGconnected.