Since 2007, the Assassin’s Creed series has been a formidable force in the gaming industry. With unforgettable characters like Ezio Auditore and Edward Kenway, the franchise has captivated audiences by exploring new worlds at different points in time with each iteration. After numerous releases, Ubisoft revamped the series, incorporating RPG elements into the gameplay. While this shift was massively successful, many fans longed for the traditional adventure style, leading to the creation of Assassin’s Creed Mirage. Although the game was fantastic, it didn’t achieve the same popularity as the sprawling epic, Valhalla. The latest entry in the series, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, aims to capture the best of both worlds by incorporating characters that represent the franchise’s rich history. Set to release in November, here are five reasons why you should be hyped for Assassin’s Creed: Shadows.

Hiding in the Dark

Naoe Fujibayahio is a shinobi assassin who is on a quest for revenge. Fans of the franchise will be instantly drawn to her as stealth is at the forefront of her combat style. Early gameplay sequences showcase a whole host of methods to take out your enemy without being noticed. Notable changes that make this look like a step up from previous titles are the ways that you can manipulate light. You can emit darkness in areas by shooting lanterns making it simple to dart across and silently eliminate foes. Other new elements include sneaking underwater with the help of bamboo to breathe and most impressively, the use of a grapple. While this was a feature in Syndicate, Shadows looks to include a more nuanced approach that gives flexibility with its implementation.

A Brutal Beating

An imposing figure, Yasuke is a loyal samurai for Oda Nobunaga. While his story is full of intrigue as he is the first and only non-white samurai, his method of combat looks to evolve the system established in the RPG titles. Brutality imbues his fighting style with visceral executions concluding battles. Each encounter looks methodical with counters and parries being an important aspect to be victorious. While the idea of two protagonists is not new in the franchise, the way that these differ is. Jacob and Evie Frye played very similarly with only a few differences whereas Yasuke and Naoe are completely different adding a ton of replayability.

It’s Alive!

Although there is hustle and bustle in the cities of Assassin’s Creed, it never feels like a living world. GTA 5 did this particularly well as it felt like the characters did things regardless of whether you were there. Hopefully, this will be added to Shadows as you can switch between characters freely. In the extended gameplay reveal, it was great to see how citizens in the world reacted to Yasuke. As he walked through the world, head and shoulders above the natives, they moved out of his way and respected his standing as a samurai by bowing. It’s a little feature but it could end up being something much bigger.

Your Choice

Historically, you would learn about your targets and gradually take them out in a linear fashion. Shadows looks to alter this, allowing you to investigate each target and assassinate them in the order of your pleasing. With its new approach to synchronization, you will need to actually scope areas to discover the layout of the land rather than having your map populate with a ton of icons instantly. Although the developers have yet to release the finer details, such as the existence and implementation of a leveling system, the concept is great and could lead to a brand-new way to engage with the game.

What Time of Year?

Built on the Anvil game engine, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows employs a new weather system that will alter how you tackle missions. The world alters depending on the season meaning that you can approach your objective in new and exciting ways. For example, in Spring there will be more places to hide due to larger bushes and longer grass whereas in the Winter, you will leave footprints and water will be frozen over. The dynamic weather adds an additional layer to the plethora of options available and could lead to the most varied and rich experience in the history of the franchise.

Assassin’s Creed: Shadows has the potential to be the greatest title in the franchise. After years of crying out for the series to visit feudal Japan, it looks to have done so in style. Will you be picking this up in November? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.

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The younger brother of Nintendo’s mascot returns to the Switch. With his second adventure being tied exclusively to the 3DS, this is the first time the title is available to play on home consoles. Will Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD manage to capture the same magic on a home console that made it a standout on the 3DS?

The personality packed into the Luigi’s Mansion series helps the title stand out compared to its peers. The unique capture mechanic successfully creates the notion of being a ghost hunter and links perfectly to Luigi’s cowardly persona. While the first in the franchise was well-regarded for its concept, its length left players wanting more. The sequel addressed that by including five distinct mansions for you to explore. Although considered one of the best releases on the 3DS, will it hold up on modern consoles? Check out our video review below to find out.

Lugi’s Mansion 2 HD is out now exclusively on the Nintendo Switch and you can read our full review here. Which other games would you like Nintendo to remaster? Which is your favorite release in the series? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.

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The post Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD Video Review – Ghostly Gig Work appeared first on COGconnected.

After rolling to success on the Gamecube, Super Monkey Ball has struggled to recapture the same magic with its sequels. Building on the success of remakes and remasters, Sega is now bringing the beloved apes back for their first new release in 12 years. Developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku, Banana Rumble looks to revitalize the series with new mechanics to enhance gameplay and crank up the chaos for its multiplayer modes. With its commitment to authentic modernization, will the game manage to recapture the hearts of long-time fans and attract a new generation of players?

With fully animated cutscenes and a brand new character, Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble’s Adventure Mode follows the team as they join forces to find the Legendary Banana. Scenes bookend each world to ensure the narrative stays prominent throughout. While the story is basic and not the main focus for players, it’s nice to see the effort that Ryu Ga Gotoku has gone to in order to create a comprehensive tale. This helps to add context for your trip to strange and wonderful worlds as you venture through mazes and collect bananas along the way.

Rolling Towards Victory

Each stage challenges you to avoid obstacles while trying to stay on the platform and veer towards the goal. Although your objective is to reach the end, there are additional missions such as collecting all the bananas, completing the level within a particular time limit and grabbing the golden banana. Completing all of these in one go is impossible, which gives the incentive to replay stages. The difficulty steadily increases as the worlds become more varied adding new mechanics to challenge your wits and skill. Each zone includes a gimmick that helps to distinguish it from others. With buttons to control platforms, invisible surfaces and much more, the latest entry in the franchise features some of the best courses in the history of the series.

Courses are designed to suit a range of playstyles. If you strive to find shortcuts and slingshot across the map in one manoeuvre then you’re in luck. After completing each world, you unlock a time trial mode so that you can post your fastest time. It’s a thrill to try to reach the end as quickly as possible as you’ll need to experiment with the game’s physics and work out the optimal speed and areas to bounce in order to reach your destination. However, if that’s not your forte and you prefer a steady stroll to the finish, then assist options are available. These include checkpoints, guides and rewind features which will help you cross the line on courses you’re struggling with. As Monkey Ball can get a little frustrating, it’s great to see a feature added that supports you with the process and ultimately makes the game more accessible.

Going Bananas

After completing the campaign, you unlock EX versions of each world. These are not just small alterations, they are effectively a brand new challenging campaign. Paths are narrow, gaps are larger and you will need adept control to keep your Monkey safe. The learning curve is extremely well designed as by the end, you’ll understand how to control your ape at pivotal points. In fact, each character has specific attributes which may be more beneficial for certain maps. Towards the later levels, I found myself switching between characters to find the most suitable primate for the job.

The series has experimented with new mechanics to add variety. While most have failed, the Spin Dash works perfectly. If you hold down the button, you can boost across the terrain, allowing you to leap towards shortcuts and reach elevated areas. Combined with the intuitive controls, this allows you to experiment on every course, making it a joy to discover the quickest route from A to B.

Monkeying Around

While the single-player portion is a resounding success, the multiplayer elements fail to capture the frantic fun of the originals. Race is a staple of the series and its implementation is similar to previous iterations. You must speed your way around the course to achieve the best time. Banana Hunt is a chase to get the most fruit in the designated time limit and Robot Smash sees you work with others to destroy the most robots. The two stand-out modes are Ba-Boom where you chase or run away from players with explosives and Gold Rush, where you roll down a course toward the highest gate. While enjoyable, the activities maintain a similar pace. In previous entries, games like Target added a chilled, serene aspect which is missing from this release. In addition, the frame rate drops with the multiplayer element making it feel sluggish.

The signature cute design is in full swing with brightly colored environments and its adorable cast. The game goes a step further as you can purchase costume items to dress up your monkey so that you can style your way through each course. Although the overall presentation sticks firmly to its roots, it manages to deliver a strong aesthetic that blends classic charm with modern vibrancy.

Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble is the return to form that fans have been waiting for. Courses develop in their complexity in order to create the best single-player campaign since the sophomore release. While the multiplayer portion includes new minigames, it struggles to maintain the same level of engagement and longevity as the originals. Despite that, the dedication to improving the franchise’s gameplay mechanics ensures it’s a significant addition for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

***A Nintendo Switch code provided by the publisher for review***

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Cartoon Network and Saturday morning animations hold a dear place in the hearts of many. The iconic design and daring humor led to programming which is still considered a highlight of the medium. #Blud summons the spirit of the era to create a vampire-themed dungeon crawler that aims to be both a nostalgic trip and a fresh adventure. Will it satisfy your thirst for excitement, or will it just suck?

You play as Becky Brewster, a brash and boisterous high school girl who’s new to the neighborhood. With strange happenings occurring in the environment, you must dig deep into your vampire-hunting heritage to halt the demonic invasion. The world is packed with interesting characters and leads to amusing conversations. Each interaction is accompanied with polished animation which amplifies their personality. It’s clear that Exit 73 Studios has a lot of love for the world of toons as each chapter is presented as a new short. Title cards are reminiscent of classic Warner Bros and Hannah-Barbera shows and help to add authenticity to the experience. Although the story is straightforward, the elements surrounding it make it a fun and addictive adventure.

Let Me Just Update My Status

Anchoring the youthful premise, social media plays a large part of the game with all menus being integrated with the protagonist’s phone. Missions appear on your Facebook-style timeline with comments giving you extra tasks and hints to complete your objective. It’s a great way to manage all components of the game in a way that develops the narrative. You can even take selfies with enemies to analyze their weaknesses so that you can determine the best method of attack. While none of these elements are uncommon, they are implemented in a fresh manner.

With your hockey stick, you whack the crap out of any creature you encounter to ensure your safety. The game progresses developing the combat by allowing you to block projectiles, dig up enemies that burrow, throw pencils and more. This creates a fun but quite basic system that is easy to pick up and play. There are a strict number of foes each having distinct attack patterns that require you to strategize in battles. Although new enemies are periodically introduced, they never serve up a significant challenge but instead offer more variety.

Bosses culminate areas and are a highlight of the adventure. The incredible animation shines as nuances with their posture signal attacks and allows you to react and counter. These build to become more epic towards the latter segments of the game adding interesting twists to battles.

The Same Old Thing

Most missions tend to evolve around the collection of items which requires you to tediously search every nook and cranny of environments. Although some puzzles are included within, the simple, repetitive tasks can lead to frustration. These typical fetch quests lack the imagination that the visuals exude, resulting in some disappointing gameplay segments. Side missions are also by the book, often with collection-based tasks that you’ll most likely skip over. While missions are given context and maintain a pleasant pace, the lack of variety hinders the experience.

Each aspect of the presentation is wonderful. From the 90s-inspired visuals to the joyous soundtrack, #Blud is a delicious treat. Characters bounce across the environment and strikes include fun and exaggerated animations that add further character. For example, when killing the Dracula-esque character, he falls into the ground accompanied by a tombstone. It’s little things like this that add to the overall presentation elevating the entire experience.

An Endearing Journey with Unique Flair

#Blud is a fun adventure that carves its own niche due to its incredible art direction and presentation. Combat is straightforward but small additions that are periodically introduced help to keep it feeling fresh. Bosses are a joy and lead to some stand-out segments that are a highlight of the journey. The mission design is a little lackluster with a reliance on collectathon missions and fetch quests which can lead to some frustrating moments. While the game sticks to the conventions of the genre, it manages to deliver a charming and engaging experience that fans of classic cartoons and dungeon crawlers alike will appreciate.

***A Steam code provided by the publisher for review***

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Microsoft’s current ambiguity about the future of the Xbox has put the brand in an unusual position. While they’ve acquired a host of talented developers to produce exclusive titles aimed at elevating the system, they are also exploring partnerships to release games on both the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation. Regardless of the path they choose, many fantastic games would thrive if released on the PlayStation. So, here are ten titles that should make the leap.

Gears of War

A legendary release in the third-person shooter genre, Gears of War inspired a generation of games. With its visceral combat and heavy gunplay, it was an instant hit, bringing players together for intense warfare. Not only was the campaign a cinematic adventure with some incredible set pieces but it also features some of the best online modes. In addition to traditional PvP, the series includes arguably the best Horde Mode. The mix of iconic weapons, range of enemy types and huge bosses creates an intense co-op experience that would excel on the PlayStation.

Halo

There was a time when the very idea of Sonic being on a Nintendo console would have blown the minds of Sega fans. Now, there are even games that see the mascots team up in sporting events! Well, although a tough pill to swallow for Xbox fans, placing Master Chief’s odyssey on the rival platform would do wonders for the player base. With the latest title in the franchise underperforming, porting the exclusive to the PlayStation would be a great way to reignite interest and get the world talking about Halo.

Sunset Overdrive

Insomniac Games is a cornerstone of PlayStation Studios. With epic titles like Spider-Man and Rachet & Clank in their portfolio, they have proven on countless occasions that they are a formidable force in the industry. While most of their games were exclusive to the PlayStation, they did one for Microsoft and it’s an overlooked gem. Sunset Overdrive features an incredible parkour system which laid the foundation for their Spidey games. With its distinct art direction and patented humor, this deserves another shot on a different platform.

Fable

With its rich history, there is hype surrounding the release of the new Fable game. The latest trailer absolutely nails the humor and sets up an exciting-looking adventure that is sure to be a strange and hilarious journey. Although a flagship title on the platform and possibly one that entices players to the Xbox, releasing the original trilogy on the PlayStation would increase interest in the upcoming title. Let more people fall in love with Albion to help the success of the next release.

Quantum Break

Remedy Entertainment created an absolute masterpiece with Alan Wake 2. Its seamless implementation of live-action footage and gameplay helped to create a strange and wonderful experience like no other. While Quantum Break was their first foray into using live-action segments, it was disjointed compared to their latest effort. Nevertheless, it’s a wonderful adventure with a strong cast which more people deserve to play.

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II

Given that the first title was available on PlayStation, it’s logical for the sequel to be released on the same platform. With its deep dive into the human psyche, Hellblade is an intense cinematic experience and one which PlayStation fans would lap up. Since Sony focuses on single-player titles, the platform would be a natural fit for the sequel to the critically acclaimed game.

Microsoft Flight Simulator

With its stunning visuals, this game would stand out on the PlayStation as there is no other game like this on the platform. Microsoft’s commitment to the IP with numerous updates and additions has helped to make this one of the best titles in the genre. While not for everyone, there is a definite market that would love to see this title fly over to the PlayStation.

Forza Horizon

Although Forza Motorsport and Gran Turismo are fierce rivals that compete for the top spot of the podium for the most realistic racer, Horizon drifts down a different path due to its focus on high thrills and the open world. With no other game in its sub-genre matching the quality of the series, releasing the game on PlayStation would make great business sense for Microsoft. Should they just cash in?

The Ori Series

Already released on the Nintendo Switch, the Metroidvania action platformers are renowned as some of the greatest titles in the genre. With its luscious art direction and responsive controls, each moment is an absolute joy. As the games are already in the wild, why not place them on the PlayStation so that more people can experience this amazing piece of art?

Starfield

Let’s face it, Starfield failed to meet expectations. Although Bethesda is still working on it, releasing patches to improve performance, many Xbox players have already checked out. So, what better way to re-establish itself than releasing on a new platform? Microsoft should let this be Sony’s big holiday game and then sit back and reap the benefits.

There you have it. Those are the Xbox exclusives that I believe deserve a PlayStation release. What are your thoughts? Should Killer Instinct replace one of these? How about a different game? What do you think the chances are of any of these getting a release on a Sony console? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.

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The iconic JRPG series is back with its fifth iteration. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance aims to offer a unique adventure that will deliver thrills throughout. With its dark, post-apocalyptic setting, intricate gameplay mechanics, and thought-provoking themes, does this latest entry live up to the legacy of its predecessors?

Featuring a revamped combat system, the famed JRPG looks to be the ultimate entry in the series. The expansive open-world and stunning environments beckon you to explore and discover the many secrets that lie within. With branching storylines and deep, immersive narrative, is this the best title in the franchise’s celebrated history? Check out our video review below to find out!

Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is out now on all major platforms and you can read our full review here. What would you like to see next from the franchise? Does this sound like it will live up to your expectations? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.

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Kings of the arcade, SNK has created several iconic titles that have dominated coin-operated machines throughout the 80s and 90s. The side-scrolling shooter, Metal Slug, is one of the most beloved titles from the era. With its wonderful cartoon aesthetic and addictive gameplay, each entry in the long-running series is considered a classic in the run-and-gun genre. In a surprising move, the Japanese giants have gone in a new direction for the latest release in the franchise. Throwing out the bullet-hell gameplay for tactical combat, will the drastic change breathe new life into the franchise?

After a short tutorial, you are thrown into the battlefield to overcome your adversary in an addictive die-and-retry roguelike tactical adventure. With a set number of missions to complete prior to the arrival of the gunship boss, you can select which objectives to tackle and gain rewards for doing so. Missions are conventional with most evolving around killing several enemies but some vary, requiring you to either reach a particular location or survive several rounds. Side objectives add incentives to complete the task in a particular way. Doing so rewards you with items or money to spend in the store. Although typical, due to the nuanced gameplay, each fight is a thrill and fosters an addictive loop that will keep you hooked.

Prepare For Battle

On the battlefield, you control three characters that differ due to their load out. Some can throw grenades to create powerful explosions that cause damage in four directions whereas others can shoot in a straight line to hit foes across the map. Your options differ as you progress and gain access to new abilities and mods that alter your approach to combat. After completing a mission, you can select which skill you want which adds a new tactical layer to your next mission.

Positioning is key in each battle. You must use the environment to ensure your safety by hiding behind cover and out of attack range. There is also verticality to consider, as certain enemies will strike from above and require you to venture upwards to eradicate the problem. A wonderful mechanic that separates Metal Slug Tactics from others is the ability to sync with your teammates. If you position your characters correctly, your team will join in adding further damage when triggering an attack. This means you can take out foes quickly which can help you complete side objectives to gain extra rewards.

Synonymous with the franchise, tanks are also in the game. Certain missions will allow you to jump in one and deliver huge damage to the opposition. Adding further variety, you will also encounter cranes and other interactive elements which can also be used as a method of attack. This means you will begin to scour the small, compact maps to build a plan before the battle begins.

Let’s Go Again!

After each run, you will be able to visit the shop to unlock new load-outs and more. This means that you gradually become stronger as additional options become available. In the preview, you unlock a new character and difficulty option once you complete the first area. This adds to the addictive loop giving you more reason to jump back into battle.

The overall presentation perfectly captures the arcade aesthetic in an authentic manner. This helps to anchor the game in the universe and creates a seamless transition between genres. Each character is full of personality due to the exaggerated cartoon design which helps to differentiate the game from its peers. It looks wonderful but I did encounter the odd frame-rate drop in larger battles.

Metal Slug Tactics is shaping up to be a tremendous tactical adventure. The roguelike structure adds an addictive element which adds further incentive to retry missions. With its varied maps, abilities that alter each run and stunning visuals, this is sure to hit the target when it releases on PC and all consoles by the end of the year

***A preview Steam code provided by the publisher***

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After a 14-year hiatus, 2024 sees Ubisoft release two Prince of Persia games in the space of 4 months. While both share the same 2D perspective, The Rogue Prince of Persia distinguishes itself through its addictive gameplay loop, stylized aesthetic, and drip-fed narrative. This makes each new run a captivating experience that evolves with time. With Dead Cells co-developer, Evil Empire, at the helm, will this new entry possess the regal quality needed to reign supreme amidst the abundance of roguelike titles?

Determined to prove yourself as a worthy successor to the crown, you decide to bypass your father’s instructions and take it upon yourself to protect the land’s citizens. After facing the large threat of the Huns, you succumb to their army’s powerful magic and sheer volume. As they seize the capital, you flee with your mentor. With redemption at the forefront of your mind, you use the mystical bola to rewind time and learn from your previous mistakes to save Persia. Each time you dig a little deeper into the narrative and learn about the supporting cast and their incentives. Evil Empire skillfully intertwines story and gameplay, giving more purpose to delve back into the world for another run.

Take a Bow

Just like Dead Cells, The Rogue Prince of Persia is a slick and stylish action-filled adventure. You will need to quickly react and respond to the variety of enemies and situations you find yourself in to reach the next area. Combat is fast, so you must use every skill available to overcome obstacles. You can unleash a series of quick attacks, charge to deliver a devastating blow or kick your opponent across the screen, stunning them and allowing you to take advantage of the situation. In addition to this, you can also leap over your opponent to avoid incoming attacks and strike from above to be the ultimate weapon.

The level of choice that permeates the game allows you to alter the experience at each stage. In terms of weapons, you can select between daggers, a javelin, a tabard, and much more. Each is different and changes how you approach battles. For example, the claws allow you to quickly release a series of strikes with a special triggering with each kill. Conversely, the broadsword is a slower two-handed heavy weapon with a more deadly impact. You also have access to projectile items to harm foes from afar. These continue the same trend of offering fantastic variety to allow you to personalize your experience. In addition to conventional items like the bow, you can also use a grappling hook to pull enemies closer and Berude’s gauntlet to perform a huge ground smash. All of these elements combine to create an intoxicating combat system that will keep you hooked for hours on end.

Majestic Movement

The franchise is renowned for its elegant movement that allows the Prince to effortlessly parkour across the environment. The Rogue Prince of Persia’s implementation of this ethos is remarkable. Each location includes design features that allow you to wall run from platform to platform by holding the trigger. There’s a surprising level of freedom with this as the scenery and backgrounds are interactable. This means any wall is useable to reach your desired location. Evil Empire even includes challenge rooms dedicated to platforming segments which helps to capture the spirit of the series. Narrowly dodging spikes and timing your jumps to avoid spinning blades has never felt better and helps to embed the franchise into the Roguelike genre.

Maps are procedurally generated with Wells dispersed that allow you to fast travel across the area. This is useful for revisiting the merchant, forging weapons, or quickly collecting leftover items. Fast travel simplifies exploring regions with deviating paths, making it much easier to fully discover the entire area. This is particularly important as you will want to customize your build in preparation for upcoming, harder sections.

The Crown Jewels

You will periodically come across medallions on your run and can equip up to four at a time. Each has several levels and you can upgrade these by sacrificing medallions for new ones that will complement your abilities. The medallions vary with some emitting knives upon use, increasing your health or rewarding energy allowing you to create a unique build for your run. These perks and other weapons can be purchased in the hub area which will increase the probability of stumbling across these in subsequent playthroughs. Due to this, you gradually have more options available creating diverse methods to reach your objective.

Each aspect of the presentation is spectacular. The comic book-style visuals with vibrant colors help to distinguish the game from other releases in the franchise. Performance is solid with only the odd hiccup in its current early access state. Combined with the Eastern-infused soundtrack and impact sound effects, the overall design is sumptuous and is an ideal way to refresh the series with a new and exciting twist.

The Rogue Prince of Persia is a brave and beautiful step in a new direction. Sprinting through the area feels incredible, thanks to the seamless integration of parkour into the gameplay. Combat is fast and slick, creating an addictive quality that keeps you coming back for more. Currently in early access, the future for the latest iteration in the Prince’s tale has the potential to be the crown jewel of the series.

***A Steam code provided by the publisher for review***

The post The Rogue Prince of Persia Is a Timeless Majesty appeared first on COGconnected.

The Paper Mario series has had its ups and downs. While Color Splash was an all-time low, Origami King put the series right back on track. To this day, The Thousand Year Door is still considered the pinnacle of the franchise. Due to this, Nintendo has remade the game allowing enthusiasts to revisit a classic and new players to discover Mario’s greatest RPG adventure but does it still hold up?

In addition to the gorgeous new visuals that capture the cut-out design perfectly, a bunch of quality-of-life features have also been added to improve the entire experience. Not only does the remake faithfully bring the classic to the Nintendo Switch, but new aspects enhance the title to make this the best iteration of the classic. Want to find out more? Check out our full video review below.

Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door is out exclusively for the Nintendo Switch and you can read our full review here. Would you like to see Nintendo remake another classic? Will the Switch get another big release before the successor is released? What would you like Nintendo to do next? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.

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There aren’t many games designed with local co-op as the main feature, but Bread & Fred carves out a unique niche by making this its central focus. Placing communication and teamwork at the forefront, you must support one another in a dangerous climb to reach the summit. Will it elevate the co-op experience to new heights or will it leave us hanging?

Your task is simple, you must venture upwards to reach new grounds. The game doesn’t focus on the story, allowing you to quickly learn the mechanics and begin your perilous climb. Getting the hang of timing and the physics is much harder than it should be leading to frustrating segments which plague the entirety of the experience. While you’ll ultimately grasp some aspects, having to rely on another person’s skill leads to repeated failure. Although this creates some amusing moments, it also gets annoying quite quickly as you wrestle with the mechanics.

A Troublesome Trip to the Top

Even though the game is primarily designed as a cooperative platformer, you can tackle Bread & Fred on your own using a rock as your partner. Although this lessens the level of irritation, it also highlights issues with physics. Swinging the rock and using its momentum to fly over larger gaps is massively inconsistent and leads to replying sequences as you repeatedly fail. Luckily, several assist options are included to help ease this issue. When turned on, you can plant checkpoints so that you can quickly go back to your previous location when you fail to make a jump. The game should embed this essential option, providing players with the choice to remove it for a bigger challenge instead of struggling without it.

Other assist options include the ability to pull your partner with the rope which is helpful if one makes the jump and the other doesn’t, better grabs so that you can cling to the wall for longer and infinite jumps. The last of these essentially breaks the game. With infinite jumps, you can bypass all obstacles and repeatedly tap the button to ascend to the very top. While I understand the need to add support mechanisms to aid accessibility, this exploits the premise of the game.

One Step Forward, Two Steps Back

The environment alters to offer interesting twists on the gameplay requiring you to maneuver onto lifts and other contraptions to reach the top of the mountain. Each area features a well-designed, interconnected ethos that builds the idea of a large adventure. Failing to make a daring jump will plummet you into a previously visited area allowing you to make connections on where unclimbable sections lead. Although it’s great to experience the thoughtful world design, having to re-do complete segments after losing your progress after one jump is extremely frustrating. More often than not, failure appears to be due to design rather than your ability. Swinging is inaccurate and at times, I even got stuck in the environment that adds to the overall sense of irritation which undermines the engagement.

The pixel art style builds a charming aesthetic for the adventure. Vibrant blues and white snowflakes combine to create a cozy atmosphere for your journey. There’s an unmistakable retro-inspired design that enshrouds the game and successfully whisks you back to yesteryear. The instruction booklet describes gameplay features with cute illustrations depicting each skill. Although visually appealing, they don’t clearly explain the mechanics which makes it harder to comprehend how to perform specific feats. Each step is accompanied by a calming soundtrack that conflicts with the stressful gameplay.

Almost There

Bread & Fred is a novel concept that fails to deliver due to its frustrating climbing mechanics. The idea of climbing a large mountain and working with a partner to do so is appealing; however, the inconsistent physics and anger-inducing design that allows you to lose progress in an instant hinder the game. Although SandCastles Studio adds an array of assist options to address these concerns, at its core, the game struggles to balance challenge with enjoyment. The fundamental design flaws overshadow the creative premise, resulting in an experience that is more exasperating than entertaining.

***A Nintendo Switch code provided by the publisher for review***

The post Bread & Fred review – A Co-Op Climb That Falls Short appeared first on COGconnected.

An optimal gaming setup can drastically enhance your gaming experience, and at its core lies the controller. With a range of choices flooding the market, selecting the right one can be daunting. Nacon’s Revolution 5 Pro Controller is a premium product designed to provide unparalleled comfort and customizable features, setting it apart from the competition but will it manage to compete with Sony’s DualSense Edge to become the ultimate weapon of choice among gamers?

The first thing you’ll notice about the Revolution 5 Pro Controller is the build quality. It’s a solid piece of kit that carries a deluxe feel due to the chunky, comfortable design and clean finish. The light rubber grip gives a strong sense of stability, allowing you to further immerse yourself in the game without worrying about the controller slipping away. Straight out of the box, the device feels a little light, however, Nacon includes varying weights that you can add to find the perfect level of comfort. While I initially thought this was an odd design decision, it makes a huge difference and allows you to personalize your controller.

Play Your Way

Speaking of customizing, you get access to a ton of options. You can select the perfect setup for each game with concave, convex and tall thumbstick toppers. Although I stuck with the default thumbstick, having the ability to tinker with the pad and easily swap between is great and something that pro players will relish. In addition to this, you can also add stick guards to the analog. This means that you can alter the distance that you need to push your thumbstick making it quicker to change direction. Although this has a niche appeal as it wouldn’t work on all games, it speaks volumes about the attention to detail that Nacon has gone to provide players with an elite controller.

Hall Effect analog sticks ensure that your controller will not succumb to dreaded drift and add silky smooth movement to improve your gaming sessions. Each button feels nice and responsive but lacks the high-end quality you might expect for a product of this price. Triggers include two different stoppers so you can alter how much you need to press the button before you fire off a round. Another strong addition is the ability to change the traditional D-Pad to a 360 version. This is a game changer for fans of the fighting genre as it allows for easy combination inputs that will enhance your skills in the arena. Nacon’s commitment to creating a versatile product is evident with the range of features included. While gamers who tend to play a certain genre may prefer other controllers, this is an excellent option for players with diverse requirements.

Tweak What You Want

On the back of the controller are paddles in easy-to-press locations which gives you quick access to more buttons. You can use the ‘Classic’ mode to map your buttons to these or the ‘Advance’ option which requires a PC in order to access the deep and comprehensive customization options available for the controller. You can assign your layouts to profiles and switch between these with ease. The need to use a PC is a little frustrating, especially compared to Sony’s DualSense Edge, which allows you to tweak within the operating system. Although you can adjust more elements to fully personalize the Revolution 5 Pro, the method to do this may deter players.

Another nice feature is the ability to directly link Bluetooth headsets to your controller. This bypasses the PS5 and therefore makes any pair of headphones compatible. Although the controller lacks an in-built speaker, you can add a microphone via the jack to add this feature. While this resolves the issue, it does feel like a quick fix and a solution to a missing feature.

A Glaring Omission

The main issue with the Revolution 5 Pro is the absence of any sort of rumble. Although I didn’t expect haptics which are synonymous with Sony’s official counterpart, without trigger and general rumble, there is a definite lack of immersion. It’s not just the overt use in titles like Returnal, it’s the smaller implementation that is embedded in most games which is instantly noticeable when it’s not there. You can get used to the lack of this feature but it does feel like you’re ultimately missing out.

Nacon’s Revolution 5 Pro Controller is a solid device that includes a range of customizable options. With its choice of thumbsticks, stoppers and adjustable settings, it gives you everything you need to fully personalize your gaming experience. Its solid and comfortable design allows you to engage in longer sessions without concern of hand cramp. Unfortunately, the absence of any rumble feature and internal speaker does affect the level of immersion in certain games. While it is an excellent alternative, it lacks some core features you would expect from a premium product.

***The Nacon Revolution Pro 5 was provided to COGconnected for the purpose of this review***

The post Nacon Revolution 5 Pro Controller Review – Elite Gaming Precision appeared first on COGconnected.

Last year saw the release of volume 1 in the Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection series. Although there were issues with the presentation of the package, it featured some of the greatest games ever to grace the industry, allowing new players to experience the epic saga. With volume 2 on its way, I explore which games deserve a spot in the next collection.

Metal Gear Solid 4

Due to the PlayStation 3’s architecture, Metal Gear Solid 4 has been shackled to the system restricting fans from experiencing Old Snake’s final mission. Although some questioned the length and number of cutscenes, fans of the franchise fell in love with the sprawling adventure. Placing this pivotal chapter front and center of the next collection is imperative as it allows for the preservation and accessibility of a significant piece of gaming history.

Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker

Originally released on the PSP, this stunning portable adventure was later ported to consoles on the HD Collection. The smaller scale, mission-focused structure made this the perfect game to dip in and out of, yet the plot remained prominent and developed Big Boss’ story arc. Last available on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, plenty of players missed out on this title, making this an essential game for Volume 2 of the Master Collection.

Metal Gear Solid: Twin Snakes

A full remake of the 1998 title, the Nintendo exclusive features several new elements making this a unique experience. With gameplay mechanics similar to Sons of Liberty, newly directed cutscenes and a graphical overhaul, this is undoubtedly a must-play iteration of the classic. While it might be harder to pry the exclusive away from Nintendo, seeing this make its way to modern consoles would be incredible.

Metal Gear: Ghost Babel

Released in 2000 for the Game Boy Color, the spin-off takes place seven years after the original. Although non-canon, the pocket adventure is a bona fide classic and a great example of a game on the platform. With a ton of content, seeing this game sneak onto the collection would be the perfect way to celebrate its long history.

Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops

With a different writer and director at the helm, Portable Ops should suck, right? Actually, it’s a pretty great adventure that adds to the multi-layered world. On the PSP, it was admittedly, a little awkward to control, so porting this to modern systems with dual analogs would massively improve the experience. Let’s make it happen.

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance

Ridiculous title aside, Metal Gear Rising is one of the best action-adventure games in the genre. Although Kojima just acted as a Producer, it’s a title that fleshes out the world and is a forgotten classic. With PlatinumGames’ patented tight combat, Raiden’s outing is an absolute blast. The other-the-top action sequences, intense boss battles and stunning art direction are truly one of a kind and due to this, it should be on the collection.

Bonuses

Metal Gear Acid 1 + 2

Bringing the turn-based, tactical trading card game to the Master Collection would be a great addition. Often forgotten and overlooked, this niche title is worth checking out even if it’s to experience a wholly unique take on a much-loved franchise. As extras, these would be massively appreciated.

Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater – Pachinko

Okay, I know playing a virtual representation of a Pachinko machine would probably suck, but the cutscenes in the strange iteration of MGS3 look awesome. Bring that bad boy over and let fans experience the odd iteration of a classic.

Omissions

Metal Gear Solid V: Phantom Pain and Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes

Is it truly necessary to include MGSV in the Master Collection? Although iconic, the PS4 version is compatible with modern consoles making its inclusion pointless. I know that some may want the open-world games to be included, however, I think the other titles are more important due to preservation purposes compared to Kojima’s last release in the franchise.

What are your thoughts on the list? Do you agree with my selection? Which other bonuses would you like to see included? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.

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The post Which Games Belong on Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2? appeared first on COGconnected.

Annapurna Interactive is renowned for publishing innovative titles that push the boundaries of video games as an art form. After a successful partnership with Simogo on the techno road trip, Sayonara Wild Hearts, the duo take a sharp left turn for their new venture, Lorelei and the Laser Eyes. Swapping the neon-lit, musical adventure for a monochromatic, puzzle murder mystery, their new exploit couldn’t be more different. Will this departure deliver an experience as mesmerizing and memorable as their previous release?

An eccentric artist invites you to a strange, maze-like hotel to be part of his ‘magnum opus’. Upon arrival, you discover everything is not what it seems as there is a sinister undercurrent to proceedings. What first appears to be a simple murder mystery evolves into an odd tale encompassing various stories you unearth as you explore the overwhelming environment. Each room and exhibit tells a story that fleshes out the peculiar world and engrosses you in the confusing but intriguing Lynchian narrative.

Let Me Cross Reference That

Simogo respects your intelligence, drip-feeding information through documents and puzzles so that you slowly understand the events that have taken place. There’s a commitment to context with a plethora of text-based items to allow you to piece together information. Although the game is intentionally vague, it continues to offer threads and beats that keep the plot at the forefront. The methodical approach to storytelling may deter certain players, however, the abstract slant helps to make this a truly memorable experience.

The creepy hotel is the centerpiece of the adventure. Peculiar decor adorns each room and corridor, building an oppressive atmosphere that follows each tentative step. As you try to navigate the environment, you’ll encounter an array of challenging puzzles. These are diverse and require you to use the environment, documents that you have collected and other elements to determine the solution. Due to the number of routes and conundrums that permeate the world, there’s always an alternative path to follow when you hit a barrier. As the difficulty is high, this will happen quite often. Frustration can ensure as at times, certain puzzles seem impossible to decipher, however, there’s nothing more rewarding than when everything clicks and you work out how to progress.

There’s Always Another Way

Most of the problems you encounter are logic or number-related and are often rooted in text that you stumble across. The books you find will remain in the protagonist’s psyche due to her photographic memory. This allows you to instantly revisit any item you have seen to help you decode cryptic clues. As you are constantly referring to different texts, a notepad and pen are essential. This harkens back to a classic era and fosters a deep immersion in the situations you encounter to deliver a larger sense of accomplishment. Without any real method of support, it is likely that you’ll reach a point where you can’t continue. While it’s a brave move to feature such sophisticated puzzles without any hint mechanic, it could disaffect players resulting in a low completion rate.

The retro ethos imbues Lorelei and the Laser Eyes with its point-and-click style gameplay, text adventure segments and even DOS-like computers. Simogo is not afraid to jump between visual styles to quickly alter the tone and flip expectations. Fans of early adventure games will be enamored with its quirky references, however, this may not resonate with everyone and could further alienate part of its audience. The unwavering commitment to its vision is commendable and if you buy into this, it’s a remarkable experience, however, its appeal is purposely niche and differs greatly from Sayonara Wild Hearts.

Enter the Bizarre

There’s an unsettling atmosphere that engulfs the entirety of the game. The static camera angles reminiscent of classic survival horror titles such as Resident Evil create a disconnect and place you in a voyeuristic position as you watch events unfold. Accent colours are sparingly used to highlight key elements giving the game further character. Mixed with the stoic character models and lounge-style soundtrack, this builds an odd aesthetic that will burrow deep into your psyche.

Lorelei and the Laser Eyes is a twisted puzzle adventure like no other. The high-brow approach to gameplay requires you to read pages from books to learn the fundamentals that enshroud the range of conundrums that you’ll come across. Simogo don’t underestimate your ability, leaving you to ponder clues and work out the solution. While this can halt your progress and lead to cycling around the same puzzles, it makes decryption much more satisfying. The game stubbornly sticks to its principles to the detriment of accessibility, however, losing yourself to the deep layers of intrigue makes this an unforgettable trip.

***A Nintendo Switch code provided by the publisher***

The post Lorelei and the Laser Eyes Review – Weird and Wonderful appeared first on COGconnected.

With the influx of Metroidvania titles flooding digital stores, the genre is at risk of saturation. Although the aesthetics differ, many titles stick firmly to fundamentals that evoke a sense of familiarity. Animal Well looks to buck the trend with its quirky take on conventions, helping the retro-inspired adventure carve its own identity. While maintaining the essence of the genre, Billy Basso’s unique approach to design captures an original, fresh, and exciting take on the formula.

You spawn in a strange and unusual world without knowledge of where to go or what to do. Thanks to the nonlinear design, you can venture out in any direction to discover what secrets await. Exploration is at the forefront. You are encouraged to wander down every path and are rewarded for doing so. Each avenue fleshes out the rich, interconnected world which aids backtracking across the distinctive biomes. With so much to see and discover, there’s always a new trail to trek when you stumble across a barrier.

Time to Play

As you progress, you will gather items that allow you to solve the array of puzzles that you encounter. Each playful toy can be used in different ways, expanding its scope. For example, rather than acquiring the ability to perform a double jump, you receive a bubble wand. With this, you can blow a bubble, leap onto it and then jump to your desired location. While in essence, it’s the same skill, the wand offers more variety and strategy. You will need to decide where to blow it and time your jump as the bubble slowly ascends. This adds a refreshing twist to a conventional mechanic and this continues throughout. Other items you collect also use mundane objects in zany ways, giving you a range of methods to tackle segments.

Puzzles differ, challenging you to assess each situation from different perspectives to continue. Most areas rely on a new item but then slowly intertwine others to create satisfying and rewarding moments. Due to the nonlinear design, you may venture down one area only to realize that you are unable to go further due to not having the correct item. This adds real freedom to the experience and can also make certain areas harder to maneuver through. Although this does mean that you’ll revisit regions several times, the well-designed map allows you to place markers and notes so you know exactly where to return.

No Time to Fight

The game removes combat and focuses on puzzles and platforming. This results in tense enemy encounters as you have to navigate past them through the use of items, speed, or stealth. This refreshing approach shines as the game continues to introduce new and innovative ways to tackle confrontations. Bosses also require you to think outside the box to overcome the situation. The level of challenge is perfectly balanced due to the thoughtful design. While you’ll often get stumped, it’s worth it for that eureka moment where everything makes sense and you can progress further on this trippy adventure.

As you have to balance on bubbles, scurry under blocks and much more, it’s vital for the controls to be responsive and Animal Well delivers. Every aspect of movement is tight which makes traversal a joy. My only gripe is how you select your items. In a handful of segments, you need to quickly change from one ability to another. Since this is tied to your shoulder button, a mad panic ensues as you frantically cycle through to your desired item. A radial menu would have eased this and allowed you to quickly select the item you were looking for.

A Hallucinatory Episode

The 8-bit aesthetic heightens the strange art direction to add an unsettling, trippy vibe to the game. Ethereal animals trot around the background and abrasive musical cues accompany the action, making your bizarre journey down the rabbit hole even crazier. There’s something intoxicating about the whole presentation even down to the CRT scan lines that take you back to yesteryear. While I undoubtedly have a fondness for the era it’s emulating, the manner in which it interprets this is brilliant and adds to the addictive nature of the game.

Animal Well is a refreshing twist on the Metroidvania formula. Its tight platforming and clever puzzles make each exhilarating trek to distinct regions a blast. Although the retro-inspired art direction and odd presentation may not resonate with everyone, the originality and charm that imbues the game make this trip to the absurd a must for fans of the genre.

***A PlayStation 5 code provided by the publisher***

The post Animal Well Review – A Psychedelic Twist appeared first on COGconnected.

Armed with a sword and a gun, EVE is an ultimate badass who is on track to be a new video game icon. Placing style at the forefront, Stellar Blade is an action-packed experience that you won’t want to miss.

Although its influences are clear, Stellar Blade manages to alter enough to carve its own identity within the action-adventure genre. With its deep and sophisticated combat system, stylish cinematics and varying gameplay, the game has a number of layers that make this an essential title. Want to find out more? Check out our full video review below.

Stellar Blade is out on April 26th exclusively for PlayStation 5 and you can read our full review here. Would you like this to be a new franchise? Will Shift Up be the next company to join the PlayStation family? Will this spark more hack-and-slash, action-adventure releases? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.

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The post Stellar Blade Video Review – A Slick Slice of Action appeared first on COGconnected.

Fans of tennis have been clamoring for a game that captures the spirit of the sport. After a series of faults with modern releases and legendary titles retiring, many had lost hope. Then from out of nowhere, a classic returns to put the spotlight back on to center court but will TopSpin 2K25 capture the magic of its predecessors?

At first glance, tennis might look simple: just whack the ball over the net but it’s actually very complex. The angles, shot types, positioning and much are required to become a Grand Slam winner. While some games capture elements of this, TopSpin 2K25 aims to interpret each aspect to make this a faithful representation of the sport. Will it succeed with a solid return or will it serve up a fault? Check out our video review below to find out.

TopSpin 2K25 is out now for PlayStation 4/5, PC and Xbox Series S/X/One and and you can read our full review here. Would you like to see Virtua Tennis make a return? Is this what you wanted from the return? Which other sports need a fresh new game? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.

Thank you for keeping it locked on COGconnected.

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The post TopSpin 2K25 Video Review – A Solid Return appeared first on COGconnected.

Venturing into the post-apocalyptic world crafted by Akira Toriyama, Bandai Namco resurrects the forgotten treasure, Sand Land. Drawing from the genius behind Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump, the game promises a thrilling fusion of Mad Max-inspired chaos and the iconic artistry synonymous with the creator. But as this universe transitions from manga to gameplay, can it deliver the same magic that captivated readers decades ago?

After years of hellacious battles, humans have destroyed the planet, leaving it a dry tundra. Civilization is on the brink of extinction as they struggle to survive due to the lack of water. Controlled by the King and Commander Zeu, H2O is now a sought-after commodity and is used to heighten his position of power. With only access to an extremely limited supply, Sheriff Rao decides to search for a legendary spring that could change humanity. As the world is a dangerous place, he overcomes the long rivalry between humans and demons to team up with Beelezbub. As both share a common interest, they set out together to find the mystical lake and change the landscape of society.

On Fury Road

The plot stays true to the Manga which adds authenticity to the adventure. However, due to the shorter, focused nature of the graphic novel, the game fleshes out the world by adding new tales and locations. Although the rag-tag group encounters different situations, their patented banter remains prominent. Beelzebub is a young demon and his personality reflects this. He is daring and a ball of energy which counters the Thief’s more tentative approach to situations. Sheriff Rao’s ex-military background peers through to help keep the odd squad all focused on the mission at hand. Although the range of personalities is infectious, the sub-par delivery of the dialogue detracts from the overall immersion of the narrative.

The world is perfectly realized with incredible attention to detail that faithfully captures Toriyama’s iconic art style. Each character is brimming with personality due to their outlandish design and the cell-shaded aesthetic. Vehicles are chubby with rounded features adding to the quirky presentation of the world. The bright colors and thick outlines pop off the screen and will make you want to discover more of this unique universe.

The large open world places vehicles at the forefront of the experience. You will venture across the desert, and fight foes on the way to your objective. While the environment is spacious, it still houses secrets and pockets of humanity that allow you to explore for items and resources. Camps and towns are dotted throughout which allows you to fast travel from location to location with ease.

In the Driver’s Seat

Your methods of transport vary as you progress. Each stacked with character and with a homemade, DIY aesthetic, you can quickly switch between vehicles to suit your situation. The tank offers more protection and chugs at a slower pace compared to the bike which allows you to zoom past creatures. Another useful construction is the Jump Bot which lets you leap up rocks and tackle platforming sections. This is particularly useful against enemies that fly above you and to further explore the multi-layered environment. Each machine is easy to control and feels distinct, allowing you to choose your approach to battles.

Vehicle combat is a blast. You have access to two different guns and can switch between these with the click of a button. This means you can reload one gun while unloading with another. With your boost, you can dart behind cover and then peek out to send a projectile. Personalization is also an option as you are able to upgrade your equipment and change weapons at the garage. Due to this, you can select a loadout that suits your playstyle. For example, if you want to get up close and personal, you can use the grenade launcher and machine gun whereas missiles are great at a distance. Every change is visible and you can add further character by giving the machine a paint job. This adds depth to vehicles and helps make it a highlight of Sand Land.

By the Book

On foot, Beelzebub can still take care of himself. You can throw weak and strong attacks, however, the buttons these are assigned stifle their fluency. After landing a series of combos, you get the option to unleash a super move which will launch your opponent across the screen. You also have the ability to perform special attacks and even use your allies to support you during combat. You will gain access to other attacks as you level up which does give you more options to decimate your opponents. Evasion is a little stiff and lacks precision which leads to a mediocre system that never truly reaches the same level as its vehicle counterpart.

ILCA adds variety to the gameplay through some straightforward stealth and even 2D platforming segments. Each twist with the gameplay is a welcome addition and will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Side quests, however, are a much more typical affair with simple tasks that fail to meet the same standards as the main campaign. Races are quite enjoyable but there is a reliance on fetch quests and due to this, you may find yourself skipping over some of these jobs. Helping others will reward you with items and will even see some of the characters you meet move to Spino, the main hub. The place will grow and thrive with your help, although a clever premise, the quality of side quests affects this.

Sand Land captures the heart and soul of Akira Toriyama’s classic tale. Jumping in a vehicle and fighting creatures is a highlight of the experience and overshadows the lackluster melee combat. Side quests are a little dull but the main campaign is varied and an accurate interpretation and interesting extension of the Manga. With its stunning visuals, fans of anime will love this thrilling journey through Toriyama’s iconic universe.

***A PlayStation 5 code provided by the publisher***

The post Sand Land Review – Road Warrior Tenacity and Super Saiyan Spirit appeared first on COGconnected.

From Bayonetta to 2B, the Hack and Slash, Action RPG genre boasts a pantheon of formidable female protagonists. With their striking designs and brutality in battle, they possess a captivating blend of grace and ferocity. Poised to make its mark as Shift Up’s first console release, Stellar Blade is a stylish Sci-Fi adventure that aims to deliver a slick slice of seductive action. However, will it distinguish itself enough to cut through the competition and soar past comparisons altogether?

In a desperate attempt to reclaim Earth from the Naytiba, soldiers are sent from their new habitat in the stars to take back their homeland. As EVE, you barely survive the trip and discover that most of your teammates died during the descent. This leads to a perilous journey across the post-apocalyptic ruins to fight off alien invaders and learn about the mysteries of the past. The story is methodically drip fed which complements the action and ensures that each objective has a clear purpose.

Dripping With Style

Buried within are tales that develop the rich lore of the world. You will encounter humans who survived the horrific events and can learn about their trials and tribulations when you help them through the completion of side quests. While you only gain snippets of information, they flesh out the story to give further insight into the universe. The story stays prevalent and leads you to wonderfully diverse locales that juxtapose the harsh impact of war and the beauty of nature which has overgrown to strangle the remnants of the past. Although the plot treads familiar ground, its presentation is captivating. Stylish cutscenes enhance the art direction and build anticipation for upcoming battles. With each scene, the tension mounts, fueling excitement for what awaits.

EVE moves with grace on the battlefield, weaving through her surroundings in a deadly waltz. Combining light and heavy attacks, you can perform a brutal ballet to annihilate anyone who stands before you. Successful strikes lead to the ability to unleash a special Beta attack, each of which has different strengths to support in particular situations. Getting up close puts you at risk, so you must be quick on your feet and dance between attacks. If timed perfectly, you will be rewarded with a small window of slow down so that you can unleash a series of devastating strikes. Attack types are distinguished by specific colors, enabling you to respond appropriately. While mastering the correct button combinations to counter each attack can be challenging, the sense of fulfillment upon success is truly rewarding.

Dangerous in Defense

Although the melee combat is similar to titles like Nier: Automata and Bayonetta with its reliance on evasion and quick combos, Stellar Blade also places parrying at the forefront of battles. You will need to read your enemy’s attack pattern and counter this with well-timed parries. Not only does this build your Beta ability but it can also leave them in a stagger state which allows you to deliver a cinematic blow. Making parrying a core part of combat amps up the intensity of encounters as it forces you to read your opponent to emerge victorious. Due to this, you have to be strategic and decide which enemies can be overwhelmed with a barrage of attacks and which will require a more methodical approach.

As well as close-quarters combat, you can step back and use a gun to deal damage from a distance. Rather than implementing the gunplay with the melee like in classics such as Devil May Cry, Shift Up opts for a more traditional third-person shooter format. This means you have access to different weapon types and can target particular areas on foes which makes it a viable option to take out creatures. Certain segments are tailored with this in mind to ensure that encounters stay varied throughout the adventure. As fights are designed to test your skills and require adept reactions, Shift Up includes a forgiving Story Mode difficulty option which adds several assists to make the game more accessible. Although not applicable to everyone, it’s a great feature to support engagement.

More Than Meets the Eye

In addition to tackling imposing foes, you will also need to use EVE’s agility to jump and ascend the surroundings. Although only specific areas are climbable, these are often great cinematic segments where you must scale large obstacles at pace or progress up stunning structures. Adding further variety, puzzles break up the gameplay allowing you to pause for a moment of thought. Most conundrums require exploration to progress. Rather than give you time to work out the solution, it quickly offers hints. While these are optional and you can turn this feature off, it’s a little frustrating to instantly receive the prompt. Campaign puzzles are straightforward, however, there are some challenging riddles in particular side quests that will test your problem-solving skills.

Linear and semi-open world areas seamlessly combine to create a sprawling adventure through a beautiful dystopian world. Hidden within are several collectibles and items that will make you want to search every area. You can attach objects to your loadout to gain boosts. For example, certain items will decrease melee damage whereas others will increase your attack speed. This allows you to personalize your character to favor certain attributes. You will also visit abandoned camps which are essentially FromSoftware style bonfires. Here you can upgrade your character, purchase items, and even learn more about the characters as they converse when resting. Upon replenishing your health, enemies respawn giving you more creatures to demolish on your quest to save the world.

Drop Dead Gorgeous

Each location and character model is sumptuously designed to perfectly capture the theme. The level of detail is truly astounding with close-ups showcasing different materials and minute facial details. This permeates with particle effects that heighten the intensity of battles and cinematic vistas that continue to amaze throughout. The adventure is further elevated with its stunning soundtrack. Melancholic vocals echo throughout to add an ethereal quality to the world. Guitar-heavy tracks build your adrenaline as you attempt to conquer beasts. The combination of these elements creates an intoxicating experience that will make you want to stay in this irresistible world.

Stellar Blade stands out as one of the best action-adventure games of its generation. Its combat system is both deep and multilayered, ensuring that every encounter is an exhilarating experience. Offering a range of options, players can tackle enemies in several ways, be it through offensive maneuvers or defensive strategies. Whether opting to dodge, parry, or create distance, the choices are intuitively designed. Coupled with its captivating narrative and cinematic presentation, Stellar Blade is an essential exclusive.

***A PlayStation 5 code provided by the publisher for review***

The post Stellar Blade Review – A Cut Above appeared first on COGconnected.

The slick, action-packed adventure is right around the corner. With its intense combat and alluring protagonist, the anticipation for Sony’s next exclusive is at an all-time high. Still on the fence? Here are five compelling reasons why Stellar Blade might just become your next must-play release.

1 – Incredible Influences

The creator, Kim Hyung-tae, has been open about his influences on the neo-futuristic epic. Instantly, comparisons were made with Yoko Taro’s Nier series due to the similar aesthetics and gameplay. While Kim confirmed the influence of the game’s design, he also went into detail about the number of other inspirations that have helped him craft the experience. Titles such as Devil May Cry, Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance, and Bayonetta have played a part in the development and this has helped him capture the fast and frenetic combat associated with the genre. If Stellar Blade can echo the action that imbues these legendary releases then this could be truly special.

2 – Calculated Combat

Mediocre combat is not enough in the hack-and-slash genre. To truly shine, a game needs to ensure that there are layers to encounters, options to vary your offense, and systems that make it unique. While we won’t get confirmation until going hands-on, the details about battles suggest that it has everything you need. Eve can perform quick basic attacks that allow you to deliver stylish combos. In addition, you can also link in Beta attacks, which are stronger attacks that charge during fights. Boost abilities become available after successful counters and evasions which encourage you to stay up close and personal. However, you can also step back and deal damage from afar with guns too. The combination of these elements is truly tantalizing and could breathe new life into the hack-and-slash genre.

3 – Slick Setting

The blue-tinted, metallic world looks incredible. With clear influences from 80s and 90s Manga with a dash of Blade Runner thrown into the mix, Stellar Blade is shaping up to be an absolute stunner. Aside from the particle effects and wonderful character designs, there seems to be an interesting semi-open world at play too. We will have to wait for its full release to see the structure of the game, however, the mix of Eastern and Western design that permeates Stellar Blade could provide the perfect slice of action.

4 – Engrossing Epic

Although the combat looks like a blast, the narrative is also intriguing. When Eve and her team land on an extinct Earth, they discover something they never expected. A forgotten civilization that has been surviving without aims to return Earth to the glorious place it once was. Eve must now work with members of Xion to rebuild the city. While not particularly original the fact that it includes a heavy focus on the plot and has decisions that impact the story is intriguing.

5 – Developer Debut

Being the South Korean developer’s first Triple-A game, there is an air of mystery around it. With only the odd mobile game sporting the Shift Up name, we don’t know what to expect. However, as this is a Sony exclusive and the Japanese giants are marketing the crap out of it, surely they must believe in the project. Refreshingly, the devs are really open about the game which has built excitement. With Eve already lighting fires as a protagonist, this has the potential to not only be an essential purchase but also the birth of a new franchise.

Well, if you can’t tell by now, I’m hyped for Stellar Blade. The combat looks to take elements from titans of the genre to create an enthralling system that looks to be both fun and challenging. In terms of design, the world, characters, and visuals all hit that sweet spot which could help the game soar above others. It could be the next essential exclusive but we will need to wait until April 26th to find out. What are your thoughts? Is this what you expected from Sony? Will it be a game-changer or a forgettable venture? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.

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There are certain games that tackle a genre from a different perspective to create something brand new yet familiar. Superhot did this with its movement-based time mechanics which perfectly blends First Person Shooter traits with a puzzler. Sneaking up the same path is Children of the Sun. With its unique approach to scoping and sniping enemies, will this tactical shooter hit the mark?

Betrayed and mistreated by The Cult, you play as The Girl and are determined to extinguish each member of the sadistic group until you find The Leader. Although the narrative isn’t delivered in an overt manner, you gather scraps of information about the group from each scenario. This bolsters the story as you progress and gives further incentive for your assassinations. While there is a story to latch on to, it’s secondary to the addictive gameplay. I would have liked further emphasis on the interesting scenario, however, it never delves deeper than being merely a premise for your objective.

The Single-Bullet Theory

Your goal is simple, eliminate all the cultists who roam the environment before you, however, there is one catch. You only have one bullet. What unleashes is a thrilling tactical sequence where you must direct your singular projectile through multiple enemies to complete your objective. At first, you need to scour the area and tag foes. Some can be hidden away and may require you to shoot your bullet to discover their whereabouts. Once you’ve located each enemy, then it’s time to work out the optimum route to complete annihilation.

Upon pulling the trigger, you follow the bullet toward your target and after a successful assassination, re-aim your projectile to take out another enemy. Soon you will pinball the bullet throughout the environment to stylishly murder each member of The Cult. Working out the order is an absolute thrill as you will need to consider the line of sight and positioning of foes. As you progress, more options become available which adds additional layers to the gameplay. One feature allows you to bend bullets so that they can swerve past obstacles to deliver a sick headshot. This opens up a range of possibilities that allow you to experiment with your order of kills.

X Marks the Spot

Particular parts of enemies will glow and hitting them in these areas will allow you to redirect your bullet mid-flight. This is particularly useful as the enemy variety develops. Certain characters require you to shoot from a distance and build up enough speed to pierce their armor while others may require you to bypass a shield. Due to this, you may need to venture out in one direction and then maneuver back to eliminate your target. The options and methods available are plentiful which makes the journey to your objective in each level feel distinct.

Levels are scored and linked to the online leaderboards which encourages you to replay missions to beat your previous effort. You can gain multipliers through quick multiple kills, using the environment to cause explosions and much more. This leads to experimentation to deliver as much chaos as possible to gain the highest score. As targets have a set route, not only do you need to consider your path but you also need to take into account the timing so that the execution of one leads to another. It’s devilishly addictive and adds to the longevity of the game.

Dark, Dingy and Delicious

The high-contrast, gritty visuals of Children of the Sun help to create a weathered aesthetic that drips with atmosphere. Each greasy location is smothered with filth and captures the hideous nature of the cultists that dwell there. Locations vary from murky motels to sleazy streets, each adding further gameplay depth and personality to the experience. The overall presentation is further heightened through its audio. Haunting drones and soft synths add to devious ambiance to create an incredible aesthetic which is to die for.

Children of the Sun is a twisted take on a tactical shooter. Surveying your surroundings to identify your prey before sending a solitary bullet for complete eradication is a blast. The development of the premise through special skills, challenges and end-level scores helps to make the game endlessly replayable. While I would have liked a little more focus on the interesting story that bubbles underneath, the intoxicating gameplay will sink its seedy hooks deep into your psyche, ensuring countless hours of adrenaline-fueled excitement.

***A Steam code was provided by the publisher***

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Although a huge part of Nintendo’s rich history, the spotlight has rarely been on Princess Peach. Pushing aside the mustachioed protagonist to take center stage, Showtime! sees the ruler of the Mushroom Kingdom land the leading role. Will this be a performance that leaves the audience wanting an encore or will they leave at the interval?

Themed as a theatre performance, Princess Peach: Showtime! is full of style and manages to capture a unique personality. With its clever use of the stage, you take part in a range of adventures that see Princess Peach transform into different characters, adopting new skills. While definitely aimed at a younger audience, does the game offer enough for gamers who grew up with the blonde ruler? Check out our video review below to find out!

Princess Peach: Showtime! is out now exclusively for the Nintendo Switch and you can read our full review here. Would you like to see more adventure with Princess Peach? Who else should Nintendo let take the leading role? Is it time for Waluigi to get his own game? Does Nintendo need to continue to focus on smaller titles like this or just do bigger releases? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.

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A forgotten classic, Capcom returns to Dragon’s Dogma to deliver an epic adventure like no other. Placing intense action at the forefront, you venture across a stunning high-fantasy world in this huge RPG.

Set in a high fantasy world, you take on mammoth beasts in stunning encounters that will blow your mind. Similar to Shadow of the Colossus, you will need to climb, cling and stab your way to victory. With swords, bows and magic in your arsenal, you can attack in several ways to make battles an absolute thrill. Want to find out more? Check out our full video review below.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 is out now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X and PC and you can read our full review here. Are you excited to take on the dragon’s in this fantasy epic? Would you like to see Capcom tackle another forgotten title? What do you think is next for the prolific devs? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.

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Stellar Blade looks to unite several features from iconic titles to deliver a fast and frantic action experience. With its slick design and fierce female protagonist, fans around the world are excited to get their hands on the PlayStation 5 exclusive. If April 26th is too far away, then why not check out one of these games to amp up the anticipation?

Nier: Automata

It’s clear to see that Nier: Automata has had a big influence on Stellar Blade. Not only do they share an aesthetic resemblance but they also both place chaotic combat at the forefront of the gameplay. Nier: Automata is undoubtedly one of the greatest action-adventure games of all time and the fact that Stellar Blade is getting comparisons only highlights the quality of the fighting sequences shown. Whether you have played Nier or not, it is definitely revisiting before Sony’s next action-adventure title is released in April. With 26 different endings, there’s plenty of reason to revisit the post-apocalyptic future with 2B.

Bayonetta 

The Bayonetta series is the pinnacle of hack-and-slash combat. Every system perfectly entwines to create violent poetry on the screen. Her elegance amplifies the brutality to create something beautiful yet visceral. While Stellar Blade includes more traditional gunplay, there appear to be similarities with the melee aspect of battles. One aspect that PlatinumGames perfected was the executions and this looks incredible in Sony’s latest exclusive. With three incredible games in the series, a trip with the witch is mandatory before you venture out with Eve. 

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance

A spin-off from the iconic tactical espionage action games, Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance ditches stealth for over-the-top, stylish combat. With its intimate camera angle, fights are intense and this looks similar in Shift Up’s next release. Director, Hyung-Tae Kim, has already confirmed his love and admiration for the title and this has clearly seeped into the DNA of the game. Raiden’s adventure features some jaw-dropping boss battles and set pieces to make you feel like the ultimate badass, hopefully, Eve can replicate that same feeling.

Devil May Cry 5

After Ninja Theory’s excellent reboot of the series failed to connect with audiences, many assumed that would be the last we saw of the white-haired son of Sparda. However, in a surprising move, Capcom decided to continue their saga with Devil May Cry 5 which ended up being arguably the pinnacle of the franchise. Featuring a flawless combat system, the game allows you to instantly switch between styles to take out foes in a slick and strategic manner. This approach to battles seems to have spread into Stellar Blade as the game includes a variety of attack methods to annihilate those in your path. Although they do differ, strains of the iconic system are visible which makes this an excellent game to play in anticipation of its release.

God of War 3

Although the new God of War games are absolute masterpieces, we shouldn’t forget about the incredible trilogy before it. The originals maintained a more traditional hack-and-slash formula with its elevated camera and chaotic battles. More than any other game on the list, Kratos’ third outing showcased boss battles that surpass many modern releases. Not only do you fight larger than life Gods, but you do so in astounding circumstances that are truly awe-inspiring. Returning to the original games is a great route to build the excitement for what could possibly be Sony’s best exclusive of 2024.

Honourable Mention – Vanquish

Although not a hack-and-slash, the frantic third-person shooter carries the spirit of the genre with its turbo-charged combat. This takes the heavy, cover-based mechanics from Gears of War and slaps a rocket on it to deliver some of the best gunplay in the medium. Hopefully, Stellar Blade draws inspiration from Vanquish with its shooting g segments to maintain a fast pace throughout.

So, those are my top picks to amp up the anticipation for Stellar Blade. What do you think of the list? Have I missed your favorite Hack and Slash? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.

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Team Ninja is renowned for their tough but rewarding combat system. While their previous outings have included linear levels and supernatural elements, Rise of the Rōnin, removes the shackles for an open-world experience grounded in reality. Will this shift in direction help this samurai adventure to slice its own path?

Set in a huge open world, you visit three regions in the late Edo period of Japan. Your adventure takes you to a range of wonderful places where you will meet a diverse cast of characters. You will need to work with these in order to win their favor so that they can support you in your goal of bringing peace to Japan. Will Team Ninja’s decision to take their iconic combat system to the open world be a bold step forward or a risky venture? Check out our video review below to find out!

Rise of the Rōnin is out now exclusively for PlayStation 5 and you can read our full review here. Would you like to see Team Ninja revisit a previous release or work on another new IP? Would you like to see them continue with the open-world format or return to linear levels? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.

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The post Rise of the Rōnin Video Review – The Art of Combat appeared first on COGconnected.

Masters in the art of combat, Team Ninja has created a range of epic titles that allow you to become a virtuoso with the sword. With a focus on intricate battle mechanics and immersive historical Japanese settings, games by the legendary developers have garnered a devoted following. For their latest venture, Rise of the Rōnin, they embark on their most ambitious adventure yet, but will this departure from their traditional style resonate with fans, or will it dilute the core essence of their renowned combat-focused gameplay?

Set in the Bakumatsu period, you play as one of the Blade Twins, a talented duo who have been brought up under the care and guidance of the Veiled Edge after their village was burnt to the ground. With the nation in political turmoil and crime becoming more prevalent, you decide to tackle the corruption that imbues the government in order to restore peace to Japan. Side-stepping the mythology that enshrouds Team Ninja’s previous titles, Rise of the Rōnin is grounded in reality. On your adventure, you will encounter historical figures that provide insightful information and further immerse you in the time and era. Due to this, it is easy to delve into the wonderful world and get lost in the vast number of tales within.

The Twilight of the Samurai

The time period is particularly interesting as it helps the game strafe away from its peers. Due to the Western influences of the era, this leads to the inclusion of a large variety of weapons which adds an additional layer to combat. You can equip a primary, secondary and side weapon from a broad selection giving you several methods to decimate anyone who stands before you. Each melee weapon has pros and cons which will encourage you to experiment until you find a suitable accompaniment for your playstyle. As you progress, you will unlock different stances which will give you an advantage over certain foes. This leads to a glorious dance of death as you flit between enemies, altering your posture to quickly eviscerate everyone on the battlefield.

Similar to other games in its genre, stamina, categorized as Ki, significantly influences the outcome of battles. If you decide to repeatedly attack, your meter will quickly drain and you will be left vulnerable. As a result, you must wait for the opportune time to strike and be patient in fights. Blocking is vital and a strong method to quell the barrage of attacks especially when used in conjunction with other techniques. At times, enemies will unleash a ferocious attack that you must evade. Due to this, you will need to learn their pattern and maintain distance to not get overwhelmed. Their maneuvers are well signaled to give you time to react and parry. Doing so will dwindle their Ki and position them in a stagger state which allows you to execute a special attack.

Death From Every Angle

Range weapons such as guns and shurikens allow you to damage enemies from afar. This is particularly useful when trying to manage the variety of warriors that are out for your blood. Due to the implementation of the grappling hook, you can take to the rooftops to escape difficult situations. In fact, you can deal with many of your opponents before they even notice your presence. Stalking through the reeds is a thrill and adds even more variety to the deep and immersive combat.

Creating bonds plays a significant role in the adventure. Throughout, you will encounter characters and grow your relationship, calling on them to aid you in battle. You can strengthen your connection by giving gifts and developing their story through specific missions. The inclusion of dialogue choices creates a dynamic system where your decisions impact how people perceive you. With your partner by your side, you can switch personas during fights which is a great feature that allows you to lure enemies with one individual and strike with another. Although I was unable to test the stability, you can also invite friends to take on certain missions together. This gives even more variety to create a truly absorbing combat system that makes each fight a blast.

Behind the Mask

Although the game is difficult, there are several considerations in place to support engagement. With three difficulty options, you can select a suitable level and alter it whenever you like. In addition to this, there is also a ton of side content that allows you to gain XP and level up for a better chance against bigger and tougher bosses. Doing so allows you to personalize the experience further by creating a unique build through the expansive skill tree. Rather than just improving your stats, you unlock new abilities that develop your skillset.

The world itself is full of character with long countrysides that lead to quaint villages. With the aid of your steed, a wing-suit contraption and your grapple, you can quickly venture across the varied terrain. Conventions of the genre are burrowed within the design to emit an air of familiarity throughout your trip. Although it sticks to expectations, the core gameplay enhances typical objectives. While the environment is diverse and full of content, it lacks the visual spectacle typically associated with a Sony exclusive. Cutscene have cinematic flair reminiscent of classic samurai films but certain regions on your adventure are a little barren. This doesn’t detract from the overall experience, however, it’s not quite as remarkable as some similar offerings in the genre.

Rise of the Rōnin takes Team Ninja’s formidable combat system and lets it revel in a large open world. Swinging your blade has never felt better due to the number of options available to annihilate your opponent. Even though it follows the expectations of the genre and the visuals are mixed, each step in feudal Japan is exhilarating and pulsates with the spirit of the samurai.

***A PlayStation 5 code was provided by the publisher***

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