All posts by josechurape

video game reviews

Heroes of the Seven Islands: A Cozy RPG Adventure

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I was asked to cover the Heroes of the Seven Islands demo for my blog. This will be my honest impressions, but I understand the game is still in development and will adjust my criticism accordingly.

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out the new Epomaker HE75 Mag or their Galaxy 100 keyboard. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System. If you would like to start your own blog on WordPress, sign up using my Affiliate Link!

What is Heroes of the Seven Islands?

Heroes of the Seven Islands is the point and click RPG you want living in your Wishlist.

Furax the Indestructible has risen from the dead to spread his misery. Only the oracle has the power to stop him, but he has long since retired. It is up to the four bravest heroes of the land to venture across the seven islands of the Emerald Archipelago to find find him. Can they find the keys to Oracle in time to save the world, or has Furax’s reign cemented itself into the darkest part of history?

Gameplay

The game is a point and click game where players move across the archipelago fighting monsters, finding clues, and trying to stay alive. Players start the game by creating a party of unique characters and choosing from a few interesting classes. The game features impactful turn-based combat, and a decent amount of exploration to keep things fresh and interesting.

Impressions

I need a full version of this game because I am hooked. I love the hand-drawn quirky art style. It gives the game its flavor and cozy feel. However, do not let overall silliness of the game fool you, it is unforgiving if you aren’t playing carefully. Combat seems simple, but it takes a bit of strategy to get through it. I am sure there is a correct competition that would have kept me from wiping so much, but I was having too much fun exploring the different classes.

The demo does a fantastic job at giving players a taste of what is to come, and I am excited to experience more. I love the game’s non-linear approach to progression, the art style, and the gameplay. If you’re looking for an RPG that is cozy but offers a bit of a challenge, you need to check out Heroes of the Seven Islands. I’ll be trying to get a full version for its release Q2 2025, but you can always add to your Wishlist for the mean time.

Tech Reviews

Fifine Ampligame D6 Controller Review: A Streamer’s Best Friend

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Fifine sent me their Ampligame D6 Stream Controller to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions of the device. This will be my honest review. Make sure you check my other Fifine product reviews like the M9 lavalier mic set or the AM 8 Streaming mic.

What’s in the box?

  • D6 Stream Controller
  • USB-C to USB-C chord with builtin USB-A adapter
  • user manual

Features

The Ampligame D6 stream controller is the ideally sized to take up the perfect amount of desk real estate without losing any function. Its sleek black design and programmable faces make it compatible with most aesthetics. And if it wasn’t obvious the D6 was designed with gamers in mind, the subtle RGB strip that borders the devices comes with a few preprogrammed profiles that can be toggled off at any time.

The D6 intends to improve the user’s workflow without breaking the bank. With its 15 programmable buttons and compatibility with popular content creation tools, the D6 is ready for any type of workload. Each button can be programed with with media controls, macros, and other useful plugins to take a content creation to the next level. Setup is as easy as drag and drop, and there is a plugin store for additional functionality.

Whether it is gaming, editing, or streaming, the Ampligame D6 Streaming Controller promises to do it all brilliantly.

Review

I was very impressed with the controller out of the box. It has a good weight to it and the construction seems solid. It has good quality rubber at the bottom to keep it firm on your desk which is a nice little detail. Turning on the device left me a bit more impressed. Each button has a small screen with good resolution. All of the icons are easy to read and see, and they can be reprogrammed to fit any aesthetic. I also like how the RGB is subtle and doesn’t turn my desk into a rave, and like it even more that I can turn it off when I don’t want it on.

Setting up the streaming deck was easy through the official ap. The ap gives users a decent amount of programmable functions and there is a ap store with free plugins for program specific functions. I didn’t mess with the store too much since the default settings had enough of what I needed.

The buttons were a bit stiff at first, but they do begin to soften after prolonged use. The functions and keys are very responsive, and I like that I can save multiple profiles with multiple pages of shortcuts if I need to switch between different workflows. I do feel like it has helped improve my productivity. It is OBS compatible and it is nice to have access to the functions without having to switch out of the game. I have also started using it for work, using it for shortcuts for programs and macros that I use regularly. My only complaint is that I won’t ever be able to do my work without it.

If you’re looking for an affordable streaming controller with a good amount of utility, the Ampligame D6 gets the job done. You can pick up the Ampligame D6 on Amazon for $78.99 using my affiliate link.

video game reviews

Click Mage: The Perfect Chill Resource Management Game

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I was sent a free copy of Click Mage to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review.

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out the new Epomaker HE75 Mag or their Galaxy 100 keyboard. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System. If you would like to start your own blog on WordPress, sign up using my Affiliate Link!

What is Click Mage?

Click Mage is a minimalistic cozy resource management game out now on Steam.

You are a wizard on the verge of greatness, but your experiments send you to a strange world with noway of going back. You must use the islands resources to find build your way back. Use your magic to farm the resources you need, upgrade your skills, and build the tech to make it all work. Do you have what it takes to get home?

Gameplay

The gameplay loop can’t get any more simpler. Players move around the map collecting and refining the resources they need to build new structures, and unlock new abilities and power ups. It is a very laid back and relaxing loop, with a bit of a grind, but nothing unmanageable.

Review

If you are looking for a cozy and chill game to fill your time, it does not get better than Click Mage. I was had my doubts when I first saw how simple the gameplay seemed, but it is engaging enough to be entertaining.

It is a clicker game, so a lot of the systems will feel a bit repetitive. Things like harvesting and refining take a bit of management, and you will be constantly repeating the same type of tasks. There is a bit of a puzzle as you figure out what you need to evolve to the next stage of crafting, but you don’t need a guide to do it efficiently. I found the repetition relaxing and enjoyed the pace and challenge. Other resource management games can feel stressful, so I appreciate the change of pace that is Click Mage.

It is Steam Deck compatible, but I preferred using the keyboard and mouse. It is not unplayable, but it does feel a little awkward.

If you are looking for some chill resource management and don’t mind the repetition, Click Mage is a fantastic addition to any library. It is simple, runs great, and it is not a huge commitment. You can pick up Click Mage for $4.99 on Steam.

Tech Reviews, Uncategorized

Rebuff Reality’s BodyLink: The Future of Motion Gaming

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The new generation of gaming is here, and Rebuff Reality seems to be its Shepard. With the launch of the BodyLink Kickstarter campaign, Rebuff reminds gamers what could have been if the Xbox Kinnect had gotten proper attention. With only 18 days left of funding, as of writing this, backing has blown past its initial goals. Early backers will get what seems to be an amazing piece of hardware at a respectable discount. There is always risk when backing a Kickstarter, and it is always good practice to expect delays.

What is it?

The BodyLink is an all-in-one motion gaming device that aims to revolutionize how we interact with games. It features a 4k 90 fps camera for accurate full-body tracking, an 8-core processor for performance, and expandable storage for all your games. The included next-gen controller boasts high-precision tracking and haptic feedback for a completely immersive experience. The device is compatible with your VR devices giving users the ability to record, stream, and cast their sessions at the click of a button.

When you aren’t using the BodyLink for motion gaming, you can enjoy some classic gaming through its expansive Android library or stream media from your favorite media. Whatever you are into, the BodyLink might be the upgrade your living room is looking for.

The Demo

Impresions

I loved the Xbox Kinnect and am very sad it never took off. I was very excited to see how the BodyLink is attempting to revitalize a neglected era in history, and I am here for it. I’ve played Dance Dash and have followed the company’s development since. The game is a lot of fun, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a new rhythm game. Check out my full review. The products that Rebuff Reality has released since have all been well received. While this seems to be a very ambitious project, and I am sure there will be a few missing features at launch, the passion is there to get the job done. Just remember that there is always risk in backing a Kickstarter.

I am impressed and will be trying to get my hands on a unit. I know this has the potential for some memorable game nights with the family, and the fitness aspect seems like a great bonus. If you want to enter the next era of gaming before the prices go up, make sure you back the BodyLink on Kickstarter today!

Uncategorized, video game reviews

Ayasa: Shadows of Silence Demo Review

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I was asked to cover the Ayasa: Shadows of Silence demo on my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, this will be my honest review.

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out the new Epomaker HE75 Mag or their Galaxy 100 keyboard. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System. If you would like to start your own blog on WordPress, sign up using my Affiliate Link!

What is Ayasa: Shadows if Silence?

Ayasa is a side scrolling action adventure game coming soon to Steam. The demo is currently available.

The darkness slowly eats away at the inverted world. Those left do what they can to stay alive, but each day grows more bleak. Jump into a surreal and dark world as you uncover what remains of the old world. Solve puzzles, and explore the surreal landscape, and use your powers to stay alive. What will your journey uncover?

Gameplay

Ayasa is a fixed camera action adventure game. Players control Ayasa as she navigates her unforgiving world and tries to survive. Players will need to solve puzzles, avoid traps, and use their resources to keep her alive. The demo takes players through the first level of the game, and acts as a tutorial of what is to come. Hopefully the full release gives players the option to skip the first level if they beat the demo.

Impressions

I understand the game is still in development, so I will try to be a bit more lenient.

Ayasa: Shadows of Silence has some interesting flavor and imagery, but it is a rough demo. While I do enjoy a good side scrolling adventure, there are some bugs that make the game a bit unpleasant. I encountered a couple of soft locks and crashes, and I wasn’t getting the tight performance a game like this requires. There are puzzles in this game I would fail not for lack of skill, but because the walls aren’t coded correctly. I am sure this will be fixed at a later date, but a demo should feel a lot smoother. The roughness of this demo is going to turn away a lot of the more casual gamer who just want to enjoy a platformed with a dark and trippy story.

I will need to see a version of the game with a lot less bugs before I am willing to recommend it. I believe there are some good ideas baked into this game, it just needs a smoother execution. At the moment, I can’t recommend it, but it doesn’t hurt to try it for free.

You can check out the Ayasa: Shadows of SIlence demo on Steam.

video game reviews

Mea Culpa DLC Review: Is It Worth Your Money?

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I was sent a free copy of the Mea Culpa DLC for Blasphemous 2 to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review. Make sure you check out my review for the base game.

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out the new Epomaker HE75 Mag or their Galaxy 100 keyboard. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System. If you would like to start your own blog on WordPress, sign up using my Affiliate Link!

What is Mea Culpa?

Mea Culpa is DCL for the 2D side scrolling Souls-like, Blasphemous 2. You will need to already own Blasphemous 2 to play the DLC. This DLC adds new abilities, quests, and alternate ending. There are also two new zones to explore and bosses to fight. If you enjoyed Blasphemous 2, it might be worth checking out for a bit of extra content.

Review

The Mea Culpa DLC was okay. It wasn’t bad, but it is hard to justify the price. I enjoyed the new areas, and the bosses were challenging and fun, but I don’t think it is a mandatory step into Blasphemy. If you are a fan of the series and are looking to support a great title in the genre, it is a solid buy and you will get your money’s worth in fun. If you are new to the genre and on a budget, the base game is all you need. I would wait for a sale because I don’t believe it adds enough to be worth the full price of admission. It isn’t a bad DLC, but it doesn’t stand out as hard as it needs to.

You can buy Mea Culpa on Steam, Xbox ($30.39), Nintendo, PlayStation for $11.99, but I recommend waiting for the next big sale.

Uncategorized

Why Blasphemous 2 is a Must-Play for Gamers

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I bought a copy of Blasphemous 2 because I got a copy of the DLC and I wanted to try it out. I spent my own money and this will be my honest review.

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out the new Epomaker HE75 Mag or their Galaxy 100 keyboard. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System. If you would like to start your own blog on WordPress, sign up using my Affiliate Link!

What is Blasphemous 2?

Blasphemous 2 is a stylistic 2D souls-like out now on PC, Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox.

The Penitent One wakes up at the gates of a strange city, tasked with cleansing their soul. Trapped in this endless cycle of life and death, the Penitent One must fight their way through bloodthirsty angels and demons, and defeat the lords that rule over them. Piece together the truths of this afterlife and repent for all your sins. Do you have what it takes to earn your penance?

Gameplay

This is a 2D Souls-like where players start the game with simple gear and combos and slowly earn buy better items and movements. Some items trigger special events, encouraging players to try different weapons and styles. Players are grinding their way between campfires, collecting treasures and information, and slowly becoming stronger. Eventually, players face off against tough bosses that test the player’s grasp of the core mechanics.

Review

Blasphemous 2 is phenomenal, and a mandatory addition to any library. This game has some fantastic flavor with some of the most beautiful 2D art I’ve seen in a game. I love the heavy lean into the gothic catholic aesthetic, and that attention put into every detail. I spent longer than I should admiring every design. The game also has a fantastic score to carry you through the adventure.

The story is solid. I was a huge fan of the animated cutscenes, and the voice acting is fantastic. If you are a fan of dark fantasy narratives that border on blasphemy, this is a solid title to try out.

The gameplay in this game is challenging in a way that never felt frustrating. There is a bit of a grind and that can feel repetitive, but this is a common trait in the genre. I enjoyed exploring the different fighting styles because every weapon felt unique. The game also has an interesting gearing and talent tree system that makes the experience feel less mindless.

If you are looking for a good and interesting game and don’t mind the blasphemy, you must play Blasphemous 2. While the game is a sequel, it feels pretty stand-alone. I haven’t played the first Blasphemous but it didn’t feel like it was necessary. I don’t know how it stacks up to its predecessor, but the experience has made me curious. Maybe I’ll find some time to try it out in the future.

You can pick up Blasphemous 2 on PC, Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox for $29.99.

Board Games and TCGs

Wasted my Money on the GameStop Premium Deck Box

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I was at Gamestop the other day and decided to treat myself with a new deck box for my Grand Archive deck. The one I was using at the time was ratty and falling apart. I chose to pick up the GameStop Premium Trading Card Deck Box, but this thing was anything but premium.

What I liked

The deck box has a slick black vinyl texture with red stitching along its edges that gives the box its alluring elegant feel. There are strong magnets on the flap for secure storage, and two plastic dividers to keep your cards organized. The inside also has this sleek black for the matching aesthetic. It’s a nice looking box, but those looks fade fast.

Review

The plastic covering the bottom of the deckbox came undone on the second day, exposing my cards to the box’s cheap interior cardboard. I should have taken this moment to get my money back, but I wanted to see what would happen. The red stitching that runs along the edges started to come undone shortly after. After my third locals, I started to notice the inside fold of the flap starting to tear away. I am very careful with my trading card and accessories and was surprised at how rough the box looked after only a few uses. It would have been better if I bought cheap plastic ones instead.

I wasn’t expecting a high quality product that would last me forever, but I did expect it to at least make it through the year. I might have gotten a defective unit, but if Gamestop is truly attempting to make their transition to an LGS, they need to do better. If you only have 20 bucks to spend on a deck box, you can do better.

Tech Reviews

Best Raspberry Pi 5 Kit? Vemico Reviewed

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Vemico sent me their Raspberry PI 5 kit to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review.

What’s in the Box?

  • Raspberry Pi 5
  • Metal Heat Sinks
  • 32 GB Micro SD
  • Micro SD adapter
  • Micro SD USB-C Adapter
  • Vemico High Quality Cable
  • Screw Driver

Review

The Vemico PI 5 kit has everything you need to get you started with what is probably the most fun piece of tinker tech. There are a lot of fun projects available for people at any level of tech comprehension.

I have a PI 4 that I’ve been using as a media server, but it was about time for an upgrade. The 4 is a fantastic piece of tech that I will continue using, but I need something with a bit more power for that higher rez content. I appreciate the inclusion of an onboard power button and the PCIe expansion for that fast SSD memory.

The PI 5 was noticeably faster and handled the required load better. If you are considering making the jump or looking for your first Raspberry Pi, the Vemico kit is a fantastic bargain.

The Pi is easy to set up with the included USB-C adapter. While I do appreciate the inclusion of the SD adapter, USB is more universal. I set up the Pi as both a light-load computer and then transitioned to the media server quickly. It handled both tasks better than the 4, but it does get noticeably hot. I recommend using the included heat sinks or investing in a case to reduce that throttle.

The kit does not include a mini HDMI or case, but this isn’t a huge deal. It is extremely easy to do a headless setup for most cases, but mini HDMI cords are inexpensive. There are kits out there that include a case, but most of those are cheap and not very good. Depending on what you intend to use your PI for, you’re going to have to buy a case anyway. There are a lot of good options out there, and some even with RGB.

What makes this bundle worth it is the included high-quality power supply. This is a well-made chord that is perfect if you intend to travel with your PI, or if you want some extra piece of mind. My four has a flimsy cable that does the job, but I count the days until it fails me.

If you’re looking for a Raspberry PI kit, the Vemico kit is a great starting point. You can pick up the Vemico Raspberry Pi 5 kit on Amazon for $105.99 using my affiliate link.

video game reviews

Fledgling Manor Review: Vampire Drama in a Reality Show

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I was sent a free copy of Fledgling Manor to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review.

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out the new Epomaker HE75 Mag or their Galaxy 100 keyboard. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System. If you would like to start your own blog on WordPress, sign up using my Affiliate Link!

What is Fledgling Manor?

Fledgling Manor is a visual novel out now on Steam. The first chapter is available as a demo for those interested.

Rocky wakes up in a strange place with an even stranger affliction. He has been turned into a vampire against his will and must now fight for his survival. In order to live his life as a new vampire, he must win the highly rated reality television show, Fledgling Manor. In it, newly formed vampires compete in a series of challenges to earn their place in the manor and live another day. But each day is marred by the execution of one unpopular soul. Will Rocky make enough of an impact to earn his new life as a vampire, or will he be another culled contestant?

Review

Fledgling Manor is an interesting concept for a narrative with cool artwork to grab a reader’s attention. This game has very cool character design, but I found the story lacking. The writing is a little too on the edgy side, and while the game does have its audience, it wasn’t for me. Some of the dialogue is a bit cringy, but by no means poorly written. The author does a great job creating its dynamic characters and capturing the spirit of a cheesy reality tv show. There is no voice acting, which I don’t think it needs any.

If you want a serious deep narrative about vampires, you will be disappointed. However, if you’re looking for a fun quirky story and don’t mind the edgy characters, Fledgling Manor is a solid piece. I recommend trying out the demo as it does a great job at setting the tone. If you find yourself not liking any of the characters, it doesn’t get any better. But if you enjoy the tone of the demo, congratulation, you are the target audience and you will find this visual novel delightful.

The game features multiple endings, enough for replayability, unique characters to engage and fall in love with, and a fantastic soundtrack to set the mood. You can pick up Fledgling Manor on Steam for only $11.75.