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Tech Reviews

Epomaker GX1 Review: Affordable Wireless Gaming Headset

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Disclaimer

Epomaker sent me the GX1 wireless headset for free 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 also check out my reviews for the Nex Lite gaming mouse and the TH80 V2 Pro mechanical keyboard. I’ll also be using my Amazon Affiliate link where possible. It really helps me out if you use it before buying anything.

Table of Contents

What’s in the box?

  • GX1 Wirless Gaming Headset
  • Detachable Mic
  • Mic Filter
  • USB-C to 3.5mm Audio Cable
  • 2.4 GHz Wireless Dongle
  • User Manual

Unboxing

Features

If you are looking for a budget headset that not only sounds good, but also makes your voice beautiful, you might want to reach for the Epomaker GX1 gaming headset. This stylish headset is ready to let you take command of the next fight, or when you’re ready to jump into the newest Grand Theft Auto game.

Listen in Style

Listen in style with the stylish new GX1 wireless headset. The GX1 is available in three colors: white, black, and pink. I got mine in pink because it is my favorite color, but don’t be afraid to get into one of the more boring colors. Based on what I got, they are going to look just as good (although I am clearly biased).

The stylish modern design gives you the esports look for when you’re ready for your next stream, or just a personal glow-up for those long gaming sessions (those of you who can still afford to game all day. Treasure it!). The fake leather padding make it look more elegant, but I have never been a fan of the material. The earmuffs may be swappable, but the material starts looking rough after a while. Finally, it wouldn’t be a gaming headset without the RGB and this has a beautifully subtle lighting effect on the earmuffs for those of you who want RGB on everything. You can turn it off if you want to be boring though.

Performance

The GX1 is Epomaker’s open back headphones. The open back design coupled with the 55mm dynamic drivers offer the bass you want and the high quality soundstage you’ve been searching for. Gamers and fans of ASMR will appreciate the effective 7.1 surround sound (only available in Bluetooth mode). The GX1 allows for three connections: Wireless through the dongle, Bluetooth 5, and through USB. You can enjoy the same high quality sound on either connection, but you never have to worry about being out of the action because your device. Or if you’re me, you can seamlessly switch between as much as you need.

Those of you who want to minimize their wire clutter can enjoy the impressive 2000mAh battery. That means you are never out of the action when you need it the most. The headset boasts 30 hours with all the lights, and about 70 hours without. When the battery does wind down, the headset delivers a gentle warning without interrupting any of your audio. That means you aren’t missing the most exciting part of your drama, and you can quickly connect with the included high quality cable to stay in the action.

For those of you who need a mic, the Epomaker GX1 has an ENC noise cancelling mic that is detachable. That means that the people on the other side can enjoy your beautiful voice without any of the unnecessary ambiance. The mic is also detachable for those of you who need it for travel. If you are looking for a new headset, the GX1 is definitely looking like a strong contender.

Mic Check

https://churapereviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/epomakerGX1.mp3

Review

If you are looking for a cheap headset that works well, looks good, and is comfortable, Epomaker has an answer with the GX1 gaming headset. While I wouldn’t call it your next audiophile solution nor your next podcast mic, it is good enough for most uses. You are getting a lot of value at this price point, for a product that you are going to use regularly. If you don’t have money for a more professional setup, you can’t go wrong with the GX1.

Quality

I was very impressed with the quality of the GX1 out of the box. Everything looks cleanly machined with no visible signs of cheapness or imperfections. The headset is a good weight: heavy enough to feel like a quality product, but not so heavy that it is uncomfortable. The padding is soft and spongy, but I fear the leather material isn’t going to survive the year. The material is already cracked after two weeks of use, but at least it isn’t pealing yet. The padding is replaceable, but it doesn’t seem worth it. At least not at this price point.

The mic is my favorite bit of the GX1. The stem is sturdy and flexible, allowing users to always find the perfect position regardless of face size and shape (I have a very fat face). The padding that goes over the mic seems fine, but I am not versed enough to know how effective it is at its job.

The overall product feels sturdy. The bridge can handle a healthy amount of flex, so at least it won’t snap on you when you try to put it on. The bridge also offers a good amount of pressure to minimize movement but without hurting your head (so long as you’re sitting down). For $50, you are getting a good quality product ready to play your favorite songs.

Audio

The audio on the GX1 is fine. I found it a little flat for my taste, but its fine for most uses. If you aren’t paying for that top tier Tidal subscription, these will do the job. I tried out the different sound modes: 7.1 surround, movie, and music. Music is on by default and is probably the best sounding of the three. Movie does make the voice a little clearer, but it doesn’t really make the movie sound better. I didn’t really notice much of the 7.1 effect, at least not in a way that it is meaningful enough for gaming. I would just leave the settings as is or use third party software to adjust the levels if you’re feeling fancy.

Personal, I prefer the sound of the Redragon Zues H510 as far a budget headsets go, but the sound is good enough for those who don’t want an extra cable.

Performance

The GX1 works as intended. I was able to switch between the three different connections quickly and seamlessly. This included switching between devices, and yes I got to use all of the connections. Bluetooth is very easy to connect and reset in case you need to switch devices. The dongle is easy to use, and is compatible with both USB-C and USB-A connections. This allowed me to use the headset for work computer (my clients appreciate the better voice quality), my gaming computer (perfect for my ASMR), and on my phone (for D&D night!). There was no noticeable difference in any of the connections. The fact that the USB-C dongle pugs into a USB-A adapter is futuristic AF and I love it!

Now the range of the connection is reasonable. You can hear everything from the same room, but you might start losing connection in other rooms. This is only a problem when you walk into the kitchen for a snack and want to continue listening to your favorite podcast. It isn’t really an issue if you press pause.

The battery is impressive. The advertising boasts 30 hours of battery life, and I got just about that with all of the lights on. I didn’t test the life without the RGB because I am vain and prefer how it looks with the RGB.

Conclusion

If you are looking for an affordable headset that works for most of your needs, the Epomaker GX1 is a valid option. You get a good looking headset with enough quality to be worth the price tag. You may not be getting the audiophile level experience, but most people won’t notice the difference. You can pick up the GX1 on the official Epomaker store, or on Amazon using my Affiliate Link.

video game reviews

Discover Talaka: A Roguelike Inspired by Brazilian Folklore

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Disclaimer

I was sent the Talaka demo to review for my blog. I understand the game is not finished yet and will be a bit more lenient with my review. That said, this will be my honest review of the game.

Shameless Self Promotion

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out my reviews for the Epomaker QK108, the Redragon Antonium K745 Pro, and the adorable KiiBOOM Meow Pudding keycaps. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System and the Kiwi Ears Aventus Wireless Headset. The Huanuo Nitroglide dual monitor arm is also pretty cool.

Make sure you check out the free ways you can support me, like using my Amazon affiliate link before you buy anything. It really helps me out if you do. You can also always buy me coffee! Don’t forget to share this review with your friends!

Table of Contents

What is Talaka?

Talaka is a dynamic action roguelike based on Brazilian folklore coming soon to a PC near you. The game features beautiful hand-drawn art and the ability to cater your gameplay to your skill level. Most importantly, there is a demo available that should be in your library. Don’t forget to wishlist!

Hook

Your Grandmother has gone missing, and it is up to you to find her. Your search sends you the mysterious and magical land of the Orishas, creatures of folklore. Orishas find themselves slowly fading from memory. As a result, many of them have gone rogue, causing chaos and destruction. Luckily, you have been blessed by the gods and with one of the over 150 weapons to fight them off. Build your character with unique skills and abilities (some RNG based and others you buy along the way) and travel through this new surreal landscape. This won’t be an easy task. Platforms will test your patience, bosses will test your skills, and you die a lot in between. Do you have what it takes to get your grandmother back?

Gameplay

Talaka is an action-packed action platformer that should familiar to the fans of the genre. In typical roguelike fashion, all adventures start at a central hub. This is where the player can important permanent skills and abilities that will help them achieve a longer run, and one step closer to getting grandma. During a run, players will choose from one of two unique weapons. The game will have over 150 weapons to choose from, and it offers you a chance to test out the weapons before you officially start the run. The demo allows players to give feedback on each weapon they use, so make sure you share your thoughts to make the game even better than it already is.

Once a weapon is chosen, players will get to choose a room where they can earn important buffs. In typical rogulike fashion, players get to build their character in a way that fits their playstyle, so long as the RNG is in their favor. The demo doesn’t have all skills and abilities available yet, so the RNG is a little more limiting. That said, no two runs will ever be the same.

Combat in this game is your typical hack and slash. Players get a strike they can combo, a dodge they can use, and a powerful parry skill they can customize. The parry skill recharges over time through combat. Players will need to learn and memorize each creature’s attack patterns, and use their skillset to overcome them. What makes combat dynamic is that every weapon offers a new type of hit pattern that players also need to master. For example, Pele’s ball shoots at an arch, and the player must learn to take advantage of the arch to deal effective damage.

Impressions

On my initial boot of the game, I was blown away by how beautiful the game looks. The game has beautiful art and animation inspired by a rich culture. The Talaka demo may be limited, but it offers a solid roguelike within a vibrant dreamlike world. It has the performance you need from a fast-paced, action-packed game with the gameplay that will have you obsessing until the demo’s completion. I know I am ready for more, but unfortunately we have to wait for a full release. If you are a fan of the genre or want to experience a beautiful world, check out the Takala demo.

Aesthetic

It was the artstyle that first drew my to Talaka. I am here to tell you that the demo does not do this game justice. This game has such a beautiful and vibrant world that I had to stop to admire every detail. Each character is iconic, not just for its importance in the folklore, but because of how beautifully they are represented on the screen. The creatures that fill the world are terrifying, but fill build this unique and surreal world. The animations are exciting, and it makes it look like a painting that has come to life. I would urge you to check out the demo just to appreciate the game’s art.

Gameplay

The gameplay is fine if you enjoy action roguelikes. The game is marketed as having Dead Cells-like combat, and I have to agree. Combat is pretty tight, and without any noticeable bugs. The game features a wide selection of weapons, but there are some weapons that are better than others. I like how imaginative some of these weapons are, but not all of them worked with my playstyle. There were runs that were absolutely ruined by the RNG, but this might be a skill issue. Luckily, the game let you vote on the weapons as you use them, so make sure you play the demo to help make the full game even better.

The RNG for the roguelike portion of the game seemed pretty fair, but the choices were limited. A lot of the time, there wasn’t really a choice because the skill wasn’t available for the demo. This is only an issue for min-maxing, but there isn’t enough content for that to be worth it. There was enough customization available to make an impact, and that is what matters for the demo.

I like that the game allows players to build around the RNG. At death, players can adjust the difficulty of a run with a slider for a custom experience. You can either choose to enjoy the lore and story as you fight your way with an easy difficulty, or you can go all out and test your skill as the action roguelike master you are. At the hub, players can purchase permanent buffs that builds your character for a more tuned experience. The game also charges players for each reattempt if they have any currency remaining. This incentivizes players to always spend their points, and it is too early to tell if this is a good thing.

Ultimately, I appreciated the challenge and found the repetition soothing. While I may not vibe with each weapon, I found the overall gameplay enjoyable.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a new action roguelike, Takala does some interesting things that are worth looking into. The game features interesting lore and a beautifully drawn world. The gameplay leans a bit too heavy on the RNG, but it helps with the repetition. There is a grind, but there is lore and story to help dull some it. It did not feel too bad in the demo, especially since you can adjust the difficulty. To be fair, if you’re playing a roguelike, you should be expecting some type of repetition. The best part about the demo is that you can submit feedback to the devs. This is your chance to influence a game that is already in a solid place be even better. Make sure you check out the demo, and don’t forget to wishlist!

If you’re still looking for a new action roguelike, check out Nocturnal.

Trailer

video game reviews

Explore Dinghai: The Ocean Pillar Demo Review

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Disclaimer

I was sent the Dinghai: The Ocean Pillar demo to review for my blog. I understand the game isn’t done yet, so I will be a bit more lenient with my review. That said, this will still be my honest review.

Shameless Self Promotion

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out my reviews for the Epomaker QK108, the Redragon Antonium K745 Pro, and the adorable KiiBOOM Meow Pudding keycaps. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System and the Kiwi Ears Aventus Wireless Headset. The Huanuo Nitroglide dual monitor arm is also pretty cool.

Make sure you check out the free ways you can support me, like using my Amazon affiliate link before you buy anything. It really helps me out if you do. You can also always buy me coffee! Don’t forget to share this review with your friends!

Table of Contents

What is Dinghai: The Ocean Pillar

Dinghai: The Ocean Pillar is a beautiful action rpg-roguelike coming soon to Steam. There is a demo available you should try. Don’t forget to add this to your wishlist!

Hook

The Abyssal Dragon was once a legendary general who served in Emperor Yan’s army. The Abyssal Dragon was stripped of his title, exiled, and ultimately killed in battle. But his soul remained, waiting for the opportunity to come back. For centuries, his soul lay waiting. One day, Yi happens near this soul. Unfortunately, he is overpowered by a powerful beast that leaves him dying on the road. Fortunately for Yi, the Abyssal Dragon’s soul merges with the dying yi, merging them into something new. The Abyssal Dragon once again walks the mortal world, and he carries with him a centuries old grudge.

Use your powers to travel through the world of the Classic of Mounts and Seas to fight off powerful monsters, earn useful upgrades, and master your combos. Will the Abyssal Dragon finish his business, or will this be the game you never finish?

Gameplay

Dinghai plays like your typical ARPG like Diablo or Lost Epoc, but with roguelike mechanics and a rich lore to set it apart in the genre. The Abissal Dragon carries a bow and sword that he can chain combos with. Well timed dodges and parries help you stay alive, as well as the limited healing items players pick up along the way. What makes the game unique is the roguelike randomness that makes up most of the grind.

The journey always starts in a hub, where players can buy permanent upgrades before initiating a run. During a run, players can chose from a random selection of nodes to explore. These nodes offer players buffs, money, health, and useful items. Players earn by clearing the node which often means killing all enemies, but you can also end up at the shop. This all builds up to a boss fight that you might die a lot to (unless you’re good at games). The game has that soothing repetitive grind as you get stronger and better with each consecutive run.

Impressions

Dinghai: The Ocean Pillar is one of the most beautiful games I’ve played in a while. I am blown away by how much effort was put into making such a wonderful fantasy, and you should check out the demo to appreciate it as well. The gameplay for the most part is solid. Everything runs very smooth, but it did make my room very hot. Make sure you are well ventilated. Personally, I can’t wait for the full game because of how much I enjoyed the story and how epic the combat feels.

Aesthetic

I wasn’t ready for how beautiful this game is. There were moments in this game where I had to stop playing just to marvel at how beautiful its world is. I have always preferred the minimalist approach to games whether it is pixel art or hand drawn. Two of my favorite ARPGs are Realm of Ink and Lunarium. These games are fun with some of the most beautifully drawn worlds worth exploring. Dinghai made me realize that games can be beautiful with the right amount of textures. The lighting, the background, the creature design, and the explosive animations all come together to create this mystical world I couldn’t look away from. I don’t know anything about the lore that went into this game, but here I am, trying to research more because of how vibrant the developers made it all come together.

Gameplay

Dinghai just feels right. There were a few bugs (nothing gamebreaking) and it did get a little repetitive, but the demo left me wanting more. Combat in this game feels epic. The flashy animations, the cohesive combo system, and the unique enemy mechanics kept me at the edge of my seat. I may not be breaking any speedrun records, but I had an absolute blast trying to get through this demo. So far, the RNG feels fair and the abilities you get feel useful. I’ve played Aweful game like Foglands where it felt solvable because half the abilities didn’t do anything (also the game didn’t work). Here, my choices (even the wrong ones) felt like it had an impact. Sure I struggled through that epic boss fight, but it is a fight that felt good to finally complete. I will need to see more of this game, but for now, go check out the demo!

Conclusion

I know the game isn’t out yet, but I’ve played demos where the game was never ready. The Dinghai demo may have a few bugs, but none of them were game breaking. The demo is in a place where it will leave you wanting more. If you are looking for a game that looks good, has some fantastic fantasy, and some epic combat, you might want to check out Dinghai: The Ocean Pillar. The game isn’t out yet, so I’ll have to save my final judgement for the full release, but I am honestly ready for what comes next. Until then, check out the demo on Steam and don’t forget to Wishlist!

Trailer

video game reviews

The Red Cathedral: Your Next Favorite Digital Board Game

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Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of The Red Cathedral 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.

Shameless Self Promotion

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out my reviews for the Epomaker QK108, the Redragon Antonium K745 Pro, and the adorable KiiBOOM Meow Pudding keycaps. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System and the Kiwi Ears Aventus Wireless Headset. The Huanuo Nitroglide dual monitor arm is also pretty cool.

Make sure you check out the free ways you can support me, like using my Amazon affiliate link before you buy anything. It really helps me out if you do. You can also always buy me coffee! Don’t forget to share this review with your friends!

Table of Contents

What is The Red Cathedral

The critically acclaimed Euro game, The Red Cathedral, is coming to PC and mobile devices. The game launches in the fall, but you can try it now for free until September 6, 2026. Don’t forget to wishlist!

Hook

Tsar Ivan the Terrible has hired teams of builders to build a monument to his greatness. You command one of these teams and do your best to stand out and gain the Tsar’s favor. Gather resources, build segments of the Red Cathedral, and make sure you get enough decorations. The person with the most points by the end of construction wins.

Gameplay

The game is pretty strait forward, with automations for every action. Players take turns performing actions. They can gather resources, build pieces of the cathedral, or decorate. Players continue taking turns until construction is completed. The game offers local, couch co-op for those of you who have the friends to do it, but you can also play online. If you don’t want to deal with the chunkiness of Tabletop Simulator, this is the truest form of playing the game outside of buying the actual board game.

Review

I love playing board games, but the problem is I don’t have friends to play them with. I have a closet full of games that I’ve been storing for when my daughter is old enough to play, but she’ll probably be into sports. I do dabble with Tabletop Simulator when I can make time with my online friends, but that clunkiness is getting hard to justify.

Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love TTS! This game has let me try out so many card games and board games that I have neither the space or money for. Its a great program that continues to be a staple on any gamers collection. That said, sometimes I come home tired from a long day and want to play something that works. The Red Cathedrial is a great port of a solid board game that I recommend you get if you enjoy Euro games. I like that everything is automated, and the game has a nice little tutorial to get you started.

Why buy digital?

The issue I have with board games is that they take up space that I really don’t have. I love seeing a shelve full of pretty boxes and books, but I’ve run out of space. I’ve done culling and condensing, but my wife says its still a problem. Digital games sit on your device. You don’t have to worry about cleaning up or setting up, and everything is automated. Nothing beats moving the real pieces around an actual board, but if you’re a fan of The Red Cathedral, you already own it.

I like that the game has local co-op, and it works very nicely, but I think the main use for this game is to play online. As I grow older, it gets harder to get together with my friends. I probably won’t pull this out at the next game night (not that I have the friends for a game night), but I will boot this up and host one online. Playing this over Discord with a couple of beers sounds like a good enough reason to buy this game.

Conclusion

Honestly, if you are looking for a board game to play with your friends online, this game is fine. There is a good amount of strategy involved to make things competitive, it is simple enough for people to pick up quickly (especially if they go through the tutorial, and there is couch co-op for those with the friends to do it. You can also play against the AI, and I felt like the AI was pretty fair. I am not good at this game, but it at least seemed like I always had a chance to win. If you need another avenue to play The Red Cathedral, or just want the board game without needing to figure out storage space, this is a fantastic port coming soon. Make sure you check out the demo before its gone (September 6) and don’t forget to wishlist!

Trailer

Tech Reviews

Unboxing Redragon’s Anime Headset: Zeus H510

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Disclaimer

Redragon sent me the Zeus H510 Customizable Anime Edition Headset for free 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 also check out my reviews for the Artemis K719 pro anime keyboard and Aatrox M811 Pro Wireless Mouse. You can also use my Amazon Affiliate link before you buying anything. It really helps me out if you do.

Table of Contents

What’s in the box?

  • Redragon Zues SP h510 Anime Edition
  • 2 sets of Anime hell replacements
  • User Manual

Unboxing

Features

Anime lovers will love the freshest pair of headphones coming from our friends over at Redragon. The sleek clean design can go from work casual to waifu formal with a simple plate swap. But these headphones are not just a meer gimick to pull in anime fans. The H510s are backed by the high quality engineering that Redragon has been flooding the market with. If you are looking for a fresh new pair of headphones and don’t mind a bit of cute waifu action, you might want to pick up a pair of the Redragon Zeus H510s.

Aesthetic

Redragon has productively spent its time crafting towards the gaming aesthetic, and the H510s are proof. The headphones have that Esport flare you know you want for your next stream. The interchangeable faceplates make it perfect for those indecisive folks who like to change up their look, but its also nice to switch to the normal plates when I need to take them into the office. Most importantly, you can’t have gaming peripherals without that RGB. The Zues H510s have soft RGB that shines around the edges of the plates to give your waifu a little added flare. And for those of you who don’t want the lightshow, it can be easily turned off with the press of a button.

Controller

The Zues H510 comes with a controller on the high-quality and sturdy braided cable. The controller allows gamers to adjust the volume, mute the mic, and control (turn off) the rgb. Very handy for the gamer who doesn’t want to bother with keybinds.

Performance

Redragon promises clear, lossless audio with its 7.1 surround-sound for some precise and immersive gameplay. The 53mm drivers deliver a full range of sound for a fuller sound stage. The wired connection means you don’t have to worry about losing battery, or any loss in quality that comes from wireless. Most importantly, the noise cancellation mic is ready to deliver your crisp and clear voice the next time you team up with your friends. When you need a headset that works when you need it, you might want to reach for the Redragon Zeus H510.

Comfort

The Zeus H510 is more than just its anime gimmick and clear sound stage. Redragon promises a comfortable headset that is built to last. The headset features an adjustable headband so it fits even my giant head. The fabric memory foam on the ear pieces and headband not only give users that cozy comfortable hug you want for long gaming sessions, it wont start looking ugly like the fake leather other headphones use.

Mic Check

https://churapereviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/redragonzuessp.mp3

Review

I was ready to discount the Zues H510 headset as a cheap trap for anime fans. I was thrown off by how light the headset was and it didn’t help that it was flexible. After using the headset for a couple weeks, I was surprised by how wrong I was. These headphones may not deliver the audiophile soundstage you think you crave, but they deliver a good enough sound to earn their daily driver status. The mic is surprisingly fantastic, and might be the only reason you should consider these headphones (aside from the cute anime girls). Most importantly, these are a very comfortable pair. If you are looking for a new pair of headphones, you should grab yourself a pair of the Zeus H510s in any edition (but the Anime edition is the best).

Quality

After the initial shock of how light these headphones were, the quality was pretty impressive. Everything is cleanly machined and the headset seem to be built with quality materials. The flex in the band is a little worrying, but I have a huge head and had no issues. The printing of the anime girls on the plates is beautiful! The images are clear, the colors are vibrant, and there there is a slight texture that feels so good to the touch. It doesn’t feel like these are rubbing off anytime soon.

Aesthetic

I got the Zues H510 in the anime edition because they match my Artemis K719. After using two very cool looking anime themed products, I think I can say that Redragon does right by its anime fans. The design is very modern, and they remind me of the headsets I see on esports. The RGB effect is very subtle, and I like that it goes around the anime plates instead of shinning through it. Its an effect I won’t ever notice, but its nice to think about when I am playing games.

Sound Quality

The sound isn’t audiophile level, but its good enough for normal use cases. Unless you’re paying for that tidal subscription for lossless audio, it doesn’t really matter what you use. I can tell the difference between these and something like the Kiwi Eclipse, but the difference isn’t enough to turn me off. The sound is full enough for most of my needs. There was enough base for my hiphop, there was enough surround sound for my asmr, and they are really good at blocking out a lot of the external noise. I know my wife hates these because I can never hear when she is calling for me.

The surround sound is pretty impressive. It isn’t complete immersion, but it isn’t a marketing gimick either. I remember jumping a few times because I could hear noises around me. Mostly, I really like how useful it is for my ASMR videos. If you are looking for an affordable headset with solid sound, the H510s are here for you.

The Mic

I saved the best for last because the mic is possibly the most important feature in a gaming headset. I was not ready at how clear and crisp the audio would be out of the box, but here I am impressed. It isn’t a studio mic, but it is a very good starting point for those of you trying to get into content creation but are on a budget. I am sure with a bit of editing and proper gates you can get very close to studio quality, but you honestly don’t really need to tinker too much. It has fantastic noise cancellation so it only picks up your beautiful voice, and it may even make it even more beautiful. I was pleasantly surprised by how beautiful my voice is, and I have a very ugly one.

Conclusion

Honestly, if you like anime and want more anime gear to fill up your room, Redragon knocked it out of the park with the Zues H510s. This headset not only looks cool, it has the sound and quality you want in a gaming headset. I am currently testing another pair of headphones as we speak, but I will be coming back to my babies when that review is done. 10 out of 10, no complaints.

video game reviews

Discover the Dark Fantasy World of HellSlave II

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Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of HellSlave II: Judgement of the Archon 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 opinion.

Shameless Self Promotion

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out my reviews for the Epomaker QK108, the Redragon Antonium K745 Pro, and the adorable KiiBOOM Meow Pudding keycaps. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System and the Kiwi Ears Aventus Wireless Headset. The Huanuo Nitroglide dual monitor arm is also pretty cool.

Make sure you check out the free ways you can support me, like using my Amazon affiliate link before you buy anything. It really helps me out if you do. You can also always buy me coffee! Don’t forget to share this review with your friends!

Table of Contents

What is HellSlave II?

HellSlave II is a dark fantasty, turn-based dungeon crawler out now for Steam with a demo for those who need a bit of extra convincing.

Hook

The world crumbles beneath the ongoing clash between six warring demon loads. The heavens tire of this endless war and send down the Archon of judgement, an unstoppable force that will destroy everything. But before everything can be destroyed, you have been given one final chance to save everything. Fight your way through the endless hordes of demons and gain the power you need to save the world. Can you do it time to avoid final judgement, or will it all end with you?

Game

You take up arms as one of the six classes: Unleash Hate, The Wild Tracker, Art of Combat, Nature’s Rage, Mind-Bending, and Black Death. Each class has unique abilities and skill trees that you build freely by leveling up. Throughout your delve, you will also pick up weapons or money to spend on upgrades at the blacksmith. What makes HellSlave unque is that it allows players to hold up to three build templates on a character. This means you can have different skill tree’s and equipment that you can swap between. This is great for the moment you get stuck on an enemy that negates your entire strategy.

Exploration

The game has a decent sized map with a good amount of exploration. Players start with a small area and slowly venture into areas with more powerful monsters. Each zone feels unique and flavorful enough to stand out against other games of the similar genre. Exploration can be sped up which is awesome because this game felt slow before this feature.

Combat

Players take turns casting spells or performing actions. Each action costs the traditional resources like rage or mana, but they also cost time. Time affects the initiative order. For example, casting a spell will cost 2 seconds, and you get to see the enemy move 2 seconds up. I appreciate this format change to the traditional turn-based mechanics because of how time as a resource affects the game. Now I have to think about how much time I want to take setting up before dealing my major damage. The game also gives players a lot of build potential with the hundreds of weapons of items and abilities tied to them. Items can have passive abilities that deal damage before combat even starts. This makes grinding the easier mobs a breeze, if you’ve got the right build.

Classes

The game gives players lots of freedom on how to approach the game with its six unique classes. There are two groups of classes: Warrior and Sorcerer.

Warrior:

  • Unleash Hate – This is basically the barbarian. Get mad and do big damage
  • The Wild Tracker – This is a rogue that does a lot of condition damage. Poisons, bleeds, and you slip into the shadows
  • Art of Combat – This is for those who like to tank but don’t want the pressure of actually tanking

Sorcerer:

  • Nature’s Rage – You are like the avatar, bending all elements to your whim to freeze, stun, and burn all of your enemies.
  • Mind-Bending – You use time to destroy your foes in one trippy combo after another
  • Black Death – You bring an incurable plague on your foes, poisoning and rotting them away

Review

I got to try out the HellSlave II demo, and liked it enough to try the full version. The game is a nice change of pace from the traditional turn-based formula with its chaotic combat sequencing, almost infinite build combinations, and unique artstyle. The game is still a little rough. There are a few bugs that are a little too noticeable, and make the strategy bits of this game not as smooth. That said, the devs seem to be hard at work, fixing a lot of the issues. If you want a new turn based and don’t mind the lack of polish, the game is worth the price.

Aesthetic

If you like games like the Darkest Dungeon, you will appreciate the unique dark artstyle of this world. I am a big fan of the comic book style for things like the enemies, characters, and some of the visuals. The world however, feels a little bland and empty. I get that the focus is on the combat and all the numbers and stats that go into that part of the game, but there isn’t anything memorable about the exploration. I didn’t really like exploration much because everything felt the same. Luckily they fixed it so exploration goes a little faster, but it still a little boring.

Story

The story is fine, and I enjoyed reading it. The quests are fine with enough flavor to make them feel worth it. My issue with the story is that you have to collect all of these extra bits of lore that are scattered throughout the world. These bits of lore are long and if you like reading and enjoy the world, you’ll get some use for them. If you don’t pick these up, you aren’t missing too much context from the main story, but you are missing out on the world building that gives the game its flavor. The flavor is fine, but I wasn’t going out of my way to collect them all.

Combat

Combat in this game is what I enjoyed most about this game. I had a notebook out to write down and keep track of all the stats, at least as passives go. The game does a good job at displaying the stats in a way that is easy to read, but not all of the passive abilities worked and I needed something to keep track. It is very easy to miss when the game isn’t working properly because of all of the flashy effects, but I caught a few items in my build that did absolutely nothing.

Another issue I have with this game is that there will be enemies that strait up counter your build. You can either grind until you’re overleveled and squeak by like I did, or you can be smart and walk around with multiple builds. I really like that the game allows for players to have multiple builds, I’m just stuburn and didn’t want to.

Overall, if you want combat that will leave you overstimulated with the ability to build whatever you want and still have fun, HellSlave II has what you need. The game may already be solvable, but I really enjoyed putting everything into poison damage.

Conclusion

Look this game isn’t perfect, but the devs are working on it. I enjoyed the grim dark aesthetic, and the overwhelming choices I had on how I should play the game. If you are looking for a new dungeon crawler that is unique, and don’t mind there being a few updates before it becomes perfect, go get your copy today.

You can pick up HellSlave II: Judgement of the Archon on Steam.

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video game reviews

Dystopicon Review: A Unique Time Management Game

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Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Dystopicon 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.

Shameless Self Promotion

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out my reviews for the Epomaker QK108, the Redragon Antonium K745 Pro, and the adorable KiiBOOM Meow Pudding keycaps. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System and the Kiwi Ears Aventus Wireless Headset. The Huanuo Nitroglide dual monitor arm is also pretty cool.

Make sure you check out the free ways you can support me, like using my Amazon affiliate link before you buy anything. It really helps me out if you do. You can also always buy me coffee! Don’t forget to share this review with your friends!

Table of Contents

What is Dystopicon?

Dystopicon is a dark, political satire time management game where you watch TV to earn money to live. The game is out now on Steam, and there is a demo available to get you hooked.

Hook

You have been promoted to a second class citizen, and benefit from the perks that come with it. You get assigned a small apartment with a few luxuries you’ll need to pay for throughout your life here. Earn money by watching the different government approved programs, and use that money to make sure you are comfortable, fed, and an outstanding citizen. The more you prove yourself for to the nation, the more luxuries you get to enjoy. But there is something darker lurking in the shadows. This life is not as perfect as it may seem.

Will you do your part and be a good citizen, or will you let your curiosity take the better of you? You can always end it all early when you’ve had enough. This is your content warning.

Gameplay

Dystopicon is a unique take on the time management sim genre that has become popular in recent years. You sit in a room and try to manage the different meters. What makes the game unique is the narrative that builds around it, and how it forces players to make different choices to unlock the whole thing.

Watching TV

Players watch TV to earn money that they spend to use different amnesties, like buying food or turning on the heat. There are different channels a players can watch, and each channel earns money at a different rate. The TV can only be on for certain activities, and it becomes a game of flipping between the channels while you juggle the rest of your vitals. Each channel also has its drawback. The religion channel may earn you the most money, but it will bore you to death. The porn channel may keep you the most entertained, but you won’t be making any money. The way your prioritize each channel depends on the type of ending you want to get.

Vitals

There are four vitals you need to manage (five if you count money): health, hunger, comfort, and fun. Each meter slowly drains as you sit in your room, and certain activities manipulate their level. If you’re hungry, you eat. When you’re uncomfortable you turn on the heat. If you’re heath deteriorates take a shower. When you’re bored, watch porn. The more you play the game, the more you have to manage your vitals. How you go about it depends on the ending you want to get.

Your Apartment

Everything in this apartment costs money, from the shower to the sink and everything in between. As you play through the game, the game will distract you with different events. The police will come to ask you questions. There will be the occasional uprising outside your window. Your floor will become cluttered with your discarded food packages. You also have rats. Not only are you expected to watch TV to earn money, you have to be a good citizen and keep your apartment in working order. If you like management games, Dystopicon has a lot for you to manage.

Story

The story is what sets this game apart from other games in the genre. While other games have you build the best type of shop or some sort of village, this game asks you to optimize different activities to complete a story. The story is a solid piece of satire with some valid political commentary about a very scary yet possible future. It does not get preachy with its message, but it does get a little dark and one of the routes is suicide. There is a bit of drug use, so this is your second content warning.

Review

I didn’t know what to expect when I first received Dystopicon. I’ve a few management games before, and they are usually fun until the novelty wears off. I had to force myself away from Dystopicon because it was just too good. This game will make you forget time as you try click away at pixels trying to unlock more of the mystery. There is just so much going on, it is going to be hard to stick to only one playthrough. Check out the demo and see for yourself.

Aesthetic

The aesthetic isn’t anything too crazy. It looks like every other sim game that seems to be in vogue at the moment. However, the more you sit with this title, the more the art choice fits the tone of the game. The game is able to capture enough of the dark, dystopian tone without it becoming distracting. The cartoonish style makes some of the darker aspects of the game feel even more so.

Gameplay

The gameplay loop is addicting. The game starts slow, slowly adding new mechanics for the players to explore. There is a well paced ramp that slowly adds the chaos that makes a game like this as addicting as it is. What makes the game unique is how it doesn’t want you to optimize your actions to be the best at watching TV and falling in line, unless that is the type of ending you are working towards. Dystopicon is a game that lets players explore all choices in order to unlock the whole narrative. It is a unique take on the genre that I welcome, and a choice I really think pays off.

Narrative

I really like the dystopian satire that exists around this management sim. The more I got to explore, the more of the world I got to enjoy. I wouldn’t call it an award winning story, but it is a story that is relevant. Dystopicon is a story about choices, and how those choices affect how you fall in line within this society at the verge of something big. You will need to discover what that big thing is.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a management game and don’t feel like opening another store (not that there is anything wrong with those types of games), Dystopicon is exactly what you need. The game is simple with a neat story. The game does get a little dark, so you’ve been warned. All in all, I enjoyed it and I will be trying to collect a few more endings. You can pick up Dystopicon on Steam.

Trailer

Tech Reviews

Epomaker Carbonis Mouse Review: Performance Meets Style

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Disclaimer

Epomaker sent me the Carbonis wireless gaming mouse for free to review on 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 also check out my reviews for the TH80 V2 mechanical keyboard and the Galaxy Y100 Lite. I’ll also be using my Amazon Affiliate link where possible. It really helps me out if you click on it before buying anything.

Table of Contents

What’s in the box?

  • Carbonis Wireless Gaming Mouse
  • 2.4 Wireless Dongle
  • USB-C to USB-A Cable
  • User Manual
  • Brand Card

Unboxing

Features

Epomaker comes to gamers brings gamers the only mouse they will ever need with the the launch of the Carbonis mouse. This elegant mouse not only looks good, but it feels good and gives gamers the performance they need for high level play. If you are looking for a new mouse to get you out of your current elo, the Epomaker Carbonis might just be what you’ve been looking for.

Design

The Epomaker Carbonis dazzles with its unique modern design. This high quality gaming mouse comes in two colors: Black/Gold and Black Purple. I got mine in Black/Gold, but it was a very hard decision.

The Carbonis‘ unique pattern not only gives it its elegance, but makes the mouse sweat and fingerprint resistant. That means no more gross plastic after raid night! The composite carbon fiber shell is light weight and durable for that added peace of mind. The shell has been designed to perfectly fit most right-handed people for long comfortable sessions. To finalize the modern look, the Carbonis comes with a small LED screen to show readers the battery remaining as well as the current DPI setting.

Functionality

The Carbonis boasts fast speed and low latency with its wireless and wired connections. Users can easily switch between connections with a flick of the switch. You can also enjoy the fast wired connection when the 300mAh hour runs out of battery. The DPI can be easily adjusted with the onboard buttons so you always have the perfect speed for your workflow. For those of you who need a little added utility, the buttons, polling rate, DPI, and other useful features can all be easily adjusted through the official software (no download required).

Review

I am not going to lie, I was a little disappointed when I opened up the box. At first glance, the mouse is kind of ugly. I am not a fan of the wavy pattern, and a prefer a much heavier mouse. After using for as long as I did, this has replaced the ergonomic mouse I was daily driving. I don’t even know where my old mouse is anymore. The Carbonis is a fantastic mouse and an easy upgrade for any gamer or professional looking for a high quality mouse that works great and feels good in your hand.

Quality

The light weight design at first had me worried, but I think I am just used to a heavier mouse. I might have been a little biased. Out of the box, the mouse is fine. The pattern is very well done, the shape has been carefully crafted, and I didn’t notice any fabrication errors. Everything on this mouse is printed clearly and boldly, so I don’t think it will be rubbing off anytime soon. Most importantly, the buttons feel good and have a very addicting sound. I trust this mouse with my most sweaty team fights.

Aesthetic

The aesthetic is where the mouse loses me a bit. I am not a fan of the pattern, but I do appreciate the function. As a sweaty gamer, I understand when a cheap mouse is not up to the task. I never felt like my grip was in jeopardy. Most importantly, the mouse doesn’t feel gross after the those long gaming sessions. I got the Black and Gold version, so maybe it looks better in purple, but this is definitely a case where the utility outweighs the aesthetic.

Performance

I had no issues with my two weeks of testing the mouse. I used it for both gaming (I play a lot of Guild Wars 2) and all of my data entry work. This mouse performed very well under my very heavy hand. There was no latency on any of the three connections, with a speed I can always rely on. I love that I can change the DPI with the push of a button. The default setting were good enough for my workflow and gaming needs, but you can adjust it easily with software if needed.

The battery life is fine. I kept charging it when ever LED screen showed it was getting low so I can’t tell you how much use I got, but I was definitely able to get through the full eight hours on a single charge. Best of all, the charging port is in a convenient spot so you don’t ever have to break your stride (unlike the the Apple Mouse I wasted my money on).

Comfort

I wouldn’t call the Carbonis mouse exclusively ergonomic. If you suffer from hand pain and need an ergonomic solution, get a mouse with a ball and thank me later. For normal people however, the mouse has a comfortable grip.

In my journey to save my hands, I find that a lot of the advertising is a little misleading. Mice that have been designed to fit the hand don’t generally fit my hand, but the Carbonis fits wonderfully. (I have big hands). I did not understand how good the design for the Carbonis was until I had to use one of the loaner mice at work and it destroyed my hand in minutes. The Carbonis doesn’t destroy my hands, and I am able to get a healthy amount of use before my hands start cramping. Now I do have a repetitive stress injury that flares up with the wrong ergonomics, but the Carbonis is good enough and reliable enough to become a daily driver. I do have to take the occasional break, but I also have my backup roller mouse for the bad days.

I know I do not like the design, but man is the function cool. As a gamer with very sweaty hands, I like that my mouse isn’t a gross mess after I am done with it. This is a very comfy mouse for those gamers that spend a little too much time in online, team based games.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a good gaming mouse, the Epomaker Carbonis is king. This is a very comfy mouse with the functionality to back it up. Sure it might look ugly, but how often are you really looking at your mouse? The only problem I have with the Carbonis is with the wireless Dongle. Instead of a traditional usb that you plug into a slot, you get small rechtagle that you have to plug into your computer using the only USB-C to USB-A cable included in the kit. This not only looks ugly, but I am pretty sure I am breaking the dongle before the year is done because it will fall on the ground and I won’t notice it. People who use Bluetooth can rest easy. Other than that, this is a fantastic mouse that I will be daily driving. Get yours today!

You can pick up the Carbonis Wireless Gaming Mouse on the official Epomaker store or on Amazon through my affiliate link.

video game reviews

Roommates, Romance, and Ringing Hearts: A Review

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Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Roommates, Romance, and Ringing Hearts 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.

Shameless Self Promotion

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out my reviews for the Epomaker QK108, the Redragon Antonium K745 Pro, and the adorable KiiBOOM Meow Pudding keycaps. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System and the Kiwi Ears Aventus Wireless Headset. The Huanuo Nitroglide dual monitor arm is also pretty cool.

Make sure you check out the free ways you can support me, like using my Amazon affiliate link before you buy anything. It really helps me out if you do. You can also always buy me coffee! Don’t forget to share this review with your friends!

Table of Contents

What is Roommates, Romance, and Ringing Hearts

Roommates, Romance, and Ringing Hearts is a dating sim FMV out now on Steam.

Hook

You move to the big city to attend university. It is your first time away from home but it is also your chance to find love. This will be your year, but things start off to a shaky start. The apartment you were going move into has been rented to someone else and you are forced to move into a shared house with strangers. To your surprise, you find your roommate is your cute childhood friend. Suddenly, you find yourself in a house full of women pining for your attention, but the attraction is mutual. Navagate your relationship with your roommates as you try to find love. Who will you choose?

Gameplay

Roommates, Romance, and Ringing Hearts is an FMV, which means you get to sit back and watch the events unfold, eventually making choices that will affect the ending. There are multiple endings, and the game makes it easy to collect them all. What makes this FMV unique is that it makes it easy to see what paths you are unlocking, which girls you are romancing, and you can ultimately plot your route to the ending you want.

Review

I want to preface my review by admit that I am a sucker for cheesy harem anime. I’d like to believe that I grew up during the golden age of harem anime, and it is easily one of my favorite genres. Sure, the waifus are a nice bonus, but I find the simplicity and cheesiness of these narratives comforting. My favorite anime of all time is Oran Host Club because it is cute, cheesy, and apparently I also like cute anime boys pining over me. (I’ve been on a bit of a Otome game kick lately).

Roommates, Romance, and Ringing Hearts is the live action harem anime I didn’t know I needed. This FMV is a high quality production with a decent story. I appreciate that they didn’t force me to play mini-games, and I got to sit back and enjoy a fun romantic story. And yes, the girls are very cute.

Production

The production of this FMV is good for the most part. The sound is good for most of the game, but there are scenes where the mixing is off. The girls sound far away, there are echos, or the dialogue is unintelligible (not that I know much Japanese). The acting is fine for the tone of the game. A lot of the acting is over the top, and that is by design. There are some over the top moments that can be a little cringe, but everyone seems to be having fun so who cares. The camera is great, and if you want high quality shots of your favorite girl, the game will deliver.

Story

I will preface this section of the review with the admission that I used to watch bad movies for fun. That was back before Netflix ruined everything (thanks Kissing Booth 2). Sure I could go the theater and watch whatever blockbuster smash hit was going to hit its million, but there is something special about those low budget indie films that no one is ever going to watch. I’ve sat through some garbage, but I’ve also sat through some fun, low budget, cheesy movies that I still go back to every now and again (looking at you Sasquatch Gang). All of this to say that while the game may not have deep characters, expansive lore, the story is fun and I had a lot of fun playing through it.

Now this is a harem genre game, so don’t expect deep characters with tangible growth. This is a game where cute girls pine over the main character because the script demands it, but the scenes around these ideas are cute, fun, and the type of distraction you might be looking for. There is some bad dialogue, but there are some cute moments that I had to play through a second time to appreciate fully. The story may not be as good as something Love Too Easily or One Rotten Oath (for something more serious), but it is up there as one of my favorite. If you are looking for a cute game about dating even cuter girls, get Roommates, Romance, and Ringing Hearts.

Conclusion

I am a sucker for FMVs and Roommates, Romance, and Ringing Hearts continues to cement this love for the genre. The game has cute girls, a fun story, and solid production. It is very over the top and cheesy, but it is part of the charm. There isn’t too much fan service, so you should be able to play the game safely in public. But if you’re looking for bit more fan service, you can always play Island of Hearts. This game is fantastic, and I ended up playing the game until I collected all the endings. Get your copy today!

Trailer

video game reviews

Is Dokapon Kingdom: Connect Worth It? Honest Review

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Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Dokapon Kingdom: Connect 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.

Shameless Self Promotion

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out my reviews for the Epomaker QK108, the Redragon Antonium K745 Pro, and the adorable KiiBOOM Meow Pudding keycaps. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System and the Kiwi Ears Aventus Wireless Headset. The Huanuo Nitroglide dual monitor arm is also pretty cool.

Make sure you check out the free ways you can support me, like using my Amazon affiliate link before you buy anything. It really helps me out if you do. You can also always buy me coffee! Don’t forget to share this review with your friends!

Table of Contents

What is Dokapon Kingom:Connect?

Dokapon Kingdom is a fantasy themed party game out now on Steam and the Nintendo Switch. The game is currently on sale until July 7, 2026 for those with enough friends (real or imaginary) to take advantage of this wacky adventure game.

Hook

The kingdom is in trouble. Monsters have appeared and terrorize the town. The king has summoned the kingdom’s bravest heroes to fight back against the scourge, and make the country profitable again. You and your friends must race across the kingdom, fighting monsters, collecting loot, and making as much money as possible. The hero who makes the most money at the end of the game will win the princess’ hand in marriage. Will fortune favor you, or will this be the end of a long time friendship? Boot it up and find out!

Gameplay

Players take turns moving across the board, sort of like Mario Party. Players will roll a dice, and move the required spaces. Where the player ends up will trigger an event. Events can be loot, random encounters, shops, or boss encounters. Players will need to plan accordingly to optimize their income generation. The game has three modes: story, normal, and battle. Story is for players who have a lot of time to play. Normal lets you choose the number of rounds for those who want shorter, more manageable games, and battle is a race. There is offline, couch support but you can also play online. You can host/join a game with random people, or link up with all your online friends and play over discord. For those who have no friends, the game has CPUs you can play with.

Combat

If you aren’t rolling for random loot or money, you are fighting the many monsters that threaten the Kingdom’s profit margins. Players can also fight each other. Combat in this game is a simple game of rock paper scissors (where each type is a different type of attack). Combat gets a bit more complicated as you move around the board and collect better equipment and spells. Throughout your run, you also level up. Leveling lets you increase stat points so you can customize your character to deal the most damage.

Does it work on the Steam Deck

The game works on everything, including the Steam Deck. If you’re playing online with your friends, you aren’t going to hate the experience. Everything is clear and easy to read, and the game runs great.

Review

As I wrap up my collaboration with Idea Factory, I am very disapointed that this is the game I ended on. The game is fine, but you really need friends for this game to be fun, otherwise you aren’t having a good time. The game feels slow, and story mode drags on forever. Had I been playing with my friends and smack talking the whole time, the wait between turns wouldn’t feel like torture. If you have friends who can survive competition where the RNG can screw you, I can see Dokapon Kingdom: Connect having some value.

Aesthetic

Dokapon Kingdom: Connect sort of reminds me of Streetpass on the 3DS, and I loved Streetpass. Nintendo needs to bring that back. I loved collecting all the different Miis. The characters in this game sort of remind me of Miis, but a little cuter. The world feels like a Miiverse type world, and I can respect that. I like that this game can run on everything, which means you can play on a toaster and have fun with your friends and family. For me, the art is the best part, because the gameplay wasn’t very impressive.

Story

The game doesn’t really have a story except for the initial hook. Occasionally, the king will come in and give you random loot or stat points, but there isn’t anything deep you need to follow or keep track of. Story mode is just the longest and most strait forward of the modes.

Combat

Combat is fine if you enjoy rock paper scissors. Whether you are defending or attacking, you get a set of skills that can potentially counter enemy action or at least reduce damage. The NPC fights do get a little repetitive. Maybe I got lucky, but I was mostly always able to guess what the lower mobs would do. I can see how PVP can be more exciting, especially science you rob your friends of their money and their turn. As you move across the board, you pick up equipment, spells, and levels that make you more powerful.

But is it fun?

If you’re playing with friends, I can see the value. You get trapped in this slog where RNG can easily turn the tides in your favor with a simple coin flip. I lively friend group will certainly enjoy the hell this can become, but it has the potential to ruin some friendships. If you don’t have friends, I wouldn’t bother. I played with the CPUs, and they cheat even on easy. Losing to NPCs is not as fun as losing to your friends because you can’t smack talk. I would argue that playing online would be a worse experience because this feels like more of a party game you pull out with your friends, not something you want to compete with strangers. Unless you get lucky and find some cool stranger who will later become your friends I mean. If you were thinking of buying your game for yourself, don’t bother. If you have a fun friend group to play this with, color me jealous.

Conclusion

I never really enjoyed these types of party games, but Dokopon Kingdom fairs a little better than the newest Mario Party. My issue with Mario Party is that there are only a couple of mini games I want to play, the rest feels like torture. Even only playing the mini games I like doesn’t really interest me. I like that Dokopon is more strait forward, albeit a little more random. You roll, you move, and you pray to the gods you get something good. At the end of the day, whether this game is good or not really depends on the group you play with. I don’t have a group of friends to play, so I didn’t have a good time. That said, I can see this being hilarious with the right group of people. If you like fantasy, need a new party game, sure, but wait for a sale.

You can pick up Dokapon Kingdom: Connect on Steam and the Nintendo Switch.

Trailer