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video game reviews

Is Morkull Ragast’s Rage a Good Metroidvania?

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Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Morkull Ragast’s Rage to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity. I won’t it sway my opinions. This will be my honest review.

Shameless Self-Promotions

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out my latest reviews for the Epomaker TH85, Epomaker HE68 Mag or the KiiBoom Moonshadow V2. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System. I’ve also started a web novel that I update every two weeks.

What is Morkull Ragast’s Rage?

Morkull Ragast’s Rage is a metroidvania out now on Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, and the Nintendo Switch for $17.99..

Morkull Ragast’s Rage is a powerful demon locked away in a video game. The only way to get out is to play the game, and win. Fight your way through a game as it is being made. Make your way through this digital dungeon, fight off scores of enemies, and reprogram a bit of the code along the way. Can you beat the game and let Morkul out? Is it a good idea to get set him free?

Review

If you’ve played any other metroidvania game, you’ve played Morkull Ragast’s Rage. You fight your way through a dungeon, unlocking new abilities along the way. The only difference is the game has a stylized flavor that is fun, but doesn’t do enough to hide the fact that the game isn’t very fun. Morkull Ragast’s Rage isn’t a bad game, it just doesn’t do enough to stand out against the rest of the genre. Had this been my introduction to the genre it would have fared a little better, but its not. When it comes to Metroidvania, you have better options.

The biggest issue I have with the game is that the combat is boring. Movement, combos, and the parry system all feel stiff. The enemies look cool, but they aren’t fun to fight. The grind feels bad, and I found very little reason to keep making it. I had little reason to keep coming back, especially considering how I have better options sitting in my library.

I appreciate the humor of the story. There are fun wall breaks and the flavor and artstyle are interesting. Unfortunately, they don’t do enough to distract from the fact that the game isn’t all that impressive. If you’re looking for a metroidvania game, there are better options. If you like the look and flavor of the game, I would wait for a sale because it still feels like a demo. There is a demo available, but I don’t think it fares any better.

You can pick up Morkull Ragast’s Rage on Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, and the Nintendo Switch for $17.99.

Uncategorized, video game reviews

Nobody Nowhere is a Fantastic Visual Novel

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Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Nobody Nowhere 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-Promotions

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out the new Epomaker HE68 Mag or the KiiBoom Moonshadow V2. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System. I’ve also started a web novel that I update every two weeks.

What is Nobody Nowhere?

Nobody Nowhere is a scifi visual novel out now on Steam.

The year is 2019 and the Human Science Research Corp is working on a way to transfer conciseness into empty vessels known as replicates. Julian is a replicant who unfortunately developed self-awareness. His days are numbered as the corporation plans to whip his consciousness from his body. The secret organization, the White Dove, consider Julian human and plan to set him free. But their rescue efforts fail, and what they uncover will shake their foundation. What secrets will they uncover? Can Julian ever be truly human? You will need to read to find out.

Review

I went out of my way to get a copy of Nobody Nowhere because the synopsis got me interested, and I liked the art. I was not disappointed. Nobody Nowhere is the best visual novel I have read, and I recomend it to people who aren’t even looking into the genre. The writing is solid, the story is great, the characters are memorable, and the pacing is perfect. The game also has a very good art style and aesthetic. I like that the gameplay didn’t feel like busy work. The small moments of exploration helped with world building, the minigames were fun and engaging, and they helped break up into more manageable segments.

One complaint I do have is that there are a lot of silent moments. I would have liked there to be a bit more ambience sound here and there, but nothing that can’t be fixed with a YouTube video in the background. This is just a personal preference and nowhere near a deal breaker, especially since the music that does exist is pretty good.

My hat goes off to the solo developer who was able to create such a fantastic narrative. Its is incredibly obvious that a lot of passion went into this game when you look at all the details that went into bringing this story to life. If you’re looking for a new game, you need to get Nobody Nowhere. It is a fantastic read, and it deserves a lot more attention.

You can pick up Nobody Nowhere $9.99 on Steam.

Uncategorized, video game reviews

Is Rogue Conflict Too Hard for Its Own Good?

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Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Rogue Conflict 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-Promotions

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out the new Epomaker HE75 Mag or the KiiBoom Moonshadow V2. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System. I’ve also started a web novel that I update weekly.

What is Rogue Conflict?

Rogue Conflict is a turn-based rogue-like strategy game out now on Steam.

Players control various factions as they fight for supremacy. Take control of your army and use your wit to overcome different scenarios. Will you be the skill tactician this world needs, or will you be another failed campaign in the making? Grab your army and find out!

Gameplay

Players choose their faction and a scenario to play through. Each faction has access to different units, and the scenario dictates the units in the army. After placing their units, players will take turns moving through the map to complete objectives. Units have a set range of movement and attacks have advantage/disadvantage based on target type. Tanks do more damage to normal infantry for example. Terrain also give units advantage on attack or defends, as well as impede movement. Using terrain and typing effectively is key for world domination. While this game may appear simple, it demands a certain amount of strategy and skill.

Review

Rogue Conflict is fine if you like strategy games, but it feels a bit too one sided for the casual player. I’m not very good at strategy games, but I can at least finish some of the early levels in most games. Here, it felt like no matter what I did, the odds were stacked against me and I was waiting to get destroyed, or for the timer to run out. Some of this is by design. There are scenarios where you aren’t supposed to win by combat, and instead survive in an epic rush to finish the objects. I would be fine with a few of those levels, but it honestly feels like the enemy is omniscient, plentiful, and lucky. Maybe I needed to play a little smarter, but I rather be playing Advanced Wars. Rebalancing or an easier mode would be nice.

That said, a better player might get more enjoyment out of Rogue Conflict. The game runs well, the art is cute, and the game is challenging. The problem is that the game isn’t made for casuals. If you aren’t being efficient and smart about your moves, you are going to get destroyed. Some will definitely find the level of skill fun, but those who lean more to the casual side of strategy aren’t going enjoy some of the nuances of the mechanics.

If you’re looking for a strategy game that is on the harder side and enjoy the graphics, Rogue Conflict is an excellent addition to your collection. If you’re just dipping your toe in the genre, I would save this title till you’re better at strategy games.

You can pick up your copy of Rogue Conflict for $14.99.

video game reviews

After Wave: Downfall Review – A Fun Casual Shooter

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Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of After Wave: Downfall 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-Promotions

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out the new Epomaker HE75 Mag or the KiiBoom Moonshadow V2. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System. I’ve also started a web novel that I update weekly.

What is After Wave: Downfall?

After Wave: Downfall is an arcade shoot ’em up out now on Steam, Xbox, Switch, and PlayStation.

Monsters are attacking, and it is up to you to keep them at bay. Brave it alone or gather your friends as you fight off monsters, collect power-ups, and navigate your favorite ship. This high speed arcade game has ten unique stages and bosses, six unique ship abilities, and an adjustable difficulty for a good amount of replayability. Do you have what it takes to save the world?

Gameplay

Players navigate each level, avoiding obstacles and hazards, shooting monsters, and collecting power ups. A run ends when a player’s ship is destroyed. Players can buy upgrades for their ships between runs. Each level has uniquely flavored monsters and bosses to defeat, and each boss (and miniboss) has unique abilities to keep things fresh. The adjustable difficulty and upgrades make meaningful impact on the game, and add a layer of repeatability to the title.

Review

After Wave: Downfall is a cute little casual game that I don’t mind pulling out when I need a quick distraction. The game is cute with fun a fun art style and aesthetic, and the mechanics are engaging and fun. I enjoyed the different boss mechanics, and the fun flavors of each level. The game will feel a bit repetitive as players grind out currency for different upgrades, but it doesn’t feel too bad. It certainly doesn’t take away from the game’s casual appeal. Best of all, co-op mode is a great time (if you have the friends for it).

If you’re looking for a fun casual title to pick up when you need a short break, After Wave: Downfall is a fantastic option. It is inoffensive with a cute and comforting art style and the game play is solid. It is also works great on the Steam Deck.

Pick up After Wave: Downfall on Steam for $9.99, and console for $14.99 via Xbox, Switch, and PlayStation.

video game reviews

Microtopia: A Unique Village Builder Experience

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I was sent a free copy of Microtopia 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-Promotions

If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your aesthetic, check out the new Epomaker HE75 Mag or their KiiBoom Breeze 75. Check out my latest review of the Fifine M9 Microphone System. I’ve also started a web novel that I update weekly.

What is Microtopia?

Microtopia is an ant-colony village builder out now on Steam.

You are in charge of building the mightiest mechanical ant empire this world has ever seen. Program your drones, upgrade your units, build your empire, and protect your queen. Build efficiently, plan accordingly, and get ready to lose a few days of sleep. Do you have what it takes to make the perfect colony?

Gameplay

The game walks through the games important mechanics and a well designed tutorial that can skipped on later playthroughs. Players all start with a queen and a few drones, and slowly build that into the mighty ant empire it turns into. Players will command their ants to gather resource, build structures, and upgrade their empire. What makes the game unique is that the automation is programed by the players. The bulk of the game is designing the many intertwining routes ants take to perform their tasks. These routes are constantly changing as resources run out and more structures start to to populate the map. The trick to this game is efficiently weaving every moving part of the colony so that everything runs smoothly. There are tech trees and upgrades to keep the game engaging. If you run out of tasks and the game feels like you are waiting on timers, you are playing this game wrong.

Review

Microtopia is one of the best village builders I have ever played. I had my doubts during the first boot because the graphics and art style are a little plain. The more I played the game, the less of a problem I had with the art direction. The style is not only very thematic and flavorful, it also means it can run on anything. It does run fine on the steam deck, but it is a little small and you’re going to have to use the touchscreen.

The village/factory building mechanics are the main reason for buying the game. They are easy to grasp with the excellent opening tutorial, and they give the player enough to do to keep the game engaging. Most of village builders I’ve played autopath tasks like farming materials, but Microtopia has players design the paths first, and assign the units to travel them second. While I do appreciate the more laid back approach of the autopathing, I did now know how much I wanted to design my own routs and paths. This does mean players need to be a bit more active in their planning stages, but I never felt like it was unnecessary busy work. I also love the fact that structures can be moved at any time, and they can be destroyed for a full refund. I make a lot of mistakes and appreciate the extra flexibility. That said, I did restart my playthrough after the tutorial because I was not happy with my pathing and some of my earlier decisions.

Microtopia is the most engaging relaxing game you will get to play. I found the village building soothing, and the mechanics had me obsessing about every little detail. If you’re looking for a new village builder, Microtopia is a strong contender. It’s unique mechanics are worth trying once, and the art style will grow on you. This is a fantastic game that deserves a lot more attention.

You can pick up Microtopia on Steam for only $19.99.

Tech Reviews

Epomaker Cypher96: A Stylish and Functional Keyboard

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Disclaimer

Epomaker sent me the Cypher96 mechanical keyboard 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 Hack59 if you’re looking for something more minimalistic.

What’s in the box?

  • Cypher96 Mechanical Keyboard
  • 3 Additional Switches
  • Key/Switch Puller
  • USB-C to USB-A Braided Charging Cable
  • User Guide
  • 2.4 GHz Wireless Dongle

Features

‘The Cypher 96 mechanical keyboard is a full-sized keyboard with 96 keys. The keyboard comes with Epomaker Wisteria and Flamingo switches. I got mines with the Wisteria switches. The keyboard is a very pretty blue/purple/white scheme that will fit any cozy aesthetic, The south facing RGB is soft, and the perfect accent to the already pretty keyboard. The slight incline and built in tents make it easy for users to find the most comfortable position.

Functionally, the Cypher 96 supports high-powered, low latency wireless connections through its Bluetooth 6 support or 2.4GHz dongle, but users can enjoy an even faster connection with the included, high-quality braided charging cable. The two 4000 mAh batteries mean you won’t be reaching for the wire unless you really want to.

What makes the Cypher 96 a unique keyboard is the onboard screen above the number pad. This screen displays important information like the time, battery, and connection information. It also doubles as a calculator, which can easily be toggled at any time.

Sound Test

Review

The Cypher96 comes expertly packed, and although my box looked like it was thrown around by the mailman, came in excellent condition. The keyboard looks amazing out of the box. Every piece is finely manufactured and high quality, there is little flex, and it has a very pretty color scheme. The screen does throw off the aesthetic, but it is very handy to have. I use the number pad regularly, and being able to switch to a calculator was a feature I didn’t know I needed. I particularly love the connection switch placement. I regularly switch between the different connections during my testing, and having a switch in the corner is very convenient.

Functionally, the Cypher96 is a great keyboard. The keys are soft, responsive, and don’t make too much noise. The design is ergonomic enough to allow for prolonged use, and the high adjustments only add to the comfort. All the connections felt responsive. I had no issue with latency, but I don’t play at a high enough competitive level for it to matter. The battery life was incredible. I was getting 10-12 hours of continuous use, and I don’t think I ever charged it to 100%. Best of all, it is GMK compatible, making it a customizable beast for gaming or other work flows.

If you’re looking for a good full sized keyboard with a pretty color scheme, the Epomaker Cypher96 is a great place to start. The issue will be the onboard screen, but it is an issue that goes away if you get a lot of use out of it. This thing looks great, feels great, and works great. Pick yours up on the official Epomaker store for only $99.99.

Tech Reviews

Is the Hack 59 Keyboard Right for You? Key Features Explored

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Disclaimer

Epomoker sent me the Hack 59 mechanical keyboard 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 other Epomaker reviews to find the perfect keyboard for your setup.

What’s in the Box?

  • Hack 59 Mechanical Keyboard
  • USB-C to USB-A charging cable
  • Key and Switch Puller Tool
  • 2.4 GHz Wireless Dongle
  • User Instructions

Features

The Hack 59 is the mechanical keyboard for the enthusiast who wants to shrink their footprint. This stylish mini-keyboard only has 59 keys with QMK and VIA support so you can make the most of every key. Ramapping is extremely easy, and turns it into a formidable powerhouse. This is a wireless keyboard with bluetooth 5 compatibility with up to 3 different devices, and a wireless 2.4 GHz dongle for those who need it. Its incredible 3000 mAh means less time with wires on your desk for a truelly minimalist experience, but the wired connection is fast and reliable when its needed. All the keys and switches are replaceable, but its unique aesthetic is going to be hard to give up. This is a well machined keyboard with soft RBG lighting that will be a great fit for many setups.

Sound Test

Review

Out of the box, the Hack 59 is an impressive little keyboard with a good amount of potential. I like the aesthetic and unique keys. I also like that it comes with the high quality and care I’ve come to expect from Epomaker. The machining is nice, the design is tight, and printing is clear and visible. I love the included slot for the dongle.

As for its performance, the keyboard is solid with a few modifications. The keyboard does make its noise, but it is a more subtle and soothing clacking. I didn’t notice any latency in any of my games, but the tight design required some getting used to. The battery is solid and I was getting about 10 hours on a single charge, with the the RGB on. It can be switched off for a longer session, but I like epomaker’s RGB lighting.

The biggest issue most people are going to have with this keyboard is with its form factor design. The keyboard has some handy built in shortcuts, and users can easily program more or remap keys through GMK and VIA, but I missed having the arrow keys and control handy. The size was an issue for me because I am too big for the keyboard. I felt like I had to bunch up to use the keyboard which caused some discomfort, and my fat clumsy hands was always pressing the wrong keys. I would erase entire sections of my review with a clumsy mistake, and it made the experience frustrating. This issue is strictly user error and physical limitations, so your millage will vary.

So is the Hack 59 a good keyboard? It depends. If you’re big with wide shoulders and big hands, its not. The size takes away any ergonomic design and it will get uncomfortable. I require special ergonomics for my hands to work, and the size made it hard to use. If you are a size that fits this keyboard, it is a solid device with a bit of tinkering. The only real hurdle I see is knowing if the keyboard is right size, and liking the aesthetic.

If you like the design and don’t mind the 302.7x40x118.5MM dimensions, you can pick up the Hack 59 on the official Epomaker site.

User Guide

Epomaker_hack59_manualDownload
video game reviews

Super Puzzled Cat Review: A Cozy Puzzle Adventure

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Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Super Puzzled Cat to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinion. 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 Super Puzzled Cat?

Super Puzzled Cat is an adorable jumping puzzle game out now on Steam. Players must make their way through the games 150 creative levels, trying not to die. Players can use items like jet packs, bombs, and even bubble gum to navigate around a levels many hazards. These puzzles may look cute, but they will test the most seasoned veteran. Aside from the adorable skin and creative use of items, the game features a unique save state mechanic. Players can create as many save states through out a level, and recall between them at will. This means players don’t have to start a level over after dying, they can take it section by section.

Review

Super Puzzled Cat is the cutest game in my collection, and easily one of my favorites. The game has some adorable art, a fun world to explore, and some very creative and challenging puzzles. I am not the biggest fan of jumping puzzle games, but Super Puzzled Cat has earned a soft spot in my heart. I like that the puzzles don’t feel frustratingly impossible like others in the genre, and the save state mechanic made things a lot more manageable. While the game does feel like a casual puzzle game, there is enough of a challenge to keep things engaging. I love it for the cozy vibe, and will continue to play it even after the review.

If you are looking for a new puzzle game that isn’t a huge commitment, or in the mood for some cozy engaging gameplay, check out Super Puzzled Cat. It works great on the Steam Deck.

You can pick up Super Puzzled Cat on Steam for $16.99.

video game reviews

Lords of the Fallen Review: A Casual Souls-like Experience

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I was sent a free copy of Lords of the Fallen 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 Lord of the Fallen?

Lords of the Fallen is a souls-like out now on Steam.

The Demon God Adyr is on the verge of resurrection, and it is up to you, as a Dark Crusader, to stop it from happening. Grab your favorite weapon and fight your way through the endless mobs of terrifying monsters as you make your way through this bleak world. Can you get strong enough in time to stop the great god’s resurrection, or will you be another lost soul?

Gameplay

Lords of the Fallen fallen is the closest you will get to a Souls game, but I would argue that this game is on the easier side. Players start by choosing their class, and each class does feel different enough in both flavor and style. The player will then spend time running between campfires, farming xp and searching for better weapons, armor and items. What makes this game unique is the spirit lantern mechanic that allows players to shift into a parallel dimension to solve puzzles. There is co-op and multiplayer support, but I don’t have the friends to try it out.

Review

I enjoyed Lords of the Fallen for the casual souls-like experience that it provides. While the skill required to progress through the game and beat the bosses was enough to keep things engaging, it isn’t the soul-crushing experience you would expect from a souls-like. Combat feels good, although the progression does feel a little slow and the game gets a bit grindy towards the end.

The story is fine, nothing I would rush to play, but something that I am glad I finished. The game does have a good amount of flavor. I appreciate everything that went into the design of the world. The levels were creepy and atmospheric and the parallel realm was cool. I wasn’t too crazy about the spirit lantern mechanics, but it did make for a few interesting puzzles.

Aside from a few stutters and frame drops, the game runs smoothly on PC. On the Steam Deck, the drops are more noticeable and the fan is very loud. That said, it is playable on the Steam Deck. Most of my game time was on the Steam Deck due to personal preference.

If you’re looking for a souls game that isn’t a huge commitment, you’re going to want to pick up Lords of the Fallen. If you enjoy the grueling challenge of the traditional Souls formula, you will be disappointed. I found it a lot more fun than the Souls game because it provided a more appropriate challenge it felt like a more casual experience. It still demands skill and a proper build to beat, but the first boss isn’t going to kill and even though you will die, it won’t be as much.

You can pick up Lords of the Fallen on Steam for $59.99, but now would be the best time to do it because it is $60% off for the Steam Winter Sale. You can also pick it up on PlayStation ($79.99) and Xbox ($69.99) but that feels too expensive.

video game reviews

Review of Sensei! I Like You So Much! – A Cozy Visual Novel

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I was sent a free copy of Sensei! I Like You So Much! to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinion. 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 Sensei! I Like You So Much!?

Sensei! I Like You So Much! is a slice of life visual novel out now on Steam.

You have always enjoyed writing your fan fiction but never dared to share it with the world. This all changes when a chance encounter with a classmate gives you the push you need to start your writing career. Grow your following as you explore the world for your next story. What stories will your life inspire? Will you find the words that will move the world?

Gameplay

The game is split into a few different parts: customization , exploration, and writing.

Throughout the story, players will unlock new decorations for their room and character’s chibi. Decorations can also be bought with my money they earn from working. These decorations have no impact in the story, but it is a way for players to customize their experience.

The game gives players a finite amount of energy to spend on activities each day. The game does guide players through a few events for the progression of the story, but players can spend their days who they want. Events range from going to work, hanging out with friends, and even going to comicon. These events are slice of life stories that earn players money and materials for their stories.

At the end of the day, players will sit down and write their next fan fiction based on events from that day. Most of the story is prewritten, but players get to choose certain aspects of the story. The story is graded at the end, and the grade impacts the amount of followers gained each day.

Review

The game is still in early access, but it is in a good enough place where I can safely recommend it. Aside from a few translation issues, Sensei! I Like You So Much! is a cute story with fun characters that is worth reading at least once. It has decent pacing with wholesome quirky elements that make it the perfect cozy game for any occasion.

The art in this game is fantastic, especially if you enjoy cute and quirky anime. I was surprised by the amount of customization available. Players can outfit their characters, decorate their room, and even make their own room. The room customization is a lot of fun and I spent way too much time trying to find the right aesthetic that would be conductive to my writing, even though it had no tangible impact on the stories progression.

My favorite aspect of the game is the flavor. I enjoyed the struggle of training to come up with a good story, even though the story is already written, and the stress of planning out my day. Do I want to hang out with my friends or do I want go work to be able to afford that cute thing I want to hang on the wall? This was a constant struggle, but one I was more than happy to have.

Sensei! I Like You So Much! is the cute and cozy game everyone needs in their library. The idea is unique, the story is fun, and the art is fantastic. Check it out on Steam Early Access!

You can pick up Sensei! I Like You So Much! on Steam for $12.99.