Tag Archives: review

video game reviews

Decklings Review: Cute Monster-Catching Deckbuilder, But Is It Fun?

Leave a comment

Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Deckings to review for my blog. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I won’t let it sway my opinions. This is 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 Decklings?

Decklings is a monster catching, deck building roguelike with a few survial mechanics that set it apart from the rest of the genre. The game is available on PC via Steam.

Hook

You have been transported to a world full of magical creatures called Decklings. Decklings can be tamed, and used to do just about anything. Travel across the worlds unique biomes and collect over 100 unique Decklings. Use your Decklings to explore each biome, gather supplies, craft useful items, and battle other Deckling trainers. Do you have what it takes to become the best Deckling master the world has ever known, or will the challenge be too tough?

Gameplay

Decklings has three unique gameplay loop: survival, monster catching, and deck buidling. Player start the game by choosing a starter, and use said starter to gather supplies and craft useful items. Players start with access to basic resources and recipies, and slowly discover more complicated systems as they level.

Survival

During the survival phase of the game, players use their Decklings to explore, gather, and craft items. You do this by dragging your Decklings over resource cards and waiting for it to do its thing. Resources can be combined to craft more advanced items or discover new Decklings to catch. You can assign different tasks to as many Decklings as you can feed during the day. All Decklings have to eat by the end of the day or they run away. While this may sound daunting, the village management aspect of this game isn’t as complicated as something like Goblins of Eldersone.

Any resources you don’t use can be sold for gems. Gems are used for exploration (ie buying more materials) or to challenge other trainers to combat.

Combat

Decklings‘ combat is what you would expect from your traditional deckbuilding roguelike. You draw from a deck of cards and abilities, and you can cast them if you have enough energy. What makes Decklings unique is that you gain new cards as you level up and train your Decking instead of exploring a series of random nodes. You level up your Decklings by either building training dummies to automate the process, or battling other trainers.

Trainers appear after you explore a zone a set number of times, or if you use gems to challenge them directly. Battles are 3v3, and the battle ends when all of the Decklings on a team faints. You don’t have to heal your Decklings after battle, but losing a battle means they level up slowly for the duration of the debuff.

Monster Catching

As you explore the world, you will find recipies. These recipes tell you how to craft certain items, but they can also tell you how to summon certain Decklings. When a Deckling is caught, they can be used to work your land or you can train them for battle. Decklings do evolve like in pokemon. Decklings also have type advantage as well as passive abilities that can quickly turn battles in your favor. Can you catch them all?

Review

Decklings is fine for what it is, but I don’t think I’ll play it again. I was drawn to it for its cute art and concept, but I rather be playing something like Pyrene or Takara Cards. It’s not a terrible game, but the lack of polish makes it hard to recommend (even at $13). I think the art is cute, the idea is interesting, but it needs a bit more time to cook before it can earn a recommendation.

Aesthetic

The Decklings are fine, but there wasn’t a particular Deckling I was chasing. The game feels a little too simple. There wasn’t enough to the world or its creatures for me to attach to. With other monster catcher games, there is enough in the design to makes the collecting fun. Sure there are a few cute Decklings, but nothing that particularly sticks out in the line up. I do like how simple the game is because it means it can run on anything. The solitair style gameplay is also a neat idea, but one that didn’t always work properly. Overall, it probably doesn’t matter because you’re here for the combat.

Comabat

Comabat in Decklings is okay, but it gets repetative and it feels solvable. The game needs some more balancing because you either quickly overlevel through the automation, or you find some broken combo that just wins you the game. Combat is your basic deckbuilder, but sometimes it feels too basic. I do like that the decks can level up and evolve. Leveling up gives you new cards, and the RNG seems pretty fair for the most part. Again, this feels solvable so after a while there was no real reason to collect more Decklings. It was fine for the first two hours I played it, but I rather be playing something like Starvarders instead. That game a more instersting world, better art, and a unique battle system that was a lot more fun.

Survival

The inclusion of survival mechanics in a deckbuilder is a very refreshing idea. At this point, I am a little burnt out on roguelikes, so its nice to have a deckbuilder try something different. Unfortunately, the execution isn’t quite perfect yet. After the first few times that you do the survival loop (explore, gather, craft, repeat), it starts to get old. There is some automation like with farming and cooking, but it doesn’t always work properly. It gets really tedious and it makes the grind feel bad.

Don’t get me wrong, I love repitition. I did my time with Runescape. The grind in Decklings (even sped up) just feels slow and unessiary, which says a lot when the game is very short. While the idea is very cool, I would rather be playing a real survival game instead. With Enshrouded’s official release, I might just do that.

Conclusion

I don’t think Decklings is a bad game, especially for $13, but times are tough and money is tight. I think you can get $5 worth of fun, but there are better deckbuilders out there. With a bit of rebalancing, I could see myself giving it a better recomendation, but I’ll probably forget I ever played this game. You just simply have better options.

You can pick up Decklings on Steam.

Trailer

video game reviews

Is Legion Breaker Worth $7? Idle Incremental Game Review

Leave a comment

Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Legion Breaker 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 Legion Breaker

Legion Breaker is an active fantasy incremental game out now on Steam. The game features a relaxing, but repetative gameplay that might be worth some investment, if you are a fan of the genre.

Hook

You are a novice wizard with access to only one spell. As you kill enemies, you gain the experience to evolve your magic and turn into a powerful mage. As you gain experience, you also begin to form your own legion to push back the waves of undead. Aim your magic, kill as many undead as you can, and become as powerful as possible. Do you have what it takes to keep the undead scourge at bay, or will you be overrun by their numbers?

Gameplay

Players start the game with access to a weak spell. The spell autocasts, but players need to aim the spell. Killing enemies with the spell earns the player money. Money is used to buy upgrades between each run. Players slowly unlock the expansive tree as they earn more gold and buy more upgrades. There isn’t any variety in builds, all players build from the same tree. This is a game where you will die a lot, and there is a bit of serenity in that. If you like incremental games, it might be worth a look.

Does it work on the Steam Deck?

This game works very well on the steam deck. You can either use the joystick or the touch pad to aim the spell. Both options work great, but I preferred the touch pad because it feels better. Overall, Legion Breaker is a solid Steam Deck game. It runs great (it isn’t very resource intensive), and it is casual enough to pull out anywhere. While I am more accurate with a mouse, being able to play in bed was a relaxing and preferable experience.

Review

I love idle games. I play a lot of CookieRun: Crumble, and appreciate any game that lets me sit back and watch numbers go brr. The problem I have with some idle games, including CookieRun: Crumble, is that there tends to be a bit of busy work. I understand some of you guy won’t understand why someone would play a game that plays itself, but sometimes I want to sit back and worry about the build or (in the case of Gotcha) collect things. Its the reason why I played a lot of Monmusu Girls before it became too much work for the idle genre. Mostly, I am just looking for the game that will replace my beloved Dragalia Lost.

Legion Breaker felt right up my ally. The game has a cool retro aesthetic, interesting fantasy flavor, but it is a little bland. While I got my $7 worth of fun out of it, I don’t think I can bring myself to play it again. It was fine for the few hours of relaxation I got from it, but it isn’t replacing my beloved any time soon. If you are looking for an incremental game and don’t mind the lack of customization, and a bit of repetition, then you should keep reading a bit more.

Aesthetic

There is no denying that Legion Breaker has cool aesthetic. I am a huge fan of pixel art games, and this game has that retro vibes my body craves. The game has a solid soundtrack, but nothing I’ll be putting on my iPod any time soon. In fact, I just replaced the sound with a podcast and kept plugging away.

Gameplay

The game is repetitive, but I don’t mind repetition. I actually found the gameplay loop incredibly soothing. To be fair though, I enjoy the early level grind in WOW, and have done my time in Runescape.

The problem I have with the repetition is that there is no real choice in the upgrades. You get to choose from the skills you can afford, but everyone is building towards the same thing. It would have been nice if there were different types of wizards or different pools of spells to choose from instead of upgrading the same one spell. It would be nice to be able to run a necromancer, or a poison wizard, or simply have the options for a unique build. After a while, it just felt like I was just clicking to keep busy and progress through this short game instead of actually playing a game.

Don’t get me wrong, I liked it better than Humans vs Orcs, but I still find it hard to recommend. Especially Corner Quest simply does this better. I enjoyed my time with it, I think you can get $7 out of it, but it isn’t a title that has a very long shelf life (unless the devs release more content and DLC in the future).

Conclusion

As far as incremental games go, you can certainly do worst. The game is fine, you’ll get your fun out of it, but you will probably forget you own it shortly after. At least it doesn’t have any micro transactions. If you are looking for a good incremental game, Tingus Goose is an addiction that should be in your library. If you like to see numbers go crazy, Trees Inc at least gives you some options in your builds. But if you have $7 bucks, want something with a bit more fantasy and just want to chill for a couple hours, you can pick up Legion Breaker on Steam.

Trailer

video game reviews

Dog in the Machine Review: A Clever Robo-Dog Roguelike Gem

1 Comment

Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Dog in the Machine 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 Dog in the Machine?

Dog in the Machine is a unique turn-based strategy roguelike out now on Steam. It features a unique dystopian narrative and you get to play as a dog. There is a demo available, but it really doesn’t do the game justice. Make sure you check it out, and don’t forget to wishlist!

Hook

Humanity built AI and machines to make their lives better, but AI could only calculate of a future without humanity. Slowly, it began to banish humanity from its city until all that remained there was robot. Those robots still sympathetic to humanity were quickly scrapped, but there are still some that wander the street looking for their masters. You play one of these abandoned robots as you battle through the city as you make your escape. Can you find the last bastion of human civilization, or will you be turned to scrap and refurbished to fit the greater good?

Gameplay

Players take control of a robot dog and use its abilities and the environment to fight their way through each level.

Like all roguelikes, players start each run (after the tutorial) in a central hub where they can buy permanent upgrades, or read up on enemies or abilities they’ve unlocked along the way. The more you play this game, the stronger you become.

Before a run, players can choose their loadout. All players start with the same basic loadout, with more available at later play throughs. Players collect new attacks and abilities throughout a run at random, and the RNG for this game seems pretty fair. In classic roguelike fashion, players can choose from a collection of nodes.

Each node will prompt an event: combat, story, store, healing, and upgrades. Combat can be with basic enemies, minibosses, or the big bad boss at the end of each level. Story events give players the opportunity to learn more about the world while gaining the option to buy an upgrade at the end. A roguelike would not be complete without its store, and this game has a few scattered through the run to help you spend your bones (the currency of this game). Throughout the run, players can also take the time to remove alert levels or upgrade their existing deck. Players can reduce the cost of a card or combine cards to give attacks powerful effects.

Combat

Combat in this game is pretty casual as far as turn-based games go, but require enough strategy to keep things engaging. Players can use the environment to their advantage by setting off traps, pushing objects into enemies, or enemies into hazards. During a turn, players will have a set number of action points to spend. These can be used to move, cast a buff, or make an attack. Unlike other deck builders in the genre, you don’t have to pull from deck of actions. Instead, all abilities are available at the start of the turn, but they can only be used once with a few exceptions. This allows players to build with some constancy without having the added stress of RNGing into a dead hand. I play enough Pokemon TCG to want that in my roguelike.

What makes combat unique in Dog in the Machine is the alarm system that creates player urgency. During each round, enemies will start with an alarm level. This level can be reduced through damage (1 point of damage reduces 1 level of alarm), and any remaining damage is added to the threat level. A high threat level will make it hard to escape, kind of like in GTA but easier to manage. Threat level can also be reduced through healing nodes, or be blocked by the jammer ability or blocks used around the map.

Combat ends when the player beats all of the enemies on a map, or the bosses are defeated.

Does it work on the Steam Deck?

Dog in the Machine works great on the Steam Deck. I was able to boot up the game and play without any additional tweaking which is always a huge plus. It was very responsive with the native controls, although it took some getting used to. If you want a fun and casual roguelike to play on the road, or from the comfort of basically anywhere, this is a solid title to add to your collection.

Review

I love Dog in the Machine for its incredible art, interesting world building, and unique strategy. While the game does start to get repetitive after a while (most roguelikes do), the game keeps things fresh enough to keep playing. Whether I was setting up some crazy environmental builds or trying to make acid damage work, I was fully invested in trying to get my cute little robot dog out of this city. I never did, but I will keep trying.

Aesthetic

You’ve heard me say this time and time again, and it is a trend that will continue. I picked this game because it has cool art, but I stayed because the game is actually fun. I love the cartoonish, vibrant world that houses this dystopian narrative I need to complete. The game is good at crafting chaotic maps full of cool looking machines that make sense, I just wish I was smart enough to make use of the environment a little better. If you like how the game looks, I would say give it a try. It is worth at least a bit of your attention (even if you only try the demo).

Story

The game is pretty cleaver with its world building. Players get a bit of the story during the tutorial before being thrust into the roguelike map. Players can choose to fight their way to the boss without ever collecting any bits of the story, but the node is there for your enjoyment. The story node is often a mysterious robot that players encounter throughout a run. It is sentient enough to remember the olds days and makes sense of the conflict. It is through this node players get the world building, but also get some useful loot. I enjoyed this more than the traditional random encounter that is traditional to the genre because I didn’t have to worry about getting some kind of debuff. Some nodes do repeat, but I am here for it. It is a solid story, one that is good enough to play through once.

Combat

The combat in this game seems pretty strait forward until you start unlocking everything. Each new enemy or hazard adds a new mechanics to work around, and the strategy keeps evolving. RNG seems pretty fair. I was consistently able to get a build that worked with my playstyle. I may not be beating any records or finding the resolution, but I always had a build that was fun. Permanent upgrades didn’t break the run. They were impactful enough to get me farther each run, but I never felt like it made the game too easy. I am sure there is a way to minmax and get through the game faster, but I had fun choosing what I liked and that is more than enough.

All attacks in this game are telegraphed. That means you know what an enemy will do during your turn and can plan accordingly. This mechanic turns the game into a puzzle, and I had a lot of fun trying to solve each new one.While most gamers are probably burnt out on this genre, Dog in the Machine does enough different to keep things interesting.

Conclusion

I absolutely loved my time with Dog in the Machine. This is a very good looking game that runs tight on either PC or on your Steam Deck, and you will certainly get your money’s worth. If you are looking for something casual with a good enough world to invest some time into, it doesn’t get much better than this. Go check it out on Steam!

Trailer

video game reviews

Deified: A Beautiful & Casual Roguelike Strategy Game

Leave a comment

Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Deified 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 Deified?

Deified is a unique strategy roguelike where you search for powerful relics to defeat your enemies. The game game is available on Steam, and you can get the version with the artbook if you like the art. Spoilers, you probably will.

Hook

The Gold of Rhine has been taken from your people and used to build powerful relics. Seven lords now hoard your people’s treasure, and it is up to you to get it back. Use the random powers and curses granted to you at the start of each run to defeat anyone that stands in your way. Will fortune favor your bravery, or will you end up another fallen solder in this dark tragedy?

Gameplay

The game starts with a very detailed tutorial before throwing players into its roguelike. Between deaths, players will be taken to a hub where they can use currency to buy upgrades, or learn about the different relics they encounter along the way. Good players will probably use this time to properly plan their next run, but I am pretty sure I did it wrong. I like building what I think is fun, and it was, but I’m not getting any records anytime soon.

Loot

Once players start a run, they get to choose from a random selection of relics. Each relic has a different ability whether it be an attach (ranged or melee), or a utility. These relics are purchased with gold picked up throughout the run, and can stack to create more powerful artifacts. Players only have limited slots for what they can carry, and each additional slot will come with its own set of rules. These slots can give additional powers, like giving the slotted relic poison damage. These slots will have a curse as well, like you can only slot a rare relic in this slot. You get to choose from a random selection of slots rules each time you level up, so choose wisely. I also go for the full condition builds, even when they don’t make sense.

The Roguelike

During a run, players can choose between the type of reward they want. This can be gold to spend on relics during a run, additional XP to level up faster, random events that will grant special upgrades, or places where you can heal. Players choose from a selection of encounters until they reach the Leader where they will get some story and a hard battle. You will die a lot, but the grind isn’t that bad when you’re having this much fun.

Combat

Combat in this game is a pretty casual turn-based system that still demands your respect. You can undo your actions to a certain point, but you still have to pay enough attention or you lose the encounter. The only real limit in the action economy is movement. You can only move a certain number of squares, but all of the relics can be activated once. Since most combat is the hero vs all of the minions, it makes combat that makes the player feel powerful while still requiring strategy to progress efficiently. What makes combat unique is that you can use traps to and a few other random variables to defeat enemies. I had a build where I would teleport to a random spot between each activation and it made combat very memorable.

Review

Deified is easily one of my favorite strategy games I’ve ever played. I don’t like it as much as I did Warcraft III, but that love is dripping in nostalgia and there’s no beating nostalgia. I am not good at playing strategy games, but it didn’t matter for Deified. This game looks really good, it plays fantastic, and it is honestly going to live on all the devices I can play it on. Times are tough, and money is getting tighter, but if you have the $15 to buy a game that will get you through the next time you can spend money, Deified is a fantastic contender. This game should be in everyone’s library.

Aesthetic

I will admit that a lot of the games I choose are because of how they look. While I am a little burnt out on roguelikes, because it feels like everyone is making one now, I liked the art enough to give it a try. I am glad I did because I like the game, but the art is still a god part of that. I like the comic book style cutscenes, the color choices, the high contrast, and the character design is cool. The relics are all unique and have a good amount of flavor baked into them. I wish the music was better and some of the letters were bigger, but I am an old man and I listen to podcasts while I game anyway. Luckily, the game is good enough to try at least once, especially as a game you pick up when you don’t want a huge commitment.

Gameplay

The gameplay is fun, but I enjoyed that it was a bit more on the casual side. Don’t get me wrong, the game has a grind. The more you play the game, the more you will have to grind to buy upgrades and make meaningful progress. After a while, the game does start to feel repetitive. I didn’t get very far because I am not good at these kinds of games (especially when only chase dumb, fun builds), but a lot of the combat starts to feel the same after a while. Even when the maps were different and my build was unique, it felt like I was doing the same thing. Maybe that’s why I am not good at this game, but better players will probably find an easier and more repetitive time with the game unless the game gets some necessary tweaks.

As the crazy person I am, I enjoy the repetition. I find it relaxing, but this game isn’t for the minmaxing strategy genius looking for a challenge. If you play this game enough, you will eventually earn enough permanent buffs to be nearly unstopable, and that can be a problem. As the filthy casual that I am, I enjoyed feeling powerful, especially when I found a dumb build that worked.

Conclusion

I think Deified is a fantastic game for those looking for a chill grind with some solid story baked into it. If you don’t mind a grind, even an easy one, then the game should be in your library. It will get repetitive the more you play, but its only $15. You’ll get at least that much fun out of it. The game does need some tweaks, especially if it wants to carve a permanent spot in its niche, but it is in a good enough place where everyone should try it at least once.

You can pick up Deified on Steam.

Trailer

video game reviews

BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4 Made Me Love Gaming Again

Leave a comment

Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4: DEMONS FROM THE PORTAL TO HELL I OPENED ARE STILL IN THE FAVELA AND NOW I HAVE TO SAVE MAMADAS FROM RONALDO 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 BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4?

BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4 is a boomer shooter that pays proper homage to the Brazilian mods and bootleg games of the 2000s. The game features fast explosive combat, a fantastic soundtrack to get you in the mood for killing, and the humor that will carve its prominence in the boomer shooter genre. The game is available now on Steam (and it is pretty Steam Deck compatible), with a demo you should try if you haven’t done so already.

Hook

Ronaldo Mcdalest has sent demons to kidnap the best Brazilian band ever, Mamadas, and it is up to you to save them. Double jump, dash, and shoot your way through Rio De Janeiro, Sao Paolo, Salvador, and even heven and hell to bring Mamadas back. With over 18 campaign stages, 7 horde mode maps, and monthly updates planned like the prequel, this gem of a game is looking like a lot of value when you need it the most.

Gameplay

The BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4 is your typical boomer shooter, but with enough flare to set it apart from the genre. Players shoot their way through each level, fighting imaginative enemies with strange and silly weapons (like dual wielding sodas). The game does a good job at guiding players through its surreal take on the Brazilian states, but hides secrets to incentivize exploration. Can you find all of the secrets or unlock the rocket jump? If you’ve played Quake or Doom, you’ll appreciate the fast paced chaotic gameplay. If you were fortunate enough to experience the mods that inspired this game, you are in for a real treat.

Does it work on the Steam Deck?

I think BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4 is a fantastic game to run on your Steam Deck. While there is a warning about a few bugs and the font being too small in parts, I didn’t run into any issues. The game runs very smooth without making the Steam Deck too hot. BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4 has found a permanent spot on my Steam Deck, and I look forward to the monthly updates!

Review

It’s been a while since my last post. I went on vacation and there was trouble with my site that kept me from posting. There was also a bit of burnout that I was dealing with before the break. I wasn’t sure I was going to keep writing this blog. It had become a grind that I wasn’t really enjoying. I decided to give it one last go, partly because I came refreshed from my week on the beach, but mostly because of how fun BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4 is. This game reminded me of why I started this blog in the first place way back when. I wanted to help people find games that were fun, and a space where I can talk about games I enjoyed.

Lately, it feels like there have been a lot of companies trying to cash in on our nostolgia because it is easy money. We have the unnecessary reboot of the Devil Wears Prada. All the sequels no one asked for coming to Disney next year. I can’t buy Pokemon cards because everyone is suddenly a bigger Pokemon fan than me. Even WOW is getting its new classic with Forever (this one I’m kind of excited for). The point is, when I see something advertised as a love letter to a certain era of my childhood, I start to get skeptical. Is it really inspired by nostalgia, or is it cheaply cashing in? After playing too much BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4, I can honestly say that the developers truly loved the chaotic mod/bootleg era of 2000s, and I am sad I missed it.

Aesthetic

BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4 uses dated looking PS2 graphics to build its world, heavily leaning into the glitchy aesthetic. Maps clip into these chaotic landscapes full of colors, lights, and hilarious references. It truly feels like a modded map you play with your friends (and you can with the current beta multiplayer mode). Not to mention, there is a fantastic soundtrack to get you in the mood to kill demons.

Humor

BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4 is a game that doesn’t take itself seriously. Part of the charm is that you get to enjoy all these silly bits of dialogue sprinkled throughout the adventure, and the imaginative weapons that make the whole experience memorable. I knew I loved this game as I played through the tutorial. The game suggest that you can double jump because “you remember you’re Brazilian”, and that was enough to set the tone for the rest of the adventure. Along the way, you also see a lot of posters and art that make some very silly references. While I may have missed a few because I am not Brazilian, I understood enough to enjoy the ride. If you are looking for a game to relax to after a long day of work, BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4 will definitely put a smile on your face.

Gameplay

I love boomer shooters, and BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4 is easily my favorite. This game has everything I love about the genre, but perfects it in the most chaotic package. You have enemies that are memorable, weapons that are creative and fun to use, and boss fights that will test your skill. I only played on normal because I am a filthy casual, and will probably go up a level for my next play through, but I appreciate the casual journey through Rio De Janeiro, and other parts of reimagined Brazil. It really reminded me of why I play video games. Not to grind out high scores or rare loot, but to have fun and enjoy the worlds others have worked so hard to create.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a game to play before the year comes to a close (or whenever you end up reading this review), get BRAZILIAN DRUG DEALER BEFORE 4: DEMONS FROM THE PORTAL TO HELL I OPENED ARE STILL IN THE FAVELA AND NOW I HAVE TO SAVE MAMADAS FROM RONALDO. This game is the most fun you will have on your computer since the games that inspired it, and it will continue to bring you joy after. I love the chaotic silliness (yes, even more than Mullet Jack) and the fantastic soundtrack that goes with it (almost as much as the sound track for Don’t Stop Girly Pop, but the gameplay for this is better). As far as these retro boomer shooter reboots go, it is better than Riftfall, and this is only $5.

If you haven’t done so already, go check out the demo. You’ll ultimately shell out the $5 for the full game, and maybe even thank me for it later. I love this game, and I am sure you will too!

Trailer

Tech Reviews

Epomaker GX1 Review: Affordable Wireless Gaming Headset

Leave a comment

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

Explore Dinghai: The Ocean Pillar Demo Review

Leave a comment

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

1 Comment

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

video game reviews

Fine Work: Act I Review – A Unique Rhythm Adventure

Leave a comment

Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Fine Work: Act I 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.

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 Fine Work: Act I

Fine Work is a beautiful and unique game that combines an imaginative world and all the cozy vibes to create a story you will never forget. Players get to enjoy the breath taking visuals while they weave dreams in a relaxing rhythm game. Fine work is out now on Steam, with a free demo you can try at your discretion.

Hook

You are a shaper, a person who can weave sendshapes: artifacts made from someone’s memories. You have opened your new shop, and already the clients that walk through your door bring with them stories you will never forget. Sit down with your clients, listen to their tales, and weave the sendshapes of their dreams. This is a game where your choices matter, so make sure you choose wisely (or according to your personality). Each play through promises to be different. Can you collect all the endings?

Gameplay

There are two parts to Fine Work: the story and the rhythm game. The story is a creative piece of fantasy that creates its own dialect. I appreciate that there is a glossary to define the vernacular that is easily accessible. There is no voice acting, so expect to read a lot. Along the way, the game will offer dialogue choices that affect the course of the game. Players can chose a personality trait at the beginning of the game, like being insightful. Occasionally, the game will offer the player suggestions on what choice to make based on this trait. These choices do affect the outcome of each encounter, and the game’s ending. This gives the game a good amount of replay ability.

After an interview with a client, players get to play a rhythm game where they weave together the sendshape. The game works like most rhythm games, but I would argue that this is a more relaxed entry to the genre. The game is hard if you are like me and don’t have rhythm, but a lot more manageable at the same time. If you don’t want to sit through the story, you can chose to only play through the songs from the start menu.

Review

Fine Work: Act 1 isn’t a bad game. The game has an imaginative world that is unique and deep. The story is just as imaginative, and I appreciate how it plays with language. The gameplay is solid, with the cozy vibes that you might need after a stressful day of work. The only real problem I have with this game is that I don’t think I’m the target audience. While the story and gameplay are solid, the game never really clicked for me. I think if you like this quirky style of fantasy and appreciate the pretty explosion of art, the game is worth a playthrough. Otherwise, you might want to wait for a sale. Let me explain

Aesthetics

There is no denying that Fine Work has some fantastic art. I must commend the artist for creating such a surreal and alien world that is both vibrant and mysterious. I was first drawn to the game by how beautiful all of the imagery, and I was continually amazed by how inventive the world got with each page. When it came to the rhythm game, I enjoyed the minimistic start of each song that quickly turned into a vibrant explosion of the different dreams. The artists did fine work in creating a game that looks and feels like a dream, and catered the music to elevate the experience. Not that I was able to focus much on the visuals when I was trying desperately to keep time.

Gameplay

As far as rhythm games go, the game is fine. I do appreciate the more casual and relaxing approach to the genre, while still offering a challenge with its different mechanics. I don’t have any rhythm and found it challenging enough, but not frustrating like I do with other games in the genre. I also appreciate that I can just play the rhythm game without having to sit through the dialogue. Sometimes I just want to sit back and weave some artifacts. The real problem I have with this game is that I rather be playing Aaero2. The rhythm mechanics are more engaging, and the music is better. Fine Work isn’t a bad rhythm game, but it really depends on what mood your in when you’re booting up your rhythm game. Do you want to chill and watch something pretty? Or do you want mash buttons and get high scores?

Story

The story is where the game kind of loses me. I might just be getting old. Don’t get me wrong, the story is fine. The game has fun and memorable characters and a creative world, but it takes too long to get its traction. This might be my adhd talking, but by the time things started to get rolling I was already checked out. This isn’t a fault with the story. The pacing is fine. My issue is that the quirks that give this game all of its charm didn’t vibe with me. I think Fine Work is worth exploring if you like quirky fiction based on that mirrors the modern trends.

I also find it hard to like this game when Afterlove EP has a better slice of life story, and Harmony: The Fall of Reverie is more imaginative.

Conclusion

Honestly, as much as I don’t want to admit it, I think I am too old for this one. The reason I didn’t like the game is because it just isn’t for me. That doesn’t make it a bad game. Feelings aside, Fine Work: Act I does a few interesting things that I commend the devs for. I respect the successful attempt at creating a unique and deep world. I also appreciate how they weave their narrative. Blending both the visual novel and the rhythm game is masterfully done, and worth at least trying the demo. If you are the target audience and think the story is interesting, you will love this game. If not, you probably won’t finish it. I urge you to check out the demo and do a proper vibe check before spending any money.

Trailer

Tech Reviews

Unboxing Redragon’s Anime Headset: Zeus H510

Leave a comment

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.