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Aegis Force: The Scorian War Demo Review

February 21, 2025 josechurape Leave a comment

I got to try out the Aegis Force: The Scorian War demo because I’ve been looking for a new JRPG to get into. The game looks interesting with some neat flavor and combat system. I know the game isn’t finished yet, so I will try to be more lenient with my impressions. That said, 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 Syste m. I’ve also started a web novel that I update weekly.

What is Aegis Force: The Scorian War?

Aegis Force: The Scorian War is a 2.5 fantasy rpg coming to Steam sometime in 2026. The Demo is available to play in the meantime so make sure to check that out.

The 100 year Scorian War ravages the continent. The two nations, one advanced in technology the other in magic, are locked in a battle with no end in sight. The conflict weighs heavily on both sides, yet no one remembers what sparked it. Join three childhood friends as they fight for their country, recruit new members, and explore the war torn country. What secrets will their journey uncover? Will they be the ones to stop this war?

Gameplay

Players explore the 2D world, fighting against enemy soldiers and slowly unraveling the narrative. This is your typical JRPG, but one with a unique combat system that might be worth exploring. Combat in Aegis Force is turn-based with an interesting movement mechanics. Characters can gain advantage on attacks based on the orientation of the enemy. Attacking an enemy from behind gives units a small boost in attack, but this boon works both ways. Players must strategically position their units to gain the advantage, and this can sometimes mean taking big risks.

Review

I really want to like this Aegis Force. The art is cute, the mechanics seem interesting, and I need a new JRPG. Unfortunately, I think the demo was released too early. The game has some promising features that left me curious enough for a follow-up, but the demo isn’t good enough to generate enough appeal.

The writing is awkward. I caught a couple errors, no big deal, but the dialogue is awkward and doesn’t do enough to earn the reader’s attention. The performance also falls short. Combat and movement is full of award animations, and the whole experience feels a little clunky.

That said, I kind of like the combat. The flank mechanic gives combat enough of a strategic element to keep it engaging, and the Tactimagus mechanic makes combat fun to watch. I wish everything ran more smoothly, but I am at least interested in seeing the final product.

Aegis Force: The Scorian War is a hard game to recommend in its current state. While some can overlook the roughness as the games charming lure, it is going to be a hard sell for the casual gamer who wants to spend their money on an engaging story with mechanics that work properly. I don’t believe Aegis Force is entirely hopeless, it just isn’t where it needs to be yet. We still have a year of development left, and there might be some solid fixes to change this opinion. I will be trying to get my hands on a full version for the follow up, but in the mean time, you can check out the demo on Steam.

video game reviews

Urban Myth Dissolution Center Review: A Must-Play Visual Novel

February 19, 2025 josechurape Leave a comment

Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Urban Myth Dissolution Center 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 Plugs and Self-Promotions

What is the Urban Myth Dissolution Center?

Urban Myth Dissolution Center is a horror mystery visual novel out now on Steam, PlayStation, and the Nintendo Switch.

Azani has a supernatural gift she doesn’t want. In an attempt to become normal, she seeks the help of Ayumu Meguria, a level S psychic and the director of the Urban Myth Dissolution Center. In a strange turn of events, she finds herself under his employ. She must now use her powers to help the Center investigate Myths, and put an end to anything supernatural. What truths will she uncover? Will she ever get rid of this power and be a normal girl?

Gameplay

Players explore a 2D pixel art world, collecting clues, solving cases, and piecing together the overarching narrative. Players start by combing social media for leads on a new case. They follow up by interrogating the people involved, and looking for signs of supernatural activity. As they collect clues and details, players begin filling out a field journal with useful information. Azumi will periodically stop to piece the clues together. Players must be able to piece the clues together to progress through the story. When enough clues are gathered, Meguria will use his psychic abilities to guide the players towards a truth.

Review

If you can only buy one visual novel this year, it should be Urban Myth Dissolution Center. This is by far my favorite visual novel, and I have played some award winning games. Players will fall in love with the retro pixel art aesthetic and the breath taking visuals. I love how creative this game gets with its style, and it is able to successfully create the ideal atmosphere for its mystery. The game also has an amazing sound track ready to complete the mood.

The gameplay is simple, yet relaxing. The fact that the game takes the time to quiz players on key elements of the mystery keep the game engaging. There didn’t seem to be any real drawback from guessing wrong other than the inability to progress the story, but it is a good idea to keep notes if necessary. It makes things go by faster.

The best part of this game is its story. I haven’t been this intrigued by a mystery in a while, and I whole heartily recommend this to anyone in need of a good read. This is a well paced story with a fun quirky tone, memorable characters, and interesting mysteries. Best of all, the experience is pretty solid on the Steam Deck.

If you are looking for a good visual novel, it doesn’t get much better than Urban Myth Dissolution Center. Pick it up today on Steam, PlayStation, and the Nintendo Switch. There is a Steam demo if you don’t believe me.

Tech Reviews, Uncategorized

Epomaker TH99: A Stylish and Functional Mechanical Keyboard

February 18, 2025 josechurape Leave a comment

Disclaimer

Epomaker sent me the TH99 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 latest reviews for the Cypher96 and the Hack59.

What’s in the box?

Epomaker TH99
Braided USB-C to USB-A Cord
2.4 GHz Wireless Dongle
Keycap/Switch Puller
User guide

Features

The Epomaker TH99 is a full-sized mechanical keyboard with the innovative 1800 design for a more compact yet functional experience. This means the keyboard includes a numb pad, a function bar, and few other useful buttons in its 102-key layout. The keyboard comes in a classic black, and a very pretty blue and white aesthetic. I got the blue, and it is ideal for the coziest of setups. The south-facing RGB is subtle, but gives the keyboard a perfect amount of accent, but it can be toggled off at any time.

As far as performance goes, users can enjoy respectable sessions of use with its 4000mAh battery and fast wireless connections. The high quality braided cable included with the cable will make sure users don’t miss a second of gaming, and the low latency is always a solid plus. The TH99 comes with the choice of Creamy Jade Switches, which come pre-lubed and promise a fantastic typing sound.

Sound Test

Review

The Epomaker TH99 has some fantastic presentation. The box is very good looking, even though it was beat during transit, and it was very safely neatly packed. The keyboard itself is very good locking. The layout is clean, and the color color scheme (I got it in white and blue) is so pretty. The included braided cable looks like it very high quality. The included key puller is a little flimsy, but it will get the job done.

As far as design goes, the keyboard is made with the high standards I’ve come to expect from Epomaker. The manufacturing is clean, the layout makes sense, and there is even a cubby for the wireless dongle which is always appreciated. The keyboard has slight inclined, with stands to adjust the height for a more ideal typing angle. The keyboard is very light weight, with a little flex, but it does not feel cheap.

The performance is as I would expect from an Epomaker keyboard. The 4000 mAh battery gave me about 10 hours of continuous use with the RGB on, but the backlight can be toggled off for an even longer session. I did not notice any latency with any of the connections for my casual gaming and non-professional competitive play. My only complaint is that the keys do feel a little heavier to press. While the creamy jade switches provide a very smooth and satisfying sound, they make my hands hurt after prolonged use. Now this issue is unique to me. I need specific ergonomics to combat my the repetitive stress injury in my hands and won’t affect the average user. If you are struggling with hand pain looking for a more ergonomic solution, Epomaker has better options available. If you prefer a heavier creamier key and need a full sized keyboard, the Epomaker TH99 is a fantastic option.

You can pick up the Epomaker TH99 mechanical keyboard on the offical website for $82.99.

video game reviews

Whispers of the Eyeless: Unique Cult Management Game Review

February 14, 2025 josechurape Leave a comment

Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Whisper of the Eyeless 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 Plug

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 Syste m.

What is Whispers of the Eyeless?

Whispers of the Eyeless is a cult management game with RPG elements out now in Steam Early Access.

You are the voice of the old dead gods, Wrath Desire, and Madness. Little remains of the dead gods, and it is up to you to bring them back. Using the powers of the old god that you slowly awaken, recruit new members, build your temple, and conquer the dungeon. Can you build a deserving following, one that can consume the city, or will you be another delusional cleric?

Gameplay

The main loop for Whispers of the Eyeless is the resource management game. Players will spend their time exploring the city, recruiting new members, fixing up their place of worship, and a little bit of dungeon delving. Exploring the city allows players to recruit new members to the party. Exploration will proct special events where players have a chance of recruiting unique members with special abilities. Players are limited in how much of the city they an explore at first, but will earn access to the more prosperous parts of the city once they gain more influence.

Once members are recruited, players are responsible for keeping them happy. Creating jobs, keeping them fed, and building a nice place of worship are all important tasks for a successful cult leader. Some cultists can be sent on jobs around the city, or on dungeon delves. The dungeon is a dangerous place, but one that can be conquered with the proper party of loyal cultist.

In the dungeon, players will explore its halls with simple point and click movement, and combat is in the classic turn based style.

Players who can manage to stay on top of all these tasks, earn their money, and gain their influence properly will have no problem resurrecting the dead gods.

Review

I enjoyed Whispers of the Eyeless. The game is still in Early Access, and it is hard to give it a proper recommendation. On one hand, the game is the perfect fusion of each genre it covers, on the other, the game doesn’t feel finished. The game works and looks great. The artwork is amazing, and I am a huge fan of the dark storybook vibe the game captures. The soundtrack and voice acting are phenomenal, and do a great job at setting the mood. The story and flavor is solid, but it is a little short. Players will catch up to the content quickly, which can definitely be a problem.

I loved the game since I tried the demo, and the new content made it worth the wait. But while I may be willing for more content, and will be returning to the game at every major update, not everyone will. The biggest reason to get Whispers of the Eyeless at this stage is because you want to support a solid game. The game does enough to help it stand out against the genre, and it is heading towards a promising direction. There really isn’t enough to be worth the price tag at the moment, but there will be if you are patient.

You can pick up Whispers of the Eyeless on Steam Early Access for $19.99.

video game reviews

Genso Manège: A Captivating Visual Novel Review

February 12, 2025 josechurape Leave a comment

Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Genso Manège 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

What is Genso Manège?

Genso Manège is an interactive visual novel out now on Steam and Nintendo Switch.

Emma is a witch who has lost her memory and her powers, but fate has other plans for her. She finds herself back in a familiar amusement part with the people she had long since forgotten. Emma is determined to regain her powers and memories, and free those she trapped long ago. As Emma, players will explore a fresh and magical world, harness their powers over magic, and maybe even fall in love. With 6 romantic interesting, a wonderfully voice acted story, and some quirky little mini games, its going to be hard to pass up on this adventure.

Review

Genso Manège is a fantastic visual novel with great art, amazing voice acting, and a solid story. The story has decent pacing with interesting themes, fun characters, and mini games to keep players engaged. That said, the story is very much on the cheesy side of romance novels, but it fits the niche well. The hardest part will be choosing only one of leads, but that gives the game its replayability. I am definitely ready for another go.

I particularly like the use of minigames throughout the story. It gives the game an appropriate change of pace, and they have a good amount of flavor. The don’t feel distracting or overbearing, which can be a problem with interactive fiction.

Overall, if you’re looking for a new romantic visual novel with well flavored fantasy, you need to be playing Genso Manège. Pick it up on Steam and Nintendo Switch

Tech Reviews

Epomaker Cypher96: A Stylish and Functional Keyboard

February 11, 2025 josechurape Leave a comment

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

Experience Exciting Action Roguelike FPS Revenge of the Mage

February 7, 2025 josechurape Leave a comment

Disclaimer

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

Shameless Self Promotion

What is Revenge of the Mage?

Revenge of the Mage is a first-person, bullet hell roguelike out now on Steam.

Learn to harness your power over the elements as you fend off against endless waves of monsters. Travel through the realms, unlock new abilities, and become the most powerful mage. Do you have what it takes to become the hero the realm needs, or will you be another casualty?

Gameplay

Players dive into unique worlds and use their magic to fight off waves of enemies, complete quests, and defeat the boss at the end of the level. Players level up by killing monsters, and earn a random power-up or ability at level-up. The RNG feels fair, and players can enjoy a unique build every single run. Random buffs and items appear randomly across the map to give players a small advantage against the onslaught. Between levels, players can buy upgrades for their mage or unlock a new archetypes with currency they unlock during a run. If a player dies without killing the boss, they return to the hub with only a portion of their earnings.

Review

Revenge of the Mage isn’t your typical roguelike, it is the first person shooter you didn’t know you needed. The game has great flavor, solid mechanics, and a lot of potential. I wasn’t ready for how much I enjoyed this game. While there is a little wonkiness to combat and movement, it feels good. Weaving through enemies and managing cooldowns keeps the game exciting, and the unlockables gives me goals to work towards. That said, movement could use a bit more polish. The dash doesn’t always work, and when things get crowded, it feels a little stiff. It is playable, but it could be smoother.

Like most roguelikes, expect a grind. It isn’t soul crushing, but you will die a lot before you start making an impact. Players lose a good chunk of their gold at death, and earning enough for meaningful powerups or a new archetype is going to take some time. The game does let you recover your gold each run, just make sure you move quickly. That said, I enjoyed the grind because I enjoyed the game. I am a little bummed it doesn’t run well on the Steam Deck, but I preferred using a keyboard and mouse anyways.

If you’re looking for a fun and casual game to pick up, check out Revenge of the Mage. The mages are fun and flavorful, the RNG is fair, and the combat system is solid.

You can pick up Revenge of the Mage on Steam for $5.99. There is also a demo available if you don’t believe me.

video game reviews

Aarik & the Ruined Kingdom: A Unique Puzzle Adventure Game

February 5, 2025 josechurape Leave a comment

Disclaimer

I was sent a free copy of Aarik & the Ruined Kingdom 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.

Some Self Promotion & Affiliates

What is Aarik & the Ruined Kingdom?

Aarik & the Ruined Kingdom is an adorable and creative puzzle adventure game out now on Steam.

The Kingdom is in disrepair, your father is bed ridden, and your mother is missing. Travel to the farthest reaches, through the thickest forests, the coldest tundras, and the strangest castles to put everything back together. Using your the power of your father’s crown, you must move objects and shift perspectives to solve the kingdom’s many puzzles. Do you have what it takes?

Gameplay

Aarik is a puzzle game with a unique mechanic. Every level in this game is out or whack, and it is up to the player to put it back together before they can move to the next one. Using the power of the crown, players will play with the camera perspective to create new paths, move objects, and collect treasure. Players clear a level when they have successfully made it to the level’s endpoint.

Review

Aarik & the Ruined Kingdom is the relaxing and cozy puzzler that needs to be in your library, especially if you enjoy puzzle games. The story is nice, the art is cute, and the puzzles are creative. The game runs smoothly, and each puzzle is both flavorful and unique. What I loved most about the game is having to turn the camera to solve puzzles. Shifting the perspective would create new paths, and using the different available powers made for some interesting and memorable problem solving.

Aarik & the Ruined Kingdom is the cutest puzzle game you’ll play this year with some fun and creative puzzles and solid flavor. It is a little wonky on the Steam Deck, but once you get used to the control scheme, it is not so bad. It isn’t unplayable, it just feels better with a keyboard and mouse.

You can pick up Aarik & the Ruined Kingdom on Steam for only $7.99. There is also a demo available if you don’t believe me.

Tech Reviews

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

February 4, 2025 josechurape Leave a comment

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_manual Download

Grand Archive TCG

Grand Archive TCG: Abyssal Heaven Spoiler Season is Upon Us!

February 2, 2025 josechurape Leave a comment

Introduction

The Abyssal Heaven spoiler season has officially started! As always, I will collect all the spoilers in one convenient spot, and will be updating this post as soon as I can, but new updates should be up by the end of the day. The newest spoilers will always be on top. Make sure you get your preorders in, and don’t forget to support the official creators!