Tag Archives: strategy

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Nintendo’s Indie World Showcase Review: My Top 5 Picks

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Nintendo just had its Indie World Showcase, and there are a few titles to be excited for. I’ll be going over the five that stood out to me the most, not necessarily the best. Make sure you check out the full Showcase because there might be some hidden gems waiting for you.

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Howl

Howl game key art nintendo switch steam playstation xbox epic games

A curse has fallen onto the land, turning all who hear into blood-thirsty beasts. The world’s salvation falls on the hands of a deaf girl. Does she have what it takes to rid the world of this curse?

Howl is a turn-based strategy game coming to all major consoles. I fell in love with Howl the instant I saw it. Its art style has a classic fairy tale vibe that I adore, and the gameplay looks interesting. I recommend you check out the trailer to appreciate the concept.  

You can pick up Howl now on Steam and Switch for $14.99. There is a demo available for both systems for those interested. Howl will release on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Epic Games on January 23rd, 2024. Don’t forget to add it to your wishlist.

I did receive my review copy, so make sure you stick around for that. I was honestly going to pick it up regardless because this game gives me Child of Light vibes, and I love that game. 

Planet of Lana

A strange force of alien robots has invaded the planet and has begun taking its inhabitants. It is up to Lana and her small cat companion Mui to brave the dangers of the wilderness and get her back. What secrets will this adventure unlock? Will Lana ever see her sister again?

I’ve reviewed Planet of Lana on my blog before, and I can’t stress how badly you need to play this game. It has beautiful art, a solid story, an amazing soundtrack, and some chill puzzle action. If you like puzzle adventure games, you need this game. Go read my full review if you want to know more. 

Planet of Lana is coming to Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 in the spring of next year, and trust me, it’s worth the wait. Make sure you wishlist it till then, or try the Steam demo in the meantime. 

Backpack Hero

Backpack Hero is a unique inventory management roguelike that has finally come to the switch. Brave the perilous procedurally generated dungeons with only what fits in your backpack. The road is dangerous, and you will die a lot, but it will be a heck of a ride. 

I’ve reviewed Backpack Hero before and loved every minute of it. The art is cute, but the gameplay is addicting. You’ll never have more fun managing your inventory. Check out my full review if you want to know more. 

Backpack Hero is out now for the Switch, and it is about time. This is the perfect game to play on the handheld. It’s fun, relaxing, and not a huge commitment. Although it might become one once you get hooked. You can pick Backpack Hero on the Switch for $19.99, but it is on sale now for $16.99 until November 21. Backpack Hero is also available on Steam. 

Death Trick: Double Blind

Morgan’s circus has come to town, but their star magician has gone missing, and it is up to you to find out what happened. What secrets will you uncover beneath the big top?

Death Trick: Double Blind is a unique visual novel that lets you embark on an intricate investigation and experience it from two perspectives. Choices matter, and you’ll have to come to your own conclusions, but it looks like it’s going to be a hell of a ride. The art is amazing, and I enjoy the concept. I’ve written about the game before, so make sure to check out the original post if you want to know more. 

Death Trick: Double Blind comes to Steam and Switch sometime next year. Don’t forget to add it to your wishlist!

Blade Chimera

Last but not least we have Blade Chimera. Monsters and spirits have flooded the city, and it is up to Shin and the Missa Association to stop keeping humanity safe. Fight your way through this cyberpunk-themed 2D metroidvania game you aren’t going to want to miss. Use your demon sword to kill enemies, solve puzzles, and save humanity.

This game looks amazing, and I feel like I am due for another Metroidvania game. The art and aesthetic are awesome, and the gameplay looks fun. I am interested to see how creative they get with the sword’s magic. I know for a fact I am not good enough to beat this game, but I’d still like to try. Blade Chimera comes to Steam and Switch Spring 2024. Make sure you add it to your wishlist. 

video game reviews

Dungeons 4: A Wonderful Blend of Humor, Strategy, and Evil

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I was sent Dungeons 4 as a review code. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, I will not let it sway my opinions about the game. This will be my honest review of Dungeons 4. 

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Dungeons 4 is a quirky and unique RTS out now for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC via Steam, Epic Games, and the official Kalypso store. The Absolute Evil is back to claim victory over the last remaining bastion of good. With your trusty servant Thalya captured, it is up to you to raise an army, spread your evil across the land, and get her back eventually. Do you have what it takes to finally defeat the forces of good?

This is the 4th installment to the Dungeons, but you don’t need to have played any of the Dungeons games to understand what is going on. Aside from a few references to the previous games, Dungeons 4′s story is self-contained and fantastic. Dungeons 4 is fun, quirky, and meta in a way that you need to play once to appreciate. It has a fantastic cast of voice actors, and a magnificent soundtrack to get you in the mood for evil. 

Most importantly, the gameplay is fun. Dungeons 4 is a wonderful blend of the village management, tower defense, and RTS genre. The game will frequently switch between genres as you move through the camping. 

Underground, you will build a dungeon where you gather resources and defend them against the forces of good. The game plays like the usual village builder, except the build phase won’t be endless. Eventually, you’ll build a strong enough force to clear the rest of the dungeon or make your way above ground where you’ll attempt to rescue your evil assistant Thalya. 

Heroes will occasionally attempt to raid your dungeon to steal your resources, kill your minions, and destroy the heart of the dungeon. You’ll be responsible for setting traps, building an army, and keeping them happy. I found this part of the game extremely relaxing and my favorite loop. It was fun trying to design a dungeon that was both functional and well-defended. I wish there were a way to speed up the levels, but the wait isn’t long enough for it to be a huge problem.

The RTS portions of the game are a bit simple, but I found them perfect for my skill level. I am not good at RTS games, so I appreciated that it provided enough challenge to keep things fun. There are ways to make this game more challenging, and there is even a co-op mode for added insanity, but I enjoyed the normal solo experience well enough to recommend it.

I loved this game and see myself replaying it in the future. It’s cute, it’s quirky, and everything I want from a casual RTS game. If you a looking for a wacky, relaxing experience in any of the mentioned genres, do yourself a favor and pick up Dungeons 4. 

You can pick up Dungeons 4 on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC via Steam, or Epic Games for $49.99. You can also get it directly from Kalypso for $47.99. It’s free on Game Pass if you have a subscription.

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The unique Metroidvania platformer Worldless comes out November 21st. Preorder yours today!

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Worldless is coming to PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch on November 21st. Worldless is a stylish and unique metroidvania platformer with an interesting turn-based combat system you need to at least try once. I strongly recommend you check out the Steam demo. 

I got to play Worldless at GDC, and have been excited for its release since. You can check out the original post if you want my initial impressions. The game is very pretty with a fantastic soundtrack, but the gameplay loop is what really sold it for me. Worldless combines Metroidvania platforming with a few RPG turn-based systems to produce a very fun and interesting gameplay loop. This game should at least be on your wish list. 

Worldless releases on all systems on November 21st for $19.99. You can save $2 if you preorder on Xbox or Switch until November 20th. PlayStation users get this discount with a PlayStation Plus membership. 

I’ve already got my copy and will be releasing a full review when the embargo is lifted. Stay tuned for that. If you enjoy these updates or any of my other content, please make sure you like, comment, follow, and share this with your friends. 

gaming news, video game reviews

Warcraft Rumble is the cute new mobile game you should be playing

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Warcraft Rumble just released on Android and IOS devices, and I have been enjoying it so far. If you like games like Clash Royal, you should try Warcraft Rumble. The art is super cute, and the gameplay is interesting. If you enjoy these updates, make sure you like, comment, follow, and share this with your friends.

Warcraft Rumble is a deck-building auto-battler game. Players build an eight-card deck and use it to summon creatures and spells to take over enemy bases. The game is split into PVP and PVE content, which is a welcomed change to the genre. PVE will have players play through a campaign where they fight unique AI bosses, but there will eventually also be Raids and Dungeons that you can complete with your guild mates. 

I love the PVE content so far. I love how the maps change, and the strategy with it. I haven’t played enough to unlock any of the higher-level content, but early levels are the casual experience I need in a mobile game. Dungeons and Raids are going to be a lot of fun and will allow players to unlock powerful monsters and buffs. Make sure you start making strong connections with your guild mates now because you are going to need your help to complete some very important content. 

I’ve tried a couple of matches in PVP. I think the PVP is fine. Since everyone is new, people are still figuring out a meta which is always a bonus for new players. I’m sure the guides and tips are coming, but only going to be casually driving this game for now. 

If you are looking for a new mobile game to get into, try Warcraft Rumble. It’s cute, fun, and free. Best of all, you can choose your experience. If you want to rank up and be the best, the PVP is fun, and there is going to be a ladder. But if you aren’t competitive, PVE is a valid experience. It offers enough of a challenge to be engaging, without having to worry about the frustration that comes with climbing the ladder. You don’t need to know anything about Warcraft to enjoy this game, but you might want to after. 

You can download Warcraft Rumble on Android and IOS devices.

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Preorder your copy of SteamWorld Build today!

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I got to try SteamWorld Build at this year’s GDC, and I have been excited to get my hands on it. You can check out my previous post to read my complete impression.

SteamWorld Build is a cute little village builder coming to Steam, PlayStation, Xbox, and the Nintendo Switch on December 1st. This is a cute little village builder with an interesting defense mechanic that you are going to want to try at least once. I just got a copy and will be reviewing it as soon as the embargo is lifted. Stay tuned for that. 

You can preorder a copy of SteamWorld Build for your favorite console starting today. The game retails for $29.99, but preordering on Xbox and Switch saves you $3. PlayStation Plus members also get this discount. If you aren’t ready yet, at least add it to your wish list!

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Spasms of Stupidity’s Kickstarter is live now! This game seems perfect for the fans of the Sega Saturn classic, DragonForce

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The Kickstarter for Spasms of Stupidity: Quest for the Void is now live. Spasms of Stupidity is an auto-battler coming to Steam and Epic Games. The game is worth looking into if you are a fan of the classic Sega Saturn game, DragonForce. Spasms of Stupidity promises a modern twist to the classic with a neat combat system, interesting skill tree mechanics, and the ability to command your legion of demons. The rogue-like campaign and the countless amounts of customization promise players endless hours of gameplay. Make sure you check out the Kickstarter for a more complete breakdown of the game. 

The game looks neat, and I can see it doing well in the niche it fills. If you want to support the project, $16 gets you a copy of the game, your name in the credits, and early access to the game. Make sure you check the Kickstarter for the other goodies. 

It’s always a risk to back a Kickstarter, but someone has to support the little guys. This is a one-person team developing the game, so expect some delays. That said, if you are looking for a very indie Roguelike with a solid retro vibe, check the Spasms of Stupidity Kickstarter. The Kickstarter ends on December 1st. 

video game reviews

Illuminaria is a cute and unique resource management game, but is it worth it?

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I was sent Illuminaria as a review code. While I am very grateful for the opportunity, this will be my honest review of the game. If you enjoy my reviews, please leave a like, comment, follow, and share this with your friends.

Illuminaria is a base building, resource management game for PC, Switch, Android, and IOS devices. Take control of an army of adorable robots as you work to bring light back to the land. Use the robots to gather resources, build bases, and fight monsters.

Illuminaria has a unique and interesting gameplay loop. Building is probably the most relaxing experience I’ve had in the genre because of how easy it is to get organized. All you have to do is build squares, and the robots will fill those squares with resources based on your designations. This loop feels fantastic on the iPhone because all you do is tap and watch your little robots get to work. While you wait for resources, you are also researching new technologies, upgrading structures, defending your bases, and sending your robots on quests for more materials. You’ll be as busy as your little buddies on the screen, and it is such a wholesome good time!

My only real issue with this game is the price. $5 for the app is perfect. You’ll get $5 of fun from the app. If you are looking for a chill game to pick up in a waiting room or something to fill those rare gaming hours that present themselves, Illuminaria is a solid choice. The mechanics are easy to pick up, the gameplay is engaging, the art is cute, and the music is great. This is a fun game, and it’s a perfect mobile gaming experience. The problem is that this game feels short. You can try to beat the game at different difficulties, but it still feels like a $5 app. I can’t see it ever being worth full price on a console or PC. It’s not a bad game, there just isn’t enough for it to be worth it.

You can pick up Illuminaria on Steam, and Switch for $14.99, and on Android and IOS Devices for $4.99. It is on sale right now on Steam for $9.74 until November 7th, but you can also try the demo if you need some more convincing.

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The new Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader cRPG is coming to PC and Consoles in December, and it looks like a very good time!

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When I first heard Owlcat Games was making a 40k Rogue Trader game, I was ecstatic. I love 40k, and after putting a respectable amount of time into Pathfinder: Kingmaker, I am confident it will be a solid addition to my collection. 

Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader is a cRPG coming to PS5, Xbox, and PC via Steam, Gog, and Epic Games on December 7th. Play as a Rogue Trader and travel through treacherous unexplored regions of space in the name of the emperor. But your journey won’t be easy. Space is full of bloodthirsty cultists, alien Zenos, and unimaginable horrors. Do you have what it takes to survive?

If this is anything like Pathfinder, I am in. I love the flavor and aesthetics of the 40k universe, and what I’ve seen so far is impressive. The combat system looks engaging and fun. What I love most about Owlcat Games is how much your decisions affect the outcome of the game, and Rogue Trader promises to do the same. You’ll have to think hard about your choices in both combat and social interactions. I may not be good at strategy games, but I love this feature. It makes the stakes real and the game more exciting. 

If you are looking for a 40k game to add to your collection, or simply want a cRPG with some cool flavor, Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader might be worth looking into. You preorder it from the official website for some neat bonuses. 

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Core Digital Pack ($39.99)

The Core Digital Pack gets you:

  • PC Digital Copy of the game
  • Discord Role that highlights you as a backer
  • Exclusive Beta Access

Premium Digital Pack ($49.99)

The Premium Digital Pack gets you:

  • PC Digital Copy of the game
  • Discord Role that highlights you as a backer
  • Exclusive Beta Access
  • Your name in the credits
  • Unique Voidship Model – Falchion-class escort frigate
  • 3 Exclusive items available only for this preorder
    • Negotiator Pistol: decreases the effectiveness of the target’s armor and grants a passive bonus to the Persuasion skill
    • Digital Las-Ring fitted with a potent short-range las emitter capable of striking several targets in a row
    • Xeno-Pelt Cloak: reduces the chances of suffering especially devastating hits and grants a passive bonus to the Coercion skill

Ultimate Digital Pack ($69.99)

The Ultimate Digital Packj gets you:

  • PC Digital Copy of the game
  • Discord Role that highlights you as a backer
  • Exclusive Beta Access
  • Your name in the credits AND in a special in-game shrine: Shrine of Remembrance
  • Unique Voidship Model – Falchion-class escort frigate
  • 3 Exclusive items available only for this preorder
    • Negotiator Pistol: decreases the effectiveness of the target’s armor and grants a passive bonus to the Persuasion skill
    • Digital Las-Ring fitted with a potent short-range las emitter capable of striking several targets in a row
    • Xeno-Pelt Cloak: reduces the chances of suffering especially devastating hits and grants a passive bonus to the Coercion skill
  • Digital OST
  • Digital Artbook
  • Ready-to-Print Poster

Developer’s Digital Pack ($99)

The Developer’s Digital Pack gets you:

  • PC Digital Copy of the game
  • Discord Role that highlights you as a backer
  • Exclusive Beta Access
  • Your name in the credits AND in a special in-game shrine: Shrine of Remembrance
  • Unique Voidship Model – Falchion-class escort frigate
  • 3 Exclusive items available only for this preorder
    • Negotiator Pistol: decreases the effectiveness of the target’s armor and grants a passive bonus to the Persuasion skill
    • Digital Las-Ring fitted with a potent short-range las emitter capable of striking several targets in a row
    • Xeno-Pelt Cloak: reduces the chances of suffering especially devastating hits and grants a passive bonus to the Coercion skill
  • Digital OST
  • Digital Artbook
  • Ready-to-Print Poster
  • Access to the earliest Gameplay Alpha and the opportunity to help shape the game
  • Special Alpha Supporter Brige Banner
  • Name in the Special Thanks credits section

Collector’s Edition ($299)

The Collector’s Edition gets you:

  • Everything from the Developers Digital Pack
  • Collector’s box
  • 8-inch Cassia painted figure
  • Hardcover art book
  • warrant of Trade that you can personalize with your name
  • Rogue Trader Banner
  • Sticker Pack
gaming news

MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM U.C. ENGAGE releases October 17 with 4,500 Diamonds for players and a fresh take on the Classic U.C. Universe

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MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM U.C. ENGAGE comes out on October 17th, and it might be worth checking out if you like Gundam and don’t mind playing another Gotcha game. I’ve talked about this game in a previous post, so make sure you check that out if you want additional context. 

MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM U.C. ENGAGE is a strategy game featuring classic characters from the U.C. universe coming to Android and IOS devices. It promises 6v6 3D strategic battles with easy-to-use auto-play features. The game will also include a voice-acted story that looks back on the classic era of Gundam, with a new story added every month. This is a great deal for new and old fans of the franchise looking for more Gundam.

If you are interested in playing the game, I recommend you start at launch to earn some fantastic bonuses. The pre-registration was a success! There were over 200k preregistrations which means users will get a UR Gundam and 4500 Diamonds at the start. For people who don’t play Gotcha games, this means you’ll get a decent character for clearing the campaign and a nice amount of in-game currency to get you started. 

The Release Celebration Campaign will also be coming after release. No dates have been announced for the event, but it is sure to allow players to earn some amazing awards. At the very least, participants will earn 5,000 diamonds, which doesn’t sound like a bad deal. 

I love Gotcha games and have been looking for a new one since they took Dragalia Lost down. I can only hope that the micro-transactions aren’t predatory and the game is fun. I’ll be posting a review once I get a bit deeper into the game, but you should try it anyway since it’s free. The game doesn’t go live until October 17, but it is already available for download on Android and IOS devices for those of you who need it. 

gaming news

Epic Deckbuilding RPG Gordian Quest is coming to Nintendo Switch on October 26th

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I just saw that Gordian Quest is coming to the Switch on October 26th, and I am excited. I think deck builders might be my favorite genre, and I am always looking for a new one to get into. The game is out now for PC via Steam and GoG for those of you who don’t have a switch or don’t want to wait. 

Gordian Quest is a deck builder RPG roguelike. Choose from 10 playable heroes and over 700 cards to make it through the 4-act story. With three different game modes, crafting mechanics, and procedurally generated levels, I can see this game providing hours of gameplay and a lot of replay value. 

I am a huge fan of the art, and the gameplay looks like a lot of fun. I know I could grab it now for the PC, but I prefer to play my chill deck builders from the comfort of my couch. You can pick up Gordian Quest for $19.99, but you can preorder it now for $17.99 on the Nintendo eShop. 

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