Rise of the Ronin is a Souls-like story game where you travel around 1860s Japan, killing enemies and completing many fun missions. All whilst searching for your blade twin – your samurai partner who went missing after being attacked by the blue demon on a ‘foreigner’s’ ship. This gameplay is honestly the standout of this title. There is an incredibly wide variety of different weapons for you to choose from, and for each weapon there’s a giant range of fighting styles you can play with, each having benefits and drawbacks that let you really play the game the way you want to. The movement mechanics, though simple, are a lots of fun with a glider and grappling hook as well as the classic horse option for when you’re travelling long distances.
There’s also an insane amount of customisation and, although gear that has stats can become annoying at times, the variety for both your character, their clothes, and their weapons makes up for this. There’s also a unique buddy system that lets you make bonds with the different people you meet through missions, letting you call on them when you need a helping hand. As well as this, the co-op works really well, so if you have a friend you want to play with you definitely need to try that option!
And the final awesome gameplay mechanic is when you parry projectiles, your blade can become infused with the projectile. This means you can light your blades on fire before attacking enemies.
The drawbacks of this game don’t relate to the gameplay specifically, but rather in the story and the graphics. The story is very one dimensional and drags on a bit, leaving no urge to do the story mode and rather just run around attacking random bad guys. As well as this, the graphics are not always the best in some areas. This doesn’t make the game unplayable by any means but in a title like this, when world building is everything you definitely notice it. But this game is fun and well worth playing!
Available on PlayStation 5 22/3/24 (PEGI 18) 4 Stars
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Fan of ‘Ghost of Tsushima’ or the ‘Dark Souls’ games will really love this game. The story though simplistic is definitely impactful in sections and the gameplay is unique and fun. Well worth a play!!!
Helldivers 2 is the long awaited sequel to a game that was released nine years ago! In this time, the world of Helldivers has been relatively peaceful. Super earth had almost completely defeated the Terminids and as such, the Helldivers had been retired. Although the Terminids managed to begin colonising the planet again, leading to the Helldivers being brought back to fight once again against the Terminids.
This game uses an awesome variety of weapons, as well as a totally unique gunplay style which together provides a really enjoyable gaming experience. When you land on the planet you don’t get overwhelmed by the Terminids instantly, yet they do build up if you don’t kill them quickly, which adds a level of pressure to get the missions.
The stratagems are also a fun tool that can be used to resupply your character, bringing back teammates or gain massively powerful weapons to devastate enemies and your teammates indiscriminately. The graphics in this game also look really good, there’s a clear art style they’re going for, whilst still having it look very realistic. And one of the most important things about this game is its multiplayer aspect, which both works well and fast so you can load up your friends or random players with great convenience. And at a price point of just £35, it’s a great game for a group of friends to buy and play together.
The only problem with the game is sadly quite a prevalent one. The maps all feel really similar, and the missions have very little major differences between them. This means personally I couldn’t really play this game for more than half an hour at a time without the repetition getting to me.
So if you want a new multiplayer game to play with friends, this might be that for you. But without a proper story mode or any real differences, it does become a little repetitive after a while.
Available on PlayStation 5 and PC 8/2/24 (PEGI 18) 3.5 Stars
Youth #Gottit View:
This is a fun game that’s clearly inspired by the movie ‘Starship Troopers’, with a great multiplayer mode. Alas the story mode does become a little bit repetitive after time. But the Multiplayer mode is awesome!!!
PlayStation 5 – The Last of Us Part II Remastered Review
After the success of the TV shows and subsequent resurgence of the fanbase, The Last of Us Part 1 was re-released in a newly remastered version in 2022. This was created for a newer audience, and as such was drastically improved in its visuals to use the full potential of the PS5. And because of this, it was only right they’d did the same for the sequel, That Last of Us Part 2 Remastered!
In the world of The Last of Us, a zombie apocalypse brought on by a mutated fungus, has sent the world into a dystopian reality where no one can trust anyone and there’s danger around every corner.
However there’s always a speck of hope, in the protagonist of the game Ellie who was immune to the infection. And the only way that the cure could be developed was if Ellie sacrificed herself for the cause. Although her guardian (and protagonist of the first game) Joel wouldn’t have it, and instead killed all of the doctors and military in the hospital, basically ruining the world’s chance of creating a vaccine.
Fast forward Five years and people are looking for revenge! Abby captures Joel and kills him, whilst making Ellie watch. This quite obviously enrages Ellie who takes her girlfriend Dina and goes out to take revenge, creating a twisted cycle.
This game is an absolutely incredible. The gunplay in The Last of Us Part 2 works so well, with all of the weapons feeling balanced and easy to use, whilst still having room to improve using upgrades.
The upgrades that you can use for Ellie also feel so rewarding, allowing a high amount of customisation as there are many unlockable routes to go down when playing.
All of the actor’s performances in this game are incredible and pairing that with a great set of characters we’ve already grown to love, really allows for some tear-jerking moments.
And the story itself had me so engaged and wanting to keep playing every second I had the chance!
The original PS4 version of the game is multi award winning, which honestly speaks for itself. But what is important to comment on are the new additions that come with this PS5 upgraded version.
To start off, the graphics are beautiful. Now they don’t feel like a ridiculous step up from the original game, yet there is a noticeable difference so anyone who particularly enjoys using photo mode in these games will appreciate the upgrade.
There’s also 4k support and higher frame rates available. As well as this, there’s also more support for the dual sense controllers and a new survival mode. The no return survival mode is really challenging but fun, and gives you more ways to enjoy this game, even after you’ve completed it.
And finally, three levels that were cut from the original game are now featured in the remastered version making it a must own for the diehard fans.
Unlike Part 1’s remastered edition, this game isn’t really a new thing that you’d buy separate to the
original version, as the graphics were really good the first time around. But, as it’s only a 10 pound price tag for anyone who owns the original part 2 game, it does seem like a great purchase for any fans thirsting for more.
As for anyone who hasn’t had a chance to play it in the past, now you have a far better way to play an already incredible and iconic game release in all its remastered glory!!!
Available on PlayStation 5 19/1/24 (PEGI 18) 5 Stars
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It’s one of the greatest video games ever released, so its very hard to improve on that. But there is now a slightly tinkered with PS5 version for the die hard fans to own who want the best version of the game possible. And if you’ve never played either this or the first ‘TLOU’ game – where have you been hiding all of these years?!!! Call yourself a gamer?!!! Highly Recommended!!!!
PlayStation 5 – The Last of Us Part 1 Remastered reviewCLICK HERE!!!
The Last of Us Part II Remastered New Features Trailer!!!
Available of PlayStation 5 20/10/23 (PEGI 16) 5 Stars
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This is easily one of the most highly anticipated video games of 2023, and it massively delivers. The Adventure continues and there’s lots of excitement along the way. A must play for Marvel fans – Highly Recommended!!!
PlayStation 5 – Horizon Forbidden West review by Harrison
Available on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 18/2/22 (PEGI 16) 5 Stars
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One of the best PlayStation games of recent years has just become even better. Horizon Forbidden West is a huge game and beautifully constructed. If you’ve already completed the original game, ‘Burning Shores’ will be a much enjoyed extension to the adventure – Highly Recommended!!!
Available 19/4/23 for PlayStation 5: Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores DLC!!!
Available for PlayStation 5 22/2/22 (PEGI 12) 5 Stars
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This new VR add on for the PlayStation 5 is easily the slickest looking, easiest to set up for games and best on the market right now. If you love VR gaming – this is a must own. Highly Recommended!!!
Batman is dead and Gotham is distraught. The only people who can protect the city are the Gotham Knights!
The main story follows the Gotham Knights (Nightwing, Robin, Batgirl and Red Hood) as the attempt to figure out what Batman’s final mission was and how they can complete it. However in doing so they have to question many iconic Batman villains. This allows for the story to have a fun main story whilst still being able to create a variety of side missions that don’t feel forced. Along with this, the Court of Owls (Villains in the game) are incredibly menacing and appear to be almost undefeatable.
The cut scenes for this game are amazing and help with the narrative of the story. And the side quests are either random crimes or side story mission. The side story missions are lots of fun as they create further story, so there’s more gameplay – but you don’t need to finish them to beat the game.
The gameplay for Gotham Knights is absolutely incredible. All four of the Gotham Knights characters are available to play and they all have unique move sets. Robin is a stealth expert, Nightwing is fast and agile, Batgirl is a 1-on-1 brawler and Redhood a long ranger gunsman. This provides interesting gameplay given as you and your friends can co-op using your choice of the character.
Along with this, every character has special moves. There are different moves between the four characters meaning there’s thirty two in total. These provide high damage or simply just guarantee someone will lose most of their health.
Gotham Knights is created by Montreal Games unlike Arkham Knight, so there are some major UI and gameplay changes, however there are many customisable options that will allow people to experience it in the way they did with the Arkham series. Along with this, there are many missions that you may complete, without feeling that they are repetitive.
The Gotham map itself, is massive and traversing is incredibly good fun, especially after completing the knighthood challenges.My only major problem with Gotham Knights is the parkour which is both lackluster, and simply put you have to go out of your way to do it, which I believe shouldn’t be the case in a Batman game. Also Gotham Knights isn’t a console cross-play game, nor is it ‘Last Gen’ which means you’re a little bit limited on who you can play with online at the moment, which is a slight flaw for the initial release.
Overall, the story mode and gameplay is incredible and really interactive, especially as the dialogue changes, depending on the the character you play with. This game is ridiculously well put together.
Available on PlayStation 5, XBox Series X and PC 21/10/22 (PEGI 16) 4 Stars
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This is a great game and must play for all DC Comic fans. It’s sad that there’s no console cross-play – hopefully that will change in the future with an update. Highly Recommended!!!
This game is absolutely astonishing. ‘The Last Of Us’ is a much loved game series, yet over time the graphics became less on par with much of the modern game releases. Until this new version was created.
The game follows Joel as he attempts to complete a simple mission to help a 14 year old girl called Ellie to a research facility, which quickly diverges into a vast journey through many zombie infested towns and human conflicts in an attempt to save the world from a zombie virus. Along the way players will meet many characters, some friends, some foes, and ultimately attempt to save humanity.
The Last of Us part 1 looks absolutely breathtaking. The graphics and animations are so realistic it’s like you’re just watching a TV show. Also what’s impressive, is the little extra details they’ve added into the new version of game that weren’t in the original, such as Ellie and Joel getting wet when it’s raining or when they fall in a pool of water. The combat is incredible too, with many upgrades and weapons so you’re able to beat the game in your own unique way. And finally it has incredible pacing. This is a very long story, but it does it feel like it was dragged out, nor does it feel too rushed while working through the story.
If I have any problems with the game, it’s that the human fight scenes became a bit repetitive at times. But even then, they were still very enjoyable.
Overall this is without a doubt one of the best games of all time, and it’s remake only makes it better. Anyone who enjoys playing solo adventure games needs to play this, and even if you’ve played the original, it’s well worth checking it out the new updated game to see the amazing changes.
I would easily give this 5/5 stars and recommend you try it out as soon as you can!!!
Available of PlayStation 5 2/9/22 (PEGI 18) 5 Stars
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This isn’t just a touched up version of the original game, this is a complete remake for PlayStation 5 with bundles of new features. It’s a magnificent gaming experience from start to finish!!!
Features included:
Rebuilt for the PlayStation 5: Completely rebuilt from the ground up using Naughty Dog’s latest PS5™ engine technology with advanced visual fidelity, fully integrated DualSense™ wireless controller features and more.
A faithful remake: Experience the emotional storytelling and unforgettable characters of Joel and Ellie in The Last of Us, and explore the events that changed the lives of Ellie and her best friend Riley forever in the critically acclaimed prequel chapter, Left Behind.
All-new experience: A total overhaul of the original experience, faithfully reproduced but incorporating modernized gameplay mechanics, improved controls and expanded accessibility options. Feel immersed in improved environmental storytelling, effects, facial animations, and enhanced exploration and combat.
The Last of Us Part I includes a new Speedrun mode, which enables an in-game timer that tracks your current and best playthrough length. The timer pauses during cinematics and scene transitions. After an initial completed playthrough, this mode can be enabled when starting a new game. Speedrun mode displays a small UI element in the top right of the screen that shows:
Available on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 4/3/22 (PEGI 3) 4 Stars
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It’s yet another must own game for 2022 if you’re car mad. As Harrison said, the graphics are beautiful and leave very little to the imagination. With the gameplay – it is updated, but if you’re a Gran Turismo fan you’ll know what to expect and wouldn’t want too much changed in the game. Highly Recommended!!!
Perhaps one of the most highly anticipated games in recent years, Cyberpunk 2077 provides players with an unparalleled level of personalisation, freedom and enjoyment few games can match. The game is told through the eyes of V, a gun for hire with a surprisingly strong moral compass in a city where honesty and virtue get you killed, as he attempts to stop the consciousness of the rock icon and cyber terrorist, Johnny Silverhand (Keanu Reeves), from taking over his body and destroying his mind. The game starts off giving you a choice of which background you’d like to hail from; a corporate disgrace, a nomadic junker or a Night City street kid – giving you the first taste of one of the games key appeals.
Throughout the game, almost each and every little detail you choose, from hairstyle to dialogue path, influences the greater story. When playing through the Cyberpunk, I was amazed at just how much time I would spend pondering over each thing I did, knowing it could very well change the future of my character, with this this customizability being what really makes the game feel personal to each player. On the theme of its great customizabilty, Cyberpunks skill tree is excellent, allowing players to enhance their characters abilities in three key ways. The first being through the use of attribute points, tokens earned from completing objectives and leveling up which can be put into 5 umbrella categories which make general improvements to V. For example if you invest points into the ‘Cool’ category, not only does it unlock otherwise unavailable dialogue choices, influencing anything from the information you can receive, relationships you can have and the rate at which you can achieve certain information but it’ll also increase your ability to sneak around and be more anonymous thus configuring the game more to whatever the player wants. Alternatively, if you prefer the guns blazing approach, Cyberpunk of course has an option for you, allowing you to invest into the strength category, providing the player with the ability to break down doors ,both metaphorically and literally, as you can take more damage and dish more out in return.
The second way you are given in order tailor make your character is through perk points. These are achieved similarly to attribute points, and are even used in a similar way, however, perk points provide a more specific improvement, being accessed by going into the 5 categories and unlocking the more classic styled skill tree as you unlock both abilities and stat boosts in line with each category. The perk points provide a relatively skill tree experience with there being a decent amount of choice in this regard but nothing of major concern unlike the other 2 improvement features. Finally, the third improvement are to V’s cybernetics. These allow V to perform superhuman feats including extra lives, double jumps or even slowing down time, however, the game has an interesting feature, as with each enhancement, V’s humanity level decreases. At lower levels V’s behaviour becomes eratic and strange with V even killing people,uncontrollably after reaching below zero due to the disease cyberpsychosis. I loved this feature, as it not only provided a deeper level of – you guessed it – customizability for V as you decide just how human you want them to be but it also adds to the incredible world of Cyerpunk with diseased characters taking certain actions consistent with the lore.
On the theme of the Cyberpunk world, I have to say that Night city has to be one of if not the most beautiful settings I have ever had the pleasure of playing within. From its abundance of complex streets filled with interesting characters and personalities not in any way key to the main story and completely optional to the rich detail and breathtaking skyscrapers protruding above your head as you play, there is nothing you can ask for. The map feels just large enough so that you can spend hours adventuring and exploring its secrets but not too large that moving from objective to objective becomes too much of a hassle with travel distances rarely being above a kilometre. The map is filled with side quests which aren’t really side quests, although being optional, providing more detail and characters for the main story in a level of freedom I have never seen before. In terms of combat, this game is great. Weapons feel balanced, with high damage slow fire rate being on average your best bet, as it feels the game really rewards accuracy. Weapons are a highlight of the game with each class having its own benefits. Cybernetics can play a key part here with certain weapons like the mantis blades being only available after receiving certain advancements.
As a protagonist, V is exceptional. You grow with the character and due to being able to control almost every aspect of their life, each death, betrayal and victory feel especially impactful when playing. Reeves is amazing as usual, providing a tense yet somewhat comedic take to the hardened rocker Johnny as the chemistry between him and V keep every moment feeling fresh and exciting whenever Johnny pops up. As far as the story goes, it is a modern day masterpiece. The futuristic yet not-so-far nature of it all makes the themes especially relevant to today and twists and turns leave you speechless. Cyberpunk manages to construct an entire world in the first few hours of the game not providing too much explanation but at just the right rate that it never gets confusing.
With what I’ve said so far it almost seems like this game is flawless and for the majority of its aspects it is, however, much like most things, it has one fatal fault – Bugs. Cyberpunk is littered with glitches and mistakes with everything from teleporting enemies shooting through walls to random NPC’s floating for no reason popping up as frequent as every 10 minutes. Despite all this, I am hopeful for the future with having already seen,only a few days into release, a large improvement into the severity of the bugs going from absolutely game-breaking at some points to now just laughable. I am envious of those who play it in a couple of months time and believe it will only get better.
In conclusion, Cyberpunk 2077 is a futuristic marvel that brings almost every great Sci-Fi together into a magical blend of style, charisma and pure beauty of its Cities, helped by its fantastic combat and customisation systems only let down by the vast number of bugs.
Available on PlayStation 5, XBox Series X, PlayStation 4, XBox One and PC (PEGI 18) 5 Stars
Youth #Gottit View:
This is genuinely a very special game and one of the most important new releases in years. Try not to get too caught up in the hysteria around the early glitches – this will be sorted and Cyberpunk will end up being one of the best gaming experiences on the market. Highly Recommended!!!
