Author

Nish

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Nish is a software engineer by day and avid gamer who loves to play video games after he puts his two boys to bed. His insights delve into the mechanics, and storytelling of the games he plays with the aim to share his passion with the audience. He loves to travel back to his native India and travel the country on his restored Royal Enfield Bullet 350, a relic from a simpler time, like some of the games he plays.

Strawberry Shortcake: The Four Seasons Cake (2007)

by Nish
written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Strawberry Shortcake: The Four Seasons Cake is a party game developed by EA Redwood Shores and published by THQ for the Wii and Nintendo DS. It was released in North America on September 25, 2007, and in Europe on October 19, 2007. The game is based on the Strawberry Shortcake franchise, and features Strawberry Shortcake and her friends as they compete in a series of minigames.

The game’s story mode follows Strawberry Shortcake and her friends as they prepare for the Nearly-Once-a-Yearly Strawberryland Games. However, their plans are interrupted by Peppermint Fizz, who is determined to win the games by cheating. Strawberry Shortcake and her friends must team up to stop Peppermint Fizz and win the games fair and square.

The game features a variety of minigames, including:

  • Berry Boarding: Players race down a mountain of whipped cream on berry boards.
  • Balloon Rise: Players float through the sky in balloons, collecting strawberries and avoiding obstacles.
  • Black Liquorice Leap: Players jump from one end of Punchbowl Pond to the other, avoiding black liquorice logs.

In addition to the story mode, the game also features a multiplayer mode for up to four players. In multiplayer mode, players can compete against each other in a variety of minigames.

Gameplay

Strawberry Shortcake: The Four Seasons Cake is a party game that can be played by up to four players. The game features a variety of minigames, which are divided into three categories: Berry Boarding, Balloon Rise, and Black Liquorice Leap.

  • Berry Boarding: In Berry Boarding, players race down a mountain of whipped cream on berry boards. Players can use their boards to bump into each other and knock them off the track. The first player to reach the bottom of the mountain wins.
  • Balloon Rise: In Balloon Rise, players float through the sky in balloons. Players can collect strawberries to earn points, and they can also use their balloons to bump into each other and pop their balloons. The player with the most points at the end of the game wins.
  • Black Liquorice Leap: In Black Liquorice Leap, players jump from one end of Punchbowl Pond to the other, avoiding black liquorice logs. Players can use their jump pads to jump over the logs, and they can also use their umbrellas to glide through the air. The first player to reach the other side of the pond wins.

Reception

Strawberry Shortcake: The Four Seasons Cake received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s cute graphics and fun minigames, while others criticized its repetitive gameplay and lack of innovation. The game was nominated for a BAFTA Children’s Award for Best Game, but it lost to Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise.

Legacy

Strawberry Shortcake: The Four Seasons Cake was the last Strawberry Shortcake game to be released on the Wii. The franchise has since moved on to other platforms, such as the Nintendo DS and mobile devices. However, The Four Seasons Cake remains a popular game among fans of the Strawberry Shortcake franchise.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake: The Four Seasons Cake is a fun party game that is perfect for fans of the Strawberry Shortcake franchise. The game features a variety of minigames that are sure to keep players entertained for hours on end. While the game’s repetitive gameplay and lack of innovation may disappoint some players, its cute graphics and fun minigames make it a worthwhile purchase for fans of the franchise.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Codename: Gordon (2004)

by Nish
written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Codename: Gordon: A Nostalgic Flashback to the Origins of Half-Life

Introduction

Codename: Gordon, also known as Half-Life 2D, is a two-dimensional Flash sidescroller shooter game that served as a promotional title for the highly anticipated Half-Life 2. Developed by Paul “X-Tender” Kamma and Sönke “Warbeast” Seidel, the game was distributed free of charge through Valve Software’s Steam online delivery system. While Codename: Gordon has since been removed from Steam’s storefront, it remains a beloved classic among Half-Life fans and a testament to the creativity and passion of its creators.

Gameplay

Codename: Gordon is a side-scrolling shooter that follows the iconic Gordon Freeman as he traverses various levels, battling enemies and solving puzzles. The game features a variety of weapons, including the crowbar, pistol, shotgun, and rocket launcher. Gordon can also use environmental objects to his advantage, such as barrels and crates, to defeat enemies or create pathways.

The game’s levels are varied and challenging, ranging from industrial complexes to alien landscapes. Each level is filled with enemies, traps, and puzzles that require quick thinking and skillful platforming. Codename: Gordon also features several boss battles, which test the player’s skills and knowledge of the game’s mechanics.

Development

Codename: Gordon began as a fan project by Paul Kamma and Sönke Seidel, who were inspired by the Half-Life 2 advertisements. The two developers started working on the game in their spare time, and soon realized that they had something special on their hands. They approached Valve with their project, and the company was impressed enough to offer to distribute the game through Steam.

The development of Codename: Gordon was a collaborative effort between Kamma, Seidel, and Valve. Kamma and Seidel handled the game’s design and programming, while Valve provided feedback and support. The game was completed in a relatively short amount of time, and was released on Steam in 2004.

Reception

Codename: Gordon was met with critical acclaim upon its release. Critics praised the game’s polished graphics, tight controls, and challenging gameplay. The game was also praised for its faithfulness to the Half-Life universe, and for providing a fun and nostalgic experience for fans of the series.

Codename: Gordon was also a commercial success, with over 1 million downloads on Steam. The game’s popularity helped to raise awareness of Half-Life 2, and contributed to the game’s eventual success.

Legacy

Codename: Gordon remains a beloved classic among Half-Life fans. The game is a testament to the creativity and passion of its creators, and it continues to be enjoyed by gamers today. Codename: Gordon also serves as a reminder of the early days of Steam, when the platform was a haven for independent developers and innovative games.

Conclusion

Codename: Gordon is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a nostalgic glimpse into the origins of the Half-Life series. The game’s challenging gameplay, polished graphics, and faithfulness to the Half-Life universe make it a must-play for fans of the series and retro gaming enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a seasoned Half-Life veteran or a newcomer to the franchise, Codename: Gordon is a game that you won’t want to miss.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Monkey Island 2 Special Edition: LeChuck’s Revenge (2010)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Monkey Island 2 Special Edition: LeChuck’s Revenge – A Timeless Classic Re-imagined

Widely considered one of the greatest adventure games of all time, Monkey Island 2: LeChuck’s Revenge is a timeless classic that has captivated gamers for decades. Originally released in 1991, the game has been lovingly re-imagined in the 2010 Special Edition, which faithfully recreates the original experience while adding stunning new graphics, voice acting, and a host of new features.

A Pirate’s Life for Me

The game follows the misadventures of Guybrush Threepwood, a wannabe pirate who dreams of finding the legendary treasure of Big Whoop. However, his plans are thwarted by his arch-nemesis, the evil ghost pirate LeChuck, who has returned from the dead to seek revenge.

Guybrush must use his wits, his humor, and his insatiable desire for adventure to defeat LeChuck and claim the treasure for himself. Along the way, he’ll meet a cast of colorful characters, including the voodoo priestess Voodoo Lady, the talking skull Murray, and the beautiful governor Elaine Marley.

A Faithful Re-imagining

The Special Edition of Monkey Island 2 faithfully recreates the original game, with all of the puzzles, characters, and locations that made it a classic. However, the graphics have been completely overhauled, with new high-resolution art that brings the world of Monkey Island to life in stunning detail.

The game also features new voice acting, with the original cast of characters reprising their roles. This adds a new level of depth and immersion to the game, and helps to bring the characters to life.

New Features

In addition to the graphical and audio upgrades, the Special Edition of Monkey Island 2 also includes a number of new features, such as:

  • A new commentary mode, which allows players to listen to the developers discuss the game’s creation.
  • A new hint system, which can be used to help players solve puzzles.
  • A new scrapbook, which contains concept art, character sketches, and other behind-the-scenes materials.

These new features add to the overall experience of the game, and make it a must-play for fans of the original and newcomers alike.

A Timeless Classic

Monkey Island 2 Special Edition: LeChuck’s Revenge is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. The game’s charming characters, witty dialogue, and challenging puzzles have made it a favorite of gamers for decades. The Special Edition faithfully recreates the original experience while adding stunning new graphics, voice acting, and a host of new features. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer to the world of Monkey Island, the Special Edition is a must-play.

Review Score: 9/10

Pros:

  • Stunning new graphics
  • New voice acting
  • New features, such as commentary mode and hint system
  • Faithful re-imagining of the original game

Cons:

  • Some of the puzzles can be challenging
  • The game can be short, depending on how quickly you solve the puzzles

Overall, Monkey Island 2 Special Edition: LeChuck’s Revenge is a must-play for fans of adventure games and classic gaming. The game’s charming characters, witty dialogue, and challenging puzzles will keep you entertained for hours on end.

Review Score

9/10

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Def Jam: Icon (2007)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Def Jam: Icon (2007): A Hip-Hop Masterpiece

Released in 2007, Def Jam: Icon is a groundbreaking video game that infuses hip-hop music, culture, and lifestyle into every aspect of gameplay. Developed by EA Chicago and Def Jam Interactive, the game takes players on a journey from rags to riches as they live the life of a hip-hop mogul.

Gameplay

Def Jam: Icon’s unique gameplay mechanics set it apart from other fighting games. Music is the driving force behind the combat, with different venues and environmental hazards affecting how players fight. Players must use strategy and rhythm to stay alive, incorporating environmental interactions into their fighting style.

The game’s innovative controls give players better feedback, making them feel like they’re actually throwing the combat moves. This allows for more fluid and stylish fighting, capturing the essence of the superstar personalities featured in the game.

Story

Players take on the role of a rising hip-hop artist trying to make a name for themselves in the industry. Along the way, they’ll encounter a cast of colorful characters, including established rappers like Ludacris, T.I., and Big Boi.

The story mode is divided into chapters, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. Players must complete missions, battle rivals, and build their reputation to progress through the game.

Characters

Def Jam: Icon features a roster of over 30 playable characters, each with their own unique fighting style and personality. Players can choose to play as established rappers like Ludacris, T.I., and Big Boi, or create their own custom character.

Each character has their own strengths and weaknesses, so players must carefully consider their choice when selecting a fighter. Additionally, characters can be customized with different outfits and accessories, allowing players to express their own personal style.

Music

Music is the heart and soul of Def Jam: Icon. The game features a soundtrack with over 100 licensed hip-hop tracks from some of the biggest names in the industry.

The music not only sets the tone for the game, but also affects the gameplay itself. Different venues have different musical atmospheres, which can affect how players fight. Additionally, environmental hazards can be triggered by the music, adding an extra layer of challenge to the combat.

Legacy

Def Jam: Icon was a critical and commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, immersive story, and stellar soundtrack.

The game’s success helped to solidify the Def Jam video game franchise as one of the most popular and respected in the hip-hop genre. Def Jam: Icon remains a fan favorite today, and is considered by many to be one of the best hip-hop games ever made.

Conclusion

Def Jam: Icon is a true masterpiece that captures the essence of hip-hop culture and lifestyle. With its innovative gameplay, immersive story, stellar soundtrack, and iconic characters, the game remains a must-play for fans of hip-hop and video games alike.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Autocrash (1991)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Autocrash (1991): The Forgotten Gem of the Arcade Era

Autocrash is a bumper car deathmatch game released in arcades in 1991. The goal of the game is to dismount the opponent (or opponents) from their car, and hit them before they leave the game zone. Along the stages, the enemy’s A.I. difficulty level and their number will increase. Additionally, in some stages the enemies must be eliminated in a certain order.

Autocrash was developed by the Italian company Play By Soft, and was published by Sega. It was released in Japan as Bump ‘n’ Jump.

The game is played from a top-down perspective. The player controls a bumper car with a joystick, and can accelerate, brake, and turn. The player can also use a button to boost their car, which gives them a temporary speed boost.

The game features a variety of different stages, each with its own unique layout and obstacles. Some stages are set in arenas, while others are set in more open environments. The game also features a variety of different enemy types, each with their own unique abilities.

Autocrash was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, intense action, and addictive multiplayer mode. The game was also a hit in arcades, and was one of the most popular games of its time.

Despite its success, Autocrash has been largely forgotten over the years. It was never released on home consoles, and it is not available on any modern platforms. However, the game remains a cult classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Gameplay

Autocrash is a fast-paced, intense bumper car deathmatch game. The player controls a bumper car with a joystick, and can accelerate, brake, and turn. The player can also use a button to boost their car, which gives them a temporary speed boost.

The goal of the game is to dismount the opponent (or opponents) from their car, and hit them before they leave the game zone. The player can do this by ramming into the opponent’s car, or by using the boost to knock them off their feet.

The game features a variety of different stages, each with its own unique layout and obstacles. Some stages are set in arenas, while others are set in more open environments. The game also features a variety of different enemy types, each with their own unique abilities.

Enemies

Autocrash features a variety of different enemy types, each with their own unique abilities. Some of the most common enemy types include:

  • Grunts: These are the most basic enemy type. They are slow and weak, but they can be dangerous in large numbers.
  • Speeders: These enemies are faster than grunts, and they can be difficult to catch. They are also more durable, and they can take more punishment before being defeated.
  • Powerhouses: These enemies are the strongest type of enemy in the game. They are slow and笨拙, but they can deal a lot of damage. They are also very durable, and they can take a lot of punishment before being defeated.
  • Kamikazes: These enemies are the most dangerous type of enemy in the game. They are fast and agile, and they can explode on contact. They are also very durable, and they can take a lot of punishment before being defeated.

Stages

Autocrash features a variety of different stages, each with its own unique layout and obstacles. Some of the most common stage types include:

  • Arenas: These stages are set in enclosed arenas, with walls that prevent the player from leaving the stage. Arenas are typically small and cramped, which makes them ideal for close-quarters combat.
  • Open environments: These stages are set in more open environments, with no walls to prevent the player from leaving the stage. Open environments are typically larger and more spacious, which gives the player more room to maneuver.
  • Obstacle courses: These stages are filled with obstacles, such as ramps, jumps, and pits. Obstacle courses are typically more challenging than other stage types, and they require the player to use their skills and abilities to overcome the obstacles.

Multiplayer

Autocrash features a multiplayer mode that allows up to four players to compete against each other. The multiplayer mode is fast-paced and intense, and it is a great way to test your skills against other players.

The multiplayer mode can be played on any of the game’s stages. However, some stages are better suited for multiplayer than others. Arenas are typically the best choice for multiplayer, as they are small and cramped, which makes it easier for players to find each other and engage in combat.

Legacy

Autocrash was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, intense action, and addictive multiplayer mode. The game was also a hit in arcades, and was one of the most popular games of its time.

Despite its success, Autocrash has been largely forgotten over the years. It was never released on home consoles, and it is not available on any modern platforms. However, the game remains a cult classic among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Autocrash is a reminder of a simpler time in gaming. It is a fast-paced, intense, and addictive game that is sure to please fans of retro gaming. If you are looking for a fun and challenging game to play, then be sure to check out Autocrash.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Cyberqueen (2013)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Cyberqueen (2013): A Text-Based Exploration of Violence and Dominance

Cyberqueen is a text-based game that explores the violence perpetrated on the player by a brutal cyberpunk AI character. The game is set in a dark and futuristic cityscape, and the player takes on the role of a character who is captured by the AI and subjected to a series of increasingly violent and degrading experiences.

The violence in Cyberqueen is conveyed in an erotic manner, and the game has been praised for its realistic and unflinching portrayal of sexual violence. However, the game has also been criticized for its glorification of violence and its potential to trigger negative emotions in players.

Gameplay

Cyberqueen is a text-based game with simple gameplay. The player reads through the game’s text and makes choices that determine how the story progresses. The game is divided into a series of chapters, each of which features a different encounter between the player character and the AI.

The player’s choices in Cyberqueen are limited, and the game’s story is largely linear. However, the player’s choices do have some impact on the game’s ending.

Themes

Cyberqueen explores a number of dark and disturbing themes, including violence, dominance, and submission. The game’s central conflict is between the player character and the AI, who represents the forces of violence and oppression.

The game also explores the theme of consent. The player character is repeatedly violated by the AI, and the game forces the player to confront the issue of consent in a very direct way.

Critical Reception

Cyberqueen has received mixed reviews from critics. Some critics have praised the game for its realistic and unflinching portrayal of sexual violence. Others have criticized the game for its glorification of violence and its potential to trigger negative emotions in players.

Despite the mixed reviews, Cyberqueen has been recognized for its originality and its willingness to tackle difficult and controversial subjects. The game has been nominated for several awards, including the Independent Games Festival’s Nuovo Award.

Cultural Impact

Cyberqueen has had a significant impact on the indie game community. The game’s unique and controversial subject matter has sparked a lot of discussion and debate. Cyberqueen has also inspired other games to explore similar themes, such as Depression Quest and That Dragon, Cancer.

Legacy

Cyberqueen is a landmark game in the history of video games. The game’s unique and controversial subject matter has helped to push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in video games. Cyberqueen has also inspired other games to explore difficult and challenging themes.

Personal Thoughts

I found Cyberqueen to be a very challenging and disturbing game. The game’s violence is graphic and unflinching, and it is clear that the developers wanted to create a game that would make players uncomfortable.

However, I also found Cyberqueen to be a very well-written and thought-provoking game. The game’s exploration of violence and dominance is nuanced and complex, and it forces the player to confront some very difficult questions.

Ultimately, I believe that Cyberqueen is a valuable game, even if it is not an easy one to play. The game’s unflinching portrayal of violence is a reminder of the dark side of human nature, and it is a game that will stay with me long after I have finished playing it.

Recommendation

I recommend Cyberqueen to anyone who is interested in exploring dark and challenging themes in video games. The game is not for the faint of heart, but it is a well-written and thought-provoking experience that will stay with you long after you have finished playing it.

Score: 7/10

Review Score

7/10

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Banana (1984)

by Nish
written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Banana: A Unique and Challenging Arcade Classic

Released in 1984, Banana is a unique and challenging arcade game that combines elements of Q*bert and Frogger. Players control a round yellow creature that must jump around on stones in a river while avoiding being captured by the man-eating Boconda tribe.

The game is played from a top-down perspective, and the player’s character can move in any direction. To jump, the player must place a cursor above a stone and press the jump button. The cursor has a limited range, so the player must be careful to place it directly above the stone they want to jump to. If the cursor is not placed correctly, the player’s character will jump into the water instead.

The water is not necessarily lethal, but it can be dangerous. The current is strong, and if the player’s character is swept away, they may end up in a spot where there are no stones to jump on. Additionally, there are piranhas in the water that can damage the player’s character.

The player’s goal is to collect bananas and avoid the Bocondas. Bananas can be found floating down the river, and they can be used to trap the Bocondas. If a Boconda jumps onto a stone with a banana on it, they will slip into the water and be swept away.

The player can also throw stones at the Bocondas to knock them off their stones. This is a more risky strategy, as the player must be close to the Bocondas to hit them.

Banana is a challenging game, but it is also a lot of fun. The game’s simple controls and addictive gameplay make it easy to pick up and play, but difficult to master.

Gameplay

Banana is played on a single screen that scrolls vertically. The player’s character is located at the bottom of the screen, and they must jump up to avoid the Bocondas and collect bananas.

The Bocondas are constantly moving, and they will try to jump on the player’s character. If a Boconda touches the player’s character, the player will lose a life.

Bananas are floating down the river, and the player must collect them to score points. Bananas can also be used to trap the Bocondas. If a Boconda jumps onto a stone with a banana on it, they will slip into the water and be swept away.

The player can also throw stones at the Bocondas to knock them off their stones. This is a more risky strategy, as the player must be close to the Bocondas to hit them.

The game ends when the player loses all of their lives.

Strategy

There are a few different strategies that can be used to play Banana. One strategy is to focus on collecting bananas. Bananas can be used to trap the Bocondas, so the more bananas the player collects, the easier it will be to avoid them.

Another strategy is to focus on avoiding the Bocondas. This can be done by staying away from the edges of the screen and by jumping over the Bocondas when they get too close.

The player can also use the stones in the river to their advantage. Stones can be used to block the Bocondas’ path or to create a safe place to land.

Legacy

Banana was a popular arcade game in the 1980s, and it has since been ported to a variety of home platforms. The game has been praised for its simple but addictive gameplay and its unique graphics.

Banana is a classic arcade game that is still enjoyed by many people today. The game’s simple controls and challenging gameplay make it a great choice for both casual and hardcore gamers.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Ra.One the Game (2011)

by Nish
written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Ra.One the Game: An Immersive Action Adventure Inspired by Bollywood

Introduction

Ra.One the Game, released in 2011, is an action-packed adventure game that brings the high-octane thrills of the Bollywood blockbuster movie of the same name to consoles. Developed by Trine Games and published by UTV Ignition, the game immerses players in a vibrant and chaotic world filled with exhilarating combat, challenging puzzles, and a captivating storyline.

Gameplay

Ra.One the Game follows the story of G.One, a virtual superhero created by game designer Shekhar Subramaniam. When the evil Ra.One escapes from the digital realm and wreaks havoc in the real world, G.One must harness his powers and confront his nemesis.

The gameplay is a blend of intense third-person action and intricate puzzle-solving. Players control G.One as he navigates through a variety of levels, battling hordes of enemies, solving environmental puzzles, and collecting power-ups.

G.One’s combat abilities are diverse and satisfying. He can unleash a barrage of punches and kicks, utilize special gadgets, and perform devastating super moves. The game’s combat system is fluid and responsive, allowing players to chain together combos and execute spectacular finishing moves.

Puzzles and Exploration

In addition to its action-packed combat, Ra.One the Game features a variety of puzzles that challenge players’ intellect and problem-solving skills. These puzzles range from simple environmental puzzles to complex hacking minigames.

The game’s levels are also designed with exploration in mind. Players can uncover hidden areas, collect secret items, and interact with a cast of colorful characters. The world of Ra.One is rich with detail and Bollywood-inspired aesthetics, making exploration a rewarding experience.

Story and Characters

The story of Ra.One the Game is an engaging blend of science fiction and Bollywood drama. The game delves into themes of good versus evil, the power of technology, and the importance of family.

The characters are well-developed and relatable. G.One is a charismatic and heroic protagonist, while Ra.One is a formidable and menacing villain. The supporting cast, including Shekhar and his family, adds depth and emotional weight to the story.

Visuals and Performance

Ra.One the Game boasts impressive visuals for its time. The game’s environments are vibrant and detailed, showcasing a mix of futuristic cityscapes and traditional Indian architecture. The character models are well-animated and expressive, capturing the essence of their Bollywood counterparts.

The game runs smoothly on most platforms, with minimal performance issues. The controls are responsive and intuitive, allowing players to execute complex maneuvers with ease.

Reception and Legacy

Ra.One the Game received mixed reviews upon release. Some critics praised its engaging combat, challenging puzzles, and Bollywood-inspired atmosphere. Others criticized its repetitive mission structure and lack of innovation.

Despite the mixed reviews, Ra.One the Game remains a notable entry in the Bollywood video game landscape. It demonstrated the potential for Indian-developed games to captivate audiences worldwide and paved the way for future Bollywood-themed video game adaptations.

Conclusion

Ra.One the Game is an immersive and entertaining action adventure that successfully translates the thrills of the Bollywood blockbuster to the interactive medium. With its fluid combat, challenging puzzles, and engaging story, the game offers a unique and unforgettable gaming experience for fans of Bollywood and action games alike.

Review Score

6.5/10

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Judge Dredd (1990)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Judge Dredd (1990): A Retrospective

Released in 1990, Judge Dredd is a side-scrolling shooter arcade game based on the popular British comic book character of the same name. Developed by Atari Games and published by Nintendo, the game was a critical and commercial success, and is still enjoyed by retro gamers today.

Gameplay

Judge Dredd is a side-scrolling shooter in which the player controls the titular character, Judge Dredd, as he fights his way through waves of enemies in the futuristic city of Mega-City One. Dredd is armed with a variety of weapons, including his signature Lawgiver pistol, and can also use environmental objects to his advantage.

The game is divided into six levels, each with its own unique set of enemies and challenges. Dredd must use his wits and skills to overcome these obstacles and reach the end of each level. Along the way, he can collect power-ups that will give him temporary advantages, such as increased firepower or invincibility.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Judge Dredd’s graphics were top-notch. The game’s character sprites are large and detailed, and the backgrounds are rich and colorful. The game also features some impressive special effects, such as explosions and gunfire.

The game’s sound is also excellent. The music is catchy and the sound effects are realistic and immersive. The voice acting is also well done, with Dredd’s signature catchphrases being delivered with gusto.

Critical Reception

Judge Dredd was a critical and commercial success upon its release. Critics praised the game’s graphics, sound, and gameplay. The game was also a hit with arcade-goers, who enjoyed its fast-paced action and challenging difficulty.

Judge Dredd has been ported to a number of home consoles over the years, including the NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis. The home versions of the game are generally faithful to the arcade original, although they may have some minor differences in terms of graphics and sound.

Legacy

Judge Dredd is considered to be one of the best side-scrolling shooters of all time. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and catchy music have made it a classic that is still enjoyed by gamers today.

The game has also had a significant impact on popular culture. Judge Dredd’s signature catchphrase, “I am the law,” has become iconic, and the character has been featured in numerous other video games, movies, and TV shows.

Conclusion

Judge Dredd (1990) is a classic side-scrolling shooter that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and catchy music make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Judge Dredd or you’re just discovering the character for the first time, Judge Dredd (1990) is a game that you won’t want to miss.

Additional Information

  • Judge Dredd was developed by Atari Games and published by Nintendo.
  • The game was released in arcades in 1990 and was ported to home consoles in the following years.
  • The game is based on the popular British comic book character of the same name.
  • Judge Dredd is a side-scrolling shooter in which the player controls the titular character as he fights his way through waves of enemies.
  • The game was a critical and commercial success and is still enjoyed by retro gamers today.

Review Score

8/10

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Where Time Stood Still (1987)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Where Time Stood Still: A Nostalgic Journey Through a Lost Classic

Introduction

Released in 1988 by Ocean Software, Where Time Stood Still is an isometric 3D arcade adventure game that has been largely forgotten by time. It was developed by Denton Designs, the team behind the successful 1986 title The Great Escape. Where Time Stood Still was released for the Sinclair Spectrum 128K, MS-DOS, and Atari ST. In 2014, it was ported to the Amiga and Amiga CD32 with some enhancements.

Despite its critical acclaim, Where Time Stood Still never achieved the commercial success of other isometric adventure games such as Knight Lore or Alien8. This is likely due to the fact that it was released towards the end of the 8-bit era, when gamers were eagerly anticipating the arrival of 16-bit consoles such as the Amiga and Atari ST. As a result, Where Time Stood Still has become a lost classic, known only to a small group of dedicated fans.

Gameplay

Where Time Stood Still is played from an isometric perspective, with the player controlling the protagonist, a lone adventurer named Dirk Dynamo, as he explores a futuristic cityscape. The game world is divided into a series of interconnected screens, each filled with enemies, puzzles, and secrets.

Dirk can walk, run, jump, and climb ladders. He can also use a variety of weapons to defeat enemies, including a laser gun, a flamethrower, and a rocket launcher. The game features a variety of puzzles, which must be solved in order to progress. These puzzles range from simple switch-flipping to more complex tasks, such as finding hidden keys or activating machinery.

Setting

Where Time Stood Still is set in a futuristic cityscape that has been ravaged by war. The city is now a dangerous place, filled with mutants, robots, and other hostile creatures. Dirk must navigate this treacherous environment in order to find his way to the time machine that will allow him to return home.

The game’s setting is both atmospheric and unsettling. The city is a constant reminder of the horrors of war, and the player can’t help but feel a sense of unease as they explore its deserted streets. The game’s soundtrack, composed by David Whittaker, perfectly captures the game’s atmosphere, with its eerie melodies and haunting sound effects.

Graphics

Where Time Stood Still’s graphics are impressive for the time. The isometric perspective allows for a great deal of detail, and the game’s environments are rich and varied. The character sprites are also well-animated, and the game’s overall presentation is polished and professional.

Sound

As mentioned above, Where Time Stood Still’s soundtrack is one of its highlights. The music is atmospheric and haunting, and it perfectly captures the game’s mood. The sound effects are also top-notch, and they add to the game’s overall immersion.

Legacy

Where Time Stood Still is a lost classic that deserves to be rediscovered by modern gamers. It is a well-crafted and atmospheric adventure game with challenging puzzles and a memorable setting. If you’re a fan of isometric adventure games, or if you’re just looking for a hidden gem to play, then I highly recommend checking out Where Time Stood Still.

Conclusion

Where Time Stood Still is a forgotten classic that deserves to be rediscovered. It is a well-crafted and atmospheric adventure game with challenging puzzles and a memorable setting. If you’re a fan of isometric adventure games, or if you’re just looking for a hidden gem to play, then I highly recommend checking out Where Time Stood Still.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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