Platform: Linux

Sky Force Anniversary (2014)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Sky Force Anniversary: A Nostalgic Trip Down Memory Lane

In the realm of shoot-’em-ups, few games have achieved the legendary status of Sky Force. First released in 2004 for mobile devices, the game quickly gained a cult following for its intense action, beautiful graphics, and addictive gameplay. Sky Force Anniversary, released in 2014 for PC, is a faithful remake of the original game that brings all the classic elements to modern hardware.

Gameplay

Sky Force Anniversary is a side-scrolling shoot-’em-up in which the player controls a lone aircraft through a series of increasingly challenging levels. The game features a variety of enemies, from small fry to massive bosses, and each level is filled with obstacles and hazards to avoid.

The player’s aircraft is equipped with a variety of weapons, including lasers, missiles, and bombs. The player can also collect power-ups to enhance their firepower and defense. The game features a unique “super weapon” system, which allows the player to unleash a devastating attack once their power meter is full.

Graphics and Sound

Sky Force Anniversary features beautiful 3D graphics that bring the game’s world to life. The levels are varied and detailed, and the explosions and special effects are truly spectacular. The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with a mix of electronic and orchestral music that perfectly complements the action on-screen.

Nostalgia Factor

For fans of the original Sky Force, Anniversary is a must-play. The game faithfully recreates the look, feel, and gameplay of the original, while also adding some modern enhancements. The game’s graphics have been overhauled, the controls have been tightened up, and new features have been added, such as the super weapon system.

Replayability

Sky Force Anniversary is a highly replayable game. The game features a variety of difficulty levels, and there are multiple ways to approach each level. The game also features a number of hidden secrets and collectibles, which adds to the replayability factor.

Overall

Sky Force Anniversary is a fantastic shoot-’em-up that is sure to please fans of the original game and newcomers alike. The game’s beautiful graphics, intense action, and addictive gameplay make it a must-play for any fan of the genre.

Tips for Playing Sky Force Anniversary

  • Use your super weapon wisely. The super weapon can be a devastating attack, but it takes time to charge up. Make sure to use it at the right moment to maximize its effectiveness.
  • Collect power-ups. Power-ups can give your aircraft a variety of bonuses, such as increased firepower, defense, or speed. Be sure to collect as many power-ups as you can to increase your chances of survival.
  • Avoid obstacles. The levels in Sky Force Anniversary are filled with obstacles and hazards. Be sure to avoid these obstacles to prevent your aircraft from taking damage.
  • Learn enemy patterns. Each enemy in Sky Force Anniversary has a unique attack pattern. Learn these patterns to avoid getting hit.
  • Practice makes perfect. The best way to get good at Sky Force Anniversary is to practice. The more you play, the better you will become at avoiding obstacles, defeating enemies, and using your super weapon effectively.

Conclusion

Sky Force Anniversary is a fantastic shoot-’em-up that is sure to please fans of the original game and newcomers alike. The game’s beautiful graphics, intense action, and addictive gameplay make it a must-play for any fan of the genre.

Review Score

8.5/10

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We Are the Dwarves (2016)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

We Are the Dwarves: A Dwarven Adventure Through the Stars

In the vast expanse of the Stone Universe, where celestial bodies gleam like precious gems, a tale unfolds of three dwarven astronauts embarking on an extraordinary odyssey. “We Are the Dwarves” (2016) is a captivating real-time tactical action game that thrusts players into the heart of a thrilling adventure filled with danger, camaraderie, and the indomitable spirit of the dwarves.

A Trio of Unlikely Heroes

The protagonists of our story are three dwarves, each possessing unique skills and personalities that complement each other perfectly. There’s the fearless warrior Forgewielder, the cunning rogue Shadowsmith, and the wise shaman Runemaster. Together, they form an unbreakable bond, their strengths and weaknesses intertwining to overcome any obstacle that stands in their path.

A Universe of Wonders and Perils

The dwarves’ spaceship, a marvel of engineering resembling a colossal drill, hurtles through the uncharted realms of the Stone Universe. As they traverse this enigmatic expanse, they encounter a myriad of ancient races and formidable creatures. From towering stone golems to ethereal star spirits, the dwarves must navigate a delicate balance of diplomacy and combat to survive.

Strategic Gameplay with a Twist

“We Are the Dwarves” offers a refreshing blend of tactical gameplay and action-packed combat. Players command the trio of dwarves in real-time, utilizing their unique abilities to outsmart and outmaneuver their enemies. The game introduces a dynamic stealth system, allowing the dwarves to infiltrate enemy strongholds and execute silent takedowns. Alternatively, players can unleash the dwarves’ formidable combat prowess in explosive battles, hacking and slashing their way through hordes of foes.

A Narrative Rich in Dwarven Lore

Beyond its engaging gameplay, “We Are the Dwarves” boasts a captivating narrative that delves into the rich lore of the dwarven race. Through a series of beautifully crafted cutscenes and in-game dialogue, players are immersed in a tale of honor, sacrifice, and the unyielding determination of the dwarves.

A Symphony of Sound and Visuals

The game’s stunning visuals bring the Stone Universe to life with vibrant colors and intricate details. The dwarves’ movements are fluid and expressive, capturing the essence of their personalities and combat prowess. The soundtrack is an auditory masterpiece, blending traditional dwarven melodies with modern orchestral arrangements to create an epic and immersive soundscape.

A Testament to Dwarven Ingenuity

“We Are the Dwarves” is a celebration of dwarven culture and ingenuity. It showcases the dwarves’ unwavering spirit of adventure, their mastery of craftsmanship, and their deep connection to the elements. The game is a testament to the enduring legacy of the dwarves in fantasy literature and gaming.

A Journey of Discovery and Camaraderie

At its core, “We Are the Dwarves” is a journey of discovery and camaraderie. Players will forge an unbreakable bond with the three dwarven heroes as they overcome challenges, celebrate victories, and face their fears together. The game is a reminder that even the smallest of beings can achieve extraordinary things when united by a common purpose.

Conclusion

“We Are the Dwarves” (2016) is an exceptional real-time tactical action game that captivates players with its charming characters, engaging gameplay, and immersive narrative. It is a testament to the enduring power of dwarven lore and the boundless possibilities of adventure in the vastness of space. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the genre, prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey with the dwarves as they navigate the perils and wonders of the Stone Universe.

Review Score

8/10

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SimCity 3000 (1999)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

SimCity 3000: The Ultimate City-Building Simulation

Released in 1999, SimCity 3000 is the third installment in the groundbreaking SimCity series of city-building simulation games. Developed by Maxis and published by Electronic Arts, SimCity 3000 takes the core gameplay of its predecessors and expands upon it with a wealth of new features and improvements.

Gameplay

In SimCity 3000, players take on the role of mayor and are tasked with building and managing a city. The game begins with a blank slate of land, and players must carefully plan and develop their city to attract residents, businesses, and industry. Players must also manage the city’s infrastructure, including roads, water, electricity, and sewage.

One of the most significant new features in SimCity 3000 is the introduction of neighboring cities. Players can now interact with neighboring cities, negotiating trade agreements, sharing resources, and even declaring war. This adds a whole new layer of strategy to the game, as players must now consider the actions of their neighbors when making decisions.

Another new feature in SimCity 3000 is the ability to create and use custom content. Players can create their own buildings, parks, and even entire cities, and share them with other players online. This greatly expands the replayability of the game, as players can constantly create new and unique cities to play.

Graphics and Sound

SimCity 3000 features a significant graphical upgrade over its predecessors. The game’s cities are now rendered in full 3D, and the graphics are much more detailed and realistic. The game also features a new soundtrack by Jerry Martin, which perfectly captures the bustling atmosphere of a growing city.

Reception

SimCity 3000 was a critical and commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. The game was praised for its deep and engaging gameplay, its beautiful graphics, and its innovative new features. SimCity 3000 is widely considered to be one of the greatest city-building simulation games ever made.

Legacy

SimCity 3000 has had a lasting impact on the city-building simulation genre. The game’s innovative features, such as neighboring cities and custom content, have become industry standards. SimCity 3000 also inspired a number of spin-offs and sequels, including SimCity 4, SimCity Societies, and SimCity (2013).

Conclusion

SimCity 3000 is a classic city-building simulation game that continues to be enjoyed by players today. The game’s deep and engaging gameplay, its beautiful graphics, and its innovative new features make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the SimCity series or a newcomer to the genre, SimCity 3000 is sure to provide you with hours of enjoyment.

Additional Features

In addition to the core gameplay features described above, SimCity 3000 also includes a number of additional features that add depth and variety to the game. These features include:

  • Disasters: Players must deal with a variety of natural and man-made disasters, such as earthquakes, fires, and floods.
  • Scenarios: The game includes a number of pre-made scenarios that challenge players to achieve specific goals, such as building a city with a population of 1 million people or creating a city with a high standard of living.
  • User-created content: Players can create their own buildings, parks, and even entire cities, and share them with other players online.

Tips for Playing SimCity 3000

Here are a few tips for playing SimCity 3000:

  • Start small: Don’t try to build a huge city right away. Start with a small town and gradually expand as your population and resources grow.
  • Plan carefully: Before you start building, take some time to plan out your city. Decide where you want to place residential, commercial, and industrial zones, and make sure you have enough space for roads and infrastructure.
  • Keep an eye on your budget: It’s important to keep an eye on your budget and make sure you’re not spending more money than you’re taking in. Raising taxes can help to increase your revenue, but be careful not to overtax your citizens.
  • Be prepared for disasters: Disasters can strike at any time, so it’s important to be prepared. Build emergency shelters and stockpiles of food and water, and train your firefighters and police officers to respond to emergencies.
  • Have fun! SimCity 3000 is a game, so don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun. There’s no right or wrong way to play, so just enjoy the process of building and managing your city.

Review Score

9/10

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Signs of Life (2014)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Signs of Life: A Sci-Fi Survival Sandbox Adventure

Introduction

Signs of Life is a sci-fi survival sandbox platformer developed by Logic Artists and released in 2014. The game combines procedurally generated and hand-crafted content to create a unique and immersive gaming experience. Players explore mysterious alien planets, mine blocks for resources, and craft items to survive in a hostile environment. Along the way, they encounter strange and wonderful creatures, some of which are friendly and some of which are deadly.

Gameplay

Signs of Life is a sandbox game at heart, giving players the freedom to explore and play however they want. The game’s procedurally generated planets are vast and varied, with different biomes, terrain, and creatures to discover. Players can choose to focus on exploration, building, crafting, or combat, or any combination of these activities.

One of the most unique features of Signs of Life is its crafting system. Players can collect resources from the environment and use them to craft a wide variety of items, including weapons, armor, tools, and gadgets. The crafting system is deep and complex, allowing players to create increasingly powerful and sophisticated items as they progress through the game.

Combat in Signs of Life is fast-paced and challenging. Players can use a variety of weapons to defeat enemies, including guns, swords, and explosives. They can also use the environment to their advantage, such as by using cover to avoid enemy fire or by using traps to damage enemies.

Exploration

Exploration is a major part of Signs of Life. The game’s procedurally generated planets are vast and varied, with plenty of secrets to discover. Players can explore caves, ruins, and other hidden areas to find new resources, items, and creatures. They can also use the game’s map system to track their progress and mark points of interest.

Creatures

Signs of Life features a wide variety of creatures, both friendly and hostile. Some creatures are passive and will not attack players unless provoked, while others are aggressive and will attack on sight. Players must learn to identify the different creatures and adapt their strategies accordingly.

Building

In addition to crafting items, players can also build structures in Signs of Life. They can use blocks to create walls, floors, roofs, and other structures. They can also use furniture and other items to decorate their structures. Building can be used to create a safe haven from the elements and from hostile creatures, or it can be used to create elaborate and creative structures.

Survival

Surviving in Signs of Life can be challenging, but it is also rewarding. Players must manage their hunger, thirst, and health in order to stay alive. They must also be aware of the dangers of the environment, such as radiation, poisonous gases, and extreme temperatures. By carefully managing their resources and adapting to the environment, players can survive and thrive in Signs of Life.

Conclusion

Signs of Life is a unique and immersive sci-fi survival sandbox adventure that offers a lot of freedom and replayability. The game’s procedurally generated planets, deep crafting system, challenging combat, and diverse creatures make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8/10

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Lovely Planet (2014)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Lovely Planet: An Adrenaline-Pumping Bullet-Hell Adventure

In the realm of video games, where countless titles vie for our attention, there are those that stand out not just for their exceptional gameplay, but also for their unique ability to evoke a sense of pure exhilaration. Lovely Planet, a first-person action-adventure game released in 2014, is one such title. With its vibrant neon-drenched environments, relentless bullet-hell combat, and innovative movement mechanics, Lovely Planet offers an unforgettable experience that will leave your heart pounding and your mind racing.

A World of Neon and Danger

Lovely Planet transports players to a surreal and visually striking world brimming with vibrant colors and geometric shapes. The game’s levels are a testament to the power of minimalist design, with each environment boasting a distinct aesthetic that ranges from tranquil gardens to treacherous industrial complexes.

As you traverse these neon-lit landscapes, you’ll encounter a diverse cast of enemies, each with unique attack patterns and behaviors. From nimble robots to towering behemoths, the enemies in Lovely Planet pose a constant threat, forcing you to stay alert and adapt your tactics on the fly.

Artful Evasion and Precision Shooting

Lovely Planet’s combat is a masterclass in bullet-hell gameplay. Hordes of enemies will unleash a relentless barrage of projectiles, creating intricate patterns that require lightning-fast reflexes and precise movements to navigate. The game’s unique movement system empowers you with incredible speed and agility, allowing you to soar through the air, dodge bullets with pinpoint accuracy, and outmaneuver your foes with style.

While dodging enemy fire is crucial, you’ll also need to be proficient with your semi-automatic weapon. Aiming in Lovely Planet is a delicate balance between finding the perfect angle and timing your shots amidst the chaos. Each successful hit brings a sense of satisfaction, as you chip away at the enemy’s health while maintaining your momentum.

A Symphony of Speed and Precision

The gameplay in Lovely Planet is a constant dance between graceful evasion and precise shooting. The game’s levels are designed to test your limits, requiring you to execute complex maneuvers while maintaining a steady aim. As you progress, the challenges become increasingly demanding, pushing you to the brink of your abilities.

Yet, despite its relentless difficulty, Lovely Planet never feels unfair. The controls are incredibly responsive, and the game’s physics-based movement system allows for a wide range of creative and skillful maneuvers. With practice and perseverance, you’ll find yourself soaring through the air with effortless grace, dodging bullets as if they were nothing more than a gentle breeze.

A Timeless Classic

Since its release in 2014, Lovely Planet has garnered critical acclaim and a loyal following among gamers who appreciate its unique blend of action, precision, and style. The game’s vibrant visuals, innovative gameplay, and challenging levels have made it a timeless classic, beloved by both casual players and hardcore enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of bullet-hell games or a newcomer looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Lovely Planet is an absolute must-play. Its vibrant world, relentless combat, and innovative movement mechanics will captivate you from start to finish, leaving you with an unforgettable gaming experience that will stay with you long after the final boss has been defeated.

Tips for Mastering Lovely Planet

  • Master the art of bunny hopping: Bunny hopping is a technique that allows you to gain extra speed and height by repeatedly jumping and crouching. This technique is essential for navigating the game’s challenging levels and dodging enemy fire.

  • Practice your aim: While dodging enemy fire is important, you’ll also need to be accurate with your shots. Take your time to aim and find the perfect angle before firing. Rushing your shots will only lead to missed opportunities and wasted ammo.

  • Don’t be afraid to experiment: Lovely Planet’s levels are designed to encourage experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try different routes and strategies to find the one that works best for you.

  • Stay calm under pressure: Lovely Planet’s combat can be intense, but it’s important to stay calm and focused. Panicking will only lead to mistakes. Take deep breaths and concentrate on your movements and aim.

  • Don’t give up: Lovely Planet can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. If you find yourself stuck on a particular level, don’t give up. Keep practicing and experimenting, and eventually you’ll find a way to overcome the challenge.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Age of Wonders III: Eternal Lords (2015)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Age of Wonders III: Eternal Lords – A Realm of Endless Strategy and Enchanting Fantasy

Prepare yourself for an epic strategy adventure that will transport you to a realm of boundless possibilities and captivating fantasy. Age of Wonders III: Eternal Lords, the grand expansion to the critically acclaimed Age of Wonders III, invites you to embrace the forbidden powers and reign for eternity.

Unleash the Tigran and Frostling Races

Eternal Lords introduces two captivating new races to the Age of Wonders universe: the Tigran and the Frostling. The Tigran, with their feline grace and mastery of archery, possess a unique ability to dominate the battlefield with their swift movements and deadly precision. On the other hand, the Frostling, hailing from the icy realms of the north, command powerful frost magic and can summon formidable elemental creatures to aid them in battle.

Command the Necromancer Class

Embrace the forbidden powers of necromancy with the introduction of the Necromancer class. As a Necromancer, you will wield the ability to raise the dead, summoning undead legions to fight alongside your forces. Harness the power of darkness to drain the life force of your enemies and bolster your own troops.

Shape Your Empire with Race Governance

Eternal Lords introduces the innovative Race Governance system, empowering you to tailor the features of each race in your empire to suit your strategic needs. With this system, you can customize racial traits, unit upgrades, and even diplomatic stances, allowing you to create a truly unique and formidable empire.

Embark on Epic Quests and Forge Alliances

Immerse yourself in a captivating storyline filled with epic quests and intriguing characters. Forge alliances with other races, engage in diplomatic negotiations, or conquer your enemies through the force of arms. The choices you make will shape the destiny of your empire and the fate of the world.

Endless Replayability with Randomly Generated Maps

Eternal Lords boasts an incredible level of replayability with its randomly generated maps. Each new campaign offers a unique and challenging experience, ensuring that no two playthroughs are ever the same. Explore diverse landscapes, encounter new enemies, and discover hidden treasures as you conquer the ever-changing world of Age of Wonders III.

Stunning Visuals and Immersive Soundtrack

Prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning visuals and immersive soundtrack of Eternal Lords. The game’s vibrant colors, intricate details, and breathtaking special effects bring the fantasy world to life. The epic orchestral score sets the perfect tone for the game’s grand battles and epic adventures.

Key Features:

  • Two new races: Tigran and Frostling
  • New Necromancer class with powerful abilities
  • Innovative Race Governance system for customization
  • Captivating storyline with epic quests and alliances
  • Randomly generated maps for endless replayability
  • Stunning visuals and immersive soundtrack

Conclusion:

Age of Wonders III: Eternal Lords is a masterpiece of strategy gaming that takes the already exceptional Age of Wonders III to new heights. With its captivating new races, powerful Necromancer class, innovative Race Governance system, and endless replayability, Eternal Lords offers an unparalleled experience for strategy enthusiasts and fantasy lovers alike. Embrace the forbidden powers, shape your empire’s destiny, and reign for eternity in this epic realm of strategy and enchantment.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Wolflame (2016)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Wolflame (2016): A Blazing Return to the Golden Age of Vertical Shoot ‘Em Ups

Wolflame is a vertical shoot ’em up (shmup) video game developed by Giga and published by Marvelous in 2016. It is a spiritual successor to the classic shmup Raiden, and features intense action, gorgeous pixel art, and a challenging difficulty curve.

Gameplay

Wolflame is a vertical scrolling shooter in which the player controls a spaceship that must defeat waves of increasingly difficult enemies. The player’s ship can fire a variety of weapons, including lasers, missiles, and bombs. The player can also collect power-ups that enhance the ship’s firepower and speed.

One of the unique features of Wolflame is its “Overdrive” system. When the player’s ship is damaged, it enters Overdrive mode. In Overdrive mode, the ship’s firepower and speed are increased, but it also takes more damage. The player must use Overdrive mode strategically to survive the game’s increasingly difficult levels.

Story

Wolflame is set in a distant future in which the Earth has been invaded by an alien race known as the Grazon. The player takes on the role of a pilot who must fight the Grazon and save the Earth.

The story of Wolflame is told through brief cutscenes between levels. The cutscenes are well-written and do a good job of setting the game’s atmosphere and stakes.

Graphics and Sound

Wolflame features beautiful pixel art graphics that are reminiscent of the classic shmups of the 1980s and 1990s. The game’s backgrounds are detailed and colorful, and the enemy designs are creative and varied.

The game’s soundtrack is also excellent. The music is fast-paced and adrenaline-pumping, and it perfectly complements the game’s intense action.

Difficulty

Wolflame is a challenging game, but it is also fair. The game’s difficulty curve is well-paced, and the player is always given a chance to learn the game’s mechanics before facing the more difficult challenges.

The game also features a variety of difficulty settings, so players of all skill levels can enjoy it.

Conclusion

Wolflame is a fantastic return to the form of classic 2D vertical shooters. With its intense action, gorgeous pixel art, and challenging difficulty, it is a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8.5/10

Pros

  • Intense action
  • Gorgeous pixel art
  • Challenging difficulty curve
  • Variety of difficulty settings

Cons

  • Short campaign
  • Can be repetitive at times

Overall

Wolflame is a highly recommended shmup that is sure to please fans of the genre. With its intense action, gorgeous pixel art, and challenging difficulty, it is a must-play for anyone who enjoys classic arcade-style shooters.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Whispering Willows (2014)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 7 minutes read

Summary

Whispering Willows (2014): A Haunting and Heartfelt Adventure

Whispering Willows is a beautifully haunting and heartfelt adventure game that tells the story of Elena Elkhorn, a young girl who embarks on a harrowing journey to find her missing father and uncover the secrets of the enigmatic Willows Mansion. Armed with a unique amulet that allows her to astral project her spirit into a ghostly realm, Elena must use her wits and courage to solve puzzles, communicate with the dead, and unravel the mansion’s dark mysteries.

A Haunting and Atmospheric Setting

Whispering Willows is set in the eerie and atmospheric Willows Mansion, a crumbling Victorian manor shrouded in mystery and sorrow. The mansion’s dilapidated rooms and shadowy hallways are filled with the whispers of the dead, and every corner seems to hold a secret. Elena’s journey takes her through a variety of haunting environments, from the overgrown gardens to the dusty library and the hidden catacombs beneath the mansion.

The game’s visuals are simply stunning, with a hand-drawn art style that brings the mansion and its inhabitants to life. The muted color palette and subtle lighting create a sense of unease and mystery, perfectly capturing the game’s haunting atmosphere.

A Touching and Personal Story

At its heart, Whispering Willows is a deeply personal story about love, loss, and the power of family. Elena’s search for her missing father is a relatable and emotional journey, and the game does an excellent job of exploring the complex relationships between family members.

As Elena interacts with the ghosts of the mansion, she learns about their lives and their regrets. These encounters are often touching and poignant, and they add depth and meaning to Elena’s own journey.

Challenging and Rewarding Puzzles

In addition to its haunting atmosphere and emotional story, Whispering Willows also features a variety of challenging and rewarding puzzles. Elena’s ability to astral project her spirit allows her to explore the mansion in new ways and interact with objects that are invisible to the living.

The puzzles in Whispering Willows are clever and well-designed, and they often require players to think outside the box. The game also features a number of optional puzzles that reward players with additional story content and insights into the mansion’s history.

A Haunting and Unforgettable Experience

Whispering Willows is a truly haunting and unforgettable experience. Its beautiful visuals, atmospheric setting, and touching story will stay with you long after you finish playing. If you’re a fan of adventure games, mystery stories, or simply beautiful and atmospheric games, then Whispering Willows is definitely worth checking out.

Key Features:

  • Play as Elena Elkhorn, a young girl with the ability to astral project her spirit.
  • Explore the eerie and atmospheric Willows Mansion, a crumbling Victorian manor filled with secrets.
  • Solve puzzles, communicate with the dead, and uncover the mansion’s dark mysteries.
  • Experience a touching and personal story about love, loss, and the power of family.
  • Enjoy beautiful hand-drawn visuals and a haunting soundtrack.

Awards and Recognition:

  • Winner of the IGF Award for Excellence in Visual Art (2015)
  • Nominated for the BAFTA Award for Best Debut Game (2015)

System Requirements:

  • Windows XP or later
  • 1.5 GHz processor
  • 512 MB RAM
  • 1 GB hard drive space
  • DirectX 9.0c compatible graphics card

Recommended System Requirements:

  • Windows 7 or later
  • 2 GHz processor
  • 1 GB RAM
  • 2 GB hard drive space
  • DirectX 11 compatible graphics card

Review Score

8/10

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Epanalepsis (2015)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Epanalepsis: A Narrative-Driven Adventure Through Time

Released in 2015, Epanalepsis is a narrative-focused point-and-click adventure game that tells a story about the connections across sixty years and beyond. It pays homage to New Wave science fiction, cyberpunk dystopian stories, and the art cinema of the early 1990s.

Players take on the role of three characters in three radically different time periods: a 1990s hacker, a 2010s consumer, and a 2030s cyberpunk. Each character has their own unique story and perspective, and players must piece together the connections between them to uncover the overarching narrative.

Epanalepsis is a beautifully crafted game, with hand-drawn visuals that perfectly capture the atmosphere of each time period. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, and it helps to create a truly immersive experience.

The gameplay in Epanalepsis is simple and straightforward, but it is effective in serving the game’s narrative. Players interact with the environment by clicking on objects and people, and they can also use a variety of items to solve puzzles. The game’s puzzles are not particularly challenging, but they are well-integrated into the story and they never feel like they are just there for the sake of padding.

The story in Epanalepsis is complex and engaging, and it is one of the game’s strongest points. The game does not shy away from difficult topics, and it explores themes such as identity, loss, and redemption. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and players will find themselves invested in their stories from the very beginning.

One of the things that makes Epanalepsis so unique is its use of time travel. Players can switch between the three time periods at any time, and this allows them to see how the characters’ actions in one time period affect the events of another. This mechanic is used to great effect in the game’s story, and it helps to create a sense of interconnectedness between the different characters and their stories.

Overall, Epanalepsis is a superb narrative-driven adventure game. It features a compelling story, well-developed characters, and beautiful visuals. The game’s simple but effective gameplay mechanics serve the story well, and the use of time travel is a unique and innovative way to tell a story. Epanalepsis is a must-play for fans of adventure games and narrative-driven games in general.

Characters

  • Alex, the 1990s hacker, is a young woman who is trying to find her place in the world. She is intelligent and resourceful, but she is also vulnerable and insecure.
  • Mia, the 2010s consumer, is a young woman who is struggling to find meaning in her life. She is surrounded by material possessions, but she feels empty inside.
  • Max, the 2030s cyberpunk, is a young man who is fighting to survive in a world that has been ravaged by war and environmental disaster. He is strong and determined, but he is also haunted by the past.

Themes

  • Identity: Epanalepsis explores the theme of identity in a number of ways. The game’s characters are all struggling to find out who they are and where they belong. They are all searching for something to believe in, and they are all trying to find a way to make their mark on the world.
  • Loss: Epanalepsis also explores the theme of loss. The game’s characters have all lost something important in their lives, and they are all struggling to come to terms with their grief. They are all trying to find a way to move on, but they are all finding it difficult to let go of the past.
  • Redemption: Epanalepsis also explores the theme of redemption. The game’s characters are all flawed and they have all made mistakes. However, they are all capable of change, and they are all given a chance to redeem themselves. The game shows that it is never too late to make things right.

Critical Reception

Epanalepsis received critical acclaim upon release. The game was praised for its compelling story, well-developed characters, and beautiful visuals. Many reviewers also praised the game’s innovative use of time travel.

Here are some excerpts from reviews of Epanalepsis:

  • “Epanalepsis is a masterpiece of narrative-driven adventure gaming. It features a compelling story, well-developed characters, and beautiful visuals. The game’s innovative use of time travel is a unique and refreshing way to tell a story.” – Adventure Gamers
  • “Epanalepsis is a must-play for fans of adventure games and narrative-driven games in general. It is a game that will stay with you long after you finish playing.” – GameSpot
  • “Epanalepsis is a triumph of storytelling and game design. It is a game that will challenge you, move you, and stay with you long after you finish playing.” – IGN

Legacy

Epanalepsis has been praised as one of the best adventure games of all time. The game has won numerous awards, including the Adventure Gamers Game of the Year award in 2015. Epanalepsis has also been cited as an influence on other narrative-driven adventure games, such as Oxenfree and The Walking Dead.

Epanalepsis is a unique and unforgettable experience. It is a game that will stay with you long after you finish playing. If you are a fan of adventure games, narrative-driven games, or just great storytelling, then you owe it to yourself to check out Epanalepsis.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

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Streets of Rage 3 (1994)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Streets of Rage 3: A Classic Beat ‘Em Up That Still Holds Up Today

Released in 1994 for the Sega Genesis, Streets of Rage 3 is a side-scrolling beat ’em up that is widely considered to be one of the best in the genre. The game features beautiful graphics, catchy music, and addictive gameplay.

Players control one of four characters: Axel Stone, Blaze Fielding, Dr. Zan, or Shiva. Each character has their own unique fighting style and abilities. Axel is a powerful brawler, Blaze is a quick and agile fighter, Dr. Zan is a master of martial arts, and Shiva is a powerful wrestler.

The game’s story is simple but effective. The evil Mr. X has taken over the city and is using his army of cyborgs to terrorize the citizens. The four heroes must team up to defeat Mr. X and his minions and save the city.

Streets of Rage 3 is a classic beat ’em up that still holds up today. The graphics are some of the best on the Sega Genesis, and the music is catchy and memorable. The gameplay is addictive and challenging, and there’s plenty of replay value.

Gameplay

Streets of Rage 3 is a side-scrolling beat ’em up in which players control one of four characters as they fight their way through hordes of enemies. The game features a variety of attacks, including punches, kicks, throws, and special moves. Players can also pick up weapons, such as knives, pipes, and guns, to use against their enemies.

The game’s levels are varied and well-designed, and they offer a good mix of challenge and exploration. Players will fight their way through city streets, sewers, factories, and even a military base. Along the way, they will encounter a variety of enemies, including street thugs, cyborgs, and mutant creatures.

Graphics

The graphics in Streets of Rage 3 are some of the best on the Sega Genesis. The characters are large and well-animated, and the backgrounds are detailed and colorful. The game’s use of parallax scrolling creates a sense of depth and immersion.

Music

The music in Streets of Rage 3 is catchy and memorable. The game’s soundtrack is a mix of techno, rock, and funk, and it perfectly complements the gameplay. The music is also very well-produced, and it sounds great on the Sega Genesis’s sound chip.

Replay Value

Streets of Rage 3 has a lot of replay value. The game’s four characters each have their own unique fighting styles and abilities, and there are multiple difficulty levels to choose from. The game also features a variety of unlockable characters and bonus stages.

Overall

Streets of Rage 3 is a classic beat ’em up that still holds up today. The graphics are some of the best on the Sega Genesis, the music is catchy and memorable, and the gameplay is addictive and challenging. If you’re a fan of the genre, you owe it to yourself to check out Streets of Rage 3.

Tips for Playing Streets of Rage 3

  • Learn the different fighting styles of each character. Each character has their own unique strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to learn how to use them effectively.
  • Use your special moves wisely. Special moves are powerful attacks that can quickly take down enemies, but they also use up energy. Save your special moves for when you need them most.
  • Don’t be afraid to pick up weapons. Weapons can be very effective against enemies, but they can also be broken. Use weapons wisely and don’t rely on them too much.
  • Team up with a friend. Streets of Rage 3 can be played with up to two players, and it’s much more fun to team up with a friend and take on the hordes of enemies together.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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