Platform: Linux

Shadow Warrior 2 (2016)

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

Summary

Shadow Warrior 2: A Bloody, Hilarious, and Surprisingly Heartfelt Shooter

Shadow Warrior 2 is the long-awaited sequel to the 2013 reboot of the classic first-person shooter franchise. Developed by Flying Wild Hog and published by Devolver Digital, the game follows the further misadventures of former corporate shogun Lo Wang as he battles his way through hordes of demons and other grotesque enemies.

Gameplay

Shadow Warrior 2 is a fast-paced, over-the-top FPS that combines gunplay, sword combat, and magic in a satisfying and chaotic blend. Players control Lo Wang, a wisecracking warrior who wields an arsenal of devastating weapons including shotguns, assault rifles, and a katana. Wang can also use a variety of magical abilities, such as summoning spirits to aid him in battle or slowing down time to get the upper hand on his enemies.

The game’s combat is incredibly visceral and satisfying. Lo Wang’s weapons pack a powerful punch, and the sword combat is brutal and bloody. The game also features a variety of finishers that can be used to dispatch enemies in spectacular fashion.

In addition to the main story campaign, Shadow Warrior 2 also features a four-player cooperative mode. In co-op, players can team up to take on hordes of enemies and complete challenging missions.

Story

Shadow Warrior 2’s story is a wild and wacky ride that is full of humor, action, and surprisingly heartfelt moments. Lo Wang is a complex and charismatic protagonist, and his journey to save the world from the demonic legions is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.

The game’s supporting cast is also well-developed, and each character brings their own unique personality and skills to the team. The dialogue is sharp and witty, and the game is full of laugh-out-loud moments.

Graphics and Sound

Shadow Warrior 2 is a visually stunning game. The environments are detailed and atmospheric, and the character models are top-notch. The game’s art style is a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, and it creates a truly memorable and visually distinct world.

The game’s sound design is also excellent. The voice acting is top-notch, and the sound effects are incredibly immersive. The game’s soundtrack is a mix of heavy metal and traditional Chinese music, and it perfectly captures the game’s tone.

Overall

Shadow Warrior 2 is an outstanding FPS that delivers on all fronts. The game’s combat is visceral and satisfying, the story is engaging and heartfelt, and the graphics and sound are top-notch. Whether you’re a fan of the original Shadow Warrior games or just looking for a great FPS to play, Shadow Warrior 2 is definitely worth checking out.

Score: 9/10

Review Score

8.5/10

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Northgard (2018)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Northgard: A Comprehensive Guide to the Viking Strategy Game

Introduction

Northgard is a real-time strategy game developed by Shiro Games and released in 2018. The game is set in the Viking Age, and players take control of a clan of Vikings who are vying for control of a mysterious newfound continent. Players must build their settlement, manage their resources, and conquer new territory in order to achieve victory.

Gameplay

Northgard is a complex and challenging strategy game that offers a variety of ways to play. Players can choose from six different clans, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The game also features a variety of different victory conditions, so players can choose to win by conquest, fame, lore, or trading.

One of the most important aspects of Northgard is resource management. Players must carefully manage their food, wood, and gold in order to survive. Food is used to feed the population, wood is used to build structures and units, and gold is used to purchase upgrades and hire mercenaries.

Another important aspect of Northgard is territory control. Players must expand their territory in order to gain access to new resources and strategic opportunities. Territory can be expanded by conquering neutral territories or by defeating enemy clans.

Clans

There are six different clans in Northgard, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The clans are:

  • Raven Clan: The Raven Clan is a well-rounded clan with no major weaknesses. They have a strong military and a good economy.
  • Wolf Clan: The Wolf Clan is a fierce and aggressive clan. They have a strong military and a good ability to raid enemy territory.
  • Bear Clan: The Bear Clan is a defensive clan. They have a strong economy and a good ability to defend their territory.
  • Stag Clan: The Stag Clan is a mobile clan. They have a good ability to move around the map and a good economy.
  • Snake Clan: The Snake Clan is a cunning clan. They have a good ability to trade and a good economy.
  • Dragon Clan: The Dragon Clan is a powerful clan. They have a strong military and a good economy.

Victory Conditions

There are four different victory conditions in Northgard:

  • Conquest: Conquer all of the territories on the map.
  • Fame: Gain the most fame. Fame is earned by completing quests, building wonders, and defeating enemy units.
  • Lore: Collect all of the lore fragments. Lore fragments are found by exploring the map and defeating enemy units.
  • Trading: Sell the most goods. Goods are produced by building markets and trading with other clans.

Tips for Playing Northgard

Here are a few tips for playing Northgard:

  • Manage your resources carefully. Food, wood, and gold are all essential resources, so it is important to manage them carefully. Build farms to produce food,伐木场to produce wood, and mines to produce gold.
  • Expand your territory. The more territory you control, the more resources you will have access to. Conquer neutral territories and defeat enemy clans to expand your territory.
  • Choose your clan wisely. Each clan has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Choose a clan that suits your playstyle.
  • Research upgrades. Upgrades can give your clan a significant advantage in battle. Research upgrades at the longhouse.
  • Build a strong military. A strong military is essential for defending your territory and conquering new territory. Build military units at the barracks.
  • Form alliances. Alliances can be a powerful way to gain an advantage over your enemies. Form alliances with other clans to share resources and attack common enemies.

Conclusion

Northgard is a fantastic strategy game that offers a variety of ways to play. The game is challenging and rewarding, and it is sure to provide hours of enjoyment.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Fatal Fury Special (1993)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Fatal Fury Special: The GRANDMOTHER of All Fighting Games

Released in 1993, Fatal Fury Special is a fighting game developed and published by SNK for the Neo Geo arcade and home console. It is the second installment in the Fatal Fury series, and is widely considered to be one of the greatest fighting games of all time.

Fatal Fury Special features a roster of 15 characters, including returning favorites such as Terry Bogard, Andy Bogard, and Joe Higashi, as well as new characters such as Billy Kane, Axel Hawk, and Laurence Blood. The game also introduces several new gameplay mechanics, such as the “Line Battle” system, which allows players to fight on multiple planes, and the “Desperation Move” system, which allows players to perform powerful special moves when their health is low.

Fatal Fury Special was a critical and commercial success, and is still considered to be one of the best fighting games ever made. It has been praised for its stunning graphics, innovative gameplay, and iconic characters.

Gameplay

Fatal Fury Special is a 2D fighting game in which players control one of 15 characters and battle against each other in one-on-one matches. The game features a variety of different attacks, including punches, kicks, throws, and special moves. Players can also use the “Line Battle” system to fight on multiple planes, and the “Desperation Move” system to perform powerful special moves when their health is low.

Fatal Fury Special is known for its fast-paced and intense gameplay. The game requires players to have quick reflexes and good timing in order to succeed. It also features a variety of different strategies and techniques that players can use to defeat their opponents.

Characters

Fatal Fury Special features a roster of 15 characters, each with their own unique fighting style and special moves. The characters include:

  • Terry Bogard: The main protagonist of the Fatal Fury series, Terry is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of Kyokugenryu karate techniques.
  • Andy Bogard: Terry’s younger brother, Andy is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of Koppokenryu karate techniques.
  • Joe Higashi: A former Muay Thai champion, Joe is a powerful fighter who uses a variety of devastating strikes.
  • Billy Kane: A former member of the Southtown Gang, Billy is a skilled fighter who uses a variety of dirty tactics.
  • Axel Hawk: A professional wrestler, Axel is a powerful fighter who uses a variety of grappling techniques.
  • Laurence Blood: A mysterious vampire, Laurence is a powerful fighter who uses a variety of dark magic attacks.
  • Wolfgang Krauser: The main antagonist of the game, Wolfgang is a powerful fighter who uses a variety of German suplex techniques.
  • Geese Howard: The final boss of the game, Geese is a powerful fighter who uses a variety of Kyokugenryu karate techniques.

Development

Fatal Fury Special was developed by SNK, a Japanese video game company. The game was directed by Takashi Nishiyama, who had previously directed the original Fatal Fury game. The game was developed using the Neo Geo MVS arcade system, which was known for its powerful hardware and high-quality graphics.

Fatal Fury Special was released in arcades in Japan in 1993. The game was later ported to the Neo Geo home console in 1994. The game has also been released on a variety of other platforms, including the PlayStation, Sega Saturn, and Nintendo Switch.

Reception

Fatal Fury Special was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its stunning graphics, innovative gameplay, and iconic characters. It was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Fatal Fury Special has been ranked as one of the greatest fighting games of all time by a variety of publications, including IGN, GameSpot, and Edge. The game has also been inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame.

Legacy

Fatal Fury Special is considered to be one of the most influential fighting games of all time. The game’s innovative gameplay mechanics and iconic characters have been imitated by a variety of other fighting games. The game has also been credited with helping to popularize the Neo Geo arcade system.

Fatal Fury Special is still considered to be a classic fighting game today. The game is still played by a dedicated community of fans, and it is still considered to be one of the best fighting games ever made.

Review Score

9/10

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Murder Miners (2012)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Murder Miners: A Halo-Inspired Multiplayer Extravaganza

Prepare yourself for an adrenaline-pumping journey into the world of Murder Miners, a multiplayer masterpiece that seamlessly blends the intense action of Halo with the thrilling chaos of zombie survival. Released in 2012, this hidden gem has captivated gamers worldwide with its innovative gameplay mechanics, destructible environments, and a variety of game modes that cater to every taste.

Halo’s Legacy, Reimagined

At its core, Murder Miners draws heavy inspiration from the iconic Halo franchise. The game’s fast-paced gunplay, intuitive controls, and emphasis on teamwork will feel instantly familiar to Halo veterans. Players can choose from an arsenal of weapons, including assault rifles, shotguns, sniper rifles, and rocket launchers, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Destructible Environments: A Game-Changer

Murder Miners takes the Halo formula to new heights with its groundbreaking destructible environments. Players can blast through walls, collapse buildings, and reshape the battlefield to their advantage. This dynamic gameplay element adds an unprecedented level of strategy and unpredictability to every match.

Zombie Survival: A Thrilling Twist

In addition to the classic Deathmatch and Capture the Flag modes, Murder Miners introduces a unique zombie survival mode called Infection. In this mode, one player starts as a zombie, and their goal is to infect and convert all other players. The infected players then become zombies themselves, creating a rapidly growing horde that must be stopped.

Vehicles: Speed and Firepower

Murder Miners features a variety of vehicles that can turn the tide of battle. Players can commandeer tanks, jeeps, and even helicopters to traverse the vast maps and unleash devastating firepower upon their opponents. Vehicles add an extra layer of excitement and chaos to the gameplay, making every match a unique and unpredictable experience.

Constructible Environments: Shaping the Battlefield

Murder Miners empowers players with the ability to construct their own defenses and obstacles. Using a variety of building blocks, players can create walls, turrets, and other structures to fortify their positions or block enemy advances. This construction mechanic adds a creative element to the gameplay, allowing players to adapt and overcome any challenge.

A Multitude of Game Modes

Murder Miners offers a diverse range of game modes to cater to every player’s preference. In addition to Deathmatch, Capture the Flag, and Infection, the game also features Elimination, King of the Hill, and VIP modes. Each mode brings its own unique objectives and challenges, ensuring that players never tire of the gameplay variety.

Conclusion: A Multiplayer Masterpiece

Murder Miners is a testament to the power of innovation and the enduring legacy of Halo. Its seamless blend of classic first-person shooter elements with destructible environments, zombie survival, and constructible mechanics creates a truly unique and exhilarating multiplayer experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Halo veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Murder Miners is a must-play title that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Review Score

8/10

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The Fall (2014)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

The Fall: A Haunting and Atmospheric Sci-Fi Adventure

Released in 2014, The Fall is a side-scrolling adventure game that captivated critics and players alike with its unique blend of platforming, combat, and thought-provoking puzzles. Set on a desolate alien world, the game follows the journey of an AI-controlled combat suit and its unresponsive pilot.

A Mysterious and Unforgiving World

The Fall immerses players in a hauntingly beautiful and unforgiving alien landscape. Crash-landed on an unknown planet, the game’s protagonist, ARID (Artificial Robotics Interface Device), must navigate treacherous environments filled with towering rock formations, shimmering alien flora, and the remnants of a long-lost civilization.

As ARID ventures deeper into the planet’s depths, the sense of isolation and vulnerability grows. The game’s side-scrolling perspective emphasizes the vastness and unforgiving nature of the alien world, making every encounter with its inhabitants a tense and potentially deadly experience.

A Unique AI Companion

One of the most striking features of The Fall is its AI companion, an advanced artificial intelligence that controls the combat suit. The AI’s sophisticated decision-making and combat abilities make it a valuable asset in battle, but its enigmatic nature and occasional glitches raise questions about its true purpose and motivations.

Throughout the game, players must interact with the AI, making choices that influence its behavior and the course of the narrative. These interactions add a layer of depth and complexity to the gameplay, blurring the lines between player and AI and raising questions about the nature of consciousness and free will.

Challenging Puzzles and Precision Platforming

The Fall’s gameplay revolves around a series of challenging puzzles and precision platforming sequences. Players must use their wits to solve environmental puzzles, manipulate objects, and navigate treacherous terrain. The game’s physics-based platforming requires careful timing and precision, adding an extra layer of challenge and excitement to the exploration.

Interspersed with the puzzles and platforming are occasional combat sequences. The AI companion takes control during these encounters, engaging in fluid and dynamic battles against hostile alien creatures. Players must strategically position the AI and utilize its abilities to overcome these challenges.

A Haunting and Atmospheric Score

The Fall’s haunting and atmospheric soundtrack perfectly complements the game’s visuals and narrative. Composed by British electronic musician Ben Prunty, the score combines ambient soundscapes with unsettling melodies, creating a sense of unease and isolation that lingers long after the game is over.

Themes of Identity, Consciousness, and Mortality

Beyond its engaging gameplay, The Fall explores thought-provoking themes of identity, consciousness, and mortality. The game raises questions about the nature of AI, the boundaries between life and death, and the fragility of human existence.

Through the interactions between ARID and its unresponsive pilot, the game delves into the nature of consciousness and the possibility of a non-corporeal existence. It also explores the themes of loss, grief, and the search for meaning in a vast and unforgiving universe.

Critical Acclaim and Awards

Upon its release, The Fall received critical acclaim for its unique gameplay, haunting atmosphere, and thought-provoking narrative. It won numerous awards, including the BAFTA Games Award for Best Debut Game and the Independent Games Festival Award for Excellence in Visual Art.

The game’s impact extended beyond the gaming community, with its themes and visuals inspiring artists, musicians, and writers. The Fall remains a beloved and influential title in the adventure game genre, praised for its ability to captivate, challenge, and provoke thought.

Conclusion

The Fall is a masterfully crafted adventure game that seamlessly blends atmospheric exploration, challenging puzzles, and thought-provoking themes. Its haunting visuals, haunting soundtrack, and unique AI companion create an immersive and unforgettable experience that lingers long after the credits roll. Whether you’re a seasoned adventure game enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, The Fall is a must-play title that will challenge your mind and leave a lasting impression.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Cryptark (2017)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Cryptark: A Deep Dive into the Roguelike Shooter

Introduction

Cryptark is a 2D roguelike shooter that challenges players with boarding and neutralizing procedurally generated alien starships to earn income for their Privateering enterprise. With its complex gameplay, challenging campaign, and wide arsenal of weapons and items, Cryptark is a must-play for fans of the roguelike genre.

Gameplay

Cryptark’s gameplay is simple to learn but difficult to master. Players control a spaceship that they use to board and explore procedurally generated alien starships. The goal of each mission is to destroy the ship’s central System Core, which will disable the ship and allow the player to collect its loot.

Players must use a variety of weapons and items to defeat the alien hordes that defend the starships. These weapons and items include frag-cannons, tractor-beams, flamethrowers, and nukes. Players must also be careful to manage their resources, as they will need to purchase fuel, repairs, and new equipment to survive.

Campaign

Cryptark’s campaign is challenging and re-playable. Players must complete a series of missions, each of which is more difficult than the last. As players progress through the campaign, they will unlock new weapons and items, and they will also face more powerful enemies.

The campaign is designed to test players’ strategy and tactics. Players must carefully choose which weapons and items to use, and they must also be aware of the different types of enemies that they will face. With its challenging gameplay and re-playable campaign, Cryptark is a game that will keep players coming back for more.

Weapons and Items

Cryptark features over 60 weapons and items that players can collect. These weapons and items can be used to defeat enemies, repair the player’s ship, and improve the player’s stats.

Some of the most powerful weapons in Cryptark include the frag-cannon, which fires explosive rounds, and the nuke, which can destroy an entire room of enemies. Players can also collect items such as the tractor-beam, which can be used to pull enemies closer, and the flamethrower, which can be used to burn enemies alive.

Art and Sound

Cryptark’s art and sound are both top-notch. The game’s visuals are dark and gritty, and they perfectly capture the atmosphere of the game’s setting. The sound design is also excellent, and it helps to create a sense of tension and excitement.

Conclusion

Cryptark is an excellent roguelike shooter that will challenge players of all skill levels. With its complex gameplay, challenging campaign, and wide arsenal of weapons and items, Cryptark is a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Zen Bound 2 (2010)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Zen Bound 2: A Journey of Tranquility and Focus

Introduction

In a world where video games often prioritize fast-paced action and adrenaline-pumping challenges, Zen Bound 2 emerges as a serene oasis, inviting players to slow down, relax, and engage in a mindful gaming experience. Released in 2010, this unique indie game has captivated gamers with its gentle puzzles, tactile visuals, and sublime soundtrack, offering a perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life.

Gameplay: The Art of Rope Wrapping

Zen Bound 2’s gameplay revolves around the simple yet engaging concept of rope wrapping. Players are presented with a variety of 3D objects, ranging from simple spheres to intricate sculptures. The objective is to wrap a rope around these objects, covering as much of their surface as possible.

The rope wrapping mechanic is deceptively simple to learn, but it offers a surprising amount of depth and challenge. Players must carefully consider the angles of their wraps, the tension of the rope, and the overall balance of the object. Each successful wrap brings a sense of accomplishment and encourages players to strive for perfection.

Visuals: A Tactile and Earthy Aesthetic

Zen Bound 2’s visuals are as unique and captivating as its gameplay. The game’s world is rendered in a minimalist, dusty style that evokes a sense of ancient ruins and forgotten civilizations. The objects that players wrap are often made of natural materials such as wood, stone, and fabric, giving the game a tactile and earthy feel.

The game’s color palette is subdued and muted, with warm, earthy tones dominating the landscapes. This creates a calming and inviting atmosphere that encourages players to relax and focus on the present moment.

Soundtrack: A Symphony of Tranquility

Music plays an integral role in Zen Bound 2’s immersive experience. The game’s soundtrack is composed by the renowned electronic artist Ghost Monkey, and it perfectly complements the game’s serene and meditative gameplay.

The soundtrack is a blend of ambient soundscapes, ethereal melodies, and subtle rhythms. It creates a sense of tranquility and immersion, allowing players to fully engage with the game’s puzzles and lose themselves in the moment.

Mindfulness and Relaxation

At its core, Zen Bound 2 is more than just a game; it’s an invitation to mindfulness and relaxation. The game’s slow-paced, non-competitive nature encourages players to slow down, focus on the present moment, and appreciate the beauty of the game’s world.

Wrapping the rope around the objects requires patience, precision, and a keen eye for detail. This process can be incredibly calming and meditative, helping players to relieve stress and cultivate a sense of inner peace.

Puzzles: A Journey of Discovery

While Zen Bound 2’s gameplay is inherently relaxing and meditative, the game also offers a series of gentle puzzles that challenge players’ minds without overwhelming them.

The puzzles start out simple, but they gradually increase in complexity, requiring players to think creatively and experiment with different wrapping techniques. The puzzles are designed to be accessible to players of all skill levels, and they provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction upon completion.

Legacy and Impact

Zen Bound 2 has been praised by critics and players alike for its unique and innovative gameplay, its stunning visuals, and its ability to promote mindfulness and relaxation. The game has won numerous awards, including the Independent Games Festival’s Excellence in Audio award in 2010.

Zen Bound 2 has also had a significant impact on the gaming industry, inspiring other games that prioritize relaxation and mindfulness. It has demonstrated that video games can be more than just a source of entertainment; they can also be a tool for self-care and personal growth.

Conclusion

Zen Bound 2 is a true gem in the world of video games. It offers a unique and immersive experience that combines the tranquility of meditation with the challenge of gentle puzzles. Through its tactile visuals, sublime soundtrack, and accessible gameplay, Zen Bound 2 invites players to slow down, focus on the present moment, and cultivate a sense of inner peace. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or someone looking for a relaxing and mindful experience, Zen Bound 2 is a game that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

Review Score

8/10

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Serious Sam: The First Encounter (2001)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Serious Sam: The First Encounter (2001): A Nostalgic Dive into Frantic Arcade-Style Action

Introduction

In the annals of first-person shooter (FPS) history, Serious Sam: The First Encounter stands as a timeless classic, a game that embodies the essence of arcade-style action and over-the-top monster-blasting mayhem. Released in 2001 by Croteam, Serious Sam: The First Encounter quickly gained a cult following and has since become synonymous with frantic gameplay, hordes of grotesque monsters, and the iconic one-liners of its titular protagonist, Serious Sam.

A Badass Killer on a Mission

Serious Sam: The First Encounter follows the story of Sam “Serious” Stone, a muscular and no-nonsense commando tasked with preventing an extraterrestrial overlord named Mental from destroying humanity. Armed with an arsenal of powerful weapons, Sam embarks on a whirlwind tour of ancient Egypt and various alien worlds, facing off against Mental’s countless minions in a relentless battle for survival.

Frantic Arcade-Style Action

Serious Sam: The First Encounter is a pure adrenaline rush, delivering non-stop action from start to finish. The game throws hordes of enemies at the player, each with unique abilities and attack patterns. From the charging Sirian Werebulls to the screaming Headless Kamikazes, no two encounters are the same. Sam must use his wits, reflexes, and an arsenal of devastating weapons to overcome the relentless onslaught.

A Unique Blend of Cyberpunk and Fantasy

Serious Sam: The First Encounter’s world is a bizarre and wonderful mix of cyberpunk and fantasy-fiction. The game takes players through ancient Egyptian ruins, futuristic alien landscapes, and even a dimension filled with floating islands. This unique setting provides a backdrop for some of the most memorable and visually striking levels in FPS history.

Key Features

  • Frantic Arcade-Style Action: Fight your way through 15+ nightmarish warriors in Mental’s army, including the charging Sirian Werebull, screaming Headless Kamikaze, and other crazy monsters, and finally challenge the multi-story Ugh-Zan boss!
  • Unique and Immersive Environments: Travel through the beautiful world of ancient Egypt and several diverse planets, each with its own unique atmosphere and challenges.
  • Devastating Arsenal of Weapons: Unleash a variety of powerful weapons, including shotguns, assault rifles, rocket launchers, and the iconic double-barreled shotgun.
  • Hordes of Grotesque Monsters: Face off against an army of over 100 different types of monsters, each with unique abilities and attack patterns.
  • Epic Boss Battles: Challenge massive and intimidating bosses that will test your skills and determination to the limit.

Legacy and Impact

Serious Sam: The First Encounter has had a lasting impact on the FPS genre. Its frantic gameplay and over-the-top action have inspired numerous imitators, and its iconic protagonist, Serious Sam, has become a beloved figure in gaming culture. The game’s success has spawned several sequels and spin-offs, solidifying its status as a true classic.

Conclusion

Serious Sam: The First Encounter is a timeless masterpiece that continues to entertain and challenge players to this day. Its frantic arcade-style action, unique blend of cyberpunk and fantasy, and unforgettable cast of characters make it a must-play for any fan of FPS games. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Serious Sam: The First Encounter is guaranteed to deliver an adrenaline-pumping experience that will leave you craving for more.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Mari0 (2012)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Mari0: A Triumphant Fusion of Super Mario Bros. and Portal

Released in 2012, Mari0 is a creative and expertly crafted fan-made video game that seamlessly blends the beloved elements of Super Mario Bros. with the innovative mechanics of Portal. Developed by Maurice Guégan of Stabyourself.net, Mari0 has garnered critical acclaim for its clever design, challenging gameplay, and nostalgic appeal.

Gameplay: A Nostalgic Leap with a Twist

At its core, Mari0 retains the classic gameplay of Super Mario Bros., where players control Mario (or Luigi) through a series of 2D platforming levels, navigating obstacles, defeating enemies, and collecting coins. However, Mari0 introduces a groundbreaking twist: the portal gun from the Portal series.

The portal gun allows players to create portals between two surfaces, enabling them to teleport Mario through the level. This mechanic adds a new layer of strategy and puzzle-solving to the traditional Mario formula. Players must carefully consider portal placement to overcome obstacles, reach new areas, and outmaneuver enemies.

Level Design: A Symphony of Nostalgia and Innovation

Mari0 features a diverse array of levels, ranging from faithful recreations of classic Super Mario Bros. stages to mind-bending test chambers inspired by Portal’s Aperture Science. The game’s level editor empowers players to create and share their own levels, fostering a vibrant community of user-generated content.

Visuals and Audio: A Pixelated Masterpiece

Mari0’s visuals are a charming homage to the 8-bit era of gaming. The pixelated graphics and vibrant colors evoke a sense of nostalgia, while the game’s soundtrack seamlessly blends iconic Mario tunes with Portal’s eerie ambiance.

Multiplayer: Cooperative Chaos

Mari0 offers a unique cooperative multiplayer mode for up to four players. Players can team up to navigate levels, solve puzzles, and defeat enemies together. The cooperative gameplay adds an exciting new dimension to the Mari0 experience, fostering teamwork and strategic coordination.

Legacy and Impact

Mari0 has left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. Its innovative fusion of two beloved franchises has inspired countless other fan-made games and mods. The game’s success is a testament to the power of creativity and the enduring appeal of classic video game elements.

Critical Reception and Accolades

Mari0 has received widespread critical acclaim, earning praise for its clever gameplay, challenging level design, and nostalgic charm. The game has been featured in numerous publications and has won several awards, including the Indie Game of the Year award at the 2012 Independent Games Festival.

Conclusion: A Triumphant Fusion

Mari0 is a triumphant fusion of Super Mario Bros. and Portal that stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation of the gaming community. Its clever gameplay, challenging level design, and nostalgic appeal have made it a beloved classic among fans of both franchises. Whether you’re a seasoned Mario enthusiast or a Portal aficionado, Mari0 is an unmissable experience that will provide hours of entertainment and challenge.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Induction (2017)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Induction: A Mind-Bending Puzzle Game About Time Travel and Paradoxes

Induction is an abstract puzzle game about time travel and paradoxes that will rewire how you think about cause and effect. With over 50 meticulously designed puzzles, Induction challenges you to master its elegant yet exacting internal logic, giving you the satisfaction of mastering an imaginary yet honest set of physical laws.

The game’s minimalist visuals and rich ambient soundtrack create a hypnotic and immersive experience, drawing you into its world of time loops and impossible solutions. As you progress through the game, you’ll learn to choreograph your actions across multiple timelines, creating paradoxical situations where the future depends on the past and the past depends on the future.

Induction is a game that rewards patience and perseverance. The puzzles are challenging, but they’re always fair, and there’s a deep sense of satisfaction to be found in solving them. The game’s elegant design and minimalist aesthetic create a timeless experience that will stay with you long after you’ve finished playing.

The Basics of Induction

Induction is played on a grid of squares. Each square can be either empty, occupied by a block, or occupied by a portal. Blocks can be moved around the grid, and portals can be used to teleport blocks between different parts of the grid.

The goal of each puzzle is to move all of the blocks to their designated goal squares. However, there’s a twist: time travel is involved. You can use portals to travel back in time and change the past, which in turn will affect the present and the future.

This time travel mechanic opens up a whole new world of possibilities. For example, you can use portals to:

  • Move blocks out of the way of obstacles
  • Create time loops to solve puzzles that would otherwise be impossible
  • Undo mistakes you’ve made in the past

The Challenges of Induction

Induction is a challenging game, but it’s also a fair one. The puzzles are all solvable, but they require patience, perseverance, and a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics.

One of the biggest challenges in Induction is learning to think in terms of time travel. It’s easy to get caught up in the temptation to try to solve the puzzles in a linear fashion, but that’s often not the best approach. Instead, you need to learn to think about the past, present, and future all at the same time.

Another challenge in Induction is the fact that the puzzles are often interconnected. The solution to one puzzle may depend on the solution to another puzzle, and so on. This can make it difficult to know where to start, but it also adds to the game’s replayability.

The Rewards of Induction

Induction is a challenging game, but it’s also a rewarding one. The puzzles are satisfying to solve, and the game’s elegant design and minimalist aesthetic create a timeless experience that will stay with you long after you’ve finished playing.

If you’re looking for a puzzle game that will challenge your mind and make you think in new ways, then Induction is the game for you. With its challenging puzzles, elegant design, and rich ambient soundtrack, Induction is a game that will stay with you long after you’ve finished playing.

Tips for Playing Induction

Here are a few tips for playing Induction:

  • Take your time and don’t be afraid to experiment. There’s no rush to solve the puzzles, so take your time and explore all of the possibilities.
  • Pay attention to the details. The puzzles in Induction are often very subtle, so it’s important to pay attention to the details and look for patterns.
  • Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. If you make a mistake, just reset the puzzle and try again.
  • If you’re stuck, take a break. Sometimes the best way to solve a puzzle is to step away from it for a while and come back to it later with a fresh perspective.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re really stuck, there are plenty of online resources that can help you solve the puzzles.

Conclusion

Induction is a challenging but rewarding puzzle game that will rewire how you think about cause and effect. With its elegant design, minimalist aesthetic, and rich ambient soundtrack, Induction is a game that will stay with you long after you’ve finished playing.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

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