Video Game News & Reviews from hardcore gamers.
Atari and Choice Provisions, the studio behind the BIT.TRIP series, have teamed up to reimagine one of gaming’s most iconic titles with Breakout Beyond. This modern take on the 1976 brick-breaking classic introduces innovative mechanics, dazzling visuals, and a cooperative twist, making it a standout entry in the series. Available on PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series X|S, and Atari VCS, this game is a must-try for both nostalgic fans and newcomers alike.
Forestrike, the latest creation from Japanese developer Skeleton Crew in collaboration with Devolver Digital, promises to deliver a unique and captivating experience for fans of martial arts and strategic gameplay. Set to release in 2025 on PC and Nintendo Switch, this game introduces a revolutionary approach to kung fu combat that blends meticulous planning with flawless execution.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is the 14th main installment in Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed series and will be released on March 20, 2025, on various platforms, and it is Steamdeck Verified. It features an open world with stunning landscapes as well as bustling cities and ports, and was kindly provided to us by Ubisoft for review.
Players can choose between two main characters: Yasuke, an African samurai who was a protégé of Oda Nobunaga, and Naoe, a kunoichi (female ninja) whose village fell victim to Oda Nobunaga’s campaign against Iga Province (1579-1581).
The Assassin’s Creed series was launched by Ubisoft in 2007 and has since become one of the most successful and long-running game franchises in the industry. Originally conceived as a spiritual successor to Prince of Persia, the series combines action-adventure gameplay with open worlds and a deep historical narrative. The first installment transported players to the Holy Land during the time of the Crusades and introduced the assassin Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad. Many of the core elements were already established here: parkour, stealth gameplay, and the eternal conflict between the Assassins and the Templars.
With Assassin’s Creed II (2009), the series evolved significantly, introducing the charismatic Ezio Auditore da Firenze. The game’s Renaissance Italian setting, improved combat system, and deeper character development made it a landmark. Ubisoft built on this success, releasing numerous sequels with changing historical settings, including the Ottoman Empire, colonial America, the French Revolution, and Ancient Egypt.
Since Assassin’s Creed Origins (2017), the series has evolved more toward an open-world RPG, with a more complex combat system, more extensive role-playing elements, and larger, immersive worlds. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (2018) and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla (2020) followed this trend, expanding the franchise with new mechanics such as free choice in dialogue and large-scale battles.
With Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Ubisoft continues the trend, setting the story for the first time in Japan during the time of the samurai and ninja. The series thus remains true to its core concept: captivating historical adventures with a blend of reality and fiction, while constantly evolving gameplay mechanics.
In the game, you follow the story of the samurai Yasuke and the kunoichi Naoe, whose characters you can control alternately. Both differ in their gameplay.
Fujibayashi Naoe is a Japanese shinobi characterized by her agility and silent attacks. Players can have Naoe sneak through shadows, hide in tall grass, and take down enemies with traditional ninja weapons.
Yasuke is an African samurai who demonstrates his strength and skill in open combat. Players who prefer direct confrontation can use powerful sword techniques with Yasuke.
The game is a dynamic world that changes with the changing seasons. These changes affect not only the aesthetics but also the gameplay. In winter, rivers can freeze over, opening up new paths. In spring, dense foliage offers additional hiding places.
A new feature is the base-building system, which allows players to build their own shinobi community. By training allies, players can expand their base of operations and craft custom gear.
Missions in Assassin’s Creed Shadows are non-linear, allowing players to achieve their objectives in a variety of ways. Whether through skillful stealth or open combat, the freedom is up to the player. The popular overhead perspective returns, allowing players to explore enemies and objectives from a bird’s-eye view.
Although Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a fictional game, it is based on historical events and figures. Oda Nobunaga (1534–1582) is considered the first of the three unifiers of Japan and was a brilliant strategist and politician.
There are many stories about Yasuke, the Black Samurai, in which fact and fiction are mixed. What is certain is that he existed and that he came to Japan with Jesuits. It should also be undisputed that he served Nobunaga. Whether he was actually a samurai, however, is hotly debated. In the story chosen by Ubisoft, Yasuke is a powerful samurai.
Fujibayashi Naoe is a fictional character, but her province of Iga was actually attacked and conquered by Nobunaga’s troops in 1581. Iga is also the traditional birthplace of the Iga ninja, who were known for their guerrilla warfare techniques, espionage, and assassinations.
Fujibayashi Naoe: Born in Iga Province, the historic home of the ninja, Naoe grew up under the loving and watchful eye of her father, Nagato, who taught her all the secrets of martial arts. Those living in the mountainous region must learn from early childhood how to handle weapons to defend themselves against potential enemies. Although raised to uphold dignity and tradition, Naoe feels a deep resentment toward the daimyo Oda Nobunaga, whom she considers a tyrant invading her homeland.
Yasuke: To prove himself a capable warrior, he practiced martial arts and traveled throughout much of the known world before arriving in the Japanese archipelago accompanied by Jesuit missionaries. When he first met Oda Nobunaga, he was impressed by his physique, the color of his skin, and his knowledge of the Japanese language. He saw in the man, later called Yasuke, a potential ally with great insight into the outside world, took him into his service, and made him one of his samurai. However, certain events would change Yasuke’s fate and reveal his secrets.
Oda Nobunaga: He revolutionized the Japanese approach to war with the strategic use of firearms and his innovative techniques, which brought him numerous victories. He initiated comprehensive economic reforms, strengthened free markets, and reoriented the economy toward manufacturing and trade. A great patron of the arts, Nobunaga declared the tea ceremony an important cultural asset. His personality was characterized by ambition, innovation, and strategic thinking. He was known for ruthlessly eliminating his rivals. His groundbreaking style in both government and warfare left its mark on Japanese history and paved the way for future unification efforts.
This section contains possible spoilers!
You start the game with Yasuke’s arrival in Japan with the Jesuits.
At a meeting with Oda Nobunaga, it quickly becomes clear that you don’t like the Jesuits and that they are lucky to have survived the meeting. Yasuke enters Nobunaga’s service, and the next scene takes place about six months in the future, when Nobunaga’s troops attack Iga. Not long after, you can finally shout to attack with Yasuke and break through the enemy lines.
After a cut, the story continues with Naoe. She, too, fights that night, but of course on the side of Iga’s troops. You quickly see the differences between the two fighting styles: rough and direct or nimble and evasive. The battle is victorious for Nobunaga’s troops, while Naoe is sent by her father on a special mission that she cannot complete and almost dies in the process.
After a long period of recovery, the shinobi seeks revenge and travels the land to complete her mission, harming Nobunaga’s hated troops along the way. Of course, she also helps cleanse the land of bandits and dispense all kinds of justice. Until one day, she meets the samurai Yasuke… (Have fun playing and experience it for yourself 😉 ).
A notable new feature in Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a fully customizable hideout that deepens the gameplay experience. During your travels, you gather resources needed to construct various buildings, create beautiful gardens, or build walls around the area.
The first major expansion, “The Claws of Awaji,” will be released in 2025. This will take players to the island of Awaji, offering new enemies, weapons, and over ten hours of additional content. Currently, the only confirmed way to obtain this expansion is by pre-ordering one of the game’s editions.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be verified for Steam Deck at launch.
It seems to be fashionable these days to discredit games well in advance.
And Ubisoft’s latest game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, also received a lot of bad reviews in advance.
In short, it doesn’t deserve all this hate in the slightest; on the contrary, it’s a true addition to the franchise and, thanks to its new mechanics, a great game for a variety of approaches.
As with Tenchu Z, one of my favorite games about stealthy ninjas, it’s great fun to simply explore the area, sneak around enemies, take them out from behind, and travel to the next destination with the loot in your pocket. In summary, Assassin’s Creed Shadows combines historical depth with innovative gameplay, making it one of the most exciting titles of spring 2025.
Minimum requirements:
Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: Windows 10/11
Processor: Intel® Core™ i7 8700k/AMD Ryzen™ 5 3600
Memory: 16 GB RAM
Graphics: Nvidia® GeForce GTX™ 1070 8GB/AMD Radeon™ RX 5700 8GB/Intel® Arc™ A580 8GB (REBAR ON)
DirectX: Version 12
Storage: 115 GB available space
Recommended:
Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: Windows 10/11
Processor: Intel® Core™ i5 11600k/AMD Ryzen™ 5 5600x
Memory: 16 GB RAM
Graphics: Nvidia® GeForce RTX™ 3060Ti 8GB/AMD Radeon™ RX 6700 XT 12GB/Intel® Arc™ B580 12GB (REBAR ON)
DirectX: Version 12
Storage: 115 GB available space
“Codex Lost” is an open-world action role-playing game published by JanduSoft that takes players into a dark, magical world. As a curator, it is your job to recover stolen Grimoires and prevent the impending destruction of reality.
In “Codex Lost” you take on the role of the curator who must recover the stolen grimoires to save civilization from destruction. You explore an open world, collect materials from defeated enemies and carefully decide which attributes you will improve over the course of the game. A variety of unusual characters with deep backstories await you, which underlines the rich lore of the game.
The game places a great emphasis on magic. Players can create up to 80 unique spells and combine them with various staffs, talismans and other equipment to customize their character. The combat system is tactical and requires precise timing for dodges and parries; a misstep can quickly lead to death.
The graphics of “Codex Lost” impress with a dark atmosphere that impressively shows off the desolate world. The environments are designed in detail, from open fields to ancient tunnels to lost ruins, all waiting to be explored by the player.
“Codex Lost” offers an intense and challenging gaming experience that will particularly appeal to fans of magic-based role-playing games. The ability to create a variety of spells and the tactical combat system provide depth and variety. The detailed world invites exploration and holds numerous secrets. However, the high level of difficulty could be off-putting for some players. Overall, however, “Codex Lost” is a worthwhile adventure for those looking for a challenge.
Cuisineer is a charming game that combines the excitement of roguelite dungeon crawling with the warmth of restaurant management. Developed by BattleBrew Productions, it offers a unique blend of genres that will appeal to fans of both action RPGs and simulation games.
The gameplay loop in Cuisineer is engaging and addictive. Players take on the role of Pom, a catgirl tasked with restoring her family’s restaurant to its former glory. This involves two main activities: managing the restaurant and exploring procedurally generated dungeons to gather ingredients.
Cuisineer is visually stunning, with beautifully drawn characters and detailed recipes that will tantalize your taste buds. The pixel art style imparts a cozy addition to the game’s vibrant world.
While Cuisineer generally performs well on Switch, there are some minor issues with loading screens between areas or buildings. These delays can be frustrating during extended play sessions but do not significantly detract from the overall experience.
Cuisineer offers an enjoyable experience despite some limitations in depth for both its combat and management aspects. It’s perfect for those looking for a light-hearted roguelike or simulation game without overwhelming complexity. Fans of cozy games will appreciate its colorful visuals and engaging gameplay loop.
If you’re interested in trying out something new that blends genres uniquely, Cuisineer might be worth picking up—especially if you enjoy cooking simulations or beginner-friendly roguelikes. However, hardcore fans of either genre might find it lacking in depth compared to more complex titles.
This review highlights both the strengths (engaging gameplay loop, charming visuals) and weaknesses (simplicity in combat/management) of Cuisineer. Overall, it provides an entertaining experience suitable for casual players seeking something fun without too much complexity.
DeTechtive 2112 is a newly released indie action-adventure game that immerses players in a cyberpunk dystopia set in the year 2112. Developed by M11 Studio and 5Deniz, the game offers a blend of shooting mechanics and detective work, although it leans heavily towards action rather than traditional problem-solving.
Players assume the role of Detective Matthew Wallace, who is navigating a crumbling England post-World War III. The game features five unique cases, each designed to unravel complex narratives involving the city’s elite and Wallace’s own troubled past. While players can approach missions through stealth or direct combat, many reviews indicate that stealth is poorly implemented, often leading to overwhelming enemy encounters when players are detected.
The gameplay mechanics allow for a choice between aggressive tactics or stealthy approaches. However, many players have reported that the AI lacks sophistication, making combat feel repetitive. Enemies tend to follow predictable patterns, which can lead to frustrating gameplay experiences. The game supports co-op play for up to four players, adding a social element to the otherwise solitary detective experience.
One of the standout features of DeTechtive 2112 is its visual presentation. The game employs a striking cyberpunk aesthetic with neon-lit environments and detailed cityscapes, thanks to Unreal Engine 5 technology. This visual style effectively captures the essence of a dystopian future, creating an engaging atmosphere for exploration. However, while the graphics are praised, some audio elements have been criticized for inconsistency, such as louder footsteps compared to gunfire sounds.
The narrative structure is engaging but somewhat limited due to the short length of the game. Players can expect to complete all five cases relatively quickly, which may lead to a feeling of repetitiveness over time. Despite its narrative potential, many reviewers feel that the game’s focus on action detracts from its detective elements.
Overall, DeTechtive 2112 presents an intriguing concept with its blend of action and detective work set against a vibrant cyberpunk backdrop. However, it struggles with execution in terms of gameplay depth and AI behavior. While it may appeal to fans of fast-paced shooters looking for a stylish setting, those seeking a rich detective experience may find it lacking.
Disclosure: I received a free review copy of this product from https://www.keymailer.co
#DeTechtive2112
In October 2024, Bandai Namco launched “Unknown 9: Awakening“, a new single-player action adventure developed by Canadian studio Reflector Entertainment Ltd.
You take on the role of Quaestor Haroona, who travels the world equipped with supernatural abilities.
The game is set in a rich universe filled with supernatural elements and intriguing lore.
You play Quaestor Haroona, who was born with the gift of traveling to “The Fold”, a mysterious dimension that overlaps with ours. Haroona must master her unique connection to “The Fold”, which gives her the ability to channel its powers into our world. But such power also arouses desire, and so Haroona becomes the target of the “Ascendants”, a splinter group of the LYS (Leap Year Society), which wants to use the power of “The Fold” to change the fate of humanity.
In the tutorial, you and Haroona’s teacher Reika search for one of her old students – Vincent Lichter, who is digging for ancient knowledge in the Richat structure in the west of the Sahara with an army of mercenaries that can help him in his fight against the LYS.
Reika teaches Haroona a few very useful combat skills, including taking over opponents for a short moment and thus attacking other enemies, for example.
Haroona is not to be underestimated in close combat either, she can dish out pretty good damage with her fists and feet.
The skill list covers three areas: Stealth, Combat and Umbric. The latter includes the special combat skills that Quaestors can use. Some of these abilities are limited in their usability, for example, you need a token to take over an opponent (stepping), which you can refill if you defeat opponents.
The graphics are OK, but seem a little outdated. The landscapes are quite nicely designed, and it is exciting to experience India at the beginning of the 20th century. A few graphic errors here and there spoiled the gaming experience a little, but not too much.
Unknown 9: Awakening uses Unreal Engine 5 and supports ultra-wide displays. The game includes ray tracing, though its implementation is limited to shadows cast by the player’s bracers in dark areas. While the graphics may not push the boundaries of next-gen visuals, the game offers solid performance on high-end systems.
The soundtrack for “Unknown 9: Awakening” is a rich musical experience that captures the game’s narrative and protagonist’s journey. The game features an original soundtrack composed by Yuichiro Oku, with a special highlight being the official theme song “A Light Lies Within”, co-composed and performed by American singer BANKS.
The theme song “A Light Lies Within” is particularly significant, as it reflects the protagonist Haroona’s journey. The track is designed to capture her inner strength and quest for truth through powerful lyrics. A music video accompanying the song traces Haroona’s steps across different world locations.
The soundtrack will be available on various music streaming platforms and is also being released as a vinyl album by Bandai Namco.
The gameplay is nothing surprising, you run, sneak, crawl and squeeze your way through the game world. You can hide in the tall grass and defeat the enemy from behind. The fighting is also kept simple, short left click for a quick attack with your fists, long left click for a kick that can interrupt the enemy’s blockade.
The use of special abilities is clearly displayed to the opponent, and since there aren’t too many of them, you shouldn’t get too confused.
Players take on the role of Haroona, a young woman who possesses supernatural abilities as a Quaestor. Haroona can interact with a mysterious dimension called “The Fold”, which grants her unique powers known as Umbric Abilities. The gameplay combines elements of exploration, combat, and stealth:
The game’s structure involves moving through corridors and transitioning between arena-like combat areas, reminiscent of older action-adventure titles.
There are really great comics, two web series and books about the game and the game universe that can be found on the homepage.
Anya Chalotra plays the protagonist Haroona in “Unknown 9: Awakening”. She is a British actress best known for her role in Netflix’s The Witcher, and was described as an “obvious choice” for the role of Haroona.
The game didn’t blow me away, but it’s fun to play and entertaining, that’s all it needs. Definitely good for a first work. I recommend all the additional material that you can find on the website, it’s nice and elaborately made, and should be rewarded accordingly.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
◦ Requires 64-bit processor and operating system
◦ Operating System: Windows 10
◦ Processor: 4 or 6 cores / 8 threads / 3.6 Ghz Base clock speed
◦ Memory: 12 GB RAM
◦ Graphics: 8 GB VRAM / AMD RX 580
◦ DirectX: Version 12
◦ Disk Space: 55 GB available disk space
◦ Additional Notes: SSD Required
RECOMMENDED:
◦ Requires 64-bit processor and operating system
◦ Operating System: Windows 10
◦ Processor: 6 cores / 12 threads / 3.4 Ghz Base clock speed
◦ Memory: 16 GB RAM
◦ Graphics: 8 GB VRAM / AMD RX 5700 XT
◦ DirectX: Version 12
◦ Storage: 55 GB available space
◦ Additional Notes: SSD Required
“The Thaumaturge” is a story-driven RPG with morally ambiguous choices, taking place in the culturally diverse world of the early 20th-century Warsaw.
In this world, Salutors exist: esoteric beings that only Thaumaturges can truly perceive and use to their needs.
This story-driven RPG was developed in Unreal Engine 5 for the PC, PS5, and XBOX Series X by “Fool’s Theory” and published by “11 Bit Studios“, both are located in Poland.
A thaumaturge bears both a gift and a burden at the same time. This parallel holds true
for Wiktor Szulski, who is drawn back to the tumultuous streets of 20th-century Warsaw
by family matters. The gift of thaumaturgy significantly shapes Wiktor’s life journey tied
around, a pursuit of unearthly Salutors and their hosts.
As only a thaumaturge can tame them, utilizing their mystical abilities to discover secrets hidden within the human soul and speak to the Darkness, no one understands quite like Wiktor how everyone suffers
their own demons.
Only Thaumaturges can truly perceive the presence of esoteric Salutors and use their powers to their needs. Once captured, Salutors – whose existence is imperceptible to ordinary people – faithfully obey their masters.
Next to being capable of influencing people’s temperaments and affinities, they serve as a useful tool during fights. And be prepared to be dragged into many of those from the dark alleys of infamous
districts like Praga and more.
This isometric, story-rich RPG will portray Warsaw under the yoke of imperial Russian
tsardom. Its inhabitants constitute a diverse group of different ancestries, views, and
beliefs with often conflicting interests.
Here hopes and dreams mix with dark desires, because darkness constantly lurks and waits to stigmatize its victims. “The Thaumaturge” will offer a unique take on turn-based combat, character development features, and investigation mechanics, and confront gamers with morally ambiguous choices.
I simply love it.
The gameplay is easy, just navigate with a left mouse-click to a spot or walk with WASD. However, if you use the keyboard, you cannot walk in a straight line and often have to use W with D or A to zic-zac through Warsaw’s streets. With a right mouse-click, you can use your powerful Thaumaturge senses, who lead to hidden objects or forgotten stuff, or you follow the thoughts of people, and it leads to side quests.
The battle system is round based, and you can use your Salutors to aid yourself, or harm your opponents.
It’s relatively easy and good explained. Think about some strategies, and even 4 enemies with guns and knives are no problem. Also, don’t forget to max out your skills.
It’s more story-driven rather than RPG, your choices in answers are limited. But that’s not a problem at all, since the story is excellent. It’s a lot of fun to see or interact with some of the famous people of that time.
It exceeded my expectations… and don’t forget to visit your barber or tailor sometimes.
Minimum:
Recommended:
CD PROJEKT RED, in collaboration with Virtuos, has released a significant free update for Cyberpunk 2077, labeled Update 2.2. This update brings a host of improvements, including new character customization options, enhanced Photo Mode functionality, and various gameplay refinements. Available for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC, this update is a testament to CD PROJEKT RED’s continued commitment to improving and expanding the Cyberpunk 2077 experience.
