I haven’t played my XSX since September of 2023. I recently turned it on when Stalker 2 released and it’s been the main game I’ve been playing earnestly (and it’s fantastic). I have 12 achievements for it so far (out of 50). I’m really looking forward to playing more of that, and Indiana Jones when it releases soon!
This game really is something special even with the bugs. I’m glad the developer is working with urgency in order to fix them, but I have gotta say - I am impressed with this game quite a bit. I do have a few critiques, which I shared in a thread I created earlier, but it doesn’t diminish the overall package of this game.
@gollumb82 Same here. It is one of the most immersive games I’ve ever played. The only “bug” I’ve actually encountered is when I die and respawn, my gun, although equipped, doesn’t appear for a brief second. Other than that, I haven’t had any issues. And if I did, they were probably anomalies 😉
This weekend I’m playing Space Marines 2. This game rules. It harkens back to the 360 days with the early Gears of War titles. The combat is visceral and satisfying, with unique gameplay elements sprinkled throughout its 8-hour campaign (perfect length, too) to never make it boring. And the writing, despite being campy and bombastic, is actually well written, with a cool story. The banter between your party members is also great to listen to because of the distrust between your band of brothers, but remaining composed and uncompromising in their beliefs in order to get the job done.
This is awesome news. I’ve been waiting for this patch, and since I’m new to Stalker, I’ve been hearing about A-Live 2.0, and after doing research I found that it is a really cool feature in these games. I’ll definitely be playing this once I finish up Space Marine 2.
I personally like Old Blood immensely. The New Order is fantastic, and The New Colossus is also great, although I think there are way too many “quiet” moments. The pacing is a little off, but it was an unforgettable experience. Chapter 9 (maybe 10?) was particularly gut wrenching.
I’m incredibly excited for Indiana Jones. Other than Youngblood, I love MachineGames and their Wolfenstein output. I really hope this game gets Xbox a much needed W. The game looks fantastic, and I’m curious to see how their first person combat system works—they are the masters at it.
This weekend I’m playing Dragon Age: Origins for the very first time, thanks to Xbox Series X and Game Pass. Holy smokes—this game is impressive. For context, my first Dragon Age game was Inquisition, subsequently followed up ten years later with Veilguard (both games I love). I even got the platinum for Veilguard. However, now that I’m playing Origins, I can wholeheartedly understand why people consider Veilguard’s writing and characters inferior.
@oopsiezz That’s how I’m interpreting it as well. I think it goes to show that people are still willing to buy games rather than signing up for a subscription service. I mean, look at Stalker 2, which already sold a couple of million dollars in two days. The truth is, as much as Game Pass is great for consumers, it ultimately is not sustainable.
Xbox 360 is one of the best consoles ever made, in my opinion. It also has an incredibly strong output of first party games, and second and third party games were much better to play on that console than elsewhere. Unfortunately, Xbox One couldn’t follow suit, and the same with the Series X, but thankfully there is backward compatibility support.
I’m very much looking forward to this. I love Obsidian, and I thought The Outer Worlds was awesome. I’m excited to see how they tackle a more fantastical setting.
It does seem like the game itself is great, but technical issues are what is holding it back. So, at least the package itself should deliver, once the kinks are ironed out properly. I’m excited to test the game myself.
Yikes. I mean, I know you guys have been playing it prior to the patches so that plays a factor, but I hope this game reviews well. This is a game that I feel deserves a win after everything the developer has gone through over the course of several years.
Stalker 2 is a big one, and I have it installed and ready to go. I didn’t realize Nine Sols was going to be added to Game Pass, but I’m glad it is. I’ve been wanting to play that game for a while.
Alright. I’m just going to say it. I’m still playing Dragon Age: Veilguard, and I think it is one of BioWare’s best games. I’m roughly 96-hours deep, halfway through Act 2, and I’m wrapping up companion and faction quests. I’ve collected nearly every single Memento and codex entry—and I’ve read them all.
And also, for those on the fence, please don’t listen to people that say this game is “woke” or whatever kind of agenda. There is only about two minutes worth of cutscenes—out of an 70+ hour RPG—that talks about “gender”, and it’s handled well aside from a few word choices. And fun fact, these types of issues have been present in the Dragon Age universe from the very beginning. Speaking of, the lore in this game is incredible, with tons of references to Origins and its historicity to discover in texts, notes, and just the environment itself.
Moreover, once you get to Act 2, or at the very least the main story decision that has implications, the writing becomes peak BioWare—if you invest the time to seek out conversations with your party members. It’s not just dialogue options, it’s the banter between various party members and how different their personalities shine through while exploring. And the quest line for Solas and discovering his memories and discussing them with your party at the table is some of the best writing BioWare has done.
I also like the way the story is handled with your choices and consequences. Without spoiling too much, some of my story decisions have already had great repercussions—some good and bad—and have even presented themselves in side quests, in surprising ways. But I’m also weird. I don’t always need my decisions to make a long lasting impact. Sometimes, it’s simply the moment itself that I need. Those choices I feel the weight of because it makes me think, regardless as to whether or not it affects the overall narrative.
There is so much I could say about this game and why it’s brilliant. And why people should ignore the negative discourse surrounding the game, particularly with its political agendas. Just play the game if you are interested. I think I have to agree wholeheartedly with Eurogamer and WhatCulture’s review on the game. It really is special, and as advertising as it sounds, it is a return to form for BioWare.
For the last week and a half I’ve been in a gaming slump and I wasn’t aware of it initially. It has been strange. Once I obtained the platinum trophy for Silent Hill 2 Remake, I subsequently dove head first into Metaphor ReFantazio. And then it hit me.
I was enjoying it, particularly its UI, combat, characters, story, setting, and political strifes. However, it wasn’t fully grasping my attention. I was feeling overwhelmed. I found this peculiar because P4G is my favorite RPG of all time, and P5R is exceptional. I’m accustomed to the calendar structure, knowing content will be missed by choosing to do one activity over another. It was bothering me immensely even though time management is a core game design.
This feeling carried over with the Archetype mechanics. I was I immensely engulfed by options and it was ruining my experience. It was difficult for me to switch up my vocation because I had certain archetypes maxed out, with great skills, but switching classes and starting from scratch felt counterintuitive because I’d have to change armor, weapons, and be underpowered. I appreciate the flexibility, but not when it’s almost essential.
My brain just couldn’t handle any of it. In fact, it’s odd because of my affection with Atlus games (not just Persona), and while I was liking the majority of aspects of the game, I just wasn’t having fun. Ultimately, I set the game aside and will come back to it another time.
I then scrolled through my cross-media bar on my PS5 and saw Kunitsi-Gami: Path of the Goddess. I’m a huge Capcom fan and love their odd side projects. The glowing reviews for this game definitely piqued my interest. I played for five hours and was enjoying it; but it wasn’t holding my attention as well.
This trend repeated itself two more times; once with Shadow of the Damned: Hella Remastered; and secondly Ys X: Nordics (my favorite RPG series). At this point, I decided to take a break from gaming altogether and decompress. Maybe the depressing nature of Silent Hill 2 Remake took more of a toll on me than anticipated.
And suddenly, something changed. Monday rolled around and the reviews for Dragon Age: The Veilguard went live. The positive reception the game has been receiving from critics (and definitely not random strangers on the internet who hadn’t played the game but want to hate on anyone who likes it; seriously, the vile things said all over YouTube channels—Eurogamer, IGN, and other mainstream outlets—is absolutely out of control and incredibly disheartening) brought back that sense of excitement for games.
I started Dragon Age: The Veilguard on release day and have put 15-hours in it. I’m having an absolute blast. I’m an Elven rogue, part of the Antivan Crows association, with a slight affection for Neve. I’m slowly swooning her, but unlike my organization I work for, I won’t be stabbing her in the back.
I finished my first playthrough in Silent Hill 2 Remake several days ago. I managed to get the “In Water” ending my first go-around. It was quite fantastic, and easily one of my favorite games of the year, if not my favorite. After I completed it, I subsequently reloaded my save and got the two additional mainline endings, which added a lot of context to a powerful story. I’m looking forward to getting the three remaining endings only obtainable by NG+, and hopefully get the platinum trophy while I’m at it.
I also just started Metaphor: Refantazio two days ago. I’m only seven hours in, reaching the completing the Nord Mines and even tested my mettle against the dragon—an optional boss fight—and won. I’m now met Hulkenberg and am trekking under the cathedral. With that said, being as I’m early on, I’m unable to give a proper review. However; I’m extremely impressed by nearly every aspect of this game.
The one thing that immediately stood out to me was its pacing—it doesn’t waste time throwing you into its world, characters, story and combat. I appreciate this approach more than Persona 5, a game I adore, but can never replay due to its long tutorial.
I also love how much artistic expression there is. In clever ways, too. The game has a ton of loading screens but you’re practically oblivious to it because each transitioning screen has cutscene elements that flow naturally with what you’re doing—combat encounters, walking into a new area, and even the pause menu. This might be the most stylish game I’ve ever played.
I’m looking forward to seeing the game evolve over time. This game is shaping up to be a special JRPG, and I believe Atlus is becoming the king of RPGs in the west. Bring on Persona 6, or whatever else they are cooking up; I’ll be here for the journey.
This weekend I’m playing the iconic Silent Hill 2 (Remake). This is my first foray into this franchise, despite owning the original on PS2 back when I was a kid. And I have a lot to say.
The beginning two hours were incredibly dull to me. However, once I got to explore the apartment complex—and having just completed Brookhaven Hospital—it quickly became a tour-de-force in the survival horror genre once I tasted what this game had to offer.
The game has a unique setting, where the town of Silent Hill is a character just as much as you are. One thing that stuck out to me was how there is quest log or an objective marker. This allows a sense of freedom in a relatively linear experience, yet vast at the same time, so there’s a sense of feeling confined and trapped, but always rewarding.
All of this is enhanced by its brilliant art direction and visuals. The fog surrounding the town makes each step feel purposeful. When you enter buildings, each location feels different but believable. Brookhaven Hospital—more or less a psychiatric ward—is a perfect example of this. There is a sense of dread and abandonment, and you can feel the anguish of those who resided there. It felt old-timey and unsanitary, providing an extra level of immersion. A lot of games I feel suffer from making you feel as if you’re truly in this fictional world, but this remake manages to capture that essence.
Furthermore, I really appreciate the approach of no jump scares. The horror comes from the tension of discovering the truth about what’s occurring in the town, the characters that inhabit it, and why. But it’s also the idea that something could happen. It plays with you psychologically. It masterfully teeters the line of reality and paranoia, particularly since enemies are humanoid in nature.
As for the story, it immediately compels you because the main protagonist, James Sunderland, is self aware of his situation and how absurd it is. However, he is still grieving the loss of his wife and those types of processes can make people do inexplicable things they otherwise wouldn’t. Regardless of the dire situation he is in, his calm demeanor draws you in. He has determination, and is willing to see his journey through to the end no matter the cost, all the while not going off in the deep end mentally. It’s a really interesting balance. He is casually dressed which also lends to his personality.
The moment to moment gameplay is also fantastic. Combat has a real crunch to it—but it never feels janky or unintuitive. You can feel the weight behind bludgeoning enemies with melee weapons, and you can even hear the exhaustion in James’ voice when he finishes them while they are squirming on the ground. You’re also never overwhelmed with enemies, so each encounter feels unique. It’s simple, but effective.
So far, I’m only halfway through the game but I’m very impressed, top to bottom. I’m deeply invested in the characters and unfolding story. In a space where there are a ton of survival horror games, this one stands out amongst the rest. I can see why the game received high praise in 2001, and I will now sing its praises for the first time in 2024. It might go down in my top 10 of all time.
This weekend, I find myself diving deeper into Black Myth: Wukong—a game that’s captivated me more than any other title this year, even more than Dragon’s Dogma 2. Even after completing one full playthrough, I’m now embarking on New Game Plus, something I rarely do unless I’m truly hooked.
When I first started playing Black Myth: Wukong, I didn’t expect it to become my Game of the Year (GOTY), but now, I can’t imagine any other title taking the crown. The depth, boss encounters, and the incredible combat system have all made it a standout experience. I’ve already finished one playthrough, where I managed to unlock every secret area and boss fight—including a secret, God of War-style ending—without using a guide. I’m still amazed at how I managed that! Despite this, I’m looking forward to relying on a guide for my NG+ playthrough, as I aim for the coveted platinum trophy.
What sets Black Myth: Wukong apart for me is the sheer immersion. The world feels alive with mysteries waiting to be uncovered, and the combat constantly challenges me in the best way possible. One moment, in particular, that truly blew me away was stumbling upon the optional Yellow Loong boss fight. It was nighttime, and I found myself battling this massive creature on a ragged cliffside under the light of the moon. The way the lightning from Yellow Loong’s attacks lit up the sky created a thrilling, almost cinematic atmosphere. There are countless moments like this scattered throughout the game, especially if you take the time to explore.
At the same time, I’ve been alternating with Ys: Memories of Celceta on my trusty Vita, which has proven to be a delightful surprise. Having already played and platinumed Ys VIII, my first introduction into this storied franchise, I wasn’t expecting to enjoy Memories of Celceta more, but surprisingly, I do—especially in terms of the story and the characters. The game has a light-hearted charm that’s kept me smiling, and on more than one occasion, I’ve found myself laughing out loud at the dialogue and character interactions.
What really makes this game shine is its sense of adventure. The world feels vast, with lush forests, ancient ruins, and a rich, mystical atmosphere that makes exploration rewarding. Sure, there are a few frustrating mechanics like the limited fast travel early on, but by mid-game, this is resolved, and the flow of the game really picks up. I also found the upgrade system to be a bit clunky at times, but these minor issues don’t detract from the overall experience. I’m aiming for the platinum trophy in this one too, hopefully before Ys: Nordics drops next month.
Coming up, I’ll be diving into Space Marine 2, a game that looks absolutely stellar with its intense, action-packed battles in a futuristic setting. I’ve also picked up Astro Bot, which I’m excited to explore with my daughter once I’m done with my current adventures. This has been a sensational year for gaming.
This weekend I’m playing Black Myth: Wukong. Wow. What. A. Game. While it shares some superficial similarities with Soulslike games, I think it’s more accurately described as a modern boss-rush game with a structure akin to God of War. The focus seems to be on tightly designed levels, thrilling boss battles, and an emphasis on exploration and secrets, rather than the punishing difficulty found in FromSoftware titles.
As for difficulty, the game doesn't penalize you harshly for dying, which contrasts sharply with the traditional Soulslike experience. This makes it more accessible and possibly more enjoyable for players who appreciate a challenge but don't want to be frustrated by constant setbacks.
Speaking of accessibility, there is a robust combat system with different stances and upgradable abilities, all of which makes your playthrough unique in how you approach fighting enemies. The ability to defeat mini-bosses and acquire their spirits as abilities adds a strategic layer to combat, making each encounter feel meaningful.
For me, Chapter Two is where the game was elevated from good to great. Despite its linearity, there is a wide mix of side quests, secrets with additional areas to explore, and boss fights. This design from the developers created an engaging experience for me that is very memorable. The game's ability to balance linearity with exploration—offering secret areas and hidden bosses—adds to the sense of discovery. Let’s keep in mind, this is Game Sciences’ first foray into the console gaming space.
This leads me to presentation. When it comes to enemies, there is a large diversity in enemy design, particularly the boss fights like Tiger Vanguard, Whiteclad Noble, Kang-Jin Star, Cyan Loong, and Fuban to name a few, keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting, especially environmentally. In fact, some (optional) boss fights, if given time, can perform moves that will open up new areas to explore. But what I really want to praise is the artistic direction—for its minimalistic yet stylish approach. The stop-motion cutscenes, in particular, are a real highlight that I don’t often see spoken about enough.
There are areas where the game can improve, but it never hindered my experience. There are a lot of invisible walls. While this may be a detriment for some, I think the controlled exploration is a result of budget constraints. The trade off is worth it given the high production value in other facets. The absence of a map is another (mild) complaint. While the game is linear, and the sense of discovery is rewarding, a map would ensure that no hidden item or character is missed.
Ultimately, this game has impressed me significantly, and is this year’s Lies of P. It’s been a phenomenal experience, with rich cultural elements, and varied, vibrant environments. It’s a game that has successfully combined fictional storytelling with modern action-adventure mechanics, and is undoubtedly one of the best games of the year. Sorry, Dragon’s Dogma 2, I have a new GOTY.
@PsBoxSwitchOwner Exactly this. I believe this is one of the key reasons Xbox has gone downhill. Sure, Game Pass is a great option for the consumer, but it’s not a good business model overall. I’d love to see the statistics on how many people who do have Game Pass, played a game released on the subscription service, and then subsequently purchased it outright whilst still remaining on GP. I’d say the statistics are fairly low, and this one reason out of many why Xbox is a dying platform and will become a third party publisher in the near future, as evidence has already suggested.
This was an inevitably, so I’m not surprised. I do feel bad for console players, much like myself, though. Anyone in their right mind should have expected this price increase, and it’s only going to go up in price once a slew of Activision games comes to the service, and especially so when Call of Duty arrives. I won’t be surprised if it’ll go up to $30.00 or more by the end of next year.
First and foremost, I finally beat my personal GOTY, Dragon’s Dogma 2. It took me 130 hours and I still want to play more. As I said last week, this game is going down as my favorite RPG of all time. The sense of adventure is unlike anything I’ve experienced before. There are so many stories within the stories due to unscripted events whilst undertaking missions, and it truly makes the adventure my own. It’s a rare feat to create something that unique and special.
With all of that said, I am annoyed with the game, in a personal way that doesn’t necessarily reflect the product itself. I’ll explain. I managed to achieve the true ending (the unmoored world). There is a ton of post game content and story, with two trophies related to this — one for completing all trials and another for evacuating all townsfolk in the five main locations you visit, within a seven day period. I did everything in two days. And these trophies coincide with each other, so if you unlock one you subsequently unlock the next. Unfortunately, I only got the trophy for completing all trials. My motivation to do a NG+ run to get the platinum trophy has been nullified because of this. I’m sure I’ll replay the game at some point, especially if DLC is released. Right now, however, I need a break.
Lastly, I’ve started Tomb Raider Legend on the PlayStation Plus catalog. I’m surprised by how truly great this game is. For context, I had never played the original so I don’t have a frame of reference for comparison, but what I’ve played has impressed me.
For a PS2-era game, it has a lot of cinematic flair and set pieces. There are diverse locales to visit, motorcycle chases, parkour, things blowing up or falling apart and a fun use QTEs to escape nefarious situations. You can definitely see how the Uncharted series is heavily inspired by this franchise.
An aspect I love about Lara, similar to Nathan Drake, is her witty one-liners. One line that made me laugh happened when I was exploring an underground tomb. As I was solving a puzzle my partner radioed in saying enemies were heading to my position. Lara simply responds, “This is a tomb; I’ll make them feel at home”. Another quip she had while in Africa was, “If all else fails, I can get into the postcard business”. It’s very endearing.
As for the mechanics, the game has great controls and the gunplay is pretty solid. Lara has a plethora of tools at her disposal that enhances the gameplay. One instrument is a magnetic rope that can help you reach new heights or can be used in the environment to solve puzzles and defeat enemies. The only complaint I have is the hand-to-hand combat. It doesn’t seem very intuitive, and the game wants you to rely on guns.
Sadly, the game on runs at 480p and 30fps. It still looks great all things considered. I’ve been playing on my PlayStation Portal and the OLED screen really makes the game more vibrant. I’m bias, however, as I have a strong affinity with PS2 style graphics. There is something distinctly charming about these 3D environments and disproportionate character models.
Overall, the game is resonating with me a lot right now. There is a level of interactivity that makes the game feel more personal. I’m really looking forward to seeing how the game evolves over time, if it does at all. I can see myself replaying this gem multiple times because it’s just a darn good time.
I decided to mop up a side quest that had me looking for rare grimoires. One of my pawns suggested I go back to the beginning — Melve, the first settlement I came across because a shopkeeper is supposedly selling a tome I’m after. My first time there, I saved the town by repelling a dragon, and helped rescue a woman, whom later relocated for various reasons. As I arrive, I discover the town is much different from when I initially was there. I wasn’t even allowed in unless I bribed my way in with gold, and so I did.
The townsfolk that resided there was being held captive, abused and being treated like slaves by the Queen Regent’s guardsmen. As a result, I couldn’t purchase any items from the shopkeeper. However, I did find the original ruler of the town inside the local cathedral and he presented an opportunity. He was organizing a group to fight back against their captors, but there was a problem — all of their weapons had been confiscated. He suggested I secretly bring him a few swords and I agree to aide him. He needed four total and I already had two in my inventory, so the job was halfway finished.
As I’m leaving the town, I get approached by two men. Brothers, in fact. The same brothers I decided to help out when I first began my journey. They told me they know where their weapons were being held, a storeroom safeguarded by two soldiers. Since I helped them out earlier they wanted to repay the kindness by causing a distraction, allowing me to slip in unnoticed. It sounded dangerous, but I couldn’t turn down the offer. One brother began clapping, causing a ruckus and drawing their attention, before hurriedly fleeing and having the guards chase him.
Once the enemies were out of sight, I creeped inside, procured the remaining weapons and handed them out to the select townsfolk that wanted to rise against their captors. When the moment was right, the people of Melve took one last final stand, eventually making the guardsmen retreat. The town was restored to its natural order, but the people felt unsafe there. They had recently survived a dragon attack, and the Queen would most certainly exact revenge. The residents decided to pack up their bags and relocate to another settlement — the same village the female resident I saved long ago was now residing. But before they left, I managed to purchase the grimoire I had been searching for.
Several days later, I make my way to this new village. The people I rescued were there, and everyone was happy. The female resident I saved from a dragon attack was also present - a woman who was clearly smitten with me since that fateful day. She, too, thanked me for my services and asked if I’d like to accompany her on the beach later that evening. Of course, I obliged. With the stars and skies above, our toes in the sand, and a campfire burning behind us, there were two other things on fire — our hearts for one another. One thing lead to another and we decided to become romantically involved.
All of this happened naturally and randomly. If I hadn’t had taken my Pawn’s advice I would have missed a really intriguing quest line. Moreover, the brothers I helped during my fifth hour in the game made their presence known 95 hours later. These types of moments have occurred often, in ways that were unexpected. This is why Dragon’s Dogma has blown me away and has become my favorite RPG of all time. Long live the Arisen.
Dragon’s Dogma 2. My maxed out Thief and trusty Sorcerer, Schemer, have just reached Battahl. I sneaked in by pretending to be a slave on a phantom oxcart. It was a good time. And now we are on the hunt for a Medusa’s head in order to petrify a griffin for a sculptor. This game is an all-timer for me.
I’m not sure what I want to play this weekend. I did finish my first playthrough of Stellar Blade. I got both endings (thank you, cloud saving). And those final boss fight(s), depending on the ending you choose, was superb. It took me approximately 65+ hours to do all side quests and collectibles. All I need to do now is NG+ and I’ll have the platinum trophy. With that said, I need a break. It’s a masterpiece of an action game, especially considering this is Shift Up’s first console game, but I’m ready for something different.
For a palette cleanser I earnestly started and completed Crow Country, obtaining the platinum trophy while I was at it. I needed a bite sized game and it only took five hours to beat. I have to say - this is one of the best survival horror games of the year, perhaps in the past half decade. It’s easily up there with Signalis, but I think it’s better due to its more grounded story that isn’t vague and full of questions.
There are some genuine unsettling moments, which is a hard accomplishment for me because I’m desensitized to a lot of horror themed stuff. Moreover, the atmosphere, tone, sound design (OST), and enemy designs are brilliant, only adding to the tension. And it’s excellently written. It has a compelling mystery that’s compounded with environmental story telling, newspaper clippings, journals, secrets, and ever evolving surroundings the more you progress the story. I strongly recommend this game.
Lastly, I decided to purchase Star Ocean: The Second Story R. I’ve been itching for a good JRPG, and everything about this remake looks superlative. I’m particularly keen on the science fiction aspect too. At the moment I’m two hours in, starting with Claude Kenny, and have beaten the first boss. My only complaint is that the game is relatively easy so I might have to adjust the difficulty setting to give myself more of a challenge.
I’m playing Stellar Blade this weekend. My goal is to wrap up my first play-through and start NG+ to obtain the platinum trophy. This game continues to impress, and gets better the more you progress rather than become stagnant like a lot of action games. I’m currently in the fourth region and the meaningful side quests and exploration has transcended my thoughts on this game in a positive light.
I also picked up Crow Country due to all the high praise it’s receiving. I’ve jump (scared) my way into this game last night and it’s fantastic, particularly playing it on my PlayStation Portal. It has that classic Resident Evil feel, with a touch of Twin Peaks, X-Files, and strangely, a low-polygon Final Fantasy 7. Every year there is a game that comes along that is relatively obscure but ends up making a splash, and this game falls into that category.
@PsBoxSwitchOwner I have to actually agree here with you. The game seems worthy to be checked out, whether it is on Game Pass or not. I also understand the reviewer’s point of view — but I think any body being a critic should also be susceptible to criticism.
I’ve worked seven straight days, but I’m taking this weekend and the subsequent Monday and Tuesday off to celebrate my birthday. I won’t be playing much due to family gatherings and what-have-you, but I did manage to platinum Rise of the Ronin yesterday.
I have to retract my statement from last week — I no longer think it’s Team Ninja’s best game (but it is a great game, nonetheless). The story is extremely convoluted, and the RPG elements, particularly with dialogue choices and story decision(s) have no true meaning. With that said, I did enjoy its open world and activities. Similarly to NiOh 2, the game is way too long. I wish there was a more tighter experience, but I think this trend is going to continue on if the ending to RoTN is any indication.
As of now, I’ll either take a break from gaming until Stellar Blade releases, or I will try Dave The Diver on my PS5. With the acclaim it has received over the last year, I’m tempted to give it a try because it seems cozy and the perfect game to unwind with on my PlayStation Portal. Plus, it’s something different and that’s something I need since I essentially played 200+ hours of third person action RPGs over the course of the last three games (Final Fantasy 7 Remake/Rebirth and RoTR).
I also finished the book series Shogun by James Clavell. A part of me feels empty now — the characters and world building were so well realized that it’s difficult to think these are fictional characters. I’ve grown attached to many of the interconnected stories within, and it’s hard to let them go. It’s such an incredible story, and might go down as my favorite book(s) of all time.
@fbnaulin I also do it on the Nintendo sister-site. My point is to talk about games. For the past months I’ve been on a PlayStation kick with their games, but if I was playing an Nintendo or Xbox game I would also post it on the other sites as well. I enjoy discussing games regardless of the platform. I have a passion for the medium and I enjoy reading what people are playing as well — it gives me insight on certain games I may not have had my eye on that I should maybe pay attention to.
I haven’t played much this week due to work and family visiting from out of state. Unfortunately, I won’t have much time this weekend, either. If I manage to squeeze in some gaming sessions, I’ll be attempting to finish Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.
I’m currently on the last chapter and it has been an evocative experience. I’ve put in roughly 105 hours into the game, with all side quests and world region activities completed. In a way, I’m excited to see the end of the journey, but sad as well, as I’ve grown even more attached to these characters than I did in the PS1 original version.
Once I finish Rebirth I plan on starting Rise of the Ronin. Everything I have read about this game seems to be exactly what I enjoy about Team Ninja games, but expanded upon in ways I’m thrilled to experience. I’ve also been reading James Clavell’s Shogun. I finished part one a few days ago — nearly 700 pages, and I’m a quarter of the way through part two — so my mindset is honed in on this era of history that should be a good time to delve into.
After several days off work, a break from gaming, and a relaxing vacation with my wife, I’m back to playing Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. I didn’t think I’d have much to say since I’ve spoken about the game for the past two weeks, but alas, I do.
According to my PS5 clock, I have 80 hours logged into this game and I have no desire to slow down. I’m currently on chapter 11. Rebirth seems to hits its prime starting in chapter 9 and onward, from gameplay, map design, and story perspective. It’s as if there was a newfound confidence in the development where they discovered the perfect balance between juggling open world activities and the main story.
I’m absorbed in the characters and world. I’ve completed all possible tasks per each region. The best thing about these side quests and activities is that if you do them, such as finding the protorelics or play Queen’s Blood, you’ll obtain rich backstories that really expand on your party members. I’m compelled to invest my time because the game respects it. There are a plethora of intimate moments between all of your characters. It’s truly remarkable how much depth is in this game. And it never stops being mogical, ahem, I mean magical
That’s not to say there aren’t faults in the game — there certainly is. In later regions traversal can be infuriating because it forces you to use the chocobo to reach differing locations that are mandatory. It doesn’t feel organic. I appreciate how the game incorporates fresh ways to explore via chocobo, so there is always a new mechanic to keep you engaged.
The regions themselves are gorgeous and fun to explore, however. Each location feels genuinely distinct from one another, and this is strengthened by its exemplary soundtrack that feels compatible with the environment. It’s easily one of the best OSTs for a Final Fantasy game I’ve ever heard.
Another criticism I have is the bloat. There is an over abundance of activities and mini-games to do. Some of the content could be trimmed, but thankfully the majority of it is optional. But less is more. Later in the game when you get to explore the Nibelheim region, my feelings is that it has the perfect amount of content. The map isn’t too large and everything is condensed in a small package. With all that said, these flaws don’t diminish the genius of this game. I’d rather have too much of Final Fantasy 7 than not enough, and the bloat isn’t a mandatory component.
I haven’t even scratched the surface of what I’d like to discuss about this game (story, materia builds, combat, and the little nuances), but my write-up is already long enough so I’ll end it here for now. Perhaps I should start up my own website to have deeper discussions without a character limit. Nevertheless, I will say this: Rebirth is just that — a game favored by nostalgia, but can stand on its own as a brand new experience that, to me, outshines the original in many ways.
I haven’t played much since last weekend. My work schedule has been hectic, and my wife and I took a mini vacation during the weekday(s). She surprised me with NBA tickets to my favorite team, so we spent several days out of town relaxing. But it’s healthy to take a break from gaming once in a while.
If I do find time this weekend, I’ll be spending it playing Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. I am currently in the infamous Gold Saucer area and it has been a magical experience so far. My feelings on the game have only grown deeper — this is an amazing reimagining of an all-time classic. I’m really looking forward to seeing how the story unfolds.
This weekend I’m playing Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. I’m seven chapters deep, and I’ve 100%’ed each region. I’m taking my time and really absorbing this sprawling world. It can feel a little too bloated at times, but the story (which I won’t discuss due to spoilers) and moment to moment gameplay is a genuine blast.
So far, the game is living up to my lofty expectations. The combat is a lot more balanced than its predecessor, and more dynamic too. It might be my favorite battle system in an RPG ever. It’s a wonderful mix between exhilarating action and classic turn-based decisions. It’s an impressive feat that keeps you constantly engaged.
One thing I really appreciate is how everything has a purpose. Mini-games such as Queen’s Blood and Fort Condor (and more) have their own mysterious yet compelling storylines, and are worth experience. Side stories are somewhat bland from a design perspective, but feature brilliant character development.
I’ll try and be as spoiler free as possible — there are two quests I’ve been involved in that expound on the characters. The first one revolves around Barret’s relationship with Marlene, and how he expresses his love for her and is worried about her future. The second relates to Cloud’s incentive on his asking price of 2,000 gil for his mercenary work. It becomes an inside joke within the party which is heartwarming in and of itself, but there is also a backstory to that particular price that has emotional weight behind it.
While there may be a Far Cry-esque nature to its open world, nothing feels like wasted space. The game simply respects your time. I can’t wait to explore further into some iconic locations from the PS1 original, and even though I know what is to come, I still find myself curious as to how things will unfold. To me, that is a sign of a masterful game that respects its legacy and modern audience.
I also purchased Vanillaware’s Unicorn Overlord. I’ve only put two hours in. Initially, it was a little jarring, not being able to strategically choose your actions like your typical turn based (S)RPGs, but once I came to terms with it and found enjoyment in unit management, the game really started to become special. This is shaping up to be a brilliant ride.
Earlier in the week I finished up Resistance: Retribution and got the platinum trophy. It was a solid game, but makes me yearn for a remastered trilogy that I know more than likely won’t happen.
With that said, my main focus this weekend will be Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. I don’t often find myself genuinely excited about upcoming games, but I’ve been antsy for a while regarding this sequel, and my wife has been getting quite annoyed with my excitement (ha-ha). I’ve finished the first two chapters and it’s been an unexpected magical experience. Perhaps that’s the nostalgia speaking, but I’m enamored.
From what I’ve played so far, the game seems brilliantly paced. There have also been compelling story moments that provide genuine intrigue, and a heartfelt cast that I’m happy to see again. This is bolstered by an exemplary soundtrack that hits all of the right notes and exactly the right times.
In terms of gameplay, the combat is more refined, with the difficulty seemingly more balanced than its predecessor. There are so many added layers that enhance the action in brilliant ways. Sometimes it can be hard to manage all of the possibilities, but once things click then it’s an extraordinary battle system that just may be my favorite in an RPG.
I also love seeing the PS1 classic come to life in full force — the scope of this game is staggering. Unfortunately, much like any sequel that wants to expand on the original’s idea(s), but also become an open world game, the experience can feel daunting and overwhelming. There are a ton of systems and mechanics at work, and they all have their own leveling system. But the variety to customize your play style is really awesome and adds a lot of depth to how you approach the game.
My only complaint at the moment is the slow movement. Similar to the first game, when the game forces you to walk slowly in certain parts of the story, that mechanic is back. Sadly, those moments are intertwined with gameplay, such as climbing up yellow painted rocks, or more interactive story beats.
There isn’t much left to say since I’m not that far, but I’m highly impressed. Sure, the game could crumble beneath its feet, but if it can keep up this momentum then I think we are in for something incredibly special. I can’t wait to see how it ultimately turns out.
Throughout the week I beat Final Fantasy 7 Remake and it was absolutely phenomenal. I had a rocky history with this remake. To provide some context - I played the game when it originally came out in 2020, and I got to chapter 14 before the game bricked my PS4. I lost all desire to replay the game until recently.
During my replay, especially the last third of the game — the point I was at years ago — was incredibly strong, and the emotional beats were perfect, with foreboding visions yet to come to fruition. There was a scene where Cloud said, “Bring it on, B****!” and it gave me chills. There is no way I’ll attempt to platinum this game because I find the combat way too difficult. I really can’t wait to play Rebirth, and I’m glad to see the reviews for the game are immensely positive.
As for what I’m playing this weekend, I’ll be focusing on Resistance: Retribution. The platinum trophy is pretty easy to obtain too, so that, along with it being a short enough experience to play through before Rebirth comes out makes it a good palette cleanser. Furthermore, it’s just a great game. I wish this franchise would make a return, particularly the first game, and with trophy support. Why there isn’t a remastered trilogy on current generation consoles is beyond me. The entire premise is tantalizing, with an awesome setting, compelling characters, and varied weapons that’s bolstered by fun gameplay.
I also purchased Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden on the PS5. I’m not very far — an hour or two at most, but so far it’s pretty interesting. It definitely has that AA quality feel, similar to A Plague Tale, which is quite satisfactory to me. The combat is also reminiscent of the modern God of War games. And the characters seem to be well written and acted, too. I think this could be one of those sleeper hit gems, but unfortunately it’s releasing at a time when a lot of big games and news are taking over the media outlets.
This weekend I’m playing Final Fantasy 7 Remake. The PS1 title is a seminal experience that I felt was fine the way it is. Somehow, the remake managed to subvert my expectations and really expand on what made the original so whimsical.
First and foremost, Cloud Strife really is a great character. I love his stoic personality. His past is ominous and you can tell he has been through a lot that has affected him because when it comes down to business at hand he is steadfast and ready to go. He is quipped with one-liners that shows how hardened he is as an Ex-SOLDIER, but the supporting characters around him essentially force him to soften his shell, albeit unwillingly at times.
As for other characters, they all have unique personalities with interpersonal stories that have you invested immediately through story missions that focus on them personally. And you can feel their motivations and comradery—they feel like a real team. One thing that stands out are the unique personality traits of the female protagonists.
Jessie, for example, is energetic and bubbly. She seemingly won’t take no for an answer, and is an act first, think later type of woman. And she’s good at using her appealing magnetism to benefit her necessities. Tifa is an optimist but also grounded. She battles between what’s right and wrong, but remains diligent in her decisions. She has a sense of maturity that the other characters don’t. And then there is Aerith, whom has this nonchalant attitude, with humorous jokes and an irresistible disposition and innocence that makes you want to protect her, even though she can clearly handle herself.
The story is fantastic, too. It balances telling two stories at once. The remake takes place in a small section of the original - Midgar - and it tells the story of how a ragtag crew of eco-terrorists are trying to stop a mega-corporation from draining the world of its essence in order to to use its energy source as a form of profit. That’s the basis of the game, and yet the remake manages to tell this portion of the story in a full blown game that feels complete even though this section is a minor fraction of the main game.
My only quibble is the combat. The action is fun, snappy and responsive, but I have a difficult time managing several party members, their health, abilities, and positioning. It seems to me the combat is unbalanced because the game essentially forces you to be on the offensive in order to use your ATB — this also includes abilities, magic, and items such a health potions, phoenix downs, etc.; so it’s easy to get overwhelmed with a ton of enemies while trying to manage defense simultaneously.
Thankfully, this remake is sublime. It stays true to its roots and keeps the spirit of the original FF7 in tact, but includes smart, yet subtle changes that only enhance the modern experience. I didn’t appreciate the remake as much when I first played it back in 2020, but now I see the game through a much different lens. I could say a lot more because I’ve only scratched the surface, and the character limit won’t allow me to say much more. I’ll end my diatribe with this: FF7R is a prodigious game, and is a must if you’re a fan of the franchise. Bring on Rebirth.
Comments 707
Re: It's That Time Again! Your Xbox 'Year In Review' 2024 Is Now Available
I haven’t played my XSX since September of 2023. I recently turned it on when Stalker 2 released and it’s been the main game I’ve been playing earnestly (and it’s fantastic). I have 12 achievements for it so far (out of 50). I’m really looking forward to playing more of that, and Indiana Jones when it releases soon!
Re: Stalker 2 Update 1.0.3 Hits Xbox Today, Here Are The Full Patch Notes
This game really is something special even with the bugs. I’m glad the developer is working with urgency in order to fix them, but I have gotta say - I am impressed with this game quite a bit. I do have a few critiques, which I shared in a thread I created earlier, but it doesn’t diminish the overall package of this game.
Re: Xbox Game Pass: All Games Coming Soon In December 2024
There’s not much for me on this list other than Indiana Jones. That’s okay, though - my backlog is insane.
Re: Microsoft Adds Another Free Dynamic Background On Xbox Series X|S
I’ve been using Hellblade 2’s theme due to its minimalistic design, but I might switch over for this. It looks great!
Re: Here's Your Final Look At Indiana Jones And The Great Circle Ahead Of Xbox Game Pass Release
This looks fantastic, and I trust MachineGames to deliver. The X/S needs a strong W—not just a good to great game, but a fantastic one.
Re: Stalker 2 Receives Another Xbox Update As Players Share Their Latest Impressions
@gollumb82 Same here. It is one of the most immersive games I’ve ever played. The only “bug” I’ve actually encountered is when I die and respawn, my gun, although equipped, doesn’t appear for a brief second. Other than that, I haven’t had any issues. And if I did, they were probably anomalies 😉
Re: Pick One: What Was Your Favourite Xbox Game Pass Game In November 2024?
Stalker 2 for me, but Nine Sols is a close second. And I’m very pleased with how fast the patches are coming in for S2.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (November 30 - December 1)
This weekend I’m playing Space Marines 2. This game rules. It harkens back to the 360 days with the early Gears of War titles. The combat is visceral and satisfying, with unique gameplay elements sprinkled throughout its 8-hour campaign (perfect length, too) to never make it boring. And the writing, despite being campy and bombastic, is actually well written, with a cool story. The banter between your party members is also great to listen to because of the distrust between your band of brothers, but remaining composed and uncompromising in their beliefs in order to get the job done.
Re: Stalker 2 Update 1.01 Hits Xbox Today, Here Are The Full Patch Notes
This is awesome news. I’ve been waiting for this patch, and since I’m new to Stalker, I’ve been hearing about A-Live 2.0, and after doing research I found that it is a really cool feature in these games. I’ll definitely be playing this once I finish up Space Marine 2.
Re: Baldur's Gate 3 Dev Teases Three Big Features For 'Patch 8' On Xbox Series X|S
Just the fact that there are 12 new subclasses is incredible. Larian has created an epic masterpiece.
Re: Poll: Which Is Your Favourite Xbox Title From Bethesda Developer MachineGames?
I personally like Old Blood immensely. The New Order is fantastic, and The New Colossus is also great, although I think there are way too many “quiet” moments. The pacing is a little off, but it was an unforgettable experience. Chapter 9 (maybe 10?) was particularly gut wrenching.
Re: These 50+ Games Are Cheaper Than Ever In The Xbox Black Friday Sale 2024
I already picked up Space Marine 2, but I might purchase AC Mirage and Wasteland 3. The price is pretty good for both!
Re: Sniper Elite: Resistance Preview - Rebellion's Rock Solid Shooter Returns To Xbox Game Pass
I can’t wait. I love Sniper Elite 5, and I think objectively, it is one of the best stealth games ever made.
Re: Just One Game Is Confirmed For Xbox Game Pass In December 2024 So Far
I’m incredibly excited for Indiana Jones. Other than Youngblood, I love MachineGames and their Wolfenstein output. I really hope this game gets Xbox a much needed W. The game looks fantastic, and I’m curious to see how their first person combat system works—they are the masters at it.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (November 23-24)
This weekend I’m playing Dragon Age: Origins for the very first time, thanks to Xbox Series X and Game Pass. Holy smokes—this game is impressive. For context, my first Dragon Age game was Inquisition, subsequently followed up ten years later with Veilguard (both games I love). I even got the platinum for Veilguard. However, now that I’m playing Origins, I can wholeheartedly understand why people consider Veilguard’s writing and characters inferior.
Re: Xbox Game Pass Didn't Hurt Overall Black Ops 6 Sales, Says Analyst
@oopsiezz That’s how I’m interpreting it as well. I think it goes to show that people are still willing to buy games rather than signing up for a subscription service. I mean, look at Stalker 2, which already sold a couple of million dollars in two days. The truth is, as much as Game Pass is great for consumers, it ultimately is not sustainable.
Re: It Might Be Old, But The Xbox 360 Is Still An Amazing Console In 2024
Xbox 360 is one of the best consoles ever made, in my opinion. It also has an incredibly strong output of first party games, and second and third party games were much better to play on that console than elsewhere. Unfortunately, Xbox One couldn’t follow suit, and the same with the Series X, but thankfully there is backward compatibility support.
Re: Seven Delisted Xbox Games Receive Surprise PC Updates From Activision
Honestly, all I want to see added to Xbox Game Pass and/or backwards compatible is Singularity. Like seriously, why is that game stuck in limbo?
Re: Avowed Third-Person Mode Looks Super Slick In New Xbox Preview Footage
I’m very much looking forward to this. I love Obsidian, and I thought The Outer Worlds was awesome. I’m excited to see how they tackle a more fantastical setting.
Re: Site News: Where's Our Stalker 2 Review?
It does seem like the game itself is great, but technical issues are what is holding it back. So, at least the package itself should deliver, once the kinks are ironed out properly. I’m excited to test the game myself.
Re: Site News: Where's Our Stalker 2 Review?
Yikes. I mean, I know you guys have been playing it prior to the patches so that plays a factor, but I hope this game reviews well. This is a game that I feel deserves a win after everything the developer has gone through over the course of several years.
Re: Stalker 2 Releases Another Xbox Series X|S Update Ahead Of Release
I’m so amped to play this tomorrow, so bring on the patches. This will be my first Stalker game.
Re: Nine Sols Brings Its Sekiro-Inspired 'Masterpiece' To Xbox Game Pass Next Week
@Lup I didn’t like Hollow Knight either. This looks to be more tailored made for me, and I’m incredibly excited. It looks absolutely fantastic.
Re: These Five Games Are Coming To Xbox Game Pass (November 20-27)
Stalker 2 is a big one, and I have it installed and ready to go. I didn’t realize Nine Sols was going to be added to Game Pass, but I’m glad it is. I’ve been wanting to play that game for a while.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (November 16-17)
Alright. I’m just going to say it. I’m still playing Dragon Age: Veilguard, and I think it is one of BioWare’s best games. I’m roughly 96-hours deep, halfway through Act 2, and I’m wrapping up companion and faction quests. I’ve collected nearly every single Memento and codex entry—and I’ve read them all.
And also, for those on the fence, please don’t listen to people that say this game is “woke” or whatever kind of agenda. There is only about two minutes worth of cutscenes—out of an 70+ hour RPG—that talks about “gender”, and it’s handled well aside from a few word choices. And fun fact, these types of issues have been present in the Dragon Age universe from the very beginning. Speaking of, the lore in this game is incredible, with tons of references to Origins and its historicity to discover in texts, notes, and just the environment itself.
Moreover, once you get to Act 2, or at the very least the main story decision that has implications, the writing becomes peak BioWare—if you invest the time to seek out conversations with your party members. It’s not just dialogue options, it’s the banter between various party members and how different their personalities shine through while exploring. And the quest line for Solas and discovering his memories and discussing them with your party at the table is some of the best writing BioWare has done.
I also like the way the story is handled with your choices and consequences. Without spoiling too much, some of my story decisions have already had great repercussions—some good and bad—and have even presented themselves in side quests, in surprising ways. But I’m also weird. I don’t always need my decisions to make a long lasting impact. Sometimes, it’s simply the moment itself that I need. Those choices I feel the weight of because it makes me think, regardless as to whether or not it affects the overall narrative.
There is so much I could say about this game and why it’s brilliant. And why people should ignore the negative discourse surrounding the game, particularly with its political agendas. Just play the game if you are interested. I think I have to agree wholeheartedly with Eurogamer and WhatCulture’s review on the game. It really is special, and as advertising as it sounds, it is a return to form for BioWare.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (November 2-3)
For the last week and a half I’ve been in a gaming slump and I wasn’t aware of it initially. It has been strange. Once I obtained the platinum trophy for Silent Hill 2 Remake, I subsequently dove head first into Metaphor ReFantazio. And then it hit me.
I was enjoying it, particularly its UI, combat, characters, story, setting, and political strifes. However, it wasn’t fully grasping my attention. I was feeling overwhelmed. I found this peculiar because P4G is my favorite RPG of all time, and P5R is exceptional. I’m accustomed to the calendar structure, knowing content will be missed by choosing to do one activity over another. It was bothering me immensely even though time management is a core game design.
This feeling carried over with the Archetype mechanics. I was I immensely engulfed by options and it was ruining my experience. It was difficult for me to switch up my vocation because I had certain archetypes maxed out, with great skills, but switching classes and starting from scratch felt counterintuitive because I’d have to change armor, weapons, and be underpowered. I appreciate the flexibility, but not when it’s almost essential.
My brain just couldn’t handle any of it. In fact, it’s odd because of my affection with Atlus games (not just Persona), and while I was liking the majority of aspects of the game, I just wasn’t having fun. Ultimately, I set the game aside and will come back to it another time.
I then scrolled through my cross-media bar on my PS5 and saw Kunitsi-Gami: Path of the Goddess. I’m a huge Capcom fan and love their odd side projects. The glowing reviews for this game definitely piqued my interest. I played for five hours and was enjoying it; but it wasn’t holding my attention as well.
This trend repeated itself two more times; once with Shadow of the Damned: Hella Remastered; and secondly Ys X: Nordics (my favorite RPG series). At this point, I decided to take a break from gaming altogether and decompress. Maybe the depressing nature of Silent Hill 2 Remake took more of a toll on me than anticipated.
And suddenly, something changed. Monday rolled around and the reviews for Dragon Age: The Veilguard went live. The positive reception the game has been receiving from critics (and definitely not random strangers on the internet who hadn’t played the game but want to hate on anyone who likes it; seriously, the vile things said all over YouTube channels—Eurogamer, IGN, and other mainstream outlets—is absolutely out of control and incredibly disheartening) brought back that sense of excitement for games.
I started Dragon Age: The Veilguard on release day and have put 15-hours in it. I’m having an absolute blast. I’m an Elven rogue, part of the Antivan Crows association, with a slight affection for Neve. I’m slowly swooning her, but unlike my organization I work for, I won’t be stabbing her in the back.
TL;DR - Gaming is fun again; thanks, Dragon Age.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (October 19-20)
I finished my first playthrough in Silent Hill 2 Remake several days ago. I managed to get the “In Water” ending my first go-around. It was quite fantastic, and easily one of my favorite games of the year, if not my favorite. After I completed it, I subsequently reloaded my save and got the two additional mainline endings, which added a lot of context to a powerful story. I’m looking forward to getting the three remaining endings only obtainable by NG+, and hopefully get the platinum trophy while I’m at it.
I also just started Metaphor: Refantazio two days ago. I’m only seven hours in, reaching the completing the Nord Mines and even tested my mettle against the dragon—an optional boss fight—and won. I’m now met Hulkenberg and am trekking under the cathedral. With that said, being as I’m early on, I’m unable to give a proper review. However; I’m extremely impressed by nearly every aspect of this game.
The one thing that immediately stood out to me was its pacing—it doesn’t waste time throwing you into its world, characters, story and combat. I appreciate this approach more than Persona 5, a game I adore, but can never replay due to its long tutorial.
I also love how much artistic expression there is. In clever ways, too. The game has a ton of loading screens but you’re practically oblivious to it because each transitioning screen has cutscene elements that flow naturally with what you’re doing—combat encounters, walking into a new area, and even the pause menu. This might be the most stylish game I’ve ever played.
I’m looking forward to seeing the game evolve over time. This game is shaping up to be a special JRPG, and I believe Atlus is becoming the king of RPGs in the west. Bring on Persona 6, or whatever else they are cooking up; I’ll be here for the journey.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (October 12-13)
This weekend I’m playing the iconic Silent Hill 2 (Remake). This is my first foray into this franchise, despite owning the original on PS2 back when I was a kid. And I have a lot to say.
The beginning two hours were incredibly dull to me. However, once I got to explore the apartment complex—and having just completed Brookhaven Hospital—it quickly became a tour-de-force in the survival horror genre once I tasted what this game had to offer.
The game has a unique setting, where the town of Silent Hill is a character just as much as you are. One thing that stuck out to me was how there is quest log or an objective marker. This allows a sense of freedom in a relatively linear experience, yet vast at the same time, so there’s a sense of feeling confined and trapped, but always rewarding.
All of this is enhanced by its brilliant art direction and visuals. The fog surrounding the town makes each step feel purposeful. When you enter buildings, each location feels different but believable. Brookhaven Hospital—more or less a psychiatric ward—is a perfect example of this. There is a sense of dread and abandonment, and you can feel the anguish of those who resided there. It felt old-timey and unsanitary, providing an extra level of immersion. A lot of games I feel suffer from making you feel as if you’re truly in this fictional world, but this remake manages to capture that essence.
Furthermore, I really appreciate the approach of no jump scares. The horror comes from the tension of discovering the truth about what’s occurring in the town, the characters that inhabit it, and why. But it’s also the idea that something could happen. It plays with you psychologically. It masterfully teeters the line of reality and paranoia, particularly since enemies are humanoid in nature.
As for the story, it immediately compels you because the main protagonist, James Sunderland, is self aware of his situation and how absurd it is. However, he is still grieving the loss of his wife and those types of processes can make people do inexplicable things they otherwise wouldn’t. Regardless of the dire situation he is in, his calm demeanor draws you in. He has determination, and is willing to see his journey through to the end no matter the cost, all the while not going off in the deep end mentally. It’s a really interesting balance. He is casually dressed which also lends to his personality.
The moment to moment gameplay is also fantastic. Combat has a real crunch to it—but it never feels janky or unintuitive. You can feel the weight behind bludgeoning enemies with melee weapons, and you can even hear the exhaustion in James’ voice when he finishes them while they are squirming on the ground. You’re also never overwhelmed with enemies, so each encounter feels unique. It’s simple, but effective.
So far, I’m only halfway through the game but I’m very impressed, top to bottom. I’m deeply invested in the characters and unfolding story. In a space where there are a ton of survival horror games, this one stands out amongst the rest. I can see why the game received high praise in 2001, and I will now sing its praises for the first time in 2024. It might go down in my top 10 of all time.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (September 7-8)
This weekend, I find myself diving deeper into Black Myth: Wukong—a game that’s captivated me more than any other title this year, even more than Dragon’s Dogma 2. Even after completing one full playthrough, I’m now embarking on New Game Plus, something I rarely do unless I’m truly hooked.
When I first started playing Black Myth: Wukong, I didn’t expect it to become my Game of the Year (GOTY), but now, I can’t imagine any other title taking the crown. The depth, boss encounters, and the incredible combat system have all made it a standout experience. I’ve already finished one playthrough, where I managed to unlock every secret area and boss fight—including a secret, God of War-style ending—without using a guide. I’m still amazed at how I managed that! Despite this, I’m looking forward to relying on a guide for my NG+ playthrough, as I aim for the coveted platinum trophy.
What sets Black Myth: Wukong apart for me is the sheer immersion. The world feels alive with mysteries waiting to be uncovered, and the combat constantly challenges me in the best way possible. One moment, in particular, that truly blew me away was stumbling upon the optional Yellow Loong boss fight. It was nighttime, and I found myself battling this massive creature on a ragged cliffside under the light of the moon. The way the lightning from Yellow Loong’s attacks lit up the sky created a thrilling, almost cinematic atmosphere. There are countless moments like this scattered throughout the game, especially if you take the time to explore.
At the same time, I’ve been alternating with Ys: Memories of Celceta on my trusty Vita, which has proven to be a delightful surprise. Having already played and platinumed Ys VIII, my first introduction into this storied franchise, I wasn’t expecting to enjoy Memories of Celceta more, but surprisingly, I do—especially in terms of the story and the characters. The game has a light-hearted charm that’s kept me smiling, and on more than one occasion, I’ve found myself laughing out loud at the dialogue and character interactions.
What really makes this game shine is its sense of adventure. The world feels vast, with lush forests, ancient ruins, and a rich, mystical atmosphere that makes exploration rewarding. Sure, there are a few frustrating mechanics like the limited fast travel early on, but by mid-game, this is resolved, and the flow of the game really picks up. I also found the upgrade system to be a bit clunky at times, but these minor issues don’t detract from the overall experience. I’m aiming for the platinum trophy in this one too, hopefully before Ys: Nordics drops next month.
Coming up, I’ll be diving into Space Marine 2, a game that looks absolutely stellar with its intense, action-packed battles in a futuristic setting. I’ve also picked up Astro Bot, which I’m excited to explore with my daughter once I’m done with my current adventures. This has been a sensational year for gaming.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (August 31 - September 1)
This weekend I’m playing Black Myth: Wukong. Wow. What. A. Game. While it shares some superficial similarities with Soulslike games, I think it’s more accurately described as a modern boss-rush game with a structure akin to God of War. The focus seems to be on tightly designed levels, thrilling boss battles, and an emphasis on exploration and secrets, rather than the punishing difficulty found in FromSoftware titles.
As for difficulty, the game doesn't penalize you harshly for dying, which contrasts sharply with the traditional Soulslike experience. This makes it more accessible and possibly more enjoyable for players who appreciate a challenge but don't want to be frustrated by constant setbacks.
Speaking of accessibility, there is a robust combat system with different stances and upgradable abilities, all of which makes your playthrough unique in how you approach fighting enemies. The ability to defeat mini-bosses and acquire their spirits as abilities adds a strategic layer to combat, making each encounter feel meaningful.
For me, Chapter Two is where the game was elevated from good to great. Despite its linearity, there is a wide mix of side quests, secrets with additional areas to explore, and boss fights. This design from the developers created an engaging experience for me that is very memorable. The game's ability to balance linearity with exploration—offering secret areas and hidden bosses—adds to the sense of discovery. Let’s keep in mind, this is Game Sciences’ first foray into the console gaming space.
This leads me to presentation. When it comes to enemies, there is a large diversity in enemy design, particularly the boss fights like Tiger Vanguard, Whiteclad Noble, Kang-Jin Star, Cyan Loong, and Fuban to name a few, keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting, especially environmentally. In fact, some (optional) boss fights, if given time, can perform moves that will open up new areas to explore. But what I really want to praise is the artistic direction—for its minimalistic yet stylish approach. The stop-motion cutscenes, in particular, are a real highlight that I don’t often see spoken about enough.
There are areas where the game can improve, but it never hindered my experience. There are a lot of invisible walls. While this may be a detriment for some, I think the controlled exploration is a result of budget constraints. The trade off is worth it given the high production value in other facets. The absence of a map is another (mild) complaint. While the game is linear, and the sense of discovery is rewarding, a map would ensure that no hidden item or character is missed.
Ultimately, this game has impressed me significantly, and is this year’s Lies of P. It’s been a phenomenal experience, with rich cultural elements, and varied, vibrant environments. It’s a game that has successfully combined fictional storytelling with modern action-adventure mechanics, and is undoubtedly one of the best games of the year. Sorry, Dragon’s Dogma 2, I have a new GOTY.
Re: Roundup: Here's What The Critics Think About Visions Of Mana From Square Enix
@PsBoxSwitchOwner Exactly this. I believe this is one of the key reasons Xbox has gone downhill. Sure, Game Pass is a great option for the consumer, but it’s not a good business model overall. I’d love to see the statistics on how many people who do have Game Pass, played a game released on the subscription service, and then subsequently purchased it outright whilst still remaining on GP. I’d say the statistics are fairly low, and this one reason out of many why Xbox is a dying platform and will become a third party publisher in the near future, as evidence has already suggested.
Re: Xbox Game Pass Gets Price Increases And New 'Standard' Subscription Tier
This was an inevitably, so I’m not surprised. I do feel bad for console players, much like myself, though. Anyone in their right mind should have expected this price increase, and it’s only going to go up in price once a slew of Activision games comes to the service, and especially so when Call of Duty arrives. I won’t be surprised if it’ll go up to $30.00 or more by the end of next year.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (June 15-16)
First and foremost, I finally beat my personal GOTY, Dragon’s Dogma 2. It took me 130 hours and I still want to play more. As I said last week, this game is going down as my favorite RPG of all time. The sense of adventure is unlike anything I’ve experienced before. There are so many stories within the stories due to unscripted events whilst undertaking missions, and it truly makes the adventure my own. It’s a rare feat to create something that unique and special.
With all of that said, I am annoyed with the game, in a personal way that doesn’t necessarily reflect the product itself. I’ll explain. I managed to achieve the true ending (the unmoored world). There is a ton of post game content and story, with two trophies related to this — one for completing all trials and another for evacuating all townsfolk in the five main locations you visit, within a seven day period. I did everything in two days. And these trophies coincide with each other, so if you unlock one you subsequently unlock the next. Unfortunately, I only got the trophy for completing all trials. My motivation to do a NG+ run to get the platinum trophy has been nullified because of this. I’m sure I’ll replay the game at some point, especially if DLC is released. Right now, however, I need a break.
Lastly, I’ve started Tomb Raider Legend on the PlayStation Plus catalog. I’m surprised by how truly great this game is. For context, I had never played the original so I don’t have a frame of reference for comparison, but what I’ve played has impressed me.
For a PS2-era game, it has a lot of cinematic flair and set pieces. There are diverse locales to visit, motorcycle chases, parkour, things blowing up or falling apart and a fun use QTEs to escape nefarious situations. You can definitely see how the Uncharted series is heavily inspired by this franchise.
An aspect I love about Lara, similar to Nathan Drake, is her witty one-liners. One line that made me laugh happened when I was exploring an underground tomb. As I was solving a puzzle my partner radioed in saying enemies were heading to my position. Lara simply responds, “This is a tomb; I’ll make them feel at home”. Another quip she had while in Africa was, “If all else fails, I can get into the postcard business”. It’s very endearing.
As for the mechanics, the game has great controls and the gunplay is pretty solid. Lara has a plethora of tools at her disposal that enhances the gameplay. One instrument is a magnetic rope that can help you reach new heights or can be used in the environment to solve puzzles and defeat enemies. The only complaint I have is the hand-to-hand combat. It doesn’t seem very intuitive, and the game wants you to rely on guns.
Sadly, the game on runs at 480p and 30fps. It still looks great all things considered. I’ve been playing on my PlayStation Portal and the OLED screen really makes the game more vibrant. I’m bias, however, as I have a strong affinity with PS2 style graphics. There is something distinctly charming about these 3D environments and disproportionate character models.
Overall, the game is resonating with me a lot right now. There is a level of interactivity that makes the game feel more personal. I’m really looking forward to seeing how the game evolves over time, if it does at all. I can see myself replaying this gem multiple times because it’s just a darn good time.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (June 8-9)
I’m still playing Dragon’s Dogma 2.
I decided to mop up a side quest that had me looking for rare grimoires. One of my pawns suggested I go back to the beginning — Melve, the first settlement I came across because a shopkeeper is supposedly selling a tome I’m after. My first time there, I saved the town by repelling a dragon, and helped rescue a woman, whom later relocated for various reasons. As I arrive, I discover the town is much different from when I initially was there. I wasn’t even allowed in unless I bribed my way in with gold, and so I did.
The townsfolk that resided there was being held captive, abused and being treated like slaves by the Queen Regent’s guardsmen. As a result, I couldn’t purchase any items from the shopkeeper. However, I did find the original ruler of the town inside the local cathedral and he presented an opportunity. He was organizing a group to fight back against their captors, but there was a problem — all of their weapons had been confiscated. He suggested I secretly bring him a few swords and I agree to aide him. He needed four total and I already had two in my inventory, so the job was halfway finished.
As I’m leaving the town, I get approached by two men. Brothers, in fact. The same brothers I decided to help out when I first began my journey. They told me they know where their weapons were being held, a storeroom safeguarded by two soldiers. Since I helped them out earlier they wanted to repay the kindness by causing a distraction, allowing me to slip in unnoticed. It sounded dangerous, but I couldn’t turn down the offer. One brother began clapping, causing a ruckus and drawing their attention, before hurriedly fleeing and having the guards chase him.
Once the enemies were out of sight, I creeped inside, procured the remaining weapons and handed them out to the select townsfolk that wanted to rise against their captors. When the moment was right, the people of Melve took one last final stand, eventually making the guardsmen retreat. The town was restored to its natural order, but the people felt unsafe there. They had recently survived a dragon attack, and the Queen would most certainly exact revenge. The residents decided to pack up their bags and relocate to another settlement — the same village the female resident I saved long ago was now residing. But before they left, I managed to purchase the grimoire I had been searching for.
Several days later, I make my way to this new village. The people I rescued were there, and everyone was happy. The female resident I saved from a dragon attack was also present - a woman who was clearly smitten with me since that fateful day. She, too, thanked me for my services and asked if I’d like to accompany her on the beach later that evening. Of course, I obliged. With the stars and skies above, our toes in the sand, and a campfire burning behind us, there were two other things on fire — our hearts for one another. One thing lead to another and we decided to become romantically involved.
All of this happened naturally and randomly. If I hadn’t had taken my Pawn’s advice I would have missed a really intriguing quest line. Moreover, the brothers I helped during my fifth hour in the game made their presence known 95 hours later. These types of moments have occurred often, in ways that were unexpected. This is why Dragon’s Dogma has blown me away and has become my favorite RPG of all time. Long live the Arisen.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (June 1-2)
Dragon’s Dogma 2. My maxed out Thief and trusty Sorcerer, Schemer, have just reached Battahl. I sneaked in by pretending to be a slave on a phantom oxcart. It was a good time. And now we are on the hunt for a Medusa’s head in order to petrify a griffin for a sculptor. This game is an all-timer for me.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (May 18-19)
I’m not sure what I want to play this weekend. I did finish my first playthrough of Stellar Blade. I got both endings (thank you, cloud saving). And those final boss fight(s), depending on the ending you choose, was superb. It took me approximately 65+ hours to do all side quests and collectibles. All I need to do now is NG+ and I’ll have the platinum trophy. With that said, I need a break. It’s a masterpiece of an action game, especially considering this is Shift Up’s first console game, but I’m ready for something different.
For a palette cleanser I earnestly started and completed Crow Country, obtaining the platinum trophy while I was at it. I needed a bite sized game and it only took five hours to beat. I have to say - this is one of the best survival horror games of the year, perhaps in the past half decade. It’s easily up there with Signalis, but I think it’s better due to its more grounded story that isn’t vague and full of questions.
There are some genuine unsettling moments, which is a hard accomplishment for me because I’m desensitized to a lot of horror themed stuff. Moreover, the atmosphere, tone, sound design (OST), and enemy designs are brilliant, only adding to the tension. And it’s excellently written. It has a compelling mystery that’s compounded with environmental story telling, newspaper clippings, journals, secrets, and ever evolving surroundings the more you progress the story. I strongly recommend this game.
Lastly, I decided to purchase Star Ocean: The Second Story R. I’ve been itching for a good JRPG, and everything about this remake looks superlative. I’m particularly keen on the science fiction aspect too. At the moment I’m two hours in, starting with Claude Kenny, and have beaten the first boss. My only complaint is that the game is relatively easy so I might have to adjust the difficulty setting to give myself more of a challenge.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (May 11-12)
I’m playing Stellar Blade this weekend. My goal is to wrap up my first play-through and start NG+ to obtain the platinum trophy. This game continues to impress, and gets better the more you progress rather than become stagnant like a lot of action games. I’m currently in the fourth region and the meaningful side quests and exploration has transcended my thoughts on this game in a positive light.
I also picked up Crow Country due to all the high praise it’s receiving. I’ve jump (scared) my way into this game last night and it’s fantastic, particularly playing it on my PlayStation Portal. It has that classic Resident Evil feel, with a touch of Twin Peaks, X-Files, and strangely, a low-polygon Final Fantasy 7. Every year there is a game that comes along that is relatively obscure but ends up making a splash, and this game falls into that category.
Re: Review: Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes (Xbox) - This Suikoden Spiritual Successor Is A Perfect Fit For Game Pass
@PsBoxSwitchOwner I have to actually agree here with you. The game seems worthy to be checked out, whether it is on Game Pass or not. I also understand the reviewer’s point of view — but I think any body being a critic should also be susceptible to criticism.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (April 20-21)
I’ve worked seven straight days, but I’m taking this weekend and the subsequent Monday and Tuesday off to celebrate my birthday. I won’t be playing much due to family gatherings and what-have-you, but I did manage to platinum Rise of the Ronin yesterday.
I have to retract my statement from last week — I no longer think it’s Team Ninja’s best game (but it is a great game, nonetheless). The story is extremely convoluted, and the RPG elements, particularly with dialogue choices and story decision(s) have no true meaning. With that said, I did enjoy its open world and activities. Similarly to NiOh 2, the game is way too long. I wish there was a more tighter experience, but I think this trend is going to continue on if the ending to RoTN is any indication.
As of now, I’ll either take a break from gaming until Stellar Blade releases, or I will try Dave The Diver on my PS5. With the acclaim it has received over the last year, I’m tempted to give it a try because it seems cozy and the perfect game to unwind with on my PlayStation Portal. Plus, it’s something different and that’s something I need since I essentially played 200+ hours of third person action RPGs over the course of the last three games (Final Fantasy 7 Remake/Rebirth and RoTR).
I also finished the book series Shogun by James Clavell. A part of me feels empty now — the characters and world building were so well realized that it’s difficult to think these are fictional characters. I’ve grown attached to many of the interconnected stories within, and it’s hard to let them go. It’s such an incredible story, and might go down as my favorite book(s) of all time.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (March 30-31)
@fbnaulin I also do it on the Nintendo sister-site. My point is to talk about games. For the past months I’ve been on a PlayStation kick with their games, but if I was playing an Nintendo or Xbox game I would also post it on the other sites as well. I enjoy discussing games regardless of the platform. I have a passion for the medium and I enjoy reading what people are playing as well — it gives me insight on certain games I may not have had my eye on that I should maybe pay attention to.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (March 30-31)
I haven’t played much this week due to work and family visiting from out of state. Unfortunately, I won’t have much time this weekend, either. If I manage to squeeze in some gaming sessions, I’ll be attempting to finish Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.
I’m currently on the last chapter and it has been an evocative experience. I’ve put in roughly 105 hours into the game, with all side quests and world region activities completed. In a way, I’m excited to see the end of the journey, but sad as well, as I’ve grown even more attached to these characters than I did in the PS1 original version.
Once I finish Rebirth I plan on starting Rise of the Ronin. Everything I have read about this game seems to be exactly what I enjoy about Team Ninja games, but expanded upon in ways I’m thrilled to experience. I’ve also been reading James Clavell’s Shogun. I finished part one a few days ago — nearly 700 pages, and I’m a quarter of the way through part two — so my mindset is honed in on this era of history that should be a good time to delve into.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (March 23-24)
After several days off work, a break from gaming, and a relaxing vacation with my wife, I’m back to playing Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. I didn’t think I’d have much to say since I’ve spoken about the game for the past two weeks, but alas, I do.
According to my PS5 clock, I have 80 hours logged into this game and I have no desire to slow down. I’m currently on chapter 11. Rebirth seems to hits its prime starting in chapter 9 and onward, from gameplay, map design, and story perspective. It’s as if there was a newfound confidence in the development where they discovered the perfect balance between juggling open world activities and the main story.
I’m absorbed in the characters and world. I’ve completed all possible tasks per each region. The best thing about these side quests and activities is that if you do them, such as finding the protorelics or play Queen’s Blood, you’ll obtain rich backstories that really expand on your party members. I’m compelled to invest my time because the game respects it. There are a plethora of intimate moments between all of your characters. It’s truly remarkable how much depth is in this game. And it never stops being mogical, ahem, I mean magical
That’s not to say there aren’t faults in the game — there certainly is. In later regions traversal can be infuriating because it forces you to use the chocobo to reach differing locations that are mandatory. It doesn’t feel organic. I appreciate how the game incorporates fresh ways to explore via chocobo, so there is always a new mechanic to keep you engaged.
The regions themselves are gorgeous and fun to explore, however. Each location feels genuinely distinct from one another, and this is strengthened by its exemplary soundtrack that feels compatible with the environment. It’s easily one of the best OSTs for a Final Fantasy game I’ve ever heard.
Another criticism I have is the bloat. There is an over abundance of activities and mini-games to do. Some of the content could be trimmed, but thankfully the majority of it is optional. But less is more. Later in the game when you get to explore the Nibelheim region, my feelings is that it has the perfect amount of content. The map isn’t too large and everything is condensed in a small package. With all that said, these flaws don’t diminish the genius of this game. I’d rather have too much of Final Fantasy 7 than not enough, and the bloat isn’t a mandatory component.
I haven’t even scratched the surface of what I’d like to discuss about this game (story, materia builds, combat, and the little nuances), but my write-up is already long enough so I’ll end it here for now. Perhaps I should start up my own website to have deeper discussions without a character limit. Nevertheless, I will say this: Rebirth is just that — a game favored by nostalgia, but can stand on its own as a brand new experience that, to me, outshines the original in many ways.
Re: Evil West Is Shaping Up As Another Big Hit For Xbox Game Pass
This was a surprise gem for me last year. It harkens back to the Xbox 360 era, and is quite a blast to play. We need more games like this.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (March 16-17)
I haven’t played much since last weekend. My work schedule has been hectic, and my wife and I took a mini vacation during the weekday(s). She surprised me with NBA tickets to my favorite team, so we spent several days out of town relaxing. But it’s healthy to take a break from gaming once in a while.
If I do find time this weekend, I’ll be spending it playing Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. I am currently in the infamous Gold Saucer area and it has been a magical experience so far. My feelings on the game have only grown deeper — this is an amazing reimagining of an all-time classic. I’m really looking forward to seeing how the story unfolds.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (March 9-10)
This weekend I’m playing Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. I’m seven chapters deep, and I’ve 100%’ed each region. I’m taking my time and really absorbing this sprawling world. It can feel a little too bloated at times, but the story (which I won’t discuss due to spoilers) and moment to moment gameplay is a genuine blast.
So far, the game is living up to my lofty expectations. The combat is a lot more balanced than its predecessor, and more dynamic too. It might be my favorite battle system in an RPG ever. It’s a wonderful mix between exhilarating action and classic turn-based decisions. It’s an impressive feat that keeps you constantly engaged.
One thing I really appreciate is how everything has a purpose. Mini-games such as Queen’s Blood and Fort Condor (and more) have their own mysterious yet compelling storylines, and are worth experience. Side stories are somewhat bland from a design perspective, but feature brilliant character development.
I’ll try and be as spoiler free as possible — there are two quests I’ve been involved in that expound on the characters. The first one revolves around Barret’s relationship with Marlene, and how he expresses his love for her and is worried about her future. The second relates to Cloud’s incentive on his asking price of 2,000 gil for his mercenary work. It becomes an inside joke within the party which is heartwarming in and of itself, but there is also a backstory to that particular price that has emotional weight behind it.
While there may be a Far Cry-esque nature to its open world, nothing feels like wasted space. The game simply respects your time. I can’t wait to explore further into some iconic locations from the PS1 original, and even though I know what is to come, I still find myself curious as to how things will unfold. To me, that is a sign of a masterful game that respects its legacy and modern audience.
I also purchased Vanillaware’s Unicorn Overlord. I’ve only put two hours in. Initially, it was a little jarring, not being able to strategically choose your actions like your typical turn based (S)RPGs, but once I came to terms with it and found enjoyment in unit management, the game really started to become special. This is shaping up to be a brilliant ride.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (March 2-3)
Earlier in the week I finished up Resistance: Retribution and got the platinum trophy. It was a solid game, but makes me yearn for a remastered trilogy that I know more than likely won’t happen.
With that said, my main focus this weekend will be Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. I don’t often find myself genuinely excited about upcoming games, but I’ve been antsy for a while regarding this sequel, and my wife has been getting quite annoyed with my excitement (ha-ha). I’ve finished the first two chapters and it’s been an unexpected magical experience. Perhaps that’s the nostalgia speaking, but I’m enamored.
From what I’ve played so far, the game seems brilliantly paced. There have also been compelling story moments that provide genuine intrigue, and a heartfelt cast that I’m happy to see again. This is bolstered by an exemplary soundtrack that hits all of the right notes and exactly the right times.
In terms of gameplay, the combat is more refined, with the difficulty seemingly more balanced than its predecessor. There are so many added layers that enhance the action in brilliant ways. Sometimes it can be hard to manage all of the possibilities, but once things click then it’s an extraordinary battle system that just may be my favorite in an RPG.
I also love seeing the PS1 classic come to life in full force — the scope of this game is staggering. Unfortunately, much like any sequel that wants to expand on the original’s idea(s), but also become an open world game, the experience can feel daunting and overwhelming. There are a ton of systems and mechanics at work, and they all have their own leveling system. But the variety to customize your play style is really awesome and adds a lot of depth to how you approach the game.
My only complaint at the moment is the slow movement. Similar to the first game, when the game forces you to walk slowly in certain parts of the story, that mechanic is back. Sadly, those moments are intertwined with gameplay, such as climbing up yellow painted rocks, or more interactive story beats.
There isn’t much left to say since I’m not that far, but I’m highly impressed. Sure, the game could crumble beneath its feet, but if it can keep up this momentum then I think we are in for something incredibly special. I can’t wait to see how it ultimately turns out.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (February 24-25)
Throughout the week I beat Final Fantasy 7 Remake and it was absolutely phenomenal. I had a rocky history with this remake. To provide some context - I played the game when it originally came out in 2020, and I got to chapter 14 before the game bricked my PS4. I lost all desire to replay the game until recently.
During my replay, especially the last third of the game — the point I was at years ago — was incredibly strong, and the emotional beats were perfect, with foreboding visions yet to come to fruition. There was a scene where Cloud said, “Bring it on, B****!” and it gave me chills. There is no way I’ll attempt to platinum this game because I find the combat way too difficult. I really can’t wait to play Rebirth, and I’m glad to see the reviews for the game are immensely positive.
As for what I’m playing this weekend, I’ll be focusing on Resistance: Retribution. The platinum trophy is pretty easy to obtain too, so that, along with it being a short enough experience to play through before Rebirth comes out makes it a good palette cleanser. Furthermore, it’s just a great game. I wish this franchise would make a return, particularly the first game, and with trophy support. Why there isn’t a remastered trilogy on current generation consoles is beyond me. The entire premise is tantalizing, with an awesome setting, compelling characters, and varied weapons that’s bolstered by fun gameplay.
I also purchased Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden on the PS5. I’m not very far — an hour or two at most, but so far it’s pretty interesting. It definitely has that AA quality feel, similar to A Plague Tale, which is quite satisfactory to me. The combat is also reminiscent of the modern God of War games. And the characters seem to be well written and acted, too. I think this could be one of those sleeper hit gems, but unfortunately it’s releasing at a time when a lot of big games and news are taking over the media outlets.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (February 17-18)
This weekend I’m playing Final Fantasy 7 Remake. The PS1 title is a seminal experience that I felt was fine the way it is. Somehow, the remake managed to subvert my expectations and really expand on what made the original so whimsical.
First and foremost, Cloud Strife really is a great character. I love his stoic personality. His past is ominous and you can tell he has been through a lot that has affected him because when it comes down to business at hand he is steadfast and ready to go. He is quipped with one-liners that shows how hardened he is as an Ex-SOLDIER, but the supporting characters around him essentially force him to soften his shell, albeit unwillingly at times.
As for other characters, they all have unique personalities with interpersonal stories that have you invested immediately through story missions that focus on them personally. And you can feel their motivations and comradery—they feel like a real team. One thing that stands out are the unique personality traits of the female protagonists.
Jessie, for example, is energetic and bubbly. She seemingly won’t take no for an answer, and is an act first, think later type of woman. And she’s good at using her appealing magnetism to benefit her necessities. Tifa is an optimist but also grounded. She battles between what’s right and wrong, but remains diligent in her decisions. She has a sense of maturity that the other characters don’t. And then there is Aerith, whom has this nonchalant attitude, with humorous jokes and an irresistible disposition and innocence that makes you want to protect her, even though she can clearly handle herself.
The story is fantastic, too. It balances telling two stories at once. The remake takes place in a small section of the original - Midgar - and it tells the story of how a ragtag crew of eco-terrorists are trying to stop a mega-corporation from draining the world of its essence in order to to use its energy source as a form of profit. That’s the basis of the game, and yet the remake manages to tell this portion of the story in a full blown game that feels complete even though this section is a minor fraction of the main game.
My only quibble is the combat. The action is fun, snappy and responsive, but I have a difficult time managing several party members, their health, abilities, and positioning. It seems to me the combat is unbalanced because the game essentially forces you to be on the offensive in order to use your ATB — this also includes abilities, magic, and items such a health potions, phoenix downs, etc.; so it’s easy to get overwhelmed with a ton of enemies while trying to manage defense simultaneously.
Thankfully, this remake is sublime. It stays true to its roots and keeps the spirit of the original FF7 in tact, but includes smart, yet subtle changes that only enhance the modern experience. I didn’t appreciate the remake as much when I first played it back in 2020, but now I see the game through a much different lens. I could say a lot more because I’ve only scratched the surface, and the character limit won’t allow me to say much more. I’ll end my diatribe with this: FF7R is a prodigious game, and is a must if you’re a fan of the franchise. Bring on Rebirth.
Re: Xbox Announces Four Games Going To Other Consoles, 'Not Starfield Or Indiana Jones'
This literally could have been a tweet, and it would have been over. What a waste of time.
Re: 343 Drops First Halo: Master Chief Collection Update Since July
@Deljo This actually made me LOL. I guess we will find out later today.