boss battles Archives

AppWizard

March 22, 2026

Lost in Random: The Eternal Die proves roguelikes don’t need to fill 100 hours

Action roguelikes, particularly those inspired by Hades, have gained popularity, with "Lost in Random: The Eternal Die" being a notable recent release. This sequel retains whimsical aesthetics and introduces a magical die companion, focusing on action gameplay rather than exploration. Players select weapons with multiple forms and battle through four regions, facing a boss at the end of each. The game features an innovative card system that allows players to discover unique spells, with timing affecting spell effectiveness. A relic system adds strategic depth, where players draft bonuses and align relics to enhance damage types. Level design includes interconnected rooms and engaging boss battles, which may surpass those in Hades. The game has a playtime of under 21 hours and is currently available at a 45% discount during the Steam Spring Sale for .67 / £10.99, as well as on Xbox Game Pass with a demo available.

AppWizard

March 19, 2026

Crimson Desert review

Crimson Desert is an epic fantasy action RPG developed and published by Pearl Abyss, set to be released on March 19, 2026, with a price of £55. The game features a complex web of systems and diverse build options, catering to players who enjoy depth and complexity. The narrative centers around Kliff, a Scottish character voiced by Alec Newman, who embarks on a journey after being ambushed by the Black Bears. While the main storyline lacks depth and coherence, side quests offer engaging character interactions. The game includes a variety of gameplay systems such as stock investments, black market dealings, resource gathering, and combat mechanics. Combat is fluid and allows for various tactical choices, although some aspects may frustrate players. The game runs smoothly on mid-range PCs and features a beautifully rendered world.

AppWizard

March 19, 2026

Crimson Desert review – a beautiful, shallow world

Crimson Desert features a vast and visually stunning world but struggles with a conventional narrative framework. The combat system can feel cumbersome, especially during challenging boss encounters, leading to a sense of unfulfilled potential in exploration. The game follows a protagonist named Kliff Greymane, who seeks revenge against an antagonist, but after 50 hours, the main adversary remains elusive, and players engage in mundane tasks. Exploration is initially enticing, but it becomes constrained, with limited interactions and repetitive tasks. Combat mechanics blend elements from various genres, but boss battles introduce a significant difficulty spike that can frustrate players. Promotional materials promise thrilling gameplay elements, but the actual experience often falls short. While moments of joy can be found in exploring the Abyss network, the connection to the character Kliff is lacking, and the narrative becomes convoluted over time. Despite its vibrant world and visual splendor, the game may leave players wanting more due to restricted exploration and busywork.

AppWizard

March 18, 2026

Pragmata’s stellar combat proves multitasking can actually be fun

Multitasking is integral to the gameplay of Capcom's Pragmata, where players control Hugh and his AI companion Diana while engaging in combat against robots. Players must aim and fire at enemies while simultaneously completing hacking mini-games that enhance damage output. The game features a variety of weapons, including assault rifles, electrified guns, and shotguns, which players can pick up and use throughout their journey. The hacking mechanics evolve as players progress, introducing new challenges and skills. The fast-paced combat and dynamic interactions between Hugh and Diana create an engaging experience, although the narrative and world-building remain partially unexplored.

AppWizard

February 22, 2026

With a sequel on the way, now is the perfect time to pick up a Stellar Blade Steam key at 30% off

Stellar Blade, released on PC in June, has received positive reviews and is currently available at a 30% discount on Fanatical. The game features engaging combat mechanics where players control Eve, a warrior fighting alien creatures on a post-apocalyptic Earth. The combat system combines elements of soulslike games and Devil May Cry. However, the narrative is considered weak, with characters lacking depth and the storyline described as "serviceable" but unremarkable. The game includes a 25-hour campaign with collectibles and impressive boss battles. The Standard Edition is priced at .99 / £41.99, while the Complete Edition, which includes additional DLC and cosmetics, is available for .99 / £55.99. This discount offer is valid until February 23, 2026.

AppWizard

February 11, 2026

Minecraft-style indie returns to Steam after Microsoft DMCA scare, creator criticizes “guilty until proven innocent” system

Allumeria, a Minecraft-inspired sandbox game, was temporarily removed from Valve's Steam platform due to a DMCA takedown initiated by Microsoft, claiming copyright infringement based on screenshots. The situation was resolved after community support and intervention from Mojang's chief creative officer, allowing Allumeria's creator, Unomelon, to reinstate the game on Steam. The DMCA notice, attributed to Judith Woodward on behalf of Microsoft, alleged that Allumeria's content infringed upon Minecraft's rights, but the similarities were questioned by many. A lawyer offered to help Unomelon file a counter notice, and Jens Bergensten from Mojang expressed interest in the matter. Ultimately, Microsoft withdrew the claim, and Allumeria was reinstated, with Unomelon reflecting on the challenges faced by smaller developers and the need for reform in the DMCA process.

AppWizard

January 6, 2026

10 Best RPG Minecraft Mods

RPG Minecraft mods enhance the gameplay experience by introducing new elements such as intricate progression systems, formidable bosses, and magic. The following are ten notable RPG Minecraft mods: 1. L_Ender’s Cataclysm: Features intense boss battles with handcrafted bosses like Ender Golems and Netherite Monstrosity, requiring strategic gameplay. 2. Myths and Legends: Inspired by folklore, it immerses players in a dark fantasy realm with mythical creatures, relics, and cursed items. 3. Warrior Rage: Introduces a kill-streak mechanic that enhances attack speed and damage as players defeat enemies. 4. When Dungeons Arise: Populates the world with crafted structures like warships and underground cities, offering unique loot and a risk-to-reward exploration system. 5. Ars Elixirum: Enhances potion brewing with random effects influenced by the world seed, allowing for customized potions. 6. Dark Souls Expansion: Offers a hardcore RPG experience with methodical combat and a new dimension filled with challenging enemies. 7. Born in Chaos: Introduces new aggressive mobs to enhance survival gameplay, especially during nighttime exploration. 8. The Aether: A sky-based dimension with new materials and powerful bosses, featuring a unique progression system. 9. Goety – The Dark Arts: Focuses on magic, allowing players to perform dark rituals and summon creatures through crafting a Totem of Roots. 10. Dungeon’s Delight: Adds cooking mechanics using monster drops, providing unique effects and new tools for gameplay. Most of these mods are beginner-friendly, with The Aether and Dungeon’s Delight recommended for newcomers. For combat and PvP, L_Ender’s Cataclysm and Dark Souls Expansion are top choices.

BetaBeacon

December 19, 2025

Top Mobile Games in 2025 for iOS and Android

- Fortnite and Call of Duty: Mobile are the top choices for mobile shooter games in 2025. - Standoff 2 is a must-play game in 2025 with tactical gameplay and competitive esports scene. - League of Legends: Wild Rift is the top choice for mobile MOBA games with refined gameplay and regular updates. - Spooky Express is a thrilling horror game for casual players. - Undecember is the best RPG mobile game with extensive customization options and visually stunning world.

AppWizard

December 12, 2025

This stylish Sekiro successor was the best game I previewed last year, and it finally has a release date

Phantom Blade Zero is a Wuxia-inspired action game developed by S-Game, where players control an assassin named Soul, who has 66 days left to live and is framed for murder. The game features an intricate combat system and has garnered positive reactions from players. The release date is set for September 9, 2026, and it is available for wishlisting on Steam.

AppWizard

December 1, 2025

Crossbow vs Bow Minecraft: Complete Comparison Guide

In Minecraft, the bow and crossbow are two primary ranged weapons, each with unique characteristics. Bow: - Draw time: 1 second for full power - Damage: 5–10 hearts, varies with arrow type and enchantments - Ammo: Unlimited as long as arrows are in inventory - Enchantments: Power, Punch, Flame, Infinity - Strengths: Rapid fire, critical hits, Infinity enchantment - Weaknesses: Lower base damage, requires skill for maximum draw - Durability: 384 uses - Repair methods: Anvil + string, crafting a new bow, Unbreaking & Mending Crossbow: - Loading time: 1–1.25 seconds - Base damage: Higher than the bow - Ammo: Arrows and fireworks - Enchantments: Piercing, Quick Charge, Multishot, Unbreaking - Strengths: High damage per shot, special projectiles, reliable hit - Weaknesses: Slower firing, no critical hits, lower durability - Durability: 326 uses - Repair methods: Anvil + string, Unbreaking & Mending, crafting a new crossbow Comparison: - Bow has moderate damage and faster firing speed, while crossbow has high damage but is slower due to reload. - Bow can achieve critical hits; crossbow cannot. - Bow is better for rapid attacks and mobility, while crossbow excels in high-damage bursts and strategic use against armored enemies. Players often choose based on their playstyle: the bow for agility and rapid fire, and the crossbow for powerful, deliberate shots. Many players find value in using both weapons to adapt to different combat situations.