highlands Archives

AppWizard

December 28, 2024

Amid a tidal wave of new games in 2024, these 10 must-play deep cuts are cheap and will run on almost anything

Many gamers are facing a growing backlog of titles as they enter the new year. Instead of returning to popular games like The Witcher 3 or Persona 5, players are encouraged to explore quirky indie games that offer depth and creativity, are budget-friendly, and suitable for short gaming sessions. Eight standout indie games from the past year and two late entries from 2023 include: 1. Felvidek: Set in the Slovak highlands, featuring a disgraced protagonist investigating supernatural occurrences with a priest, utilizing sepia-toned visuals and retro turn-based combat. 2. Skald: Against the Black Priory: A DOS RPG-inspired game with pixel art and a rich soundtrack, offering modern hardcore CRPG mechanics. 3. Dread Delusion: A low-fi RPG with immersive world-building and exploration, captivating players since early access. 4. Anger Foot: An arcade FPS priced at , combining fast-paced action and humor, reminiscent of "Hotline Miami." 5. Judero: An action-adventure game with a druid protagonist in a whimsical claymation world, featuring surreal dialogues. 6. Mouthwashing: A claustrophobic narrative set on a marooned spaceship, known for its nonlinear storytelling and haunting atmosphere. 7. Straftat: A 1v1 FPS that combines classic map design with humor, serving as a contrast to live service games. 8. The Black Parade: An unofficial expansion for Thief Gold, featuring ten expansive missions that highlight immersive sim design. These indie titles offer a refreshing alternative to mainstream gaming, allowing players to enjoy unique narratives and innovative gameplay.

AppWizard

August 30, 2024

I thought Farewell North was going to be a cute game about a dog in Scotland, but I’ve come away from it with lessons to learn about handling loss

Farewell North is an adventure game set in the Scottish Highlands that features a border collie named Chesley. The game uses a muted color palette that becomes vibrant as players engage in mini-games, such as fetching sticks and herding sheep, which are essential for narrative progression. The story involves themes of loss and companionship, with players discovering their owner trapped in memories and needing to use birds as a distraction to free her. Completing mini-games restores color to the environment, symbolizing the emotional journey of the characters. The game balances heavy themes with a bittersweet tone, allowing players to explore at their own pace and fostering a personal connection to the story. It offers a rich exploration of processing loss and companionship, leaving a lasting emotional impact.