protagonist Archives

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April 3, 2025

Nintendo got a Bloodborne spiritual sequel before PC even got the first game

FromSoftware is developing a new game titled The Duskbloods, set for release in 2026, which is a spiritual successor to Bloodborne. The game features gothic architecture, beast transformation mechanics, and characters that can morph into monstrous forms, including a miniature T-Rex. It incorporates vampiric themes where vampires can siphon power from defeated foes. The gameplay will include elements like runes, firearms, and a focus on steampunk technology, with characters using jetpacks and a functioning train. The game is exclusive to Nintendo Switch.

AppWizard

April 1, 2025

Which Cinema Format Should You Choose For Minecraft: The Movie?

Minecraft's film adaptation is set for release on April 4, 2025, featuring a cast that includes Jack Black as "Steve," Jason Momoa, and Jennifer Coolidge. The film will be available in various formats, including IMAX 3D, 4DX 3D, RealD 3D, and Dolby Cinema. In the UK, IMAX 3D will only be shown at the BFI IMAX, while other venues will present it in 2D. The film maintains a consistent aspect ratio of 1.85:1 and was not specifically filmed for IMAX. HDR by Barco technology has been applied to the film, promising superior image quality, but it will only be available in six locations worldwide, primarily in North America and one in the UK. Moviegoers are advised to check local listings for availability.

AppWizard

March 30, 2025

Blades of Fire just showed off its first five minutes of gameplay, and I think it might be channelling God of War too heavily

MercurySteam announced its new action RPG, Blades of Fire, which is a spiritual successor to Severance: Blade of Darkness. The game features protagonist Aran de Lira, who navigates a woodland landscape and engages in combat with goblin-like creatures and undead foes. The gameplay showcase highlighted similarities to God of War in combat mechanics, aesthetic choices, and environmental design, raising concerns about the game's originality compared to its predecessor. The original Severance was known for its darker tone, while the new footage lacks this ambiance. MercurySteam's creative direction may aim to attract a broader audience familiar with modern titles. Blades of Fire is set to release on May 22.

AppWizard

March 24, 2025

The First Berserker: Khazan review

The First Berserker: Khazan is a cell-shaded soulslike game set in the Dungeon Fighter Online universe, where players control Khazan, a fallen general seeking revenge after being exiled and mutilated. The game features linear missions with checkpoints called Blade Nexuses and offers a diverse arsenal of three weapons, each with its own skill tree. Combat involves accumulating Spirit points through attacks and deflections, with a strict stamina system that allows for combo execution. Players earn Lacrima by engaging with bosses, rewarding them for learning and adapting during encounters. The game includes mechanics like timed deflections and unblockable attacks, with alternative skill paths for those who prefer dodging. However, the missions between bosses can feel repetitive, and the environments may lack diversity. The game showcases an anime-inspired art style and runs smoothly, but some areas may appear drab. A demo could help potential players understand the game's mechanics and narrative better.

AppWizard

March 23, 2025

Assassin’s Creed Shadows hits 2 million players, putting it on track to be the series’ most successful game yet

Assassin's Creed Shadows has gained over 2 million players just three days after its launch, surpassing the launches of AC Origins and Odyssey. It reached 1 million players within the first 24 hours, breaking the record previously held by AC Valhalla. Currently, Shadows has around 60,000 concurrent players, nearing Odyssey's record of 62,069. Ubisoft is in discussions with Tencent for a potential investment in a new intellectual property unit that includes the Assassin's Creed franchise. The game has received approximately 81.7% favorable reviews on Steam, with PC Gamer rating it at 80%.

AppWizard

March 18, 2025

Assassin’s Creed Shadows review

Assassin's Creed Shadows is a stealth-action adventure set in feudal Japan, developed by Ubisoft Quebec and published by Ubisoft, with a release date of March 20, 2025, priced at £60. The game features the historical Black samurai Yasuke as its protagonist, sparking discussions on cultural representation. Shadows includes a unique loot mechanic with a flexible engraving system for gear customization. The game presents a visually striking rendition of 16th-century Japan, although interactivity within the environment is limited. Players navigate using vague clues rather than straightforward markers, encouraging exploration. Shadows includes over 30 castles to conquer and is designed for extended play, inviting players to revisit the game for a relaxed exploration experience.

AppWizard

March 18, 2025

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 on PC is a bug-filled web of disappointment

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, released by Insomniac Games, features new elements like additional collectibles, skill trees, and two playable Spider-Men, but does not significantly innovate beyond its predecessor. The game has been criticized for its lifeless open world, repetitive side activities, and a dual protagonist mechanic that feels superficial. The PC version suffers from frequent crashes and performance issues, occurring approximately every 25 minutes, which detracts from the gaming experience. Despite its impressive visuals and refined core mechanics, the game is seen as lacking in narrative depth and engaging world design. It is available on Windows PC and PlayStation 5.

AppWizard

March 17, 2025

I played the notoriously ratings-board-ravaged Manhunt 2 and was quite glad for the censorship actually

Rockstar Games was highly productive in the past, releasing over two titles each year, including notable games like Manhunt 2, Vice City Stories, Bully, GTA 4, and Midnight Club: Los Angeles. Over eight years, they produced four interpretations of Los Angeles, including GTA 5, San Andreas, and LA Noire. Manhunt 2 became a cultural artifact, generating controversy that influenced its marketing and public perception, particularly after being linked to a teenage murder incident. This led to significant censorship of the game before its release, resulting in a less graphic version. The PC version remains the only platform with the original takedown animations, while the PSP version offers a more sanitized experience. The audio elements of the game contribute significantly to its horror experience. The absence of a scoring system in Manhunt 2, which was present in the original, diminished player engagement. The game's narrative was perceived as predictable, and the character Danny Lamb appeared passive. Manhunt 2 is noted as one of the last pure stealth experiences from a major studio, marking a shift in the genre towards action hybrids.

AppWizard

March 10, 2025

Cozy simulation game Urban Jungle for PC launches March 21

Cozy simulation game Urban Jungle will be released on PC via Steam on March 21. Players can transform apartments into green sanctuaries by arranging a variety of plants without worrying about watering or pest control. The game features strategic plant placement, puzzle-like challenges, a relaxing atmosphere with no time constraints, and environmental storytelling. Players can also interact with items like lamps and humidifiers to enhance their apartment's ambiance.

AppWizard

March 6, 2025

This new Xbox and PC horror game draws on classic Resident Evil titles for inspiration, and it’s launching soon

Post Trauma is a horror game in development by Red Soul Games and will be published by Raw Fury. It is inspired by classic titles like the original Resident Evil and Resident Evil 2, featuring fixed camera angles. The game utilizes Unreal Engine 5 for enhanced visuals. The narrative follows Roman, a train conductor who faces nightmarish creatures after a panic attack. Post Trauma will be available on Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC (via Steam), and PlayStation 5. This is the debut title from Red Soul Studios, aiming to blend nostalgia with innovation in the horror genre. A trailer for the game is available on YouTube.