REVIEW: Turbo Sliders Unlimited (2024 Racing Game) - On PC (Steam)

Review by Jon Donnis

Turbo Sliders Unlimited is an ambitious and engaging modern take on classic top-down racing games, offering far more than just a nostalgic return to form. Its vast array of game modes and robust customisation options make it a standout title on the PC (Steam) platform. The game thrives on its community-driven ethos, where players have near-limitless freedom to create their own levels, vehicles, and game modes. Whether you want to race, battle, or invent entirely new ways to play, Turbo Sliders Unlimited offers the tools to make that possible. Its flexibility caters to a wide range of players, from competitive esports enthusiasts to casual gamers seeking a creative sandbox experience.

One of the game's strongest aspects is its multiplayer options. With support for up to 20 players online and local split-screen for up to four players, the possibilities for social gaming are expansive. The option to create custom servers and set unique rules adds even more depth, ensuring that each game can be as structured or chaotic as you like. The inclusion of non-racing modes like sumo, capture the flag, and weapon battles helps to diversify the experience, making this a truly multifaceted title. Additionally, the in-game level and vehicle editors are impressively feature-rich, allowing players to share their creations via the Steam Workshop, further extending the game's lifespan through user-generated content.

Visually, Turbo Sliders Unlimited boasts clean and well-crafted graphics that complement its varied gameplay styles. The tracks and cars are visually sharp, with a degree of polish that makes everything feel cohesive and professional. However, the game does stumble in certain areas. The menu system is needlessly complex, which could easily alienate more casual players. Navigating it feels like a chore, especially when you're just eager to jump into the action. Another drawback is the lack of a simple control guide, a noticeable omission in a game that would benefit greatly from clear button-mapping visuals, particularly given the number of possible game modes and control schemes.

For those prone to motion sickness, the third-person camera may be problematic. While the classic top-down view is functional, the third-person viewpoint, which is more in line with typical racing games, triggered motion sickness for me, making it difficult to enjoy the game from the perspective I preferred. It's an unfortunate downside, especially considering that this view is likely the one many players would gravitate towards for an immersive experience.

Turbo Sliders Unlimited succeeds in being a fun and feature-rich game with a strong community focus. Its extensive customisation options and variety of game modes ensure it can be enjoyed in countless ways. However, issues like the overly complicated menu system and camera-related motion sickness dampen the experience slightly. Despite these flaws, it's an enjoyable game with immense potential, particularly if some of its rougher edges are smoothed out in future updates. I'd rate it 7 out of 10, with the potential to reach 8 if these issues are addressed.

Released on September 12^th 

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1478340/Turbo_Sliders_Unlimited/

REVIEW: JDM: Rise of the Scorpion (2024 Video Game) on PC (Steam)

Review by Jon Donnis

"JDM: Rise of the Scorpion" offers an intriguing glimpse into the upcoming "Japanese Drift Master" game from Gaming Factory, setting the stage for what could be a thrilling journey into the world of Japanese street racing. The prologue does a commendable job in introducing players to the story of Hatori 'Scorpion' Hasashi, immersing them in his world through beautifully illustrated manga panels. This storytelling approach is a refreshing touch, adding a layer of narrative depth often absent in racing games.

Visually, the game is striking. The Japanese setting is rendered with remarkable attention to detail, with the vibrant landscapes and dynamic weather systems contributing to an authentic and atmospheric experience. The day and night cycles, along with the changing traffic patterns, enhance the realism, making each race feel distinct and alive. The sound effects complement the visual experience well, with decent music that keeps the energy high during races.

However, the game is not without its flaws. The driving mechanics, particularly the drifting, leave much to be desired. Drifting, which should be the heart and soul of a game like this, feels unintuitive and frustrating, largely due to the unforgiving crash mechanics. The crash detection is particularly problematic, collisions result in an abrupt halt with no visual car damage, which breaks immersion and detracts from the overall excitement. Additionally, the braking and general driving physics feel unpolished, preventing the game from reaching its full potential in providing a satisfying racing experience.

Despite these issues, "JDM: Rise of the Scorpion" still manages to capture the thrill of racing, especially when the roads open up and you can push your car to its limits. The sense of speed is exhilarating, even if the physics occasionally undermine the fun. Given that this is a free prologue, it's worth a try, especially for fans of the genre or those curious about the full game. While the final product has a long way to go, "JDM: Rise of the Scorpion" lays a promising foundation. With further refinement, it could evolve into a standout title in the world of drift racing games.

Get it now at

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1364930/JDM_Rise_of_the_Scorpion/

REVIEW: The Exit 8 (2024 Video Game) on PS5

Review by Jon Donnis

"The Exit 8" is an evocative and atmospheric walking simulator from Kotake Create, a Japanese indie developer, that stands out for its masterful blend of psychological horror and puzzle-solving. Set in the eerie confines of a Japanese metro station passageway, the game invites players to navigate an unsettling environment where reality seems to unravel. The objective is deceptively simple: spot anomalies in the environment to progress through the passageway. However, this straightforward task is elevated to a nerve-wracking experience as the station's repetitive architecture and subtle shifts in detail foster a sense of paranoia and unease.

The game's inspiration from the surreal nature of underground passageways is palpable. The station's design captures the unnerving liminality of such spaces, where familiarity teeters on the edge of the uncanny. The graphical fidelity is impressive, with a level of realism that blurs the line between game and reality, further enhancing the psychological tension. The meticulous attention to detail is remarkable; every sign, every poster, and every inch of the environment feels purposeful, making the act of spotting discrepancies a genuinely immersive challenge.

What sets "The Exit 8" apart is how it manipulates the player's sense of security. The looping mechanic, reminiscent of the Japanese horror game I'm on Observation Duty, injects a constant undercurrent of dread. The corridor, initially mundane, becomes a psychological battleground where the smallest change, a flickering light, a slightly altered sign, can trigger anxiety. The addition of a passer-by who acts as a timer intensifies the pressure, forcing players to make quick decisions with the knowledge that one wrong move resets their progress. This binary decision-making process, while seemingly simple, becomes a source of profound stress, as the fear of failure looms large.

Despite its strengths, "The Exit 8" does have its limitations. The game is undeniably short, with a playtime of around 20 minutes for those who make the correct decisions swiftly. This brevity, while part of the game's charm, also limits its replayability. Once the anomalies have been spotted and the passageway conquered, there is little incentive to revisit the experience. However, the short duration also ensures that the tension remains high throughout, with no room for the atmosphere to stagnate.

The Exit 8 is a finely crafted experience that distills the essence of psychological horror into a compact, visually stunning package. Its ability to evoke a deep sense of discomfort through subtle environmental changes is a testament to Kotake Create's understanding of the genre. While its length may leave some wanting more, the game's intense, focused experience is likely to linger in the mind long after the final exit is reached. I score "The Exit 8" a strong 8 out of 10; it may be brief, but its impact is lasting.

Out Now on PC and Consoles

REVIEW: Creatures of Ava (2024 Open-world creature-saving puzzle video game) - On Xbox

Review by Jon Donnis

"Creatures of Ava" offers a refreshing and heartwarming take on the open-world adventure genre, putting players in the shoes of Vic, a young researcher dedicated to saving the creatures of the planet Ava from a mysterious infection known as "the withering." From the outset, the game captivates with its lush, hand-painted art style and evocative soundtrack, which combine to create an immersive and enchanting world. The narrative, co-created by the talented Rhianna Pratchett, strikes a perfect balance between wonder and urgency, as players explore the planet's diverse ecosystems, ranging from the vibrant Nari jungle to the eerie Mâruba swamp.

As Vic, players are accompanied by Tabitha, a seasoned researcher, on an expedition to uncover the secrets of Ava and combat the spreading infection. The gameplay is centred around a unique non-violent combat system where players use a special flute to soothe and cleanse the infected creatures rather than defeating them. This mechanic underscores the game's emphasis on empathy and conservation, challenging players to look beyond a typical human-centric perspective and understand the intrinsic value of the planet's flora and fauna.

One of the game's standout features is its intricate and interconnected world, which is populated with over 20 distinct creatures, each with their own abilities that can assist in solving environmental puzzles. This mechanic not only adds depth to the gameplay but also fosters a strong sense of connection with the wildlife of Ava. The creatures are more than just obstacles or companions; they are integral to the experience, offering unique interactions that are both rewarding and thought-provoking.

The game's narrative is deeply touching, exploring themes of redemption, environmental stewardship, and the consequences of human interference. The story unfolds through a combination of text-based dialogue and occasional voice acting, though the latter leaves something to be desired. The voiced segments feel somewhat lacklustre and disjointed, suggesting they may have been added as an afterthought. This inconsistency can sometimes break immersion, as the quality of voice acting does not match the otherwise polished presentation.

Despite these minor flaws, "Creatures of Ava" excels in creating a vibrant, living world. The four distinct biomes are beautifully realised, each with its own unique aesthetics and challenges. The game's art direction and environmental design are truly exceptional, making exploration a visual delight. However, the camera can sometimes be problematic, particularly in tight spaces or during intense moments of creature cleansing, where it can obstruct the player's view and make precise actions challenging.

Another noteworthy aspect is the game's map, which, while comprehensive, can occasionally be confusing to navigate. The layout of Ava's ecosystems is complex, and the map does not always make it clear how to reach certain locations, leading to moments of frustration. However, these issues are relatively minor in the grand scheme of things and do little to detract from the overall experience.

"Creatures of Ava" also includes a variety of engaging side quests that enhance the main story and offer additional insight into the world's lore. These quests are well-integrated and provide meaningful rewards, encouraging players to delve deeper into the mysteries of Ava. The inclusion of a photography mechanic, reminiscent of the Pokémon Pokédex system, adds another layer of enjoyment, allowing players to document the creatures they encounter, both infected and cleansed.

Creatures of Ava is a beautiful and imaginative game that offers a unique and heartfelt experience. It stands out for its touching narrative, stunning visuals, and innovative gameplay mechanics. While not without its imperfections, such as inconsistent voice acting and occasional camera issues, these are minor blemishes on an otherwise stellar title. The game's length may be relatively short, but it is packed with content that encourages replayability, particularly for those who want to complete all the side quests and immerse themselves fully in Ava's world. Overall, "Creatures of Ava" is a creative and original experience that deserves a solid 8 out of 10.

Xbox Release Date:  Wednesday, August 7th, 2024

https://www.xbox.com/en-GB/games/store/creatures-of-ava/9nv5ltsphqd2

Understanding Steam Wallet Gift Cards: A Comprehensive Guide

Steam Wallet Gift Cards have become a popular choice for gamers around the world. These cards offer a versatile and convenient way to access a vast library of games, downloadable content (DLC), and other digital items available on the Steam platform. Whether you are a seasoned gamer or new to the gaming world, understanding how Steam Wallet Gift Cards work and their benefits can enhance your gaming experience.

What are Steam Wallet Gift Cards?

Steam Wallet Gift Cards are prepaid cards that can be redeemed for Steam Wallet credit. This credit can then be used to purchase games, DLC, in-game items, software, and more from the Steam store. Available in various denominations, these cards are perfect for any budget and provide a flexible way to manage gaming expenses.

How to Use Steam Wallet Gift Cards

Using a Steam Wallet Gift Card is straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Purchase a Card: Steam Wallet Gift Cards can be bought from various retailers, both physical and online. They are available in different denominations, typically ranging from $5 to $100 or more.
2. Redeem the Card: To redeem a Steam Wallet Gift Card, log into your Steam account, go to the "Games" menu, and select "Redeem a Steam Wallet Code." Enter the unique code found on the card, and the corresponding amount will be added to your Steam Wallet.
3. Make Purchases: Once the credit is added to your Steam Wallet, you can use it to buy games, DLC, and other digital content. At checkout, select your Steam Wallet as the payment method.

Benefits of Steam Wallet Gift Cards

1. Versatility: Steam Wallet Gift Cards can be used for a wide range of digital content. Whether you're looking to purchase the latest AAA title, indie games, or additional content for your favorite games, these cards provide the flexibility to choose from thousands of options.
2. Gifting: They make excellent gifts for friends and family who are gaming enthusiasts. Not only do they offer the recipient the freedom to choose what they want, but they also ensure that the gift is something they will definitely use.
3. Security: Using Steam Wallet credit can be safer than using a credit card for purchases. It helps limit the amount of money you can spend, providing a form of budget control and reducing the risk of overspending.
4. No Expiry: The credit in your Steam Wallet does not expire. This means you can redeem a gift card now and use the credit whenever you find something you want to buy, without worrying about losing the value over time.

Where to Buy Steam Wallet Gift Cards

Steam Wallet Gift Cards are widely available. They can be purchased from:

• Retail Stores: Many electronics, gaming, and general retail stores sell physical Steam Wallet Gift Cards.
• Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Best Buy, and others offer digital codes that can be emailed directly to you or the recipient.
• Steam Store: While you can't buy a gift card for yourself, you can gift digital Steam Wallet codes directly through the Steam store to another Steam user.

Steam Wallet Gift Cards are a practical and versatile tool for gamers, offering an easy way to manage gaming purchases and make thoughtful gifts. Whether you're looking to control your spending on digital content or give the gift of gaming to someone special, these cards are a perfect solution. With their ease of use, widespread availability, and endless possibilities for content, Steam Wallet Gift Cards continue to be a popular choice in the gaming community. So next time you're pondering a purchase or seeking the ideal gift for a gamer, consider a Steam Wallet Gift Card. It's the key to unlocking a world of gaming adventures.