REVIEW: Make Way on PC (Steam) - A Thrilling Twist on Classic Racing with Endless Creativity

Review by Jon Donnis

Make Way brings a refreshing twist to the classic top-down multiplayer racing genre, providing an exhilarating and endlessly creative experience for players on the PC via Steam.

The game's standout feature is its unique track-building mechanic. Before each race, players contribute to constructing the course by selecting track pieces from an onscreen selection. This innovative approach ensures that every race is a new challenge, offering a dynamic and ever-changing gameplay experience. The ability to add new track pieces after each round adds an exciting layer of complexity, resulting in a final large course that keep players on their toes to the very end, all while earning points by reaching checkpoints and hopefully finishing first.

The gameplay itself is a chaotic rush to the finish line, filled with hazards, weaponry, and the constant threat of falling off the edge. The addition of wacky weapons, such as goo cannons and Tesla coils, adds a layer of unpredictability and strategy to the races. The balance between cooperation and competition is well-executed, as players can either work together to create challenging tracks or sabotage each other with barriers and boosts. And the more you play, the more you will unlock, including new track dynamics and traps.

The visual design of Make Way is vibrant and lively, capturing the essence of classic top-down racing games while introducing modern elements. The incorporation of loops, train crossings, and helter skelters adds a fun feel while not losing that nostalgic feeling for older gamers who enjoyed classics like Micro Machines.

The game's progression system, unlocking new track pieces, hazards, and vehicles, adds depth and replayability. The mix-and-match feature for track pieces allows for near-endless course configurations, ensuring that each race feels fresh and exciting.

The multiplayer aspect of the game, both local and online with cross-platform support, enhances the overall experience. The option to toggle traps and safety barriers provides players with customizable rulesets, allowing them to tailor the gameplay to their preferences.

For those who fondly remember the days of Micro Machines, Make Way is a nostalgic yet modernized take on the genre. It successfully captures the spirit of classic top down racing games while introducing innovative elements that make it stand out in the crowded gaming landscape.

In conclusion, Make Way is a great game for online play and friendly competitions. It combines endless fun with a hint of frustration, creating a captivating gaming experience. With its unique track-building mechanic, diverse gameplay elements, and near-endless track possibilities, Make Way earns a solid 8.5 out of 10. 

It's a must-play for racing game enthusiasts seeking a fresh and engaging experience.

Out Now on Steam at

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1445790/Make_Way/

REVIEW: Speed Or Death - Nintendo Switch - A Promising Concept with Room for Improvement

Review by Jon Donnis

Speed Or Death on Nintendo Switch offers a unique twist to the racing game genre, prioritizing survival over sheer speed. The game challenges players to navigate through apocalyptic scenarios, from monster-infested cities to dodging dragon breath and escaping alien invasions. Unlocking different cars adds variety to the gameplay, creating an unpredictable and thrilling experience.

The graphics, while not groundbreaking, provide a visually appealing backdrop to the chaotic landscapes. The concept of surviving the apocalypse while racing is undeniably fun and keeps players engaged. However, there are notable drawbacks. Some players may find the cars lacking in speed, impacting the sense of urgency and excitement. The menu layout is less than intuitive, particularly concerning car options and default settings like automatic gears.

Car handling leaves room for improvement, with a smoother and more responsive control system needed to enhance the overall gaming experience. Additionally, the game lacks clarity on its ultimate goal, whether it's reaching a finish line or driving until a time limit expires. The absence of an on-screen map makes navigating the apocalyptic landscapes challenging.

In summary, Speed Or Death presents an innovative concept that injects freshness into the racing game genre. Despite commendable graphics and a fun premise, the game falls short in execution. Increased speed, improved menu layouts, better car handling, and enhanced navigation clarity are necessary for it to reach its full potential. The game earns a generous score of 7 out of 10 on the Nintendo Switch, with the potential to become a cult classic racing game if refined and polished.

Out now on Nintendo Switch at

https://www.nintendo.com/us/store/products/speed-or-death-switch/

REVIEW: Pretty Girls Escape PLUS on PC (Steam)

Familiar readers of our site are likely aware of my track record with reviews from the "Pretty Girls" franchise, and today, I'm excited to delve into the 21st installment – Pretty Girls Escape PLUS. As is the tradition with these releases, the formula remains simple: take a classic game, give it a modern twist, introduce new gameplay elements, and sprinkle in some Japanese anime-style charm. It's a straightforward recipe that consistently delivers enjoyable experiences. Given my past positive reviews of Pretty Girls titles, the question remains: can Pretty Girls Escape PLUS uphold this trend? Read on to discover the answer.

Pretty Girls Escape PLUS serves as an enhanced edition of its predecessor, boasting new characters, stages, and revamped dressing room features.

The game itself, Pretty Girls Escape, falls into the escape block puzzle genre. Players navigate character blocks through challenges, aiming to clear stages by eliminating connected blocks of the same color. The strategic movement of blocks left and right guides the character blocks to the exit. Each stage introduces various obstacles, adding complexity to the puzzle-solving process. The goal? Achieve a high score by erasing as many blocks as possible with minimal moves.

Game Modes:

Stage Mode: Featuring 9 characters with 6 stages each, this mode progressively increases in difficulty. Completing stage-specific missions earns points, which can be exchanged for new costumes.

Challenge Mode: A highly demanding mode with 20 stages, each escalating in difficulty. The ultimate challenge is to conquer all levels.

The game boasts a diverse cast of 9 characters, each with unique traits. The dressing room allows players to freely change costumes, take snapshots, and utilize diorama mode to create and save scenes with multiple characters.

Characters:

Akiko: Calm and composed, she's the reliable older sister type with a touch of femininity.

Aoi: Reserved and modest, she excels at singing but struggles with dancing and improvisation.

Erisa: A beautiful and talented idol skilled in both singing and dancing.

Megumi: Motherly and kind-hearted, she balances kindness with firmness.

Risa: A bright and vivacious track and field coach well-liked by athletes.

Ami: Track and field team ace, a perfectionist dedicated to her sport.

Sakura: The beautiful manager of the track and field club who admires her coach.

Seira: Strong, serious, and responsible, she plays the role of everyone's big sister.

Ayari: Quiet and cool with a hardworking nature and a hint of tsundere.

Notably, the game maintains a "Bishoujo characters" aesthetic, ensuring no nudity or explicit content, aligning with the Japanese Manga and Anime style.

However, the game's challenge evolves beyond mere block manipulation. Tilt options, obstacle introduction (bombs, unmovable blocks), and the need to strategically move key blocks to unlock exits add layers of complexity. Each character's set of levels increases in difficulty, ensuring a progressively challenging experience. The challenge mode, with 20 stages of increasing difficulty, further enriches the gameplay experience.

The Good:

Zoo Corporation, true to form, elevates a simple game concept, enhancing visuals, and adding depth to what could be considered a straightforward game. It's a rare feat for a franchise to consistently deliver quality across diverse game types. As a puzzle enthusiast, I appreciated the initial ease of play, which later transformed into a tactical challenge with the introduction of "gimmick blocks." Time seems to fly by as you engage with the game.

The Bad:

Struggling to pinpoint any notable flaws, Pretty Girls Escape PLUS effectively executes its role as a block-falling puzzle game.

Overall:

Zoo Corporation continues its success streak with yet another flawlessly executed puzzle game. Priced competitively at around £5, with a launch discount, Pretty Girls Escape PLUS is a "no-brainer" for puzzle enthusiasts. I award Pretty Girls Escape PLUS a commendable 9 out of 10.

Out Now on Steam at

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2670340/Pretty_Girls_Escape_PLUS/

REVIEW: Barton Lynch Pro Surfing on PC (Steam)

Review by Jon Donnis

Barton Lynch Pro Surfing, developed by a dedicated indie team in Western Australia, is a breath of fresh air for surfing game enthusiasts who have been longing for a realistic simulation experience. However, this niche title might not be everyone's cup of tea.

The game earns praise for its stunning locations, diverse game modes, and a meticulous approach to simulating the art of surfing. The attention to detail in physics and the inclusion of legendary surfers contribute to the authenticity of the experience.

On the downside, the game feels a bit unpolished, with controls that might be challenging for newcomers. The absence of an arcade mode is a curious decision, limiting the appeal to a specific audience, mainly surfers or dedicated fans of the sport. The plethora of menus and options can be overwhelming, making it less accessible for casual players looking for a quick pick-up-and-play experience.

Graphics, touted as cutting-edge, fall short of the expected standard for a next-generation game, which might disappoint those expecting a visual feast. The absence of an arcade mode compounded by the use of surfing jargon might alienate newcomers.

A notable feature is the extensive customization options, allowing players to tailor their characters and equipment to their liking. The inclusion of real-world surf brands adds a layer of authenticity to the game.

The career mode adds depth, challenging players to climb the world rankings while managing various aspects like money, equipment, health, and performance. The game offers a variety of modes, including Tour Modes, Free Surf, and Trick Challenges, ensuring hours of engaging gameplay.

The ability to customize weather conditions in real-time adds an interesting dimension, enhancing the replayability of each location. The soundtrack, featuring Smoking Martha, Kilns, Oly Sherman, Wing Defence, Mesmeriser, and Bad Pony, complements the surfing vibe and fluid mechanics of the game.

While Barton Lynch Pro Surfing may not be the perfect wave for everyone, it successfully caters to its target niche audience of surfing enthusiasts. The game's high price tag might deter some potential players, and the lack of a more user-friendly approach could limit its broader appeal. Despite its flaws, this title manages to carve its niche in the world of sports simulation games.

Out Now at 

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1776170/Barton_Lynch_Pro_Surfing/

REVIEW: DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing on Xbox

Review by Jon Donnis

DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing bursts onto the Xbox scene, offering a delightful blend of familiar characters, whimsical tracks, and karting enjoyment. Taking inspiration from the classic Mario Kart series, the game doesn't revolutionize the karting genre but provides a satisfying journey with its share of quirks.

At the heart of the game is an ensemble cast of DreamWorks characters, featuring the likes of Shrek, Po, Tigress, and Boss Baby. Each character adds a unique flavor to the chaotic karting experience.

The array of karts, numbering 20 in total, invites players to personalize their rides with a plethora of parts and accessories. This customization feature adds depth to the gameplay, allowing players to showcase their style on the track.

The tracks, inspired by iconic DreamWorks movie landscapes such as Shrek's Swamp and New York City Zoo, showcase thoughtful design and visual appeal. The game successfully transports players to these fantastical worlds, creating an immersive racing experience.

Innovative game mechanics, including magic paths and super jumps, inject a fresh element into the traditional kart racing formula. Uncovering hidden shortcuts through magical switches adds a strategic layer to the gameplay.

The multiplayer mode, whether online or local split-screen, stands out as a strong feature. It provides hours of entertainment for players of all ages, fostering a sense of camaraderie in the colorful DreamWorks universe.

On the downside, the initial tutorial disrupts the game's flow, hampering players with on-screen instructions. The inability to skip this segment may frustrate those eager to dive into the action.

Computer-controlled opponents exhibit lackluster AI, failing to consistently provide a challenging solo play experience. Improved opponent intelligence would enhance the overall enjoyment of the game.

While the game features an impressive roster of characters, the use of sound-alike voice actors instead of the original stars may disappoint fans. Authentic voice acting could have added another layer of charm to the game.

Despite being a major studio release in 2023, the graphics fall short of the high standards set by other contemporary titles. A more polished visual presentation could have elevated the overall gaming experience.

The gameplay, while enjoyable, lacks the breakneck speed that some players may expect from a kart racing title. A boost in overall speed could heighten the thrill of the races.

In conclusion, DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing delivers an entertaining karting experience with its vibrant characters and imaginative tracks. Although it faces challenges with the tutorial, AI, voice acting, graphics, and pacing, the game's strengths ultimately overshadow its weaknesses. It stands as a solid choice for DreamWorks animation enthusiasts seeking a lighthearted kart racing adventure. With a score of 7 out of 10, it falls just short of karting greatness but remains a commendable addition to the genre.

Out Now on Xbox at https://amzn.to/3MTnPrG