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.

REVIEW: Pretty Girls Pop Match (2024 Puzzle Game) released on PC (Steam)

Review by Jon Donnis

"Pretty Girls Pop Match" offers a vibrant twist on the classic 3-tile match puzzle genre, combining engaging gameplay with charming anime-inspired aesthetics. In this game, you're tasked with rescuing legendary adventurers who have been captured by the nefarious Demon Lord. The gameplay is refreshingly straightforward: align colourful jewels into sets of three to score points and progress. As you gather enough points, you can unlock powerful "magical items" that clear entire sections of the board, adding an exciting layer of strategy to the mix.

The game shines with its appealing graphics and well-designed characters. Each adventurer has a unique skill that enhances specific magical items, such as Thina Ariosto's "Magical Shooting" which boosts the "Rocket" item, or Sara Magnus's "Magical Bomber," which powers up the "Bomb" item. This system not only adds depth to the gameplay but also encourages you to strategically improve your adventurers' skills using gems collected through the stages.

One of the standout features is the global ranking system that connects players worldwide, offering a competitive edge that keeps the game engaging long after you've tackled the initial 100 levels. The time attack mode, in particular, provides an additional challenge and reason to revisit the game. The Diorama system is another highlight, allowing you to create custom levels with your chosen adventurer, backgrounds, and decorations, adding a personal touch to your gameplay experience.

However, despite these appealing features, "Pretty Girls Pop Match" does follow the well-trodden path of 3-tile match puzzle games, so if you've played similar titles before, the core mechanics might feel familiar. Zoo Corporation's effort to infuse the game with unique elements and captivating visuals does help it stand out, though, and their signature charm is evident throughout.

Overall, "Pretty Girls Pop Match" successfully breathes new life into the genre with its delightful graphics, engaging character abilities, and competitive features. It may not reinvent the wheel, but it offers an addictive and enjoyable experience that fans of the genre will appreciate. With its fresh presentation and compelling gameplay, I would rate "Pretty Girls Pop Match" a solid 8.5 out of 10.

Out Now on Steam at

https://store.steampowered.com/app/3063120/Pretty_Girls_Pop_Match/

REVIEW: KAKU: Ancient Seal (2024 Action Adventure Game) - On PC (Steam)

Game Review by Jon Donnis

"KAKU: Ancient Seal" is a captivating open-world action-adventure game that marries exploration, puzzle-solving, and dynamic combat into an engrossing experience. Developed and published by BINGOBELL, it takes players on an epic journey across a vast continent teetering on the brink of destruction. Players step into the shoes of Kaku, a young boy tasked with restoring balance to the land, accompanied by his powerful companion, Piggy.

The game excels in its combat mechanics, allowing players to craft their unique fighting styles through a variety of skills and equipment. Whether wielding swords, shields, or ranged weapons, the combat system encourages experimentation and strategic planning. Upgrading abilities leads to even more powerful attacks, providing a satisfying progression that keeps the combat fresh and engaging.

Exploration in "KAKU: Ancient Seal" is both rewarding and challenging. The world is beautifully designed, with each of the four elemental regions—wind, fire, water, and earth—offering distinct environments. From a gloomy swamp to a frozen tundra, and from a surging magma volcano to a desert wasteland, the settings are diverse and visually impressive. The lighting effects and water animations are particularly noteworthy, showcasing a level of detail that is remarkable for an indie game.

The game also places a strong emphasis on puzzle-solving, which is seamlessly integrated into the exploration. The underground ruins scattered across the continent are filled with ancient mechanisms that require players to use their wits and the elemental powers at their disposal to unlock their mysteries. The puzzles are well-designed, providing a good balance of challenge without becoming frustrating.

However, "KAKU: Ancient Seal" is not without its flaws. The early game does have some bugs, although the developers are actively releasing patches in response to player feedback. Some of the controls can feel clunky and overcomplicated, particularly when it comes to combat. While planning and strategy are essential, there are times when the controls hinder the fluidity of battle, making it feel sluggish, especially during intense boss fights. Additionally, the manual camera control with a gamepad can be cumbersome, sometimes giving too much freedom when a more automated system would be preferable.

Character movement can also be a point of frustration, particularly when attempting long jumps or dodging enemy attacks. The controls can feel unresponsive, which detracts from the overall enjoyment during critical moments of gameplay.

Despite these issues, "KAKU: Ancient Seal" offers a rich and rewarding experience. The narrative is solid, with well-developed characters and a compelling story that draws players into its ancient, elemental world. The soundtrack complements the game's atmosphere beautifully, enhancing the immersion.

KAKU: Ancient Seal is a commendable indie adventure that evokes the spirit of classic Zelda games. It combines a strong narrative with attractive graphics and a fitting soundtrack, providing a decent challenge even on easier difficulty settings. While it has its imperfections, the game's strengths make it a thoroughly enjoyable experience. I would rate it a solid 8 out of 10.

Out Now on Steam £15.74

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1179580/KAKU_Ancient_Seal/

Or CD Keys £8.99

http://cdkeys.pxf.io/6eONoN