Anthology of Fear Xbox Series X Review 4/10 “Five Minutes on YouTube” 🏥 @AnthologyofFear #IndieGame #GameDev

Walking down corridors and having something shout “boo!” is great, but they do wear thin after a while, and as much as I love horror, I definitely need a break from the horror walking simulator genre. Well, after playing Layers of the Fear a couple of months ago, I booted up Anthology of Fear put on my walking shoes and headed down the creepy corridors.

CHECKPOINT’S SEGA PARTNERSHIP SET TO REVOLUTIONISE TEACHING 🧑‍🏫 @CheckpointMZine

 

Teaching goes super-Sonic, as study shows use of gaming culture helps 90% of primary students learn more A new study by Brunel University reveals that video games are making a huge difference in the classroom for teachers and students alike. More than 90% of students who attended lessons where video games formed a key part of the experience, said that video game content helped them to enjoy subjects more and learn more effectively. The principles behind these teaching methods have arrived in classrooms courtesy of Checkpoint, a video-game inspired education platform that, according to this new study, is responsible for genuine and marked improvements. Both in the way pupils are engaging with the teachers — and their implementation of the National Curriculum. Partnering with SEGA for this study, Checkpoint designs, writes and curates teaching materials that tap into gaming culture. From Sonic the Hedgehog to Planet Zoo, Checkpoint is helping teachers educate their students through the lens of gaming. These learning materials were welcomed by any school who used them. “We wanted to see whether our approach actually had the benefits we intended,” said Checkpoint’s founder and editor-in-chief Tamer Asfahani. “So we approached the educational experts at Brunel University London to design an independent study to evaluate the extent to which key stage 2 children engaged with our learning materials.” Brunel’s Professor Kate Hoskins led a team of experts from the university’s Department of Education, who worked with five teachers at four London schools to trial learning materials for a science lesson that’s part of the National Curriculum. The aim of the lesson was for the students – aged 7 to 11 – to learn how animals are classified into different species and groups based on various characteristics, and to practise doing this themselves. Instead of categorising normal animals, the students were tasked with organising Sonic and his fellow SEGA characters into the correct groups. Interviews and questionnaires found that the lesson was “overwhelmingly positive”, with teachers praising the engagement of children who they knew struggled in a more traditional learning environment. “The link to children’s game culture enabled participation across otherwise marginalised groups,” said Professor Hoskins. “Including minority ethnic, SEND” — those with special educational needs and disabilities — “and low socioeconomic status children.” Checkpoint were thrilled with the findings and are continuing to develop their gaming-inspired learning modules, which are completely free of charge, on their website and are looking forward to working with more schools and improving childrens’ education with the vehicle of video games. For more on Brunel’s research, check out quotes from teachers, Tamer Asfahani, and Professor Hoskin’s, below. Research Data and Developments in a Modern Classroom One of the teachers pointed out how when they started talking about the character, the students were immediately engaged. “They loved the fact that it’s something that’s in everyday life. Especially the boys — they realise, okay, yes, that’s different,” the teacher said, adding that the learning materials were something that he and his colleagues can use as a basis, and adapt to the needs of various classrooms. The students were similarly enthusiastic. And when the researchers analysed which of the National Curriculum’s key skills were hit by the lesson, all the desired ones were being gained; with listening, creativity and problem-solving scoring particularly well. “The students’ responses suggest that incorporating gaming culture elements in the classroom can lead to a more enriching learning experience for students across the socioeconomic and cultural spectrum, transforming the way they engage with and understand scientific concepts,” Professor Hoskins said. “Teachers can potentially foster a deeper connection between students and the subject matter when bringing the excitement and challenges of video games into the learning process, ultimately promoting a lasting interest in science education.” Checkpoint’s Asfahani welcomed the findings. “Thanks to this study, we have data confirming that teachers and researchers should work together to create innovative instructional strategies that harness the power of gaming culture and facilitate deeper learning for students, in key stage 2 science lessons and beyond,” he said. “This collaborative effort will not only contribute to the ongoing development of effective teaching practices, but also inspire a new generation of students to become passionate, lifelong learners in the field of science and other subjects; with the potential to be especially positive for less confident learners.” The research was made possible by the Brunel Innovation Voucher Scheme, designed to promote collaborative innovation between the university and UK-based small businesses, social enterprises and third-sector organisations. Key Links The report – ‘Leveraging students’ game culture in education: Validating the benefits of utilising videogames to inform pedagogy’, by Professor Kate Hoskins, Professor Mike Watts and Dr Asma Lebbakhar from Brunel University London, and by Tamer Asfahani and Chris Winson-Longley of Checkpoint – is available at https://checkpointmagazine.com/videogames-can-help-children-learn-more-effectively/ Further information about the Brunel Innovation Voucher Scheme is available at https://www.brunel.ac.uk/business/Help-for-SMEs/Innovation-Voucher-Scheme

Baten Kaitos 1 and 2 HD Remaster Nintendo Switch Review 9/10 “Two Under Rated Games, Brought Back To Life” ⚔️ @BandaiNamcoEU #Retrogames #HDRemaster

Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and The Lost Ocean and Origins have been in my collection for a long time, they were both some of my favourite JRPGS growing up. It was a real shame they didn’t sell well as they had good reviews at the time and I think they were good games with interesting plots and a good battle mechanic, hopefully, these HD remasters will bring some new eyes to these underappreciated games and fingers crossed for Baten Kaitos 3.

Vampire the Masquerade Interactive Visual Novels Collector’s Edition – The New York Bundle 🧛 @FunStockGames @DrawDistanceDev #IndieGame #GameDev

The rich world of Vampire: The Masquerade hurtles out of the night and straight for your throat in physical form! Thanks to Funstock, you can now delve into the seductive and intriguing world of the darkest side of death through this ‘New York Bundle’, which collects the visual novels of Coteries of New York, and Shadows of New York in one place in a  wonderful collector’s edition, along with a suitably gothic USB drive housing the soundtracks, and a hardback book that collects the art of the games – and I have to say, isn’t just a collection of the art, but a deep breakdown of the locations and characters, adorned with alluring visuals.

These visual novel adventures truly capture the essence and seductive pull of the World of Darkness far better than the movie Interview with a Vampire, in which eternal life appears to be reduced to wandering around, bored and bickering (coincidentally the names of my canine teeth).

Available for PS4 and Switch, this collector’s edition is the perfect excuse to spend an evening lost in the murkier side of life, with a bottle of red…wine….to keep you company.

Metal Gear Solid Shadow Moses Limited Edition Cologne 🐍 @NumskullDesigns

To coincide with the release of Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1, Numskull, in collaboration with Konami, is giving fans the chance to immerse themselves into the thrilling world of espionage and secret operations of the Metal Gear universe even further with a unisex fragrance based on the game’s iconic locale of Shadow Moses Island.

Wildmender PC Ten Minute Taster Gameplay "Give Me Food!" 🌱 @MuseGames @WildmenderGame @kwaleegaming #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich digs into Wildmender which is a desert gardening survival game. Start from a tiny spring and cultivate a blooming garden. Explore a vast world amid the sands and uncover its mysteries. Can you defend against the relentless forces of nature and mysterious wraith corruption, to bring life to a dying world?

Uncovering the Influence of Leaderboard Streamers on the Gaming Market 🎮

Live game streaming has revolutionized how gamers engage with video games, with platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook leading the charge. Twitch, the world's premier live-streaming platform for gaming enthusiasts, boasts a massive user base of over 140 million active users, underlining its leading position in the gaming ecosystem.

Right now, over 2 million viewers are following various streams on the platform, where 7 million streamers go live every month, and the platform is harbouring a staggering 35 million daily visitors on average.  

Dark Envoy Ten Minute Taster PC Gameplay "Those Scorpions Will Get Ya!" 🦂 @EventHorizonDev #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich takes a look at Dark Envoy which is an RPG adventure with tactical real-time combat and online co-op. Control a party of relic hunters in this tale of destiny, set in a conflict-torn Guns N’ Sorcery world.

Wartales Nintendo Switch Review 6.5/10 "A GOTY Contender Crippled by Technical Issues" 🛡️ @Wartales_Game @shirogames #GameDev #IndieGame

It pains me to write this review of Wartales, as I so desperately wanted it to be a better experience, I was clutching my ageing Switch and willing it to somehow have a burst of strength and run Wartales more smoothly and less clunkily, but alas, I was getting the exact same vibes I did when I played Dragon Age: Inquisition on my PS3 over a decade ago – either the Switch is showing its age, or Shiro games really needs to patch the game up ASAP, as what could be one of the best gaming experiences of the year is at present a mere shadow of what it could be.

Skater XL The Ultimate Skateboarding Game PS4 Review 7/10 "Do You Know Your Left Foot From Your Right Thumbstick?" 🛹 @skater_xl #IndieGame #GameDev

I have always been a fan of skating games ever since I got my first PlayStation 2. I particularly enjoyed playing Tony Hawk Underground 1 & 2, which offered a lot of fun challenges. Today, I want to share my thoughts on Skater XL, a skateboarding simulation game that takes a more serious and authentic approach.

Slaps and Beans 2 Nintendo Switch Review 7.5/10 "Slaps that add up to more than a hill o’ beans!" 🫱🫘 @SchiaffiFagioli #GameDev #IndieGame

I remember seeing the first Slaps and Beans come out a few years ago, and I always fancied trying it out, but it was one of the many games that unfortunately slipped through the cracks, so I certainly wasn’t going to miss this one! I’m glad I didn’t, as this is a fun blast of fisticuffs – preferably with a friend.

For those who were unaware – myself included – Bud Spencer and Terence Hill – the protagonists of the games – were popular Italian comedians back in the ‘70s who made an array of action comedies and spaghetti westerns from the late ‘60s right up to the mid-’80s., much like the various comedy duos of the ages, one is a gruffer, larger man whilst the other is a wiry, quick-witted chap. Good.

Robocop: Rogue City PC DEMO Ten Minute Taster 🤖 @RoboCop @RoboCopRC #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich attempts to become the legendary part man, part machine, all cop hero and deliver justice in Old Detroit. Man, Robocop Rogue City is fun. This is just the demo so we're well pumped for the full release!

🤖🤖

WrestleQuest Xbox Series X 8/10 “One Hell of a Slobberknocker” 🤼‍♂️ @megacatstudios #IndieGames #GameDev

WrestleQuest is two of my absolutely favourite things combined, wrestling and classic RPGs.

When I first heard about the game my excitement level was off the charts, it became one of my most anticipated games of 2023. So, after waiting all this time, will it be a 7-star match in the Tokyo Dome? Or will it be jobbing out in the opening match?

At this point in the review, I will warn you I’m going ALL IN on the wrestling references, there will be NO MERCY, so I suggest opening a ‘Steveweiser’ and preparing to smell what the Games Freezer WrestleQuest review is cooking.

Slip into Ultimate Comfort and Cool with Trust’s Latest Range of Gaming Chairs | GXT 703 Riye and GXT 714 Ruya 💺 @TrustGaming

Leading digital lifestyle accessories brand, Trust Electronics Ltd, is pleased to announce the launch of its latest gaming chairs, the GXT 703 Riye and GXT 714 Ruya. Both comfortable and stylish, they are built to be durable and breathable to support gamers for long periods of time. With each chair available in various colours with slightly different features and styles, there will be an option to fit into any gaming setup. 

The Trust GXT 703 Riye Gaming Chair is available for RRP £129.99 from Very and the GXT 714 Ruya Gaming Chair is available for RRP £199.99 from Very.

Cyber Knights Flashpoint PC Ten Minute Taster Let's Play Video "Stealth Before Gung ho!" 🕵️💥 @TreseBrothers #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich checks out Cyber Knights Flashpoint, the Trese Brothers' latest video game to come to PC. It's a Squad tactics heist RPG set in a cyberpunk setting that has been ten years in the making. You'll get to build your crew of hackers, mercs and malcontents wisely; their stories will become interwoven with your own. You'll also get to use powerful cyberware, faction connections, stealth, hacking & more to outsmart the odds and determine your future. 

KillSquad Review By Regan 7/10 "Hack and slash? Check. Twin-stick-shooter? Check." ☠️ @killsquadgame #IndieGame #GameDev

Hey there! If you're a fan of fast-paced, challenging, and fun shooting games, I think you might
enjoy Killsquad. The game offers a variety of unique characters with special weapons and
abilities, making it engaging and exciting to play. Whether you play solo or co-op, Killsquad
provides energetic action that will keep you on your toes.

As a bounty hunter, your job is to complete contracts that come your way, all whilst fighting through hordes of enemies and defeating bosses. You are a part of the Wahla Corporation, the organisation provides you with intel and once the job is all done will reward you with weapons or materials.

Under The Waves PC Ten Minute Taster Let's Play 🐳 @Quantic_Dream #GameDev #IndieGame

Rich heads under the waves to start his first day in his new job 10,000 leagues under the sea! In Under The Waves You play as Stan, a professional diver in the North Sea, who is struggling to overcome a life-changing loss during an extended mission underwater. Stuck in his self-imposed solitude, he starts to experience strange events and will have to make the most significant choice of his life...

The Last Oricru – Final Cut XSX Review 7.5/10 "More fun than Starfield" ⚔️🛡️ @oricru #GameDev #IndieGame

The Last Oricru had a rough ride when it was first released at the tail end of 2022, ending up 7th in Metacritic’s ‘The Worst Games of 2022’ list. It completely passed me by at the time, until I was hunting for RPGs that were off the beaten track on the Xbox store and quite fancied the game following a swifty at the trailer.

I contacted Goldknights and was advised that an overhauled version of the game was due in a few weeks, and so I held off covering the game until then, and I’m very glad I did. I didn’t play the original release of The Last Oricru. Still, I can quite confidently say that I had much more fun in the 15 hours or so that I spent with The Last Oricru (and completed it) than the 40 hours I spent on Bethesda’s latest release (before giving up on it out of boredom).

Hero Survival - Coming 27th October 2023 📅 #IndieGame #GameDev

 

Indie publisher Sometimes You, together with PigeonDev, is excited to announce the soon-to-be-released rogue-lite action-shooter fest Hero Survival. A classic in the making, with all-out action and plenty of rewards for success, it's a game that will want you coming back for more……and more… Releasing on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Microsoft Xbox One,  Xbox Series S/X and Nintendo Switch on 27th October 2023,  it really does what is said on the box, in this case, press release, a game where players face hordes of monsters from classic movies where you will just want to get that little bit further into the game and win the day. But it is far from a breeze.

Cassette Beasts Soundtrack Vinyl Review "a collection of warm, expertly crafted tunes that will get wedged in your head." 💿🎶🎵 @Joel_Baylis @blackscreenrec #VideoGameVinyl #Vinyl #VGM

When I played it a few months ago, I was captivated by Cassette Beasts, a cutesy (…or is it?) RPG that took the Pokémon formula and added some neat twists in the gameplay and story that kept me engaged in its world for quite some time.

A huge part of the attraction for me was the music, which was clearly front and centre, high in the mix, and every track seemed to be an earworm designed to reel me in, hook, line, and sinker.

It was clearly a soundtrack that would stand alone outside of the video game, and so getting the chance to write about it here is an absolute pleasure. Before I dive into the product and music, I implore you to check out Cassette Beasts if you enjoy turn-based RPGs, as it’s a nifty little game!

The Bloodline PC Ten Minute Taster Let's Play Gameplay "A Seriously Impressive One Man Open World" ⚔️🛡️ @ShieldBearerDev #IndieGames #GameDev

Rich plays The Bloodline which is a sandbox adventure RPG that lets you play your way. Reforge bonds between kingdoms, explore the wilds, craft and plan adventures and wield mighty weapons or magic as you prepare for what is to come…

Night at the Gates of Hell Nintendo Switch Review 7.5/10 "More grimy, gory gaming action from the purveyors of filth" 💀 @henryhoare8 #IndieGame #GameDev

We at GF have learned to look forward to new console releases from Torture Star Video, as their awesome brand of video (game) nasties always entertain, and have a dirty streak a mile wide. The last game published by Torture Star Video that I personally covered was No One Lives Under the Lighthouse, a Lovecraftian-inspired slow-burn tale that captivated me with its lo-fi visuals and bewilderingly saucy sound design.

Night at the Gates of Hell, however, does not have a subtle, slow-burn approach… it instead goes for an especially nasty Italian zombie horror vibe, which it absolutely nails down with rusty masonry nails in a bloody mess of viscera and gore.

Top Video Games for Novices 🎮

Video games possess the remarkable ability to immerse you in imaginative and uncharted realms, captivating your emotions through their narratives. While some games prioritize dramatic storytelling, others prefer gameplay mechanics. Given the vast number and scope of games available today, selecting a starting point can be challenging.

However, certain games are ideal for novices and will undoubtedly leave you eager for more.

Bang On Balls Chronicles Nintendo Switch Ten Minute Taster "Let's Switch Up Those Balls!" ⚽️🏀⚾️🥎🎾🏐🎱 @bangonballs #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich has a go at banging his balls in this 3D platformer on the Nintendo Switch. Glorious bouncy 3D platforming and combat inspired by some of the best in the genre from Italian plumbers, blue hedgehogs, or wild bandicoots! Become BOB, a reckless bouncy hero embarking on a quest of epic adventures and chaos. Open World Exploration and Destruction Roll into jam-packed open worlds that let you explore and utterly smash them to pieces in the process! Conquer adversaries and boss fights, tackle thrilling challenges, and unearth hidden secrets. Realms bursting with activities to do at your own pace while you break almost everything along the way. Bounce Around History Bounce between multiple (slightly inaccurate) historically themed open worlds, each with unique mechanics, items, and enemies. From the Vikings through to the Age of Pirates. From Feudal Japan over into The Space Race. Each world lets you hop in and out whenever and carry over progress.

Video Game Lo-Fi Kingdom Hearts Vinyl Review - Review Lo Fi Lee 💿 @CarugaRecords #Vinyl #VideoGameVinyl

It was bound to happen eventually – one of the titanic JRPG series has its own lo-fi remix album. The original Kingdom Hearts came out way, way back in 2002, and the series now comprises as many as 13 games (depending on who you listen to, and whether you include collections, mobile games etc). Unlike other releases in the Video Game LoFi series, we have one producer across the whole album with featured artists, instead of the ensemble efforts we’re used to seeing. In the words of lost:tree themselves:

“This series and the music always had a special place in my heart ever since I was a kid and it still means a lot to me now, so picking only 10 tracks to remix was really difficult for me. This album is like a love letter to the game and I hope I was able to do the music justice with these remixes.”

Video Game LoFi: Kingdom Hearts vol. 2 - The Ocean Between Vinyl Review by Lo Fi Lee 💿 @CuragaRecords #Vinyl #VideoGameVinyl

Hot on the heels of the original album, here we have the second volume in the Video Game LoFi series, from Curaga Records, featuring reworked songs from the Kingdom Hearts series. 

This one comes from the mind of the producer foreteller with a little help from others. The major difference between volumes 1 and 2 is that this one is generally instrumental, with only the opening and closing tracks featuring guest vocalists. 

The presentation is in line with much of the Video Game LoFi collection, comprising a holographic jacket, paper sleeve and a pretty blue, purple and pink marbled record on 180g vinyl.

Side A kicks off with Simple and Clean, featuring vocalist REVEN, whose lyrics are kept low in the mix, allowing a summery breakbeat and dreamy synth to come to the fore. Track 2, Destiny Islands, all the way from the first game, features erstwhile series producer Save Point, with laid-back acoustic guitar giving the whole thing a Super Mario Sunshine feel. Across the rest of the side, Sacred Moon uses echoey sampling and gentle breaks to give an introspective mood, while Nachtflügel comes with a quiet island vibe before Treasured Memories closes us out with muted vocal samples over early-90s beats and washes.

Xion’s Theme opens side B, sampled bass guitar looping hypnotically around synth waves before fading into Ventus’ Theme, which features marimba-ish percussion supporting uptempo keys. Cavern of Remembrance is up next, with oddly truncated kick drum samples making it one of the more curious tracks in the series. Dark Impetus features more islandy guitar work before we finish with Don’t Think Twice, another track that featured on the first album. Vocalist Nila turns up on this one, albeit vocodered to within an inch of her life. It’s a wide-open number with gentle DnB hi-hats, and probably hits the mark as the standout track.

SUMMARY

This album marks a return to series themes for Video Game LoFi; whereas volume 1 changed it up with lots of vocals, this one goes back to using them sparingly, along with the odd sample from the games. 

This doesn’t mean one is better than the other – both albums are worth your time, but fans of the series will probably prefer this one. 

As always, the album is available on Bandcamp, but can also be found in the usual streaming haunts if you fancy a bit of try before you buy.

PURCHASE LINK: 

https://materia.store/collections/video-game-lofi-kingdom-hearts-vol-2-the-ocean-between/products/video-game-lofi-kingdom-hearts-vol-2-the-ocean-between-foreteller1xlp-vinyl-record

Chipmonk! Nintendo Switch Ten Minute Taster "Side Scrolling Mice!" 🐭 #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich plays Chipmonk! on the Nintendo Switch and learns that 4 mushrooms unleashes a torrent of Whales from the Sky on unsuspecting side-scrolling foes and less than 4 mushrooms will unleash a shower of fish! This game is bonkers good old-fashioned side-scrolling beat and bash 'em up action.

LET IT RAIN(whales)!

Seek vengeance on the gluttonous grey squirrel in this retro-inspired Beat 'em up starring chipmunk warriors!

The Rise of Esports Betting in the UK

In recent years, the United Kingdom has seen a remarkable surge in the popularity of esports betting. Esports, competitive video gaming, has transcended from a niche subculture to a mainstream entertainment phenomenon, and the betting industry has taken notice. This article explores the rapid growth of Esports Betting in the UK, its legal framework, popular games, and what the future holds for this exciting industry.

The Growth of Esports in the UK

Esports in the UK have grown exponentially, thanks to a thriving community of gamers, dedicated esports teams, and a burgeoning fan base. Major esports tournaments and events, both local and international, have contributed to this growth. Esports has captured the imaginations of people of all ages and backgrounds, with fans filling arenas to watch their favourite teams compete in games like League of Legends, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and Dota 2.

KeyWe Nintendo Switch Review 7.5/10 "You'll quickly fall in love with the game's charming Kiwi bird protagonists" 🦃🦜 @stonewheat #IndieGame #GameDev

Looking for an adorable and entertaining game that's perfect for all ages? Look no further than KeyWe, a short co-op puzzle game featuring cute animal protagonists. While it looks like it is aimed at children, adults looking for a fun and engaging game will also enjoy it. 

You'll quickly fall in love with the game's charming Kiwi bird protagonists - Jeff and Debra - but the chaotic puzzle platforming levels will keep you hooked. The levels are challenging and require teamwork, making it a great game to play with friends or family.

Gamedec Soundtrack Vinyl Review "Gamedec will fit snugly on your shelf as you dive into cyberspace" 💿 #VideoGameVinyl #Vinyl

Anshar Studios’ Gamedec was a game that I followed pretty much throughout its development cycle, until its eventual release. An impressive, combat-free cyberpunk adventure that really tried to take a lot on and perhaps overreached its grasp, it is a game that stayed with me long after playing due to its eschewing of fighting/shooting mechanics and absolute focus on narrative and player freedom. As such, it was a pleasure to get the opportunity to cover the vinyl release of the soundtrack, which fully captures a musing mood of mystery and suspense for those dark and stormy evenings.

Purchase Link

Reasons To Level Up Your Graphics And Improve All Gaming Experiences 💪

 

https://unsplash.com/photos/G86jAn1Y1S0 

If you are a gamer, you will know all about the development of graphics over the years. If you are an ultra-competitive gamer, the graphics may not be your first thought, but they still come into things. 20 years ago, we thought we saw an astonishing level of improvement regarding the graphical side of things - now we know that it was only the tip of the iceberg. In this day and age, video games are like interactive movies as the realism is off the charts.