NSFW Sci-Fi RPG Subverse Reveals 2020 Roadmap Filled With Sexcapades

Subverse is an upcoming “kinky” sci-fi RPG that combines shoot-em-up and turn-based tactic segments with spaceship sex. The game, which has so far amassed Â£1,668,626 (RM8,983,634) worth of funds on Kickstarter, recently released its roadmap for 2020.
It’s not all kinky stuff, just so you know. For Q1 2020, developer Studio FOW Interactive is using its Dialogue Input System to input the game’s “500+ page” script into the code, while the turn-based part of the game is arriving closer to the game’s closed beta in Q2. Q3 and Q4 will add additional enemy factions (including one called Fuccbotts) to the turn-based side of things.

There will also be an artbook release and “waifu featurettes” for players to get more acquainted with the game and its characters before its release.
If it’s the kinky stuff you’re more interested in, Q1 will bring the “first of four” doujins “for the entire internet to enjoy”, with the other three arriving in Q2. I’m assuming that the artbook will provide some spicy images as well.
The Kickstarter post adds that aside from the listed milestones, there’s further development going on behind the scenes. The studio aims to release Subverse in 2021.
Check out the full roadmap here. Or below. Subverse will be coming in full 2021.


A Year Later, Fate Grand Order Is Now Out In Southeast Asia (Except Malaysia)

Ask any anime-loving/manga-hugging fan about the turn-based RPG mobile extravaganza Fate/Grand Order, and they’ll tell you all about their Zhuge Liangs, Francis Drakes, and other 5-star card collections they have, or missed out on because of the game’s gacha rates. Ever since the game’s English release on June 25 last year, everyone’s in on that FGO train thanks to the easiness of creating a North American Apple account and tools like QooApp that lets you play games not available in your region.
Which begs the question as to why Sozo’s latest announcement, which is FGO now available on Southeast Asian’s Apple and Google app stores (sans Malaysia because of “censorship laws and other regulations”) would resonate towards hardcore FGO fans. Most of them already have dedicated North American accounts with their hard-earned cards and servants, so there’s not much incentive for them to restart their progress on the SEA version.
But hey, for the rest of you who aren’t on the FGO bandwagon, now’s a good time as any to start. You get to play the first 5 chapters of the main story and also check out the many limited events of this gacha-heavy RPG featuring anime interpretations of historical/mythological figures of the world. Who knew there were so many bishie versions of Cu Chulainn and a child Jack the Ripper?


Cocoon Is A World-Jumping Indie Adventure Hopping In This September

From the same mind behind adventure game Limbo and Inside comes this bright world-leaping adventure game: Cocoon.
Gameplay designer Jeppe Carlsen, who runs a dev company called Geometric Interactive, has announced the release date of his new game Cocoon: 29 September. The adventure title pits you as an entity with wings who has to carry the world on their backs. The game promises intricate puzzles and platforming exploration with tons of mind-bending problems with equally-ingenious solutions, akin to your Portals and The Legend of Zelda titles.
Check out the world-carrying gameplay below. This one’s definitely on our list of go-to indie titles with promise.


HBO’s The Nevers Entertains With Its Female-Centric Victorian Steampunk X-Men Schtick

(Review originally posted on 5 April 2021)
There’s no shortage of superhero or comic book adaptations out there, but sometimes a show comes along with a unique premise to try and stand out. HBO’s The Nevers is one of those, and it’s created by Joss Whedon of Firefly, Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Avengers fame.
X-Women Assemble
Annie Carbey AKA Bonfire Annie (Rochelle Neil).
The Nevers is set in the year 1896 in Victorian London when a mysterious event causes people to manifest strange superhuman abilities. These people are referred to as the Touched and their abilities are called a Turn. It falls to protagonists Amalia True (Laura Donnelly) and Penance Adair (Ann Skelly) to protect and shelter these gifted individuals in an orphanage home.
First things first, it is simply unavoidable to point out how similar all of this is to the mutants in Marvel Comics’ X-Men. Amalia True is sort of the Professor X of the series, recruiting and helping the Touched. Funnily enough, there’s even another character who actually is confined to a wheelchair, adding another X-Men parallel. Just like Marvel’s mutants and the X-Men, the Touched in The Nevers are prosecuted and regarded as abnormal, freaks and abominations.
What distinguishes The Nevers from Marvel’s X-Men is that a vast majority of the Touched are women (with very few of them being men) and the presence of steampunk elements. That’s where Penance Adair comes in, as she is an ingenious inventor who creates all kinds of tech that shouldn’t exist in 1896, including a steampunk car (when even the rich aristocrats are still using carriages as transportation), and other gizmos to help her friend (Amalia True) against other more hostile Touched.
Penance Adair (Ann Skelly).
With an X-Men-like premise, there has to be a diverse ensemble cast. It’s interesting to see the tables turned and have more of the powered individuals to be women. The Turns (or abilities) are varied enough as well. Some of them are unique, like protagonist Amalia True who can receive brief visions from the future, while another character is a polyglot (someone who can speak multiple languages) but she can’t control it, so she automatically speaks in random languages. There are also some more conventional ones, like a character that can generate and manipulate fire, as well as another who is a doctor and can heal wounds almost instantly.
I was given four out of the six total episodes in The Nevers Part One (a future Part Two will contain another six episodes), and every episode has at least one or two action-heavy scenes. It’s a bit of a shame that for a series that boasts characters with unique powers, most of the fights are simply fisticuffs.
It’s rare that characters actually fight with their powers, so don’t expect much on that front.
Lost In Bridgerton And Downton Abbey
Laura Donnelly as Amalia True (left), Ann Skelly as Penance Adair (right).
I initially described The Nevers the series as Bridgerton meets the X-Men and there’s definitely that vibe going on. All the superpowered action and intrigue are interspersed with drama and a bit of romance, some of which feels forced like I’m suddenly watching an episode of Downton Abbey. These tend to be the weaker and more frustrating parts of The Nevers, though it’s not exactly a surprise (to be expected with the territory and setting).
For instance, there was a moment where one of the characters forbids another character from starting a romantic relationship just because the target of the character’s affection is Irish and also one of the Touched. Therefore, being in a relationship would mean inviting scandal to all parties involved, bring them in danger, and god forbid an English man marries an Irish woman.
Yes, seeing as this is set in Victorian England, of course, there’d be class issues between the posh so-called Toff aristocrats and everyone else. Several characters are annoying to watch, including the pansexual Hugo Swan (James Norton), who never forgets to remind everyone else how sexually freeing he is. So much so that almost every scene with nudity and sex in The Nevers involves this character.
Hugo Swan (James Norton).
The Nevers excels at showing the protagonist Amalia True as a flawed and morally complex individual. Much of her true origin and motivations remain a mystery, and it’s part of what makes the narrative compelling to follow. The others (even fellow protagonist Penance Adair) don’t get fleshed out as much, which is often the case in a series with a massive ensemble cast like this.
However, the plot might be a bit messy, especially when it comes to the antagonists. There are several of them. Nick Frost impresses as the ruthless Declan King AKA The Beggar King (who knew he could be such a good villain) and Pip Torrens (who I remember fondly as Herr Starr from the underrated Preacher TV series) is a natural as the intimidating Lord Massen.
Then, there’s Amy Manson’s Maladie who is just a cringe-worthy Harley Quinn-type character. It’s just awkward to witness.
It Has Potential
Amalia True (Laura Donnelly).
The Nevers isn’t as original or good as the first seasons of other HBO shows. Still, it has a lot of potential with its characters and setting. Even if you have a problem with Joss Whedon’s name attached to this project (with all the disturbing allegations thrown at him), you should know that he’s already been replaced with a new showrunner; Philippa Goslett (though Whedon was still involved for the entire Part One of the series).
For now, The Nevers might be the closest thing we’re getting to an actual X-Men series. With strong female leads and room to grow, this can provide a refreshing change of pace from all the bombastic male-dominated superhero shows out there.
FINAL SCORE: 70/100
The Nevers will premiere on 12 April 2021 at 9am GMT+8 exclusively on HBO GOÂ and HBO (Astro Channel 411 HD), with a same-day encore at 10pm GMT+8 on HBO.


IO Esports & Epulze Join Forces To Bring Dota 2’s Bali Major To Life In July

The world of esports is gearing up for an exciting event as IO Esports and Epulze have joined forces to bring Dota 2 fans the Bali Major tournament. This event will be the final Major of the year, and it’s an excellent opportunity for aspiring teams to prove their worth and secure a spot at The International 2023.
The playoffs will take place from 7–9 July at AYANA Estate, which is located in Bali, one of the world’s most coveted tourist destinations. Fans and competitors alike will have the chance to enjoy the beautiful beaches and delicious local food while watching the world’s best DOTA 2 teams compete.
If you’re a Dota 2 fan, be sure to follow IO Esports and Epulze on social media to stay up-to-date with important information such as ticketing details, match schedules, and broadcasting platforms. Eighteen teams from around the world will compete for a share of the US$500,000 prize pool and Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) points.
Sukro, Acer, and DXRacer are among the partners for the tournament, with Sukro showing their excitement to engage with Dota 2 fans from Indonesia and around the world. Kenchi Yap, CEO of IO Esports, is thrilled about the event, stating that the Bali Major is a massive event for all Dota 2 fans, especially those living in Indonesia.
Epulze’s Co-Founder, Pontus Lövgren, expressed his pleasure at being part of this big step forward for the Dota 2 competitive scene, emphasizing that healthy competition is what makes every player and fan fall in love with esports.
As the official venue for the tournament, AYANA Estate is excited to showcase its state-of-the-art facilities to fans. The resort offers 14 swimming pools, a secluded beach, 26 dining destinations, and activities that showcase Balinese culture and traditions. Giordano Faggioli, General Manager at AYANA Estate, is confident that every Dota 2 fan will leave the Bali Major with a special memory.


Marvel Snap Guide: Best Decks For Beginners

Marvel Snap is one of the most popular games in both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. NuVerse and Marvel have blessed us with an actually free-to-play card game where you unlock new cards by actually playing and the only thing you really spend money on is cosmetic items like alternate art for your cards.
And there are a lot of cards! The majority of the cards also come with special abilities that actually make sense for the character. Nightcrawler teleports, Rogue steals powers and Uncle Ben? Well, if you destroy your Uncle Ben card it plays a Spider-Man card in its place which is so dark and wonderful.
But with all these cards and combinations, it can be pretty hard to put together a hand of twelve cards that play well with each other. So, if you’re starting, here are some pretty simple ideas you can go with.
The Patriot Deck

First, we have the Patriot Deck, a deck that is really hard to screw up and can be really fun if things go your way.
There are cards that possess no abilities such as Shocker, Cyclops, and Hulk. It’s easy to tell whether or not they have abilities because they’ll have a quote like “Hulk Smash” where there would normally be a special ability description.
There are also cards that create “normal” cards. These are cards that, when played, produce more cards that have no abilities. Squirrel Girl creates two squirrels, Mister Sinister creates a clone. Things like that. You’re going to want to stock up on these.
But save a spot for the young man Elijah Bradley, more popularly known as Patriot. When placed at any of the three locations, Patriot grants +2 power to any card that doesn’t have an ability. If you happen to be able to duplicate him it creates +2 per. Meaning that if you play him at the Sinister London spot, it’ll create a second Patriot at a different spot giving your boosted cards +4. If you’re lucky enough to get Sinister Bar and play Patriot there it’ll create four meaning that all your cards without abilities will be given +8 each. That turned the Hulk into a card with 20 power.
If you happen to play Ultron at the end, he’ll give you 8 power at that location and then fill every available spot at the other two spots with drones that, when boosted, will be worth 3 points each.
Tip: I would also advise adding Venom to your deck because if you accidentally played too many cards that cloned and you find yourself unable to move, Venom’s ability to eat all the cards at his location while keeping their combined power levels means that you can clear out a spot without losing any power.
The Moving Deck

With the Moving Deck, you will need to be a little bit more careful because a bad opening draw can really decide a round for you.
For this trick, you’re going to want to look up cards that have special abilities involving movement. Examples of such cards are Nightcrawler and Vision who can teleport. You have cards like Doctor Strange and Cloak that can teleport others. And then you have cards that get more power when they move like Human Torch and Vulture. If you get a good mix of the last two you can really boost the power of your cards quickly.
The tricky bit here is that sometimes you’re going to be able to play a card but you might want to wait. For example, you might have Cloak in your hand on your second turn, but if you play him, you’ll only be able to move the cards you already have out on your second turn, meaning that if you don’t have any cards out with moving abilities, Cloak is pretty useless.
With careful planning, you can also boost cards several times with careful placement. For example, turn 4, and have one of your cards be Iron Fist. In the next round, you play Vulture and Cloak. Because you played Iron Fist the last turn he’ll hit Vulture making him go one to the left. Vulture’s ability lets him gain +5 power every time he moves so now he’s gone from 3 to 8. But because you also played Cloak, you can move Vulture over to Cloak on the following turn. Do that and Vulture goes from 8 to 13. And heck, if you manage to finish off the game by playing Heimdall—who moves all your cards one location to the left—you’ll bring Vulture from 13 to 18. In the meantime, Iron Fish, Cloak, and Heimdall added 14 other points to the board.
Tip: A great card to add to this is the newly added Miles Morales card. While a card that costs 4 energy to play for only 5 power doesn’t seem that great, Miles has the special ability of only costing 1 energy to play if a card moved on the previous turn meaning you can make a lot of turns a +5 turn just by moving a card.
The Ongoing Deck

The last deck we have on this list is a fun one, especially if you want to familiarise yourself with the lesser-known cards in your deck.
In Marvel Snap there are two kinds of abilities your card might have. “On Reveal” means that they do what they’re going to do when they’re first revealed. An example of this is when Jubilee enters the game she brings in a random card from your deck with her in an explosion of fireworks. Then there are the “Ongoing” abilities. These are the ones that stay active and live during the whole game. For example, Colossus has an Ongoing ability that says “can’t be destroyed, moved, or have its Power reduced.” That goes the whole time.
As the name of the deck suggests, you will load your deck up with cards that have Ongoing abilities. They may seem a little all over the place but they’ll work together eventually. Armour’s shield prevents people from taking out your Ant-Man. Klaw will boost the power of the spot to his right and Iron Man will double the power at whatever location you play him at. Devil Dinosaur will get a massive power boost for every card you have in your hand, and if you play Moon Girl, while she’s not Ongoing, she has an On Reveal action that doubles your hand giving Devil Dinosaur a huge power boost.
For some real fun, play Spectrum at the end. She has an On Reveal ability that gives +2 power to all cards on your side with Ongoing powers which can really turn the tables if you have an area with four Ongoing cards, giving that spot a +8.
Tip: A great Ongoing card to add to this deck is Cosmo the Psychic Dog. While he is the bane of any Marvel Snap’s existence with the ability to prevent any card from being played at that location by using an On-Reveal ability, most of your cards are Ongoing. So unless you just happen to be playing someone else going all Ongoing, you’re probably going to mess up their Christmas pretty well with that Cosmo.


Super Smash Bros Ultimate Adds Kingdom Hearts’ Sora As Its Final Character

Turns out that the early leaks are true: Kingdom Hearts’ main protagonist Sora is the final addition to Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
The Square Enix RPG hero who fights with a keyblade is light on his feet. He’s the lightest character in the game, has air combos up the wazoo, and can cast spells like in the JRPGs he’s in. For players who want fast and aerial-savvy characters, Sora is perfect for that playstyle.
Nintendo even added in Sora’s Timeless River design as a selectable colour palette. You know, the look he adopts when he’s in the Steamboat Willy stage in one of the Kingdom Hearts games.

Sora’s stage is the Hollow Bastion area that switches to the Dive to the Heart segment. It comes with the standard big bottom platform with the small top platform that’s commonplace in recent SSBU stages.
Sora will be available for purchase in SSBU on 18th October. You can either purchase him individually for US$5.99 or in the SSBU Fighter Pass 2 for US$29.99.

On a related note, there are now extra Mii Fighter costumes featuring Octo (Splatoon), Jude (Splatoon), and Doomslayer/Doomguy (Doom). Each costume costs US$0.75 apiece and they’re available on 18th October as well.


Super Bomberman R 2 Launches This September

Konami just announced that Super Bomberman R 2 is coming out on 14 September for PS5, Xbox Series X | S, PS4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC via Steam. It’s the latest addition to the party battle games series and it’s got the largest amount of content ever seen in the franchise. You can play offline battles with your friends and family, or go online and battle players from all over the world. Plus, there’s even a single-player mode if you’re feeling like a lone wolf.
You’ll recognize some classic modes like “Standard,” “Grand Prix,” and “Battle 64,” but there’s also a brand new mode called “Castle.” This mode divides players into the Attack side and Castle side, battling it out for treasure. And get this, there’s a “Stage Editor” function so you can create your own stages for the “Castle” mode and share them with players worldwide. How cool is that?

Key Features

Battle Mode

Enjoy four battle modes, including the new “Castle”!

Castle – Asymmetrical battle between the Castle side, which protects the treasure chest, and the Attack side, which aims to win the treasure chest!
Standard – The classic battle mode loved by fans!
Grand Prix – Battle of two teams! Work with your allies to defeat the opposing team!
Battle 64 – Battle for survival with up to 64 players! Aim for Bomber One!

Grade Match

Battles between users with similar abilities!
Fight online with players from all over the world!

Room Match

Set freely battle modes and rules!
Get your friends together online and have a good time!

Offline Battle

With one console you can enjoy Bomberman!
Connect additional controllers and play with family and friends!

*Controllers for the number of persons are required.

Stage Editor

Customized stages with blocks and gimmicks can be shared online!
Create, play, share, and explore various stages with the Stage Editor!

Story Mode

Enjoy the Story Mode that has been enhanced!
Visit new planets with Bombermans new friends “Ellons” and face the threat of the universe!


Three Weeks Later, Yakuza: Like A Dragon’s Latest Patch Adds In Key In-Game Feature

Yakuza: Like A Dragon left Japan without one of its main in-game battle features: the ability to see enemy weaknesses when selecting foes. A recent patch from Sega has finally added this feature on the Western release of the wacky RPG after three weeks or so.
While it wasn’t impossible to play and finish the game without this, it does make you write down notes on enemy elemental & weapon weaknesses and have them next to you. However, it would be nice to have an indicator on the cursor when selecting enemies to let you know whether your current abilities and skills can deal massive damage to a Beerzerker or Headguardian. Yeah, there’s a ton of lovely wordplay used on the game’s enemies.

Yakuza: Like A Dragon is out now for Xbox Series, Xbox One, PC, and PS4. We wholeheartedly recommend it and is basically one of our favourite RPGs of 2020.


Trailer For New Action-RPG Testament: The Order Of High Human Drops

Let me introduce you to Fairyship Games, a cool game developer hailing from the US. These guys are all about crafting games with gripping narratives that will keep you hooked. And boy, do they have something exciting to share! Get ready for the epic action-adventure RPG called Testament: The Order of High Human, set in a mind-blowing post-apocalyptic fantasy realm.
Now, Testament: The Order of High Human is being developed for PC, Xbox, and PlayStation, so you’ll have plenty of platforms to choose from. It’s an original first-person adventure that packs a punch with its RPG and Metroidvania elements. Picture this: you step into the shoes of Aran, the king of High humans in a place called Tessara. He’s the guardian of his land, but guess what? His brother, Arva, betrays him and snatches away his powers. As if that’s not bad enough, darkness creeps in, and monstrous creatures run amok.

But fear not, because you’re about to embark on an extraordinary quest to restore Tessara’s former glory. Your mission? Regain your powers and face off against Arva in an epic showdown. Along the way, you’ll level up your sword, bow, and magic skills, customizing your fighting style to make it truly your own.
In a nutshell, Testament: The Order of High Human is the tale of a fallen king’s journey to rescue his realm from utter darkness and destruction. Co-creator and studio co-founder Moe Naderi spills the beans, saying that the game pays tribute to an array of awesome adventure games and genres. He puts it like this: imagine taking the 2018 hit God of War, throwing in a sprinkle of Elder Scrolls, and a dash of Dark Souls. Mix it all up in a first-person perspective, and voila! That’s the world of Testament.
You might be wondering how long it took to bring this masterpiece to life. Well, Testament: The Order of High Human has been in development for a whopping four and a half years. And get this—it’s all thanks to a small team of 30 passionate storytellers who poured their hearts into this project.
Now, here’s the kicker: the official launch dates for PC and consoles are still under wraps. So, we’ll have to stay tuned for that exciting announcement. But trust me, folks, it’ll be worth the wait. In the meantime, let your imagination run wild and get ready to step into the shoes of Aran, the king on a mission to save his realm. Get ready to unleash your inner hero!

Key Features

Experience an immersive combat style based around three different approaches, each one designed to offer their own unique traits that allows the player to rely on it to get through the majority of play.
Master sword game-play with a variation of destructive and elemental combos.
Take charge of 15 magic abilities including single-target spells, traps, Area of Effect (AoE attacks), Damage per Second (DPS), and defensive spells.
Utilize a magical bow with four different types of arrows such as normal arrow, ricochet arrow, explosive arrow, and passthrough arrow.
Take advantage of a grand XP and upgrade system that motivates players to fully explore every land and dungeon.
Experience unique gameplay areas with exciting platforming that reminds of the nostalgic excitement from retro 2D platformers.
Take charge of a brand new ‘Eclipse System’ based on gameplay entities called eyes of darkness and it consists of 3 different gameplay mechanics that can work separately or together to deliver exciting encounters and challenges.
Use more than 18 consumables at the player’s disposal. These craftable items can effect the player’s health and mana or create enhancements on the players belongings and surroundings. Using them together can deliver advantages to help players shape their own playing style.
Take on more than 40 main and side-quests, carefully crafted and relevant to the games consistent storytelling.
Experience strong and engaging storytelling with a nonlinear narrative style.


Streets Of Rage 4 Finally Gets A Release Date

Your 2D beat-em-up jollies will be sated soon, in about 13 days time.
Dotemu just announced the release date of Streets of Rage 4. The game will be out on 30th April on PC, PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch for US$24.99. In addition, the sequel will get the classic Battle Mode where players can competitively beat the tar out of each other. This mode now comes with team-up options and also the option to pick legacy characters from parts 1 to 3.

Check out our SoundScape feature on the game’s rockin’ new music from Olivier Deriviere, followed up with comparisons with the older game OST from Yuzo Koshiro and Motohiro Kawashima.


Final Fantasy Brave Exvius Gets New Summons In Latest Update

Developer Gumi Inc., in partnership with publisher Square Enix, has announced updates to Final Fantasy Brave Exvius on 21 January 2021 in order to keep the spirit of the holiday season going.
Featured Units

Starting 21 January 2021, players can attempt to summon the new “Rain & Fina” Neo Vision unit.
“Rain & Fina” can perform a new type of ability called a Tag-Team Attack, which allows the unit to create an attack chain with itself. This “self-chaining” is significant, as previously chaining required at least two units to complete.”Rain & Fina” is the first “self-chaining” unit, with more to come in the future!
PlayersÂ can also attempt to summon the unit â€œFina & Dark Fina,â€ which is Neo Vision Awakenable.
Both units have an increased rate of appearing through a limited-time Feature Summon.

Rain & Fina (NV)
Fina & Dark Fina (NV Awakenable)
Guaranteed Neo Vision Summon

All existing players with accounts created prior to 21 January 2021, and new players who join after 21 January 2021 as well, will receive a special ticket which they can summon one of the five selected Neo Vision Units.
Players can have a chance to summon between Neo Vision units such as Cloud (FFVII Remake), Rain -Neo Vision-, Firion -Neo Vision- and more.

FreeÂ Weekly 10+1 Summon

From January 21 until March 31 players can complete one free 10+1 Summon each week which guarantees one 5 star or Neo Vision unit.

New Year’s Comeback Campaign

Thereâ€™s no better time to return to FFBE than now! Inactive players who log in between 21 January 2021 and 17 February 2021 can obtain Comeback 10+1 Summon Tickets (3â˜…/4â˜…/5â˜…/NV) through a limited-time login bonus.
Players can use these tickets to pull up to 14 times from the â€œComeback 10+1 Ticket Summon,â€ totalling to 154 free summons.

Ringing Out the New Year Login Bonus

Players will be treated to a special login bonus from January 21 to February 10, with rewards including up to 3000 Lapis, a Transcension Pearl, and a 1/10 NV Summon Ticket.

Additional Boons/Events for Players

From 21 January to 10 February 2021, story quests will be half NRG, â€œGreat/Amazing Successâ€ enhancement rates will be increased, and all Chambers will be open.

Players can earn various exciting rewards from The Visions of the Farplane Event, which runs from 21 January until 3 February 2021 (claim period ends on 10 February 2021), such as a Transcension Pearl, NV EX Tickets, rare equipment, and more.

Players can face off against Shadow Lord from Final Fantasy XI in the latest Series Boss Battle event to earn Lapis and other rewards.

In the meantime, check out the trailer below:


Pixar’s Soul Is A Stirring Blend Of Jazz, Spirit & Life

What is the meaning of life? That’s a lot more ambitious than simply toys and teenage emotions coming to life. Pixar’s Soul is all about that, and a whole lot of jazz on the side.
As a result, Soul is probably Pixar’s most mature movie to date. While it’s still very much an animated movie that both kids and adults can enjoy, it’s definitely a film that the latter will be able to appreciate a lot more.
Meaning Of Life

Pixar’s Soul director Peter Docter has been responsible for three of the company’s best and most emotional movies, including Monsters Inc., Inside Out and yes, even Up. With that calibre of talent behind the production, you’ll already know what to expect from Soul.
In Soul, Joe Gardner (Jamie Foxx) is a middle-aged man stuck in dreary job teaching music when all he wants in life is a big break in being a professional jazz player. When that opportunity finally comes knocking, he meets a fatal accident and winds up having to mentor a cynical unborn soul named 22 (Tina Fey).

Joe wants to come back to life, while 22 doesn’t even have a reason to live. They end up teaching each other about the meaning of life itself in an emotional journey that’s full of twists and turns. It’s the dynamic between these two characters that carry Soul.
What is your “spark” in life? The very thing that gives your life meaning? Will fulfilling your dream or objective be enough to make your life a meaningful one? Does one require a purpose or reason to live in the first place?
These questions will resonate with adults the most, as they are more likely to relate to Joe’s problems and issues. Soul explores the subject matter in a thoughtful manner. The main crux of the weighty themes in Soul will likely go over the heads of younger viewers, but the great humour and gags in the movie will still keep them entertained.

Even though Soul explores metaphysical ideas like souls and the afterlife, the movie doesn’t get bogged down with trying too hard to explain itself. It introduces viewers to concepts like the Great Beyond and the Great Before, but it doesn’t go too deep into the existential well.
Despite its themes surrounding life and death, it doesn’t feel like the movie takes as many risks as Coco and Up before it. There’s less of an emotional gut-punch waiting for you in Soul, and more of an epiphany of sorts.It still drives home the message, but Soul doesn’t hit as hard as Coco or Up.
As a result, Soul‘s climax doesn’t feel as satisfying as other Pixar classics. It seems like the creative team couldn’t explore the heavier themes as in-depth as they wanted to. Ultimately, it’s a bit disappointing when compared with the likes of Coco and Up.
Soulful Jazz

Music is rarely a big highlight of Pixar animated movies, unlike Disney movies which are often more like musicals. However, there are exceptions in movies like Coco and perhaps Brave, where the music is more prominently used.
Soul is one of those, as it’s elevated by the smooth jazz compositions of Nine Inch Nails’ Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross and Jon Batiste.Viewers with a keen eye can also see how much attention to detail there is in Soul.
Though I’m no musician myself, the way that human characters play musical instruments like the piano, the trombone, and the saxophone look very realistic. It must have been extremely difficult to animate them to the tunes and rhythms of the amazing jazz soundtrack.

Visually, Soul looks a lot like Inside Out, with simplified but charming designs for the souls and metaphysical worlds. However, what pops out the most is the vibrant and lively recreation of a bustling New York City brought to life in a way only Pixar can.
I also love the unique pseudo-2D and otherworldly designs of the ethereal angel-like beings who help look over these souls. These characters are voiced by talented voice actors like Rachel House, Alice Braga, Wes Studi, and Richard Ayoade of The IT Crowd fame.
Last but not least, I recommend that you get to the cinema early to catch an adorable and cute little animated short titled Burrow. It’s in classic 2D animation and doesn’t feature any voices whatsoever, but relies on the quirky animal characters to convey its story.

Spirit & Sentimentality

Pixar’s Soul is ambitious but never reaches the heights of Up or Coco before it. Still, it’s probably the best and most unique original effort from the studio in years, especially with Pixar suffering from sequel-itis with 2018’s The Incredibles 2 and 2019’s Toy Story 4.
Still, older fans of Pixar should give Soul a chance, and they’ll find a poignant story that will probably resonate with their own souls.
FINAL SCORE: 80/100
Pixar’s Soul is now showing in selected Malaysian cinemas and on Disney Plus in selected countries.


How MDEC Plans To Bring Game Publishers To Malaysia

Malaysia’s biggest event focusing on digital content such as animation and video games is just around the corner. That’s right, I’m talking about Level Up KL 2019. This will be the 5th year that the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) is organising Level Up KL and this year, it will be the first time that the event is open to the public so don’t miss out!
At a recent Level Up KL 2019 media event, I got the chance to talk to Hasnul Hadi Samsudin, the Vice President of Digital Creative Content at MDEC. Observing the success of local animation and games studios such as Les’ Copaque, WAU Animation, Metronomik, Magnus Games, and more, the interview was focused on finding out MDEC’s future plans for the growth of the local games industry.
They’re bringing in Swen Vicke, Founder of Larian Studios to the business days of Level Up KL 2019. Now that’s awesome.
The highlight of our interview was the part on bringing in game publishers into Malaysia. Seeing as games development is beginning to bloom in Malaysia, it would be unwise to neglect the publishing aspect of the industry. The presence of publishers would greatly help developers to market their games and also provide other levels of assistance during the post-production stage. Here’s what Hasnul said:

“We used to lack the proper infrastructure that game publishers needed but now, that’s no longer the case. Publishers don’t need to necessarily have physical presence in the region anymore, thanks to how things can be done digitally.”

There will also be esports tournaments on the public days of Level Up KL 2019.
Hasnul also noted that there’s a lot of game publishers in China who are looking for opportunities outside of their country and Malaysia could be a good destination, supported by the fact that young people in Southeast Asia are becoming more affluent. Another reason why publishers would be attracted to Malaysia is our “diversity and multiculturalism” says Hasnul.

“We already see it happening in the studio production side. That’s the reason why Bandai Namco opened an office in Malaysia, it’s because they saw that Malaysian talent is multicultural. We love experiencing things from all over the world such as both anime and western cartoon. It’s happened before that Chinese animators didn’t even know who Chewbacca is because of the lack of exposure. Coupled together with the command of multiple languages, that’s what we bring to the table.”

When it comes to overall exposure towards the fields of animation and games development, MDEC has been working hard to bring Level Up outside of the Klang Valley. With programmes like LEVEL UP @Schools, LEVEL UP Apprentice, and more, Hasnul wants to ensure that every state in Malaysia can take part in the development and growth of the creation of digital content in Malaysia.
If you buy the early bird tickets for the public days (priced at RM20), you’ll also get a free Unifi sim card with one month of free unlimited data.
For those of you who can’t see the big picture just yet and don’t really get what’s going on in the local animation and games development industry, you should come down over to Level Up KL 2019. The public days are happening on 9 and 10 November 2019 at KLCC. Entry tickets are priced at RM10 per day. For more information and to buy tickets, check out the event’s official website.


No More Heroes 3 Out For PC & Other Consoles This October

If you need a 60fps No More Heroes fix, you’ll have to wait until October for that.
No More Heroes 3 will be out for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, Xbox One, and PC (Steam) on 11th October in English, according to publisher XSEED Games and Marveloopus Europe. The game will be available in a physical “Day 1 Edition” for PlayStation and Xbox platforms for US$59.99. This includes a copy of the game, a 70+ pages softcover artbook, a 22-track soundtrack, and a 7-by-4″ Santa Destroy commemorative biker license plate, as well as two new illustrations for the game case and custom outer box done up by series artist Yusuke Kozaki.
We enjoyed the Nintendo Switch version of No More Heroes 3. For all the flak it gets with its “story flow”, it makes it up with its combat, presentation, and off-kilter narrative. This is a Suda51 game, remember that: punk and unconventional, and might make a lick of sense. I stress on the word “might”.
Check out the new trailer below:


Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order Will Pit You Against One Of Darth Vader’s Inquisitors

A new Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order trailer just dropped and in it, one of the characters says “I know you don’t trust me”. That’s a very accurate appeal from EA regarding how everyone feels about their way of handling the Star Wars license. My advice: don’t trust them.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfcAHfDuNzw&w=560&h=315]
I’m still pretty damn excited to see that the main protagonist Cal Kestis will be hunted by the Second Sister, one of The Empire’s Inquisitors who were trained by Darth Vader himself. The Inquisitors were Force-sensitive Jedi hunters whose main purpose was to kill any remaining Jedi that survived Order 66. In Fallen Order, we play as one of those Jedi.
The Second Sister.
It still bugs the hell out of me that they want to keep this game somewhat family-friendly. There’s a ton of execution animations that have Cal slashing through enemies with his lightsaber and it just acts like a glowing baseball bat that the programmers forgot to put hit detection in. What a waste!
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order will be released on 15 November 2019, just around a month before Star Wars Episode IX comes to theatres. The game will be playable on PC, PS4, and Xbox One.


Check Out Your Own Personalized Call Of Duty Warzone Report & Stats

On this day one year ago,Â Call Of Duty Warzone launched, the franchise’s first-ever standalone free-to-play, free-for-everyone, cross-platform battle royale game.
As tensions continue to escalate throughout Verdansk, we want to extend our thanks to you for the moments you helped make possible over the past year.
In commemoration of this milestone, players can share their personalized #WarzoneReport showcasing your latest statistics from your combat record in Call Of Duty Warzone, allowing you to compare yourself to fellow community members and maybe bring home some bragging rights among your friends.
You can head on over to the official Call Of Duty Twitter account here and reply to them with your Gamertag and the hashtag #WarzoneReport to get a personal look at your Kills, Deaths, K/D Ratio, Hours Played, Games Played and Wins over the past year.

Drop your #WarzoneReport below. We want to see something. ?
If you haven't seen yours yet, reply with your Gamertag and #WarzoneReport. pic.twitter.com/NEP9bbmRCW
— Call of Duty (@CallofDuty) March 10, 2021

Here’s an example of a Warzone report:

Call Of Duty Black Ops Cold War andÂ WarzoneÂ Season 2 isÂ now live.


Like A Dragon: Ishin! Is Receiving A Remake That Will Release Globally

During PlayStation State of Play this morning, SEGA announced a global rendition of the spin-off of their ever-popular Yakuza series.
The game is set to release on PS5 and PS4 in February 2023.

The trailer introduces us to Sakamoto Ryoma the protagonist of the original series who is based on a real samurai that live in the Empire of Japan in the late Edo period.
This release will celebrate the ninth anniversary of the original game, titled Ryu ga Gotoku Ishin! which was released exclusively in Japan on 22 February 2014.


Own A Piece Of Marvel What If? History With This Captain Carter Figure

“Her one choice gave birth to a whole new history and gave the multiverse a new hero”. That’s how the very first Marvel: What If? story launches: with the alternate First Avenger Captain Carter, who is basically Agent Peggy Carter infused with the Super Soldier Serum. And now you can have her on your desk thanks to Hot Toys Collectibles.
Hot Toys will be launching a highly-detailed 1/6th scale collectable figure of Captain Carter, donning the red, white and blue along with the Captain’s Shield. The figure also comes with the Capt’s sword, pistol, and figure stand. That shield does look mighty heavy and needs support, after all.
Check out more pictures of the Marvel figure below. You can order it right now on the official Hot Toys website.

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Marvel’s She-Hulk Trailer Drops; Stars Tatiana Maslany

Here’s our first official look at the upcoming She-Hulk: Attorney at Law MCU TV show on Disney+.
As you can tell from the title, it stars She-Hulk/attorney Jennifer Walters (Tatiana Maslany), cousin to Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo). She practices law and also turns very green when she’s angry. The action law comedy show is about her trying to manage her powers while taking on superhuman-oritented legal cases.
And she seems thirsty AF according to the trailer’s climax. Heh.

We get to see She-Hulk in all her green glory, with scenes of people liking this Hulk instead of the other one. She seems comic-accurate, as with all the MCU properties handled by Disney. Rather, this version of She-Hulk is more like the classic Hulk than modern Hulk in some ways.

This is what She-Hulk looks like in the comics.

The Superhuman Law Division

No, the Superhuman Law Divison isn’t related to the Superhuman Registration Act or the Sokovia Accords from the MCU. In the trailer, we see that Jennifer Walters has to lead a Superhuman Law Division.
In the comics, the Superhuman Law Division is basically just that, a law firm division specializing in legal matters related to anything and everything superhuman. It’s part of the Goodman, Lieber, Kurtzburg & Holliway (GLKH) law firm. The superhuman law division’s clientele includes a wide range of superhuman, supernatural, extraterrestrial and otherwise non-human beings, as well as various human costumed adventurers and even criminals.
There are also some other Hulk characters like Emil Blonsky/The Abomination (Tim Roth), who may be represented by Jennifer in the show for a possible wrongdoing.

The Jade Giant also is in the show; the version from Avengers: Endgame of course.

Here’s a scene of a couple of bad guys we can’t identify. One of them is Titania, played by Jameela Jamil (The Good Place).

She-Hulk Attorney At Law will be dropping on Disney+ this 17 August 2022.


Mike Haggar Retires as Metro City Mayor; Baton Passes on to Ex-Con Cody

From lead protagonist to vigilante and convict, Cody Travers is one of the last to consider a political role, let alone the Mayor’s Office for Metro City. However, that is the role he is in right now in his official debut to the Street Fighter V: Arcade Edition roster.

Interestingly, the hot seat of Metro City is not the only thing Cody inherits from Mike Haggar, the outgoing Mayor.

Indeed, from 26 June 2018 onwards, players can access Cody as part of the Season 3 character set. This, of course, includes his new costumes – like the one Haggar sported during his time as a pro-wrestler.
Funnily enough, the reveal trailer shows Kenny OmegaÂ â€“ renowned wrestler now with New Japan Pro WrestlingÂ â€“ taking the live-action role of Cody.
Yes, this Kenny Omega.

According to Capcom, Haggar took Cody out of prison; a pardon of sorts. The ageing wrestler then saddled the mayor role onto his young charge. The upgrade in status also means a huge change in the wardrobe. Looks-wise, the slick-back and two-piece outfit with pin-stripe pants make him a lot like Geese Howard or Ryuji Yamazaki of SNK’s Fatal Fury and King of Fighters.

Show Me Your Moves
In terms of move-sets, Cody doesn’t pick up any smackdown skills that Haggar mastered. Instead, he brings his repertoire of dirty fighting that he has honed and improved throughout the Final Fight arcs and various appearances in the Street Fighter narrative.
The moves, updated to fit in with the new look, have dropped some of the rougher attacks. Most obvious is the rock-throws. Don’t fret, this has been incorporated into Cody’s two-block V-Trigger. The Double Kick from Final Fight makes a come-back as a V-Skill. As for his trusty blade and pipe, both are part of the V-Trigger sets, with V-Trigger I (Side-Arm) seeing Cody pulling out the blade from…somewhere.

As for the pipe, when V-Trigger II (Dirty Coach) is active, Cody pulls out the offending long metal cylinder to bludgeon opponents. It is in this mode that he can throw rocks as he channels his inner baseball pitcher and tosses rocks at the challenger of the hour.

The rock toss can pair with what Capcom calls the Gentle Swing, a home-run swing, that can punt the projectiles Cody tosses earlier. With the right timing, it can mixÂ up Cody’s combo sets with varying results.
Most important is the Critical Art that Cody now uses. It’s a huge update from the old Criminal Upper. Now called Criminal Punisher, the tornado punch is devastatingly powerful.

It’s a real pity that Cody doesn’t do any bodyslams or grappling moves like Haggar. While the costume hand-me-down is amusing, it’d be more fun to see the new mayor strutting out a power-bomb or two as well. At least the other costumes remind all that Cody has, at one time, been a street vigilante and convict.

Cody is available as a stand-alone purchase for MSRP US$5.59 or 100,000 Fight Money. Those on the Season Pass will be able to get him as a set with Sakura, Blanka, Falke, G, and Sagat.
(Source: Capcom-Unity)


F1 Manager 2023 Launches This July

Frontier Developments has announced that F1 Manager 2023 will launch for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store respectively on 31st July.
The standard edition will cost $54.99 and the deluxe edition will cost $64.99. The deluxe edition will include four days early access beginning July 27 and an exclusive “Scenarios Pack.” Pre-orders for both editions include three exclusive race moments including one for the new Las Vegas Strip Circuit.

ABOUT F1 MANAGER 2023
Formula 1 comes alive for a new season in F1 Manager 2023. With 23 races, six F1 Sprint events, new cars, new circuits including the Las Vegas street circuit, new drivers, new challenges… Your legacy begins here.
F1 Manager 2023 will give you unparalleled control of your chosen F1 team, with rich and detailed management features, refined racing spectacle, deeper authenticity and a brand-new mode that allows you to rewrite the season on your terms. Drive every decision and become the best team on the grid across the official 2023 F1 season and beyond.
Build Your Legacy
F1 Manager 2023 gives you the freedom to manage your F1 team on your terms. You can startyour career as Team Principal at one of the 10 current F1 teams and manage every aspect from the factory to the garage, to the starting grid.
Manage your staff and facilities, build and fine-tune your cars, plan and execute your race strategy. You make every decision, and the fate of your chosen team is at your fingertips.
A New Way to Play
This is where you build your legacy and relive key moments from the 2023 FIA Formula One World Championship in Race Replay, a brand-new mode which brings you even closer to key moments from across the season. Rewrite the season on your terms.
Dynamic and Dramatic Races
Be a part of all the race weekend action. Take your drivers through practice and qualifying, honing your strategy in time for race day. Every call, every decision, every command is yours to make, and every mistake is yours to own.
Stunning, broadcast-style visuals are at the heart of an atmospheric race weekend in F1 Manager 2023 and races are now more dynamic than ever. Racing lines, overtakes, on-track battles and incidents have all been refined to add to the spectacle and realism.
A spin or intense battle may affect your driver’s confidence, pit crew fatigue could cause a pit-stop error, overheated tyres could impact your strategic options. How you handle these situations will define your management style and could make or break your season.
Performance Refined
In F1 Manager 2023, deep management systems give you total control over not only your world-class drivers but a multitude of staff members. Hire an experienced Sporting Director, opening up the ability to manage your pit crew’s training regime and hone their skills, crucial for a successful race weekend and winning the Fastest Pit Stop award.
Face a variety of challenges and dilemmas that threaten your season, poach new drivers instantly or agree for them to join you next year and uncover the next generational talent via simulated F2 and F3 championships. Manage a variety of variables when developing parts for your car including performance, reliability and cost.

GAME TRAILER


Gameplay Trailer For 2D/3D Hybrid Platformer The Plucky Squire Revealed

The Plucky Squire has resurfaced, and boy, do we have something exciting to share with you. The latest trailer for this gem of a game comes straight from the creative minds at Devolver Digital and All Possible Futures.

In case you need a quick reminder about what this game is all about, here’s the scoop:
Prepare to embark on a magical journey alongside Jot and his pals in The Plucky Squire. These characters, straight out of a storybook, stumble upon a whole new world beyond the confines of their pages. But here’s the twist: the wicked Humgrump, after realizing he’s the book’s ultimate baddie, banishes our valiant hero Jot from its story and forever alters the tale we know.

Get ready to experience a captivating blend of 2D and 3D realms in this delightful action-packed adventure. As you navigate through this whimsical universe, you’ll find yourself unravelling puzzles, engaging in lively boxing matches with badgers (yes, you read that right!), soaring through the skies with a trusty jetpack, and encountering countless other surprises and challenges that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Get ready to be the hero of a storybook that truly comes alive!
Don’t miss out on the brand new gameplay trailer for The Plucky Squire, right below.


Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak Monster Wishlist

Have your wirebugs at the ready hunters, the upcoming expansion Sunbreak is almost upon us and with more Monster Hunter means one thing: more monsters!
As in tradition with any new entry to the Monster Hunter series, speculation on what monsters will make a return is a popular topic in the community. So, in anticipation of the expansion, hereâ€™s our own personal wishlist of monsters we hope we get to hunt.
Seregios, the Thousand Blade Wyvern
First on the list is Seregios, the pine-cone-looking, blade throwing wyvern and my personal favorite in the whole series. Closely related to another iconic monster, Bazelgeuse, instead of bombs this cousin opts to throw bladed scales from its body. Seregiosâ€™ first appearance was in Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate and distinctly fights in this kung fu-esque style, using his hind legs for kicks to slash at hunters with their long talons. The sheer look of this monster is beautiful especially when it pulses its scales occasionally. Due to its acrobatic nature, I think it will make for a perfect addition to MH Rise and itâ€™ll be exciting to see how the wirebug switches up the combat.

Zamtrios, the Land Shark
Out of the entire list, I feel that Zamtrios is the most likely to appear in Sunbreak. We see its infant form as Zamites, scattered around the Frost Islands area so it’s not so much of a stretch that weâ€™ll see its adult form. Zamtrios is if a shark and a frog got put into a blender. One of the few amphibian wyverns, Zamtrios fights using its menacing jaws along with ice and water, either spewing it or covering itself in ice armor. The armor adds a spike on its head and itâ€™ll begin to slide across the map to impale hunters. Whatâ€™s more is that he has a second mode, where he inflates himself to gigantic proportions, fighting with rolls and heavy slams. This is similar to Tetranadon, which is also an amphibian monster, further adding more reason Zamtrios is most likely to return. Also its armor set looks like the Keyblade Armor for Kingdom Hearts.

Kecha Wacha, the Strange Monkey Fox
I have a personal fondness of monkeys, so itâ€™s sad to see that there isnâ€™t much variety of monkey monsters throughout the series. Rajang is fun but after appearances back to back, itâ€™s getting pretty old. Enter the Kecha Wacha, a fanged beast introduced in Monster Hunter 4. The Kecha Wacha is a lemur type monster that has a long snout that can spit out mucus. Its agility is its main strength as it uses long arms and hook-like fingers and claws, to swing around and attack hunters alike. It can also glide like a flying squirrel for a heavy slam attack. Flash Bombs also are ineffective as it can cover its face using its ears like a hood. How it swings like an orangutan would be an interesting hunt, as we can keep up with it using the wirebug. Plus, its armor makes you look like Sun Wukong!

Gogmazios, the Tarred Terror
This is the point of the article where we include elder dragons, and boy is Gogmazios worthy of that title. Said to be one of the most terrifying monsters in the MH universe, Gogmazios is a hulking dragon, similar in size to Fatalis in MH World, and is entirely covered in thick tar. The tar can spread into the environment and even thrown into the hunter, leaving them with a unique debuff called â€œTarredâ€. The debuff slows you heavily, similar to being webbed by Rakna Kadaki but will cause you to explode if you donâ€™t dispel it. Also did I mention it has a freaking dragonator attached to its back? Due to the tar covering it, all sorts of stuff stick to it as a result, giving it a rather grimy appearance. If you didnâ€™t know, Sunbreak will be classic monster themed. Iâ€™m talking vampires, and werewolves as seen in the recent reveals, and Gogmazios could fit the Frankenstein themed monster potentially? A bit of stretch maybe, but it’s very likely a Frankenmonster will appear.

Inagami, the Former God of Harvest
If thereâ€™s any monster in the vast roster throughout the series that deserves to be in MH Rise, its definitely Inagami. An Elder Dragon that was once worshiped as a god that controlled the crops, it has the ability to cause rapid growth in plants, particularly bamboo. You see where Iâ€™m going right? Bamboo. Ninja themed Monster Hunter. Inagami fights by causing spikes of bamboo to impale hunters from the ground and uses its large frame to tackle and swipe at enemies. Its appearance is very unique even among the elder dragons, and this can finally be the first monster from the Monster Hunter Frontier line to enter the main series, which is something fans have been asking for years.

So thatâ€™s our wishlist for Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak, fingers crossed it comes true. While you wait for Sunbreak to come out, give our review of Monster Hunter: Legends of the Guild a look.


Flipping Phones Showdown: Is the P50 Pocket Better Than The Samsung’s Z Flip 3?

Smartphone trends come and go. Larger screens, adding the notch, removing said notch, punch-hole cameras, large batteries, crazy huge camera module at the back and most recently, folding screens.
As recent as 2020, folding screens were all the rage with phone makers releasing their own unique take on smartphones with bendable displays. Results so far has been a mixed bag with companies still trying to figure out howÂ  their phones should fold – horizontally or vertically and what mechanism to implement. Thankfully, 2021 seems to be the year most makers came to an agreement on how
While Samsung has carved a sizeable lead in the market, other brands such as Huawei have moved into the scene with their worthy challengers who come close to changing the status quo. But which one’s better?
Samsung’s third stab at flipping smartphones in the Galaxy Z Flip 3 or Huawei’s P50 Pocket. ? Let’s say you are in the market for a smartphone with a clamshell factor but you have a budget for only one device. Which one should you spend your hard-earned money on?
To address that question, we compared the two models with their competitor on four categories.

Form
Both screens have a 120Hz refresh rate. Although the P50 Pocket has a slightly wider (by 0.2 inches), higher pixel density and more screen-to-body ratio, the Z Flip 3 (Dynamic AMOLED) comes equipped with a better screen.
Both has cover screens but we very much prefer the larger, rectangle one which comes with the Z Flip 3. Altho both screen folds together, the P50 Pro screen sits flush against one another as opposed to the Z Flip 3 which leaves a significant gap when closed.
When closed, both phones are really compact and should fit into even the tightest jeans pockets. Both stand out in public and give a satisfying feel whenever you close them. But unlike the Z Flip 3 which allows the screen to remain opened in a wide range of angles, the P50 Pocket only has two modes; fully flat or about 90-degree of opening; give or take.
Winner: Z Flip 3
Only pick the P50 Pocket if …. You want your phone screens to sit flushed when closed and somehow prefer a circular cover screen.
Camera
Camera is where the P50 Pocket wins hands down. There’s no two ways about it. It defeats the Z Flip 3 in all aspects and if you somehow are looking for a smartphone that flips AND take super awesome photos in style, look no further. That is a very specific buyer criteria though. As for the Z Flip 3, we are not saying the camera is bad – it’s way ahead of many models in the market but does appear wanting if you specifically pit it against its closest clamshell-style folding phone rival.
Winner (by a clear mile): P50 Pocket

Functionality
The P50 Pocket has a larger battery capacity at 4000mAh compared to just 3300mAh on the Z Flip 3. The P50 Pocket also charges faster when using the charging cable and both models have wireless charging + reverse charging abilities baked into them.
However, the Z Flip 3 wins hands down here. It has a smaller silhouette regardless of form, lighter despite coming equipped with an aluminium frame and best of all, is IPX8 water resistant. Huawei did not specify the water-resistant rating of the P50 Pocket so we would err on the side of caution there. Neither models have a 3.5mm headphone jack so boos all around. But props for Huawei for taking a punt at textured outer shells with the P50 Pocket. The designs while garish to some, are standouts in the sea of plain colours. The Z Flip 3 comes in more colors but requires you to snap on transparent cases to really show them off.
If you are fully embedded in the Google ecosystem, the choice between the two is clear. Stick with the Z Flip 3. The absence of your standard access to Google apps and services on the P50 Pocket is a major letdown. Unless you are willing to go through the hoops of side-loading, risking your personal security with third-party apps, we suggest you stay away from it.
Winner (also by a clear mile): Z Flip 3

Price
Ultimately buying tech is maximizing the pros and minimizing the compromises for the least amount of money spent. And in this aspect, it is hard to recommend the P50 Pocket which starts from RM5,999 even for its base model. It is ridiculous and we feel if Huawei really want to challenge Samsung in the folding phones category, it would be wise of them to drastically reduce their asking price. Meanwhile, the Z Flip 3 starts from RM3,999 for its base model and goes all the way up to RM4,199 for the 256GB variant. That’s a cool RM2,000 difference for the base models alone. Also, considering it’s been more than half a year being in the market, we are pretty sure you are able to snap up some really good deals for the Z Flip 3 out there.
Winner: Z Flip 3
In all, both are brilliant phones, marvels of engineering. However, once you start scrutinizing the practicality and price of these devices, Samsung’s Z Flip 3 still remains the king of the hill ahead of what should be the release of its successor in 2022. Huawei isn’t far behind but definitely need to work on a number of things if they want to keep their Korean rivals in sight.
These are our honest thoughts on the top two flip phones available in the market today. You can check out our full review of the Z Flip 3 and P50 Pocket here.


Final Fantasy VII Remake Delayed By One Month

Turns out Marvel’s Avengers isn’t the only game getting a delayed from Square Enix, though it’s not as severe a pushback.
The remake of Final Fantasy VII where you control Avalanche member Cloud as he kicks corporate ass as an eco-terrorist alongside his black friend Barrett and well-endowed childhood friend Tifa, will be pushed back from its 3rd March release date. Instead, it’ll be out 10th April.
Here are some words from producer Yoshinori Kitase concerning this:

“We are making this tough decision in order to give ourselves a few extra weeks to apply final polish to the game and to deliver you with the best possible experience.
I, on behalf of the whole team, want to apologize to everyone, as I know this means waiting for the game just a little bit longer. Thank you for your patience and continued support.”

At the very least, it’s only a month. Which now makes April a suicide month for other games instead of March. I mean, which game(s) would be silly enough to cross paths against a remake of a beloved JRPG that mainstreamed the genre?
In other news, we might be getting aPS4 demo of the game before April hits. Or not; we’ll see soon enough.


Warhammer 40K Darktide Progress Will Carry Over To The Full Game

Christmas has come early for Warhammer 40K fans planning to party down in the dark city of Tertium.
Turns out that all beta progress from Warhammer 40K Darktide will carry over to the full game, according to developer Fatshark. The full game will be out on 30th November, so it’s only a few more days until you’re in like Flynn.
Previously though, the studio wasn’t sure if that was possible according to a recent update.
“The reason is that we are still using this period to test our progression systems, and we want to reserve the opportunity to change or reset things in the event something unforeseen or critical happens.”
Thankfully, that’s all changed in a recent Twitter post.

pic.twitter.com/al6XwHH9SE
— Warhammer 40K: Darktide (@Darktide40K) November 25, 2022

And for those who still aren’t pleased with the state of the early access and even earlier beta, Fatshark is offering refunds.
“We believe you will have the ability to refund with the same refund rules applying once Darktide launches and after November 30th.”


Crystal Dynamics Is Working On A New Tomb Raider Game

During the State Of Unreal live stream earlier today, Epic Games announced that Unreal Engine 5 is now available for all developers. However, arguably the biggest news to come out of the online event was Crystal Dynamics revealing that they’re already working on a brand new Tomb Raider game, which will be powered by Unreal Engine 5.
Unfortunately, no other details were revealed about this new Tomb Raider game. Since it’ll be powered by Unreal Engine 5, it’s likely that this new title in the long-running franchise will be exclusive to next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. PS4 and Xbox One aren’t impossible but unlikely at this point.
Also, since the game was announced on an Epic Games live stream, there’s a possibility that the new Tomb Raider game might turn out to be an Epic Games Store PC exclusive. As of now, we still don’t know if this will be another reboot/remake, or if it will be a sequel to the 2018’s Shadow Of The Tomb Raider.
You can watch the Tomb Raider announcement during State Of Unreal live stream below:


The Iconic Bounty Hunter Takes Over The Underworld In The Book Of Boba Fett Trailer

Disney+ Hotstar has finally unveiled the first trailer for The Book Of Boba Fett. It streaming on 29 December 2021 on the streaming service. It wasÂ originally announcedÂ in December 2020 duringÂ The MandalorianÂ Season 2 finale.
It will follow legendary bounty hunter Boba Fett and mercenary Fennec Shand navigating the galaxyâ€™s underworld when they return to the sands of Tatooine to stake their claim on the territory once ruled by Jabba the Hutt and his crime syndicate.

Both Temuera Morrison and Ming-Na Wen will reprise their roles as Boba Fett and Fennec Shand, respectively.Â Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni and Robert RodriguezÂ (all of whom are also involved withÂ The Mandalorian) will be executive producers of the new series.
The Book Of Boba FettÂ is the eleventh Star Wars TV series to be announced afterÂ the ten previously-announced ones, which includes anÂ AhsokaÂ series and more.
In the meantime, check out my breakdown ofÂ The MandalorianÂ Season 2 finale and what it might mean for Season 3.


Netflix Announces Sonic Prime 3D Animated Series

Sonic The Hedgehog is getting a brand new 3D animated show on Netflix titled Sonic Prime.
It is set to be a production by Sega, WildBrain Studios (best known for Netflix’s ongoing Carmen Sandiego animated series) and Man Of Action Entertainment (best known for Ben 10 and Generator Rex).
According to Variety, the 24-episode series will feature Sonic in an adventure where the fate of a strange new multiverse rests in his gloved hands â€” and also represents a â€œjourney of self-discovery and redemptionâ€ for the speedy, blue spiny mammal.

Yes, it's true! SEGA’s legendary video game icon Sonic the Hedgehog will star in a new 3D animated series from @SEGA, @WildBrainStudio and @ManOfActionEnt premiering on Netflix in 2022. pic.twitter.com/ydJto8c8i8
— Netflix Geeked @ SDCC #NetflixSDCC (@NetflixGeeked) February 1, 2021

Netflix original animation director Dominique Bazay said:
â€œSonic is a beloved character and holds a special place in everyoneâ€™s heart including my own.
I spent many hours with the Blue Blur as a kid and itâ€™s a privilege to be able to bring this character everyone knows and loves on a brand new adventure with Netflix â€” one that a generation of loyal fans and brand new fans around the world can enjoy.â€
Sonic Prime will be aimed at kids aged six to 11, as well as â€œlegacy Sonic fans of all ages”. It is slated to premiere worldwide on Netflix sometime in 2022.
The Netflix project comes on the heels of the news that Roger Craig Smith, the voice actor for Sonic the Hedgehog for the past decade since 2010, has officially left the role. As of now, it remains unclear who will be voicing Sonic in the upcoming animated series.


Survival Game The Serpent Rogue Gets April Release Date

3D adventure survival indie title The Serpent Rogue is getting a release date.
Team17 and Sengi Games will be releasing their action-adventure game on 26th April on PC, Nintendo Switch, PS5, and Xbox Series. Players control The Warden, a plague mask-wearing adventurer who has to cleanse the realm of the titular Serpent Rogue, and restore balance to Mount Morbus.
The gameplay trailer showcases exploration, 3D action RPG combat, and even some beast-taming in case you need some indentured help. The Serpent Rogue gameplay features include:

Sandbox roguelike:Â Explore the mysterious world ofÂ The Serpent Rogue; locations and items are randomised by storms that sweep the land
Permutations aplenty:Â Utilise the magic and crafting of alchemy to create new tactics to overcome the many threats and situations created by the Corruption
Cause and effect:Â The Wardenâ€™s actions have consequences that can be used to their advantage; but will they become the hero of the taleâ€¦ or the villain?

Check out the pretty epic trailer below.


PS Plus October 2021 Offers War, Vampires & Golf

With next monthâ€™s PlayStation Plus lineup, you can arm yourself with WWII-era weaponry, golf club, or fist and do battle on war-torn frontlines, lush greens or otherworldly realms. Castlevania Requiem, PS5 multiplayer shooter Hell Let Loose, golf sim PGA Tour 2K21 and one-on-one fighter Mortal Kombat X join the PlayStation Plus lineup from 5 October 2021 to 1 November 2021.
Hell Let Loose | PS5

This WWII-inspired multiplayer title splices epic 100-player battles with a unique resource-based RTS-inspired meta-game, where Commanders direct the flow of battle and coordinate powerful in-game abilities that influence the teamâ€™s march to victory. Team up and tackle enemy combatants online* in 50v50 skirmishes across a dynamically shifting frontline, choose one of 14 playable roles within infantry, recon, and armour unit types, each equipped with authentic weapons, vehicles, and equipment.
PGA Tour 2K21 | PS4

Prove youâ€™ve got what it takes to become FedExCup Champion. Take on PGA Tour Pros across stunning, real-life courses during your very own career and earn rewards and gear, then play against your friends or the worldâ€™s best players in local and online* matches. Create your own player and customize your equipment, then build your own clubhouse, designing and running full seasons and tournaments customized to your rules and requirements.
Mortal Kombat X | PS4

Netherrealm Studiosâ€™ bone-crunching beat â€˜em up fuses cinematic presentation with an all-new gameplay experience. For the first time in the seriesâ€™ history, every character in its robust roster has a selection of different fighting styles to pick from, offering an expanded range of strategies to take into battle, as well as combat against.
Castlevania Requiem | PS4

‘Castlevania: Rondo of Blood‘, first released in 1993 and ‘Castlevania: Symphony of the Night‘, first released in 1997 are now available in one combined package for the PS4! Experience two of the greatest games from the famous Castlevania series.
Make your way to the top of Dracula’s castle as Richter Belmont, a descendant of the famed clan of vampire hunters, in ‘Rondo of Blood’, or take the leading role as Dracula’s son Alucard in ‘Symphony of the Night’.


Bayonetta 3 VO Jennifer Hale Speaks Out Regarding Recent Bayonetta Controversy

Over the weekend, original Bayonetta voice actress Hellena Taylor claimed PlatinumGames offered her an “insulting” rate of US$4,000 to reprise her role as Bayonetta. She also implore people to boycott the upcoming Nintendo Switch game and donate their money to charity.
As such, Twitter was up in flame either supporting her, denouncing PlatinumGames, or being suspicious about this. Do keep in mind that Bayonetta 3 features multiple versions of Bayonetta running around in the game.
Lo and behold, the new voice of Bayonetta, veteran VO Jennifer “Captain Shepard” Hale, speaks out about the issue on Twitter in a professional manner befitting a fictional space captain.

“I am under NDA and am not at liberty to speak regarding this situation. My reputation speaks for itself.
I sincerely ask that everyone keep in mind that this game has been created by an entire team of hard-working, dedicated people and I hope everyone will keep an open mind about what they’ve created.
Finally, I hope that everyone involved may resolve their differences in an amicable and respectful way.”

She also believes in every actor’s right to be paid well, as well as mentions the years of advocacy she has undertaken in the field.

About Bayonetta 3: pic.twitter.com/e4VrclEQIm
— Jennifer Hale (@jhaletweets) October 17, 2022


Persona Theory Games’ Kabaret Showcases Its Music At Save & Sound Event

Malaysian developer Persona Theory Games gave us a taste of the music from their upcoming game, Kabaret, at the Save & Sound Gaming Music Event on YouTube. It’s a sneak peek of an original song from Kabaret titled Song Of Mothers, which is a collaboration with Indonesian musical group SambaSunda.
Kabaret is a visual novel game similar to titles like Coffee Talk or VA-11 HALL-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action. The unique element of the game is that it features mythical creatures from Southeast Asian folklores and legends. In the game, players will listen to their unique stories, give advice through tasseomancy, and find a way to break the curse.
You can wishlist Kabaret and play the demo of the game on Steam right now. It’s currently slated to launch sometime in the third quarter of 2022.
In the meantime, check out my review of Persona Theory Game’s Fires At Midnight, their previous visual novel title from 2022.
Check out the music from Kabaret in the Save & Sound event below (at 2:55:51):


We May Have A Clue On Cyberpunk 2077’s Required PC Specs

E3 is over, and one of the biggest anticipated reveals was Cyberpunk 2077.Â What a surprise it was when Mr Wick himself took the stage. Keanu Reaves was there as he revealed the game’s release date. Yeah, check this out!
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7-qaRs3XxQ]
We were also treated to a look at the demo, in which CD Projekt Red’s Marcin Iwinski told Kotaku that the shown demo was a real working build of the game. It was running on the REDengine4.
Here’s what they served to us during E3. Feast your eyes below:
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIcTM8WXFjk]
What a beauty. Well, we now know the PC specs the demo was running on, thanks to CD Projekt Red’s community specialist Alicja Kozera as she revealed the E3 demo PC specs in CDPR’s official Discord channel.
Ready? Here are the specs:

The message reads; “You want specifications?” and follows with the PC specs.
Oh my, that is truly a high-end build which I am certain only a small percentile of PC gamers actually own.
But don’t be fooled though, this isn’t the minimum specs as some readers have worried. Although, with a game that pretty, I think the minimum specs won’t be far off from the one listed above. I really hope not.


EMNS’ Top 10 Favourite Monster Hunter: Iceborne Moments

Monster Hunter World: Iceborne is perhaps the only game I’ve played the most in 2019. So to finally put a bow onto last year, here are my top 10 favourite moments and features in Capcom’s latest in game-killing and loot-crafting. Enjoy!
#1.Arm Wrestle Win parts 1 & 2
[wpvideo k8MtH6rN]
There’s a barrel in the new gathering hub where you can arm wrestle with another player. In these two videos, I have won three rounds in a row (recorded from my friend’s POV).
[wpvideo tiodaKfj]
It was glorious.
#2. Hold Breath To Win
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There is a spa in the Iceborne’s gathering hub where you can sit in and also compete who can hold their breath underwater the longest. I won (also recorded from my friend’s POV). It was also glorious.
#3. Gold Rathian Fail
[wpvideo zpVbgnHT]
The meta shotgun build (using Zinogre’s Heavy Bowgun) has a powerful close-range attack and can fully block almost every monster attack in the game. Provided that you weren’t shooting while being hit.
In this case, I wasn’t shooting but still got OHKO tail slap by the Gold Rathian.
#4. Nergigante Clutch Fail
[wpvideo JM4DSqPj]
Iceborne introduces a new mechanic where you can use the slinger as a clutch claw to mount onto a monster’s head. You can then hit them with slinger ammo to flinch, topple or slam them into a wall.
In this video, I tried to mount onto the Nergigante’s head but for some reason, I got one-hit KO’ed by the Nergigante. To this day, I still wonder how it happened.
#5. Powerful Meta Weapon
[wpvideo IbGQU8m8]
This is one of the first fights where I used the Zinogre Heavy Bowgun, a pretty powerful tool in the meta. I got cocky and didn’t even wait for the Kirin to fall asleep to bomb it. I landed the killing shot despite the risk. It was truly a powerful feeling.
#6. Rajang Fail, Part 1
[wpvideo f9hvyWHo]
With said Zinogre Heavy Bowgun, I thought I could face every monster without a problem. So I challenged Iceborne’s first post-release monster: the powerful Rajang.
I tried solo-ing it and got a one-hit KO for my troubles.
#7. Rajang Fail, Part 2
[wpvideo YkyDrNhE]
At the start of the video, my squadmate was headbutted and sent flying to the left. A moment later he got shot to death with Rajang’s laser.
And right after that, Rajang grabbed me, threw me on the ground, and gave its iconic “one-hit KO” punch before I could stand and run. It isn’t a post-game boss without a number of hurdles, after all.
#8. Safi’jiiva Fail, Part 1
Safi’jiiva came with Iceborne second monster update, as a totally new monster never appearing in previous MH series. Oblivious to its movesets, I tried to dodge its mouth laser attack. Unlike the others, its head actually follows you around and exactly predicts where you are going to dodge.
[wpvideo UU7hu1JN]
As you can see, I clearly failed.
#9. Safi’jiiva Fail, Part 2
Safi’jiiva has one deadly ultimate attack called Sapphire of the Emperor where it hovers briefly above the map while breathing flame onto the ground.
After a few seconds, it sends down a small star-like ball that will explode and kill everything on the map. To survive the attack, hunters can hide for safety behind one of the few crags scattered around.
[wpvideo BUhj1lLc]
In this video, one of my squadmates didn’t have the time to sheathe his weapon so he can be seen hilariously rolling looking for protection and didn’t make it in time before the explosion hits. Quest failed.
#10. Safi’jiiva Success, But Barely
[wpvideo IfkFNqOC]
We managed to make it to the final part of the fight with Safi’jiiva, with only one faint left (three faints and the quest will fail). When Safi’jiiva suddenly pulls out its ground explosion attack, I frantically screamed because I was shooting and didn’t have the time to block its attack.
Coincidentally, we managed to kill it right before the explosion occurs. Quest completed!
I’ve got a few honourable mentions below:
Savage Deviljho Fail
[wpvideo iRPQQoyP]
Another example of me being too cocky with the shotgun build. I thought I could block every attack. I ended up being savagely stomped by the Savage Deviljho.
Shara Ishvalda Fail
[wpvideo EN86oO1O]
Shara Ishvalda is the final boss in Iceborne’s story. One of its deadly attacks is its mouth laser beam. My squadmate and I were caught in the beam at the same time. Double ouch.
Silver Rathalos Fail
[wpvideo p0y7P175]
I went trigger happy with my shotgun and when I was about to reload ammo, suddenly the Silver Rathalos make a 180-degree turn and sent a huge fireball my way.
Check out Eman’s Monster Hunter World and game streams here on his Facebook page.Â


My Top 5 Favourite Demos From The Steam Game Festival: Spring Edition

We’re in the middle of the Steam Game Festival: Spring Edition now, and there’s dozens of free demos to play. I like the word “free”, as well as the idea of trying out upcoming games in a virtual event space, so I had a go with about 15 demos, which is just a small slice of what you can try.
I didn’t like everything I played, naturally, but I ended up feeling more impressed with the indie scene than I previously was. Anyway, here are my top five picks.
Carrion

I don’t usually say “what the f**k” after seeing a game’s main menu, but that’s what happened when I launched the Carrion demo and was greeted by a disturbing, fleshy monstrosity. Carrion, you see, is a “reverse horror” game where you play the role of the monster who stalks, kills, and consumes unsuspecting humans, and the monster in Carrion is a red, Lovecraftian mess of flesh and appendages.
As this unnamed monstrosity, you crawl around levels and terrorize the humans you come across. You can directly attack them, but you can also toss objects at them for some physics fun. Whatever the case, things are wonderfully gruesome, with dismembered bodies, leaking blood, and yucky sound effects working together to sell the idea perfectly.
It’s not always a cakewalk though, as turrets, flamethrower-toting soldiers, and drones pose a real threat even when you’ve expanded to your full size. Taking them out might depend on timing, your special web-launching ability, or a bit of brain-wracking.
It’s a bit annoying how those flamethrower troops can spin around immediately with an activated electric shield for protection though, even when you strike unseen. You also run into the tougher enemies pretty quickly in the demo, which negates some of that “reverse horror” thrill. If the full game’s pacing does a good job of balancing power fantasy and tactical stalking, however, this might be an absolutely bloody good time.
Kungfu Kickball

I didn’t expect much from this side-scrolling competitive sports game, but I ended up utterly engrossed even against the lowest difficulty AI. Your goal is to punch or kick the ball into the opposing team’s bell, and you can also jump, do a teleport dash, and unleash a special ability. Simple, right?
Well, not quite. Kungfu Kickball is fairly easy to pick up (although I’d forget my moves at times), but hard to master. Smacking the ball with the right force and with the right angle so that it hits the dangling bell is already tricky, but when you’ve got another player trying to do the same thing, things get really tough, and fun.
You can’t kill opponents, but you can knock them down and thus delay them by hitting and even jumping on them. Matches become hectic affairs where you’re trying to ball control, fend off opponents, and make sure you don’t accidentally send the ball towards the direction of your own bell (I actually did an own-goal once) or the enemy.
The demo doesn’t support online play, but there’s 2v2 local multiplayer in addition to the 1v1 singleplayer arcade mode. 1v1 was already pretty crazy, so I can’t imagine how wacky 2v2 would be.
Raji: An Ancient Epic

Set in ancient India, Raji: An Ancient Epic is an isometric action-adventure with puzzle and platforming elements. You’re a girl called Raji, who has been chosen by the gods to fend off a demon invasion and also has to rescue her younger brother.
Isometric action-adventure may not sound particularly special, but Raji has got a couple of things that distinguish it. The most obvious factor is its fantastical ancient India setting, which we don’t see much of in games. The environments look a bit too smooth, but they provide impressive imagery that both immerse you in its setting and emphasize how small Raji is.
The presentation also shines with the cutscenes and commentary. Cutscenes take the form of shadow plays, while gods like Durga and Vishnu comment on Raji’s exploits and converse among themselves. The flavour is apparent.
Combat is solid too. Aside from the usual light and heavy attacks, the game also factors in environmental features like walls and pillars which are essential to succeeding in combat. Raji can run up a wall (yes, there’s some wall-running) before backflipping and striking hulking enemies with a powerful attack, for example, or make a deadly spin when she’s near a pillar.
The combat feedback is a bit lackluster, with the audio feeling way too muted even when Raji is unleashing devastating-looking strikes, but that didn’t stop me from enjoying it.
A Space for the Unbound

A Space for the Unbound is an Indonesian slice-of-life adventure game (published by Coffee Talk’s Toge Productions) with inspiration from Makoto Shinkai’s anime movies. I didn’t know that the game was inspired by Shinkai until after I played the demo, but I definitely found myself thinking that it had Shinkai vibes during my playthrough.
The demo allows you to experience the game’s prologue, which was already available as a permanent demo before this event. it won’t give you a clear picture of what the story is about, but it touches on anxiety and familial issues, while also acquainting you with its supernatural side.
While you will spend time in the real world picking stuff up and using them at the right time, you also have a magic red book that lets you dive into other people’s minds. The demo only offers one proper puzzle that takes place within this realm but has two cases of mind-diving, or “deep-diving” to use the main characters’ parlance. It’s just a small taste, but it already feels like an integral feature that could really result in a strong story, partially because of the anxiety theme.
There’s also a falling comet, but the main Shinkai comparison comes from the trailer (which plays at the end of the demo) and its sekai-kei vibes. Like the prologue, it gives you an idea of what the game has to offer while remaining delightfully vague, but there’s definitely a high school boy-meets-girl with powers thing going on.
The Steam page describes A Space for the Unbound as “A slice-of-life adventure game with beautiful pixel art set in the late 90s rural Indonesia that tells a story about overcoming anxiety, depression, and the relationship between a boy and a girl with supernatural powers”. I look forward to playing the full game, but I also can’t help wishing for an anime adaptation after playing the demo.
We Should Talk

We Should Talk is less “impressive” than the previous first four titles, but its main feature was something that easily hooked me. It’s a game centred around conversations, but the twist is that you don’t just pick a sentence; you construct one.
Sentences are divided into two or three parts, and each of these parts has a few options for you to choose from. For example, when the bartender you meet in the beginning comments on your drink choice, you can pick combinations like:
a) Ha! Don’t hate the simple stuff.
b) Ha! Respect the classics.
c) I think it’s good! Don’t hate the ass drinks.
For a more interesting example, you can text to your in-game girlfriend that you want to make her a sandwich, make her feel really good, or, er, make her squeal like a pig. When she talks about her strong attachment to you, you can say that you find her to be important too, ask if she’s really that committed to you, or tell her that she’s coming on too strong.
In the full game, the dialogue options will lead to nine possible endings. They’re less impactful in the demo, but I still appreciate the changes they do bring. Some are tonal, like how you can make your character sound disinterested in her girlfriend, or how you can flirt with the bartender or just order normally.
Others involve character information and completely new lines of dialogue. During my first playthrough, I flirted with the bartender and engaged in some kinky talk with the girlfriend. The second time, my choices led to the bartender speaking briefly about her family issues, and the kinky talk was skipped entirely.
The character models aren’t stunning, but the dialogue customization and hints that the main character’s relationship isn’t going smoothly have got me hooked. I’m looking forward to We Should Talk‘s full conversation.
Special Mentions

Evan’s Remains is an adventure game about a girl, Dysis, who goes to an uninhabited island to find a boy called Evan. I’d prefer to experience its visual novel-like mystery plot as a standalone experience, but I dig the concept behind its platforming puzzles (which can be skipped if they’re too hard or if you want to focus on the story”. It’s hard to explain in brief, but to quote the game’s Steam page:
“Every time the player solves from two to three puzzles, the story goes forward and new mechanics are introduced. The challenge of the puzzles lies in the playerâ€™s ability to figure out what do rather than solve challenges based on skill. As the difficulty curve increases, the puzzles become more complex by combining two or more previously introduced mechanics.”

The other is Superliminal, a first-person puzzle game that’s “based on forced perspective and optical illusions,” according to the Steam page. “Puzzles in this game give you a sense of the unexpected. Players need to change their perspective and think outside the box to wake up from the dream.”
I didn’t fully grasp Superliminal‘s gameplay, but the strong sense of surreality it delivers makes the demo something you check out.
As a reminder, the Steam Game Festival ends on 23 March 2020 at 10am PDT, or 24 March 2020 at 1am GMT+8. Go check it out!


Sci-Fi Thriller Reminiscence Drops On HBO GO Malaysia Next Week

A deeply psychological tale of life, death and loss,Â ReminiscenceÂ premieres on 4 October 2021 on HBO GOÂ Malaysia, inviting viewers to explore a world where it is possible for experts to dive into othersâ€™ minds.

Hugh Jackman (AKA Wolverine from LoganÂ and the X-Men franchise) plays Nick Bannister, a private investigator, but unlike the trenchcoat-wearing detectives of old, he specializes in helping his clients access lost memories. Living on the fringes of the sunken Miami coast, he navigates the minds of his clients, sifting through the darkly alluring world of their pasts in search of specific memories.

However, his life is forever changed when he takes on beautiful new client Mae, played by Rebecca Ferguson (upcomingÂ Dune,Â Mission: ImpossibleÂ movies). What starts as a simple matter of lost and found soon becomes a dangerous obsession, and as Bannister fights to find the truth about Mae’s disappearance, he uncovers a violent conspiracy.

Inspired by the loss of her own grandfather while expecting her first child,Â ReminiscenceÂ is written, directed and produced by Lisa Joy (HBOâ€™sÂ Westworld). Visiting his home after his passing, she was reminded of an odd detail that had captivated her since childhood.

In an official statement, Lisa Joy said:

â€œHis small house in the mountains was tidy and unassuming. Except for one unlikely touch. It had an ornate, gold plaque on it that read â€œSuki Lin.â€
After he passed away, I went through the attic [and] found a black-and-white photo. Though faded and creased, you could still see the face of a young woman with dark hair beaming at the camera.
On the back of the photo, in my grandfatherâ€™s signature scrawl, was written the name â€œSuki Lin.â€
This beautiful woman from long ago clearly meant something to him.
I can guess at the nature of their relationshipâ€¦but I can never know. The truth of who they were and what they meant to each other exists only in their memories.
With my grandfather gone, their story exists now only in one personâ€™s memory, Suki Linâ€™s. If sheâ€™s still even alive. Shortly after, I gave birth to my daughter.
I tried to sear the memory into my mind. But the whole time, I grieved a little. Because I knew no matter how hard I tried to remember everything, there would be no returning to that.
Memory erodes. We look at the past through a haze of subjectivity. We can never fully go back. But what if we could?â€

ReminiscenceÂ is set to the compelling music of composer Ramin Djawadi (HBOâ€™sÂ Game of Thrones,Â HBOâ€™sÂ Westworld), with a cast that includes Thandiwe Newton (HBOâ€™sÂ Westworld,Â Solo: A Star Wars Story), Cliff Curtis (The Meg,Â Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw), Oscar nominee Marina de Tavira (Roma), Daniel Wu (TVâ€™sÂ Into the Badlands,Â Warcraft), Mojean Aria (TVâ€™sÂ See,Â Dead Lucky), Brett Cullen (Joker), Natalie Martinez (The Stand,Â The FugitiveÂ series), Angela Sarafyan (HBOâ€™sÂ Westworld) and Nico Parker (Dumbo).

Joy makes her feature film directing debut withÂ Reminiscence, directed from her own original screenplay. The film was produced by Joy, Jonathan Nolan, Michael De Luca and Aaron Ryder. The executive producers were Athena Wickham, Elishia Holmes and Scott Lumpkin.Â Warner Bros. Pictures presentsÂ Reminiscence, a Kilter Films / Michael De Luca / Filmnation Production, a film by Lisa Joy.

Stream or downloadÂ ReminiscenceÂ onÂ HBO GOÂ and relive RaminÂ Djawadiâ€™sÂ signature music and stellar performances by Thandiwe Newton and Angela Sarafyan across three seasons of HBOâ€™sÂ Westworld. You can download the HBO GO app at the App StoreÂ orÂ Play StoreÂ orÂ accessÂ HBO GOÂ via AstroÂ or atÂ http://www.hbogoasia.my/. HBO GO is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality.
Check out the trailer below:


Feral Is Offering Two Epic Total War Games In One Bundle

One of the best PC franchises of all time is Creative Assembly’s Total War franchise, and developer Feral Interactive is responsible for porting the games to the Mac platform. Well, now they’ve collected two of the best titles in the franchise in one convenient and cheaper bundle.
The new Total War: Samurai & Soldiers bundle consists of Total War Shogun 2 and A Total War Saga Fall Of The Samurai for only Â£54.99 or roughly RM294+ on the Mac App Store. Buying both separately will set you back Â£72.98 or roughly RM391+, which is considerably more expensive.

Total War: SHOGUN 2 and A Total War Saga: FALL OF THE SAMURAI have banded together in the Samurai & Soldiers bundle on the Mac App Store: https://t.co/BObchvgGrH
Take up the challenge of uniting feudal Japan and leading it into the modern age in these two classic games. ðŸ‡¯ðŸ‡µ pic.twitter.com/rWyhsTn0aQ
â€” Feral Interactive (@feralgames) June 23, 2020
Total War Shogun 2 is beautiful, and ambitious, as well as still very much playable and impressive even now, almost a decade after its initial launch. It doesnâ€™t feel dated at all, right down to the clean UI and great graphics.
Plus, this game is perfect for anyone who wants something to sink hundreds of hours into and devote their time to, especially while weathering the current COVID-19 pandemic. For a glimpse of how epic the game can be, feast your eyes below.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtV-_PUaaVw&w=560&h=315]


Marvel’s Midnight Suns Delayed Again, Maybe Even To 2023

2K Games and Firaxis Games have delayed Marvel’s Midnight Suns yet again, which means that it won’t be coming out in October 2022. In a financial report published earlier today, it’s revealed that Midnight Suns will now launch “later this fiscal year”, which is anytime before March 2023.
Unfortunately, that also means that we might be getting the game next year instead. Also, only the PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC versions will initially release first, with the last-gen versions such as PS4, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch slated for even later, whenever that may be.
Marvel’s Midnight Suns was originally announced during Gamescom Opening Night Live 2021. It’s a turn-based tactical RPG ala XCOM but with card-based mechanics. The game boasts a roster of many Marvel heroes, including Doctor Strange, Wolverine, Iron Man, Spider-Man, Nico Minoru, Blade, Captain Marvel, Ghost Rider and more.
In the meantime, check out the trailer below:


Spot The Infected In This Indie Zombie Game, Lurching In Next Month

Game publisher CFK and developed CINDYZ STUDIO have announced that Who Is Zombie, a zombie apocalypse thriller, will be released on PC via Steam and Nintendo Switch in February 2022.
In the world overrun by zombies, the player will become the protagonist Aiden and screen out the infected from refugees wishing to enter the civilian shelter.

As the supervisor, the player’s job is to keep zombies away from the shelter by successfully distinguishing them from civilians. In order to protect the shelter and save as many people as possible, the player must be both careful and vigilant when deciding whether someone is infected or not.
The player will make choices working as the supervisor, and find out what those choices will bring after 30 days. How the player handles each matter unlocks one of the multiple endings available in the game.

CFK has also revealed the store page on Steam so that gamers interested in the game can add it to their wishlists. Who Is Zombie will have its official release date in the near future.


EA Will Remove All Russian Teams From Its Sports Games

In a possible PR move in a world where Russia is invading Ukraine, EA plans to remove a nation’s team from its sports games.
EA will remove all Russian teams from its current FIFA and NHL games. These includes Russian national teams and Russian clubs from FIFA 22, NHL 22, FIFA Mobile, and FIFA online. Here’s the official statement from EA:
“EA Sports stands in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and like so many voices across the world of football, calls for peace and an end to the invasion of Ukraine.
In line with our partners at FIFA and UEFA, EA Sports has initiated processes to remove the Russian national team and all Russian clubs from EA Sports FIFA products including FIFA 22, FIFA Mobile and FIFA Online.
Weâ€™re also actively evaluating related changes to other areas of our games. We will keep our communities up to date on any actions taken, and thank players for their patience as we work through these updates.
Following the IIHFâ€™s suspension of all Russian and Belarusian national and club teams from IIHF competitions, we will be removing these teams from NHL 22 within the coming weeks.
We stand with the people of Ukraine and join the voices around the world calling for peace.”
Despite it being a PR move, it is nice that EA is taking initiative in making a stand against war; by removing a team from its games.