Vimana Review

A vertical shmup that has roots in the arcade scene of the early 90s, Vimana manages to play the part quite well. If one were to wander through an arcade from this era, its blasts of green bullets, sci-fi spacecrafts, and constant action would becon for any gamer to plunk in a quarter in to see what’s in store.

However, like all good shmups, there’s so much more to Vimana’s formula to discover as players progress each cycle. Players will still be taking down anything and everything that moves, but the rate of fire helps to change things up. Players of Vimana will have a twin shot by default, which can be upgraded in typical genre fashion – that much is par for the course, albeit welcome nonetheless.

However, there’s also a charge shot that spreads the love into a greater area. Knowing when to attack head on and knowing when to blanket the surrounding world could very well mean the difference between victory and failure in a signature one-credit-clear run. Of course, there’s also a bomb that varies things out by turning into a seeking target against foes. Again, not the deepest or mos revolutionary system around, but it nails the fundamentals.

Completing Vimana is a fairly short endeavor, but the game does cycle players through for a more challenging run upon doing so.

Of course, the joy of a shmup is its replayability, and Vimana has a suite of options that allow players to tweak their playstyle. Feel like things are too difficult? Players can rewind for minutes at a time, just to make sure they get past that tricky section that did them in.

There are other ways to improve one’s playstyle, including the activation of a visible hitbox, adding additional hitpoints or even quick saving and loading (though we would never save scum!). Want to get more out of the experience? The ability to see an enemy’s health bar and change the overlays is also available. Want to see where things went wrong? There’s even a replay functionality baked into this release.

It’s just a shame that there’s little to this package outside this functionality. The Steam release of Vimana is arcade-perfect – and then some – but the lack of bonus content is somewhat disappointing. Nevertheless, there’s still Steam achievements for those looking to show off their prowess, along with online leaderboards.

While this release of Vimana is arcade-perfect, it does prove to be a bit light on content. Those looking for their next one-credit-clear will enjoy this space showdown, but more casual fans might be left in the lurch.

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

Vimana Review

The fusion of Indian mythology and vertical shoot-em-ups might seem a little unorthodox, but these two fields come together to create something exotic with the release of Bitwave Games and Toaplan's Vimana on Steam. The titular Vimana craft is at one's disposal - should players step into the cockpit of this spacefaring adventure?

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

FixEight Review

A run-and-gun from days gone by (1992, to be precise!), Bitwave Games and Toaplan are giving players all the firepower they could ever want with the Steam release of FixEight. Should players bring others along for some good ol' co-op blasting, or does this throwback feel a little musty?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes Review

A new numbered entry in the series, FRENCH-BREAD and Arc System Works’ UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes carries the series forward after a strong reception from fans and critics - including us! The series has established itself as a cult classic after multiple versions; does this full measure mark a substantial leap for the series?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

TEKKEN 8 Review

A series with a rich lineage (30 years strong!), players can get ready for the next battle with the release of Arika and Bandai Namco’s TEKKEN 8. New characters, new modes, and a new engine power this King of Iron Fist Tournament - does it prove to be a worthy contender?

The post Vimana Review appeared first on GamersHeroes.

FixEight Review

For those who have yet to play FixEight, it serves as the spiritual successor to the cult arcade classic Out Zone.

For those who have yet to play Out Zone (don’t worry – Steam has got you covered with last year’s release), they’ll come to learn that this vertical run-and-gun series hits hard and fast. Taking control of one of eight different mercenaries with the most radical of designs, they’ll have two different weapons and their own special. Much like the shmup genre, players can then upgrade each of these weapons with dropped power-ups and chuck out the occasional bomb for good measure.

We especially like this system, as each FixEight character has their own unique weapon system. We were partial to the lizard Vistario and his wide range of attack via the Gel-Burner and Acid-Wide sprays. Did we mention that even the attacks have cool names? No matter who you choose, getting the right weapon in your hands and upgrading it to hit an enemy’s weakpoint for massive damage is a thrilling feeling. Put simply, FixEight and its action never gets old for the Rambo wannabes among us.

Throughout the surprisingly robust 50-minute runtime of each FixEight playthrough, players will navigate a number of different levels against the Gozzu alien menace – some of which are truly the stuff of nightmares. As players progress, they’ll come across a boss at the end of each stage before moving on to the next stage. While the power-ups to the score-based system to the flow all follow the typical arcade formula to a T, FixEight nails the run-and-gun formula with style.

Of course, it’s not all predictable; gameplay provides a hefty challenge if you’re not credit feeding, and there’s the occasional wrinkle like controllable hovercrafts that turn FixEight into a shmup.

While the core game is solid, the outside options of FixEight are fairly bare-bones. While we do appreciate the option to rewind to our heart’s content (up to minutes at a time!) and play with hitboxes and credits, there’s little here to really celebrate this deeper cut in Toaplan’s library.

FixEight does have the usual Steam accouterments like achievements and leaderboards, there just isn’t enough to really have this as a tribute. This is the first release of the game outside of arcades, that much is true, but at the same time the suite of options is not unlike what can be found in a tool like RetroArch.

For those that don’t mind a bare-bones package, FixEight and its run-and-gun action is a bona fide arcade hit that is well worth the attention of any classic gamer.

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

Vimana Review

The fusion of Indian mythology and vertical shoot-em-ups might seem a little unorthodox, but these two fields come together to create something exotic with the release of Bitwave Games and Toaplan's Vimana on Steam. The titular Vimana craft is at one's disposal - should players step into the cockpit of this spacefaring adventure?

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

FixEight Review

A run-and-gun from days gone by (1992, to be precise!), Bitwave Games and Toaplan are giving players all the firepower they could ever want with the Steam release of FixEight. Should players bring others along for some good ol' co-op blasting, or does this throwback feel a little musty?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes Review

A new numbered entry in the series, FRENCH-BREAD and Arc System Works’ UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes carries the series forward after a strong reception from fans and critics - including us! The series has established itself as a cult classic after multiple versions; does this full measure mark a substantial leap for the series?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

TEKKEN 8 Review

A series with a rich lineage (30 years strong!), players can get ready for the next battle with the release of Arika and Bandai Namco’s TEKKEN 8. New characters, new modes, and a new engine power this King of Iron Fist Tournament - does it prove to be a worthy contender?

The post FixEight Review appeared first on GamersHeroes.

UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes Review

For those just entering the Hollow Night, Sys:Celes will transport players to a world where speed and maneuverability reign supreme. Dashes and combos are the key to coming out on top, with stuns, EX Moves, and Special Moves also playing a big role. Don’t be fooled though; Sys:Celes has got a much different feel than Street Fighter 6 or Mortal Kombat 1. This, in turn, makes for a refreshing experience – albeit one with a high skill ceiling.

All of Sys:Celes’ intricacies admittedly are a lot to take in, this 2D fighter gives players multiple options for players to fly. Like previous entries, Simple Inputs make it easy for players to get a feel of each battle, with characters like series mainstay Hyde featuring familiar inputs that are easy to grasp. A robust Tutorial, Missions, and an Arcade Mode also provide the proper training ground. There’s even Casual Matches in its online mode, with rollback netcode ensuring a smooth experience.

Sys:Celes does have enough new content for returning Under Night players as well. Featuring incredible names like “Twin Barrel Beauty” Kaguya, “Steel Guardian” Tsurugi, “Eternal Re-Birth” Kuon, this trio provides additional variety to the cast. Whether it’s gunslinging, a bulwark, or countless floating blades, each of these three features a wildly different style we enjoyed diving into.

Sys:Celes also packs some new tricks with additional moves among its roster. Our tried-and-true habits caught the best of us with these changes, but they do help differentiate this entry and add depth all the same.

New mechanics also make an appearance in the form of Creeping Edge and Celestial Vorpal. The former is a clever dodge, not unlike the system found in SNK’s The King of Fighters series. As for the latter, Celestial Vorpal gives players the entire GRD gauge if there are six or more nodes. While we like how Creeping Edge taps into i-frames, we feel like Celestial Vorpal lacks balance. Time will tell how things play out with future play and patches.

Note that those braving the Steam version of Sys:Celes like us will have a less than smooth experience. We had trouble at launch with options like fullscreen and menus, though it should be noted that there have been some patches as of February 5 that have improved upon things. While not as polished as previous entries, it does provide a serviceable experience.

While the Steam version still has some bugs that need to be ironed out, UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes provides a number of great reasons to visit the Hollow Night in what is the most robust roster to date.

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

Vimana Review

The fusion of Indian mythology and vertical shoot-em-ups might seem a little unorthodox, but these two fields come together to create something exotic with the release of Bitwave Games and Toaplan's Vimana on Steam. The titular Vimana craft is at one's disposal - should players step into the cockpit of this spacefaring adventure?

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

FixEight Review

A run-and-gun from days gone by (1992, to be precise!), Bitwave Games and Toaplan are giving players all the firepower they could ever want with the Steam release of FixEight. Should players bring others along for some good ol' co-op blasting, or does this throwback feel a little musty?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes Review

A new numbered entry in the series, FRENCH-BREAD and Arc System Works’ UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes carries the series forward after a strong reception from fans and critics - including us! The series has established itself as a cult classic after multiple versions; does this full measure mark a substantial leap for the series?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

TEKKEN 8 Review

A series with a rich lineage (30 years strong!), players can get ready for the next battle with the release of Arika and Bandai Namco’s TEKKEN 8. New characters, new modes, and a new engine power this King of Iron Fist Tournament - does it prove to be a worthy contender?

The post UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes Review appeared first on GamersHeroes.

TEKKEN 8 Review

Striving for accessibility, TEKKEN 8 is the perfect entry for both newcomers and veterans alike.

Never played a TEKKEN title before? No need to worry – there is an extremely solid foundation that lets players gradually get the hang of things. For those who don’t play fighting games too often, the Special Style mechanic will quickly become your best friend. Boiling the system and combos down to a few select buttons, it gives players the chance to grasp the overall flow of this 3D fighter, seeing how juggles, combos, and counters all come together. For those who’d like to try out the main system, it can just as easily be disabled at the press of a button.

Want to up your game? No need to worry – there’s a wealth of content here that’ll get you up to speed. The industry standard Replays, training, versus, story mode, arcade modes, and Character Episodes are all present and accounted for, but they are tried and true for a reason and will be most welcome for those still starting out in the fighting game genre. There’s even fun content like Tekken Ball, which has players bouncing a beach ball (or an iron ball for the masochistic) in what could possibly be the most violent game of volleyball to date.

Rather, the real star of the show for neophytes is TEKKEN 8’s new Arcade Quest mode. For those who can’t make it to Dave & Busters or Round 1, this mode simulates the arcade experience and serves as a battleground. No need to worry about a daunting atmosphere; after creating a cutesy avatar, players can set off to improve their skills. It’s a very gradual process, but we do appreciate the presentation and system present here – and we’re sure newcomers will appreciate it as well.

Let’s say you’ve been playing TEKKEN since 1994, knowing the difference between Lee and Law, Jin and Jun. TEKKEN 8 covers this oh-so-important demographic with a number of new wrinkles that differentiate this title from the rest of the pack. The three newcomers – Victor Chevalier, Azucena Milagros Ortiz Castillo, and Reina – bring a number of subtleties that let players use samurai swords, caffeinated mixed martial arts grabs, and other radical moves.

There’s also a number of returning characters in its roster, with many fan favorites and deeper cuts in the mix. Not everybody made the cut – we’re still languishing the removal of Robert “Bob” Richards – but players will likely find somebody they click with among its 30+ character roster.

With TEKKEN 8’s focus on aggressiveness, the focus is less on a game of chicken and more on a game of action. For instance, those that pull off a Power Blow will be able to briefly stagger an opponent and rush through – a thrilling feeling that never gets old!

There’s also Rage Arts super moves that kick in when one’s health gets low; while returning from TEKKEN 7, they are far more streamlined and quicker this go-around, making us want to actively go on the offensive when the chips are down.

Perhaps the biggest draw for those looking to up their game is TEKKEN 8’s online modes. An improvement over TEKKEN 7, we enjoyed chilling in the TEKKEN Fight Lounge online lobby, taking part in both Ranked and Quick Matches. There are ways to filter by rank restrictions, connection quality, and even platform, so those looking to optimize their experience can most certainly do so.

TEKKEN 8 hits hard with what could quite possibly be the best TEKKEN entry to date. Fresher than newcomer Azucena’s signature coffee blend, this title does everything in its power to make this King of Iron Fist tournament worthy of all players.

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

Vimana Review

The fusion of Indian mythology and vertical shoot-em-ups might seem a little unorthodox, but these two fields come together to create something exotic with the release of Bitwave Games and Toaplan's Vimana on Steam. The titular Vimana craft is at one's disposal - should players step into the cockpit of this spacefaring adventure?

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

FixEight Review

A run-and-gun from days gone by (1992, to be precise!), Bitwave Games and Toaplan are giving players all the firepower they could ever want with the Steam release of FixEight. Should players bring others along for some good ol' co-op blasting, or does this throwback feel a little musty?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes Review

A new numbered entry in the series, FRENCH-BREAD and Arc System Works’ UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes carries the series forward after a strong reception from fans and critics - including us! The series has established itself as a cult classic after multiple versions; does this full measure mark a substantial leap for the series?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

TEKKEN 8 Review

A series with a rich lineage (30 years strong!), players can get ready for the next battle with the release of Arika and Bandai Namco’s TEKKEN 8. New characters, new modes, and a new engine power this King of Iron Fist Tournament - does it prove to be a worthy contender?

The post TEKKEN 8 Review appeared first on GamersHeroes.

Alan Wake II Review

13 years since the original release (has it really been that long?), things in Bright Falls are getting weird. FBI Agent Robert Nightingale is dead, and FBI Agent Saga Anderson and Alex Casey (good name) have been sent over to investigate the case. However, things quickly unravel into something much bigger, with the duo finding manuscript pages that tell of future events. It all ties into the titular Alan Wake, who has been trapped in an alternate dimension known as the Dark Place after all this time.

While the game wears its inspiration on its sleeve, Alan Wake II quickly subverts expectations as time goes on. Starting out, this release seems part and parcel similar to series like Twin Peaks, True Detective, and even Sherlock with Saga Anderson’s “Mind Place.” However, as things progress, the bizarre starts to take hold. We won’t spoil some of the elements, but what we expected from the first few hours of play quickly changed, leaving us eager to see what will happen next. There’s also some well-acted live-action segments to really drive the experience home.

If anything, that’s Alan Wake II’s greatest strength – its immersion. The dreary Pacific Northwest is a great backdrop, but it’s the moodiness and the overall mystery that seals the deal. One can breeze through from one point to the other, but actively seeking out elements like manuscript pages and even footage adds to its lore. It also helps that the sound design is at the top of its class – including a fantastic implementation of the band Poets of the Fall as the Old Gods of Asgard.

Just note that the gameplay of Alan Wake II is nothing too out of the ordinary. Players will take control of both Saga Anderson and Alan Wake as they take on supernatural threats. Much like the original release, it helps to shine a light on things – literally. Players will take down enemies by focusing a beam of light on them, stunning them for proper attacks and dodging when appropriate. It’s far from the deepest system around, following the same formula for a while. Nevertheless, it does tie into the overall motif of Alan Wake II quite well.

There’s also the detective elements that come from the aforementioned “Mind Place” and Alan Wake’s “Writer’s Room.” In certain segments, both Saga Anderson and Alan Wake will need to either piece together the mystery or outline this clairvoyant novel. We could take or leave these segments; while we did like putting the mystery together, we were all too eager to jump right back into its surreal world.

It should be worth noting that Alan Wake II is a sequel in the truest sense of the word. While there are new characters, it also picks up after the events of the original. Those looking to start with this title and skip the original – or even Remedy Entertainment’s other titles like Control – will miss quite a bit.

Alan Wake II manages to subvert expectations with its immersive world. Combat gets the job done, but it’s the overall mystery that will have players eager to shine a light on this Dark Place.

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

Vimana Review

The fusion of Indian mythology and vertical shoot-em-ups might seem a little unorthodox, but these two fields come together to create something exotic with the release of Bitwave Games and Toaplan's Vimana on Steam. The titular Vimana craft is at one's disposal - should players step into the cockpit of this spacefaring adventure?

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

FixEight Review

A run-and-gun from days gone by (1992, to be precise!), Bitwave Games and Toaplan are giving players all the firepower they could ever want with the Steam release of FixEight. Should players bring others along for some good ol' co-op blasting, or does this throwback feel a little musty?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes Review

A new numbered entry in the series, FRENCH-BREAD and Arc System Works’ UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes carries the series forward after a strong reception from fans and critics - including us! The series has established itself as a cult classic after multiple versions; does this full measure mark a substantial leap for the series?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

TEKKEN 8 Review

A series with a rich lineage (30 years strong!), players can get ready for the next battle with the release of Arika and Bandai Namco’s TEKKEN 8. New characters, new modes, and a new engine power this King of Iron Fist Tournament - does it prove to be a worthy contender?

The post Alan Wake II Review appeared first on GamersHeroes.

Sonic Dream Team Review

As he’s naturally known to do, the nefarious Dr. Eggman is up to no good with his new hard-boiled scheme. Sonic Dream Team already starts out in a dire situation – he’s captured Cream and Cheese (remember them?) and is using the power of the Reverie to control dreams. Sonic and his friends set out to stop him, but fall asleep and get stuck in a dream world.

This isn’t a complete nightmare, however; Reverie Haven Ariem (lovingly nicknamed Ari) is eager to help Sonic save his friends, get her powers back, and save the day once more. The story is displayed through still panels, but the voice acting – and dad joke humor – are up to the series’ signature standard.

Rather than keep things on a 2D plane like Sonic Superstars or go open-world like Sonic Frontiers, Sonic Dream Team takes design cues from the Dreamcast days. You’ve got your high speed acts with Dream Orbs at the end, your shard collecting that Knuckles/Rouge oh so loves, and even your checkpoint races that will take you up and down and all around. By collecting Dream Orbs at the end of each stage to unlock more stages in true mobile fashion, those weaned on the Sonic Adventure games will feel right at home – even if the camera can be kind of awkward.

There’s some more modern accoutrements in the form of boosting with a meter, collectible Red Star Rings, key collecting, and a free-roaming camera in select spots. There’s also the tried-and-true homing attacks, light speed dashes, and rail grinding – all of which work really well.

Even the use of touchscreen controls in Sonic Dream Team is fairly intuitive; while there is a bit of a learning curve, we were able to find our groove before too long. Of course, there is also controller support for those looking for it.

The levels of Sonic Dream Team definitely take advantage of the dream motif as well. No Green Hill Zone or Chemical Plant Zone here; rather, players will venture across Scrambled Shores, Dream Factories, and other fresh venues all channel signature Sonic elements while still trying something new. While all platforms are floating in the air, we still do appreciate the aesthetics.

Just note that Sonic Dream Team runs on the short side, clocking in at a little less than three hours and a handful of zones. While it’s a good problem to be left wanting more, we do feel like it is over before it even gets the chance to begin.

Forgive the obvious pun, but Sonic Dream Team is a dream come true for Sonic fans. While it runs a bit on the short side, those looking for some classic high speed Sonic action will welcome this homecoming.

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

Vimana Review

The fusion of Indian mythology and vertical shoot-em-ups might seem a little unorthodox, but these two fields come together to create something exotic with the release of Bitwave Games and Toaplan's Vimana on Steam. The titular Vimana craft is at one's disposal - should players step into the cockpit of this spacefaring adventure?

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

FixEight Review

A run-and-gun from days gone by (1992, to be precise!), Bitwave Games and Toaplan are giving players all the firepower they could ever want with the Steam release of FixEight. Should players bring others along for some good ol' co-op blasting, or does this throwback feel a little musty?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes Review

A new numbered entry in the series, FRENCH-BREAD and Arc System Works’ UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes carries the series forward after a strong reception from fans and critics - including us! The series has established itself as a cult classic after multiple versions; does this full measure mark a substantial leap for the series?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

TEKKEN 8 Review

A series with a rich lineage (30 years strong!), players can get ready for the next battle with the release of Arika and Bandai Namco’s TEKKEN 8. New characters, new modes, and a new engine power this King of Iron Fist Tournament - does it prove to be a worthy contender?

The post Sonic Dream Team Review appeared first on GamersHeroes.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Booster Course Pass Wave 6 Review

The past five waves have nearly doubled the amount of courses in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Wave 6 closes the gap with eight different tracks across both the Acorn Cup and the Spiny Cup.

As part of this selection, tracks from Mario Kart Tour will allow racers to do some globe-trotting as they fly over the Trevi Fountain in Rome Avanti and hit the pitch in Madrid Drive. Meanwhile, Super Mario Kart classics like Bowser Castle 3 have received a retro revival with new elements and paths to explore. Paired with tracks from other entries (including another Rainbow Road!), and you’ve got a varied collection to choose from.

However, your mileage may vary with Wave 6. Some courses feature multiple shortcuts and changing routes each lap, but there were others with questionable design choices that were more annoying than innovative. It can be tough to enjoy the sights when a certain area cannot be driven on or there’s a clear lack of indicators as to where to go.

If anything, Rosalina’s Ice World from Mario Kart 7 was the most offensive of the lot. This track has the unfortunate curse of featuring slippery paths that violently clash with sharp corners and icy depths. Some may call this barrage of threats a difficulty curve, but we truly believe this track should have stayed on the Nintendo 3DS version of the game.

Unfortunately, there are no new tracks in Wave 6 of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’s Booster Course Pass. While certain tracks now feature anti-gravity segments and other flourishes, we would have loved to see another attempt at a Squeaky Clean Sprint that let the team’s creativity truly shine.

Players will also be able to take control of Funky Kong, Diddy Kong, Pauline, and Peachette as part of this DLC. Each character is full of life, pulling out everything from microphones to surfboards when landing the perfect trick. Variety is the spice of life, and pairing these racers up with the suite of parts means that there is an extremely high amount of customization.

When it comes to design elements, it can be a bit of a mixed bag. Seeing custom character advertisements and storefronts certainly adds a dash of personality, but the title still struggles with perspective. It can be jarring to see a traffic cone or potted plant bigger than the player; these could have easily been fixed to be less jarring.

Wave 6 of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’s Booster Course Pass continues to bring more great tracks and characters to the game, but some odd choices prevent it from taking first place. Mario Kart fans will have an absolute blast, but more casual players will rue the day they ever came across Rosalina’s Ice World.

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

Vimana Review

The fusion of Indian mythology and vertical shoot-em-ups might seem a little unorthodox, but these two fields come together to create something exotic with the release of Bitwave Games and Toaplan's Vimana on Steam. The titular Vimana craft is at one's disposal - should players step into the cockpit of this spacefaring adventure?

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

FixEight Review

A run-and-gun from days gone by (1992, to be precise!), Bitwave Games and Toaplan are giving players all the firepower they could ever want with the Steam release of FixEight. Should players bring others along for some good ol' co-op blasting, or does this throwback feel a little musty?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes Review

A new numbered entry in the series, FRENCH-BREAD and Arc System Works’ UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes carries the series forward after a strong reception from fans and critics - including us! The series has established itself as a cult classic after multiple versions; does this full measure mark a substantial leap for the series?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

TEKKEN 8 Review

A series with a rich lineage (30 years strong!), players can get ready for the next battle with the release of Arika and Bandai Namco’s TEKKEN 8. New characters, new modes, and a new engine power this King of Iron Fist Tournament - does it prove to be a worthy contender?

The post Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Booster Course Pass Wave 6 Review appeared first on GamersHeroes.

Radiant Silvergun Review

Featuring an over-the-top anime story with even more over-the-top reactions, Radiant Silvergun tells of a world that has been wiped out by a stone-like object. As one of the last survivors, it’s up to players to pilot a craft and get some sweet, sweet revenge.

Of course, Radiant Silvergun prides itself first and foremost on its action. This isn’t a typical shmup with a simple rate of fire; variety is the spice of life in this title. Each shot is mapped to a different button, with players choosing from accurate homing shots and homing spread shots, forward vulcan lasers, backward shots, and even diagonal shots. There’s even a meter that transforms one’s homing sword into a hyper sword with a period of invincibility – just the thing to get the edge in battle.

Sounds confusing? It can be difficult to figure out which button to press in any given scenario, but everything becomes second nature before too long. Having a suite of options is absolutely refreshing; something we wish more shmups had. It helps the game feel lively throughout its different stages, making players feel like an unstoppable machine once everything clicks.

Another thing that makes Radiant Silvergun stand out is its leveling system. Defeat enough foes with any given weapon, and players will be able to gain EXP to make it that much stronger. Leaning on one weapon is all fine and dandy, but tight corridors and its many, many bosses mean that players need to vary things up. Spraying and praying will lead to “No Refuge;” wrangling the intricacies of the system is key.

Once players get down the shooting mechanics of this title, they can then move over to its chaining system. Enemies are in pairs and are color-coded; defeat three of any type and players will be able to pull off a chain. Those weaned on its sequel Ikaruga will know the deal, and there is even a setting to emulate the style found there.

Therein lies the joy of Radiant Silvergun; everything has been carefully organized for the perfect run. Getting to the point where one can one credit clear means that players can see the sheer amount of work that went into designing its world. While this title is a bit on the short side, nailing the tight corridors, getting a high score, and even finding the secret bosses means truly absorbing oneself into its world – a shining quality of a great shmup.

For those that have already played the title in previous iterations like the SEGA Saturn import and the Xbox Live version on the Xbox 360, this release features a number of quality of life improvements.. Players can hit the leaderboards, and can also choose between the Arcade and Story mode with voice overs and anime headshots. Everything can be tweaked to one’s liking, and while there aren’t too many extra features outside of the core game, what is here serves as the definitive version of Radiant Silvergun.

Radiant Silvergun is one of the best shmups of all time, and Live Wire’s release manages to capture Treasure’s treasure in the best light. For those who have yet to dive into its intricate world, this is a must play.

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

Vimana Review

The fusion of Indian mythology and vertical shoot-em-ups might seem a little unorthodox, but these two fields come together to create something exotic with the release of Bitwave Games and Toaplan's Vimana on Steam. The titular Vimana craft is at one's disposal - should players step into the cockpit of this spacefaring adventure?

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

FixEight Review

A run-and-gun from days gone by (1992, to be precise!), Bitwave Games and Toaplan are giving players all the firepower they could ever want with the Steam release of FixEight. Should players bring others along for some good ol' co-op blasting, or does this throwback feel a little musty?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes Review

A new numbered entry in the series, FRENCH-BREAD and Arc System Works’ UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes carries the series forward after a strong reception from fans and critics - including us! The series has established itself as a cult classic after multiple versions; does this full measure mark a substantial leap for the series?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

TEKKEN 8 Review

A series with a rich lineage (30 years strong!), players can get ready for the next battle with the release of Arika and Bandai Namco’s TEKKEN 8. New characters, new modes, and a new engine power this King of Iron Fist Tournament - does it prove to be a worthy contender?

The post Radiant Silvergun Review appeared first on GamersHeroes.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder Review

The Mushroom Kingdom is in the rear view mirror in Super Mario Bros. Wonder, with Mario’s party paying a trip to the Flower Kingdom this time around. However, Bowser has also come along for the ride, using the power of the Wonder Flower to become one with Prince Florian’s castle. Not one to take things sitting down (naturally), Mario’s wrecking crew sets out to right this wrong and save the poplins by collecting Royal Seeds strewn across the land.

Naturally, a bunch of danger awaits between here and there. Goombas and koopas still dot the landscape, sure, but now players must also contend with hopping hoppycats, voracious maw-maws, and other new threats that’ll summon the “Too Bad!” screen. This title is certified fresh, and learning how to overcome enemy patterns ensures players are never stationary or going through the motions.

And using the word “fresh” to describe Super Mario Bros. Wonder is the understatement of the year. Everything in this title features an incredible amount of polish, from the way the music changes with the Elephant Flower to the drum roll that comes from a ground pound. A serious amount of attention and love has helped create a truly whimsical experience, really hammering home that one is on an adventure. Even the little quips from the flowers, which would be obnoxious in other titles, had us actively seeking them out to see what they’d say next.

Naturally, a game with the word “wonder” would have to back that up, and Super Mario Bros. Wonder does that with its Wonder Flowers. Hidden in each level, these flowers turn things on their head and change the way the game is played. One level might have players navigating an avalanche or lightning storm, while another will transform one of Mario’s friends into an enemy creature. The energy in these segments is infectious, and no two segments are ever the same. We tracked down as many Wonder Flowers as we could in our playthrough, and the impact they had on each level was astounding.

To aid in one’s Super Mario Bros. Wonder experience, players can collect power-ups along the way. The Elephant Fruit adds a bit of heft to each character by transforming them into an elephant, while the signature fireball-spewing Fire Flower is joined by the Drill Mushroom and Bubble Flower. These each subtly adjust the game, adjusting how one approaches each level.

There’s also the inclusion of Badges in this title to adjust each playstyle. Equipped on Prince Florian’s noggin, these badges can allow characters to do dolphin kicks, floating jumps, or even wall jumps straight up into the air. Need an easier experience? Other badges allow for players to equip a Super Mushroom at the start, activate exclamation blocks for easier traversal, and other perks.

If anything, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is as easy or as hard as one wants it to be. Select areas – and even worlds – can be played in the order one chooses based on the Wonder Seeds collected in each level. Finding the game a bit too challenging? Levels are ranked by difficulty, and the harder ones can be skipped entirely. Still too much? There’s even characters like the Yoshi crew and Nabbit that can’t take damage at the expense of not using power-ups. If all else fails, players can grind Flower Coins and stock up on 1-up mushrooms at one of the game’s many stores.

Of course, those looking for a challenge most certainly will find it tracking down every last secret exit and taking on the Special World challenges. These can be downright brutal; we won’t spoil some of the twists, but the way they utilize the game’s set of base mechanics shows how tailor-made – yet still fair – these trials truly are.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder once again proves that Mario is the king of the platforming genre. Much like his previous adventures did before, the amount of creativity and polish on display sets a new industry standard.

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

Vimana Review

The fusion of Indian mythology and vertical shoot-em-ups might seem a little unorthodox, but these two fields come together to create something exotic with the release of Bitwave Games and Toaplan's Vimana on Steam. The titular Vimana craft is at one's disposal - should players step into the cockpit of this spacefaring adventure?

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

FixEight Review

A run-and-gun from days gone by (1992, to be precise!), Bitwave Games and Toaplan are giving players all the firepower they could ever want with the Steam release of FixEight. Should players bring others along for some good ol' co-op blasting, or does this throwback feel a little musty?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes Review

A new numbered entry in the series, FRENCH-BREAD and Arc System Works’ UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes carries the series forward after a strong reception from fans and critics - including us! The series has established itself as a cult classic after multiple versions; does this full measure mark a substantial leap for the series?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

TEKKEN 8 Review

A series with a rich lineage (30 years strong!), players can get ready for the next battle with the release of Arika and Bandai Namco’s TEKKEN 8. New characters, new modes, and a new engine power this King of Iron Fist Tournament - does it prove to be a worthy contender?

The post Super Mario Bros. Wonder Review appeared first on GamersHeroes.

Bomb Rush Cyberfunk Review

Things in Bomb Rush Cyberfunk start out with a bang. Breaking out of prison with the help of Tryce, Faux ends up losing his head – literally – from a deathly record by DJ Cyber. However, not all is lost – players wake up with a new cyberhead, courtesy of the Bomb Rush Crew. Not one to take things sitting down (he does have a good head on his shoulders), players hit the streets of New Amsterdam – now as Red – to grind, trick, and manual their way to get respect through REP and get things back to normal.

It’s hard not to make comparisons to SEGA’s Jet Set Radio series; there’s plenty of graffiti, tricks, and cel-shaded style between the two. However, the former has established itself as a cult classic, and Bomb Rush Cyberfunk manages to take the formula and run/skate/BMX with it.

Players will still be taking on gangs and navigating the city, but things are on a much bigger scale here. The tools that one has at their disposal means that players can get around with ease right from the offset; no training wheels here. When paired with a boost pack, one can easily get around to their next point of interest. While it can take some getting used to – with a finicky camera to match – everything becomes second nature before too long.

Everything done in Jet Set Radio is done here and taken to the next level, with more ways to travel and explore. Imitation might be the sincerest form of flattery, but Team Reptile understood the assignment and carefully made improvements to the formula with love.

This tribute also extends to Bomb Rush Cyberfunk’s style. From its music to its world, this game exudes style. The catchy beats and infectious energy kept us going throughout the title, eager to see which gang, police force, or threat lies next. It also encouraged us to nail the next trick and better ourselves along the way – just the thing needed when storming a rival group’s headquarters.

However, not all is groovy in Bomb Rush Cyberfunk. The title can be a bit awkward at times with its boss battles; the speedy flow that comes from its trick system kind of feels at odds when it comes to a specific target. Also, while it is a matter of taste, some of the tracks don’t quite hit the mark. Synth is great, but some don’t quite flow as well as one would expect.

While it wears its inspiration on its sleeve, Bomb Rush Cyberfunk manages to evoke a style all its own with its always-stylish REP. For those pining for days gone by – or for those looking for something funky and fresh – be sure to hit the streets of New Amsterdam.

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

Vimana Review

The fusion of Indian mythology and vertical shoot-em-ups might seem a little unorthodox, but these two fields come together to create something exotic with the release of Bitwave Games and Toaplan's Vimana on Steam. The titular Vimana craft is at one's disposal - should players step into the cockpit of this spacefaring adventure?

Posted Feb 9, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

FixEight Review

A run-and-gun from days gone by (1992, to be precise!), Bitwave Games and Toaplan are giving players all the firepower they could ever want with the Steam release of FixEight. Should players bring others along for some good ol' co-op blasting, or does this throwback feel a little musty?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes Review

A new numbered entry in the series, FRENCH-BREAD and Arc System Works’ UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes carries the series forward after a strong reception from fans and critics - including us! The series has established itself as a cult classic after multiple versions; does this full measure mark a substantial leap for the series?

Posted Feb 5, 2024 by casey-scheld
in Game Reviews

TEKKEN 8 Review

A series with a rich lineage (30 years strong!), players can get ready for the next battle with the release of Arika and Bandai Namco’s TEKKEN 8. New characters, new modes, and a new engine power this King of Iron Fist Tournament - does it prove to be a worthy contender?

The post Bomb Rush Cyberfunk Review appeared first on GamersHeroes.