Steam Community :: Izhaaq996

50.9 hrs on record (31.8 hrs at review time)

Deus Ex: Human Revolution is a hallmark of immersive gaming, blending thrilling gameplay, deep storytelling, and philosophical questions about humanity, technology, and ethics. As a prequel to the original Deus Ex (2000), this title modernizes the series while preserving its roots in player agency and world-building. It remains one of the finest cyberpunk experiences to date.

A Rich and Engaging Cyberpunk World

The year is 2027, and the world is on the cusp of a technological revolution. Corporations have become the true powers of the world, and human augmentation, the fusion of man and machine, is both a miracle and a threat. This setting is brought to life through gorgeous art direction and a moody soundtrack that perfectly captures the dystopian cyberpunk aesthetic. Cities like Detroit and Hengsha are teeming with life, mystery, and moral ambiguity, making every exploration feel significant.

A Story of Choice and Consequence

You play as Adam Jensen, a former SWAT officer turned augmented security specialist for Sarif Industries. After surviving a brutal attack, Jensen’s body is rebuilt with advanced augmentations, plunging him into a conspiracy that spans the globe.
The narrative weaves themes of post-humanism, corporate power, and human morality into a story that is both personal and thought-provoking. The choices you make, whether in dialogue or action, carry weight, shaping the outcome of missions and influencing the lives of those around you.

Stealth, Combat, and Freedom of Playstyle

The hallmark of Human Revolution is its commitment to player choice. Whether you prefer hacking your way into secure areas, sneaking past guards unnoticed, or engaging in direct combat, the game accommodates your playstyle. Augmentations, like cloaking devices or enhanced hacking capabilities, allow you to further customize your approach.
The stealth mechanics are particularly satisfying, with the level design encouraging creativity and exploration. Combat is equally engaging, offering a mix of cover-based gunplay and tactical strategy. No matter how you play, the game rewards ingenuity and adaptability.

Augmentations: Tools for Empowerment

The augmentation system is a core aspect of the gameplay and narrative. Each upgrade you unlock feels impactful, allowing you to tailor Adam’s abilities to suit your preferred playstyle. Want to silently take down enemies? Invest in stealth augmentations. Prefer hacking into terminals and uncovering secrets? Focus on your hacking upgrades. This flexibility enhances replayability and ensures that no two playthroughs feel the same.

Philosophy Meets Action

Deus Ex: Human Revolution is not just an action RPG; it’s a thought experiment. The game raises questions about what it means to be human in a world where technology blurs the line between man and machine. Is augmentation a gift or a curse? Do the ends justify the means when wielding such power? These questions are explored through the narrative, environmental storytelling, and player choices, ensuring the game leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve finished it.

Visuals and Atmosphere

While the graphics might show their age compared to modern games, the art direction more than makes up for it. The use of black and gold creates a unique visual identity that exudes both technological progress and decay. The atmospheric soundtrack by Michael McCann complements the tone perfectly, immersing you in a world of tension and mystery.

Pros:

Engaging narrative: A thought-provoking story with compelling themes.
Freedom of choice: Multiple paths and playstyles encourage replayability.
Deep world-building: A richly detailed cyberpunk universe with meaningful environmental storytelling.
Augmentation system: Customization that makes every upgrade feel impactful.
Memorable soundtrack: The music amplifies the atmosphere and tension.
Moral complexity: The game challenges players to think critically about their decisions.

Cons:

Boss fights: The boss battles feel out of place, forcing combat in a game that thrives on choice.
Dated visuals: While the art direction shines, the graphics show their age in certain areas.
Pacing issues: Some missions feel unnecessarily drawn out.
Lack of accessibility in some mechanics: Certain augmentations or paths can feel underwhelming if you miss upgrading them early.

Conclusion:

Deus Ex: Human Revolution is a game that stands as a benchmark for storytelling, player agency, and immersive design. Despite some flaws, its narrative depth and freedom of choice make it a must-play for fans of cyberpunk, RPGs, and thought-provoking gaming experiences.
For those seeking a game that combines action, philosophy, and a world worth exploring, Deus Ex: Human Revolution is an unforgettable journey.

Posted 5 January.

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Recommended

7.7 hrs on record (2.7 hrs at review time)

God of War: Ragnarök is not just a game, it’s a masterpiece that redefines storytelling, gameplay, and emotional connection. As someone who waited for this game to release on PC with bated breath, my journey to finally play it was nothing short of a tale itself.

A Challenge to Overcome: Region-Blocking

When the release was announced, my excitement knew no bounds, until I discovered it was region-blocked for me. For many, that might have been the end of the story, but not for me. I refused to let that stop me. I went as far as to change my country just to buy this game. Yes, Ragnarök meant that much to me. However, it’s disappointing and disheartening that many loyal fans were left out due to these restrictions. Accessibility to games should be universal, and I hope developers and publishers take note of this issue in the future.

Stunning Visuals and Breathtaking Realms

From the opening sequence, it’s clear that Ragnarök is a labor of love by the developers. The visuals are stunning, even on PC, where the fidelity and optimization shine in ways that truly showcase the craft behind it. The frozen landscapes of Midgard, the fiery depths of Muspelheim, and the colorful wonders of other realms are brought to life in breathtaking detail.

A Story Full of Heart and Depth

But Ragnarök isn’t just about its visuals, it’s about heart. Kratos, the stoic warrior we’ve come to know, continues his journey of redemption, growth, and fatherhood. Atreus (Loki) evolves into a fully realized character, and their dynamic is as touching as it is turbulent. The story dives deep into themes of destiny, sacrifice, and family, delivering moments of triumph, tragedy, and reflection that few games can match.

Combat That Redefines Epic Battles

The combat system? Phenomenal. The Leviathan Axe and Blades of Chaos return with new layers of depth, but it’s the addition of new abilities, weapon upgrades, and skill trees that make battles against gods and monsters alike an adrenaline-pumping experience.
And the boss fights… oh, the boss fights! Every encounter is an event, each one challenging, cinematic, and memorable in its own right.

Was It Worth the Effort? Absolutely.

For a game I literally changed my life (and location!) to access, Ragnarök didn’t just meet my expectations—it shattered them. It’s rare to find a game that justifies such effort, but this one did. If you’re a fan of storytelling, action, or simply unforgettable gaming experiences, this is a must-play.

A Personal Thanks to the Developers

To those debating whether it’s worth the investment or effort: Trust me. It’s not just a game. It’s a journey, a revelation, and, in my case, an adventure that transcended borders.
Thank you, Santa Monica Studio, for making a game that was worth everything I went through to play it. This is gaming at its absolute best.

Pros:

Epic storytelling: A narrative masterpiece with deep emotional resonance.
Stunning visuals: Beautifully crafted realms with breathtaking detail.
Exceptional combat mechanics: Engaging, satisfying, and challenging.
Character development: Kratos and Atreus shine with growth and complexity.
Incredible boss fights: Each encounter is memorable and cinematic.
PC optimization: Runs smoothly and looks incredible on PC.

Cons:

Region-blocking: The game is inaccessible in many countries, leaving a significant portion of fans unable to experience it. This is a frustrating limitation for a game with such a global fanbase.
Demanding hardware requirements: While understandable for such a visually stunning game, lower-end PCs may struggle.

Conclusion:

God of War: Ragnarök is not just a game; it’s an experience that stays with you long after the credits roll. Even with its few setbacks, the heart, soul, and sheer brilliance of this title make it one of the greatest gaming experiences of all time.

Posted 3 January. Last edited 3 January.

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Recommended

28.2 hrs on record (28.0 hrs at review time)

The Resident Evil 2 Remake is an extraordinary reimagining of the 1998 classic, bringing players back to Raccoon City with a perfect mix of nostalgia and modern enhancements. With updated graphics, refined gameplay mechanics, and a deep focus on storytelling, this remake is a masterclass in survival horror.

A Returning Classic

The game offers two intertwined perspectives, showcasing both Leon Kennedy's and Claire Redfield's struggles during the outbreak. Leon's journey highlights his transformation from a rookie cop to a hardened survivor, while Claire’s path focuses on her determination to protect Sherry Birkin, a child caught in the chaos. Both stories are well-developed, offering a sense of depth and emotional connection to the characters.

Engaging Multiple Perspective Gameplays

The addition of Ada Wong's segments brings a fresh layer of intrigue, as her espionage-themed gameplay contrasts perfectly with the survival horror. Similarly, the Ghost Survivors mode introduces side stories of other characters, exploring what-ifs and adding more replayability to the game.

Visuals and Atmosphere

Visually, the game is stunning, with the RE Engine delivering atmospheric lighting and grotesque enemy designs. Every encounter with zombies and the relentless Mr. X feels heart-stopping, thanks to impeccable sound design and dynamic music that heightens tension. Sometimes Mr. X comes out of nowhere and that is Scary AF.

Pros:

Faithful yet innovative retelling of a classic.
Stunning visuals and terrifying atmosphere.
Engaging dual-protagonist campaigns with meaningful storylines.
Replayable content with Ghost Survivors mode.
Intense and satisfying survival horror gameplay.

Cons:

Some puzzles may feel repetitive.
Mr. X's relentless pursuit can be frustrating for some players.

Conclusion

The Resident Evil 2 Remake is a love letter to fans of the original while being an excellent entry point for newcomers. It blends cinematic storytelling, gripping gameplay, and unforgettable moments, making it one of the best survival horror games in recent years. If you haven’t returned to Raccoon City yet, now is the perfect time.

Posted 21 December, 2024.

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Recommended

0.2 hrs on record

"Assassin’s Creed Mirage," originally released on Epic Games, finally arrived on Steam after a long wait, and I must say, it was absolutely worth it. As someone who waited a whole year to play it on Steam, I can confidently say that Mirage delivers a refreshing experience by going back to the roots of what made the franchise so beloved in the first place.

A Return to Classic Assassin’s Creed

Mirage feels like a love letter to the older Assassin’s Creed games, particularly the ones centered around stealth, parkour, and assassinations. Gone are the massive RPG mechanics and bloated open worlds; instead, Mirage focuses on a more compact and story-driven experience, reminiscent of "Assassin's Creed II" and "Brotherhood." This return to basics is a breath of fresh air for fans who have longed for the simpler, stealth-based gameplay the series started with.

Engaging Story and Setting

The story is set in 9th-century Baghdad, and the city feels alive and immersive. The world-building is top-notch, with bustling streets, detailed architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere that brings the Golden Age of Islam to life. You play as Basim, a character we met in "Assassin's Creed Valhalla," but this game dives deeper into his origins, making him more relatable and human. The narrative is engaging and focuses on the struggle between the Assassin Brotherhood and the mysterious Order of the Ancients, which longtime fans will immediately recognize.

Gameplay: Stealth Takes the Spotlight

Gameplay-wise, Mirage shifts its focus back to stealth and precision. The thrill of sneaking through crowds, climbing rooftops, and pulling off perfect assassinations is back in full force. The parkour system feels smooth, and the tools at your disposal, like smoke bombs and throwing knives, make missions feel tactical and satisfying. Combat is simpler compared to the recent RPG-style entries, but it fits well with the overall focus on stealth.

Visuals and Atmosphere

The visuals are stunning, especially the attention to detail in recreating historical Baghdad. The lighting, textures, and animations all work together to create an immersive world that’s a joy to explore. The sound design also adds to the experience, with authentic ambient noises and a fantastic soundtrack that fits the setting perfectly.

What Could Be Improved

While "Assassin’s Creed Mirage" is a fantastic return to form, it’s not without its flaws. The game’s smaller scope, while refreshing, might feel a bit limiting for those who enjoy sprawling open-worlds. Additionally, some players might find the lack of RPG mechanics a step backward, though for many, this is part of the charm. There are also occasional bugs, which can take away from the immersion, but nothing game-breaking.

Pros:

A return to the classic Assassin's Creed formula.
Immersive setting and detailed recreation of historical Baghdad.
Stealth-focused gameplay and smooth parkour.
Engaging story centered on Basim’s origins.

Cons:

Smaller in scope compared to recent entries.
Occasional bugs and minor glitches.
It should've been just a DLC of Assassin's Creed Valhalla, not a separate game.
Might feel limited for fans of the RPG-style Assassin's Creed games.

Final Thoughts

As someone who has played every mainline Assassin's Creed game, I found "Mirage" to be a nostalgic and much-needed return to the series' stealth-action roots. The wait for the Steam release was long, but it was worth it to experience the game on my preferred platform. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or someone looking for a focused and engaging stealth game, "Assassin’s Creed Mirage" is a must-play. But as any critique I must say that this should've not been a separate game rather than just be a DLC of Assassin's Creed Valhalla.
"Assassin's Creed Mirage" is proof that sometimes, going back to basics is the best way forward.

Posted 27 November, 2024.

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Recommended

31.2 hrs on record (25.9 hrs at review time)

Vampyr, developed by Dontnod Entertainment (the creators of Life is Strange), is a unique and atmospheric game that leans heavily on storytelling and character development. Set in 1918 London during the Spanish flu epidemic, it offers a haunting and immersive narrative experience where choices have real consequences. While the game has its strengths, particularly in its story and setting, the gameplay itself feels somewhat lacking compared to the engaging narrative.

Story and Character Development

One of Vampyr’s biggest strengths is its deep, story-driven approach. You play as Dr. Jonathan Reid, a renowned surgeon recently turned into a vampire, struggling to balance his Hippocratic Oath with his newfound thirst for blood. The game is largely built around the moral dilemmas Dr. Reid faces, which add a compelling tension as he interacts with NPCs throughout London. Each character you meet has a story, personality, and background that you can uncover through conversation, and your choices shape not only your character but also the fate of each district of the city.
Character development is top-notch, and Dontnod does a fantastic job of making you care about the people you meet. The consequences of your actions, whether you choose to embrace your vampire side or resist the urge to feed, add weight to every decision. Killing an NPC can give you more experience points, making you stronger, but it could also destabilize the community, leading to its collapse. This moral complexity keeps the story engaging and makes Vampyr a standout in terms of narrative-driven gameplay.
https://steamoss.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3366420658

Atmosphere and Visuals

The visuals in Vampyr are striking, especially in capturing the dark, eerie atmosphere of early 20th century London. The city streets are shrouded in fog, with gaslights casting ominous glows, creating a beautifully gothic setting that feels perfect for a vampire story. While the graphics may not be the most advanced, the art style and attention to detail bring a haunting beauty to the city, from the rain-soaked alleys to the dimly lit interiors.
The visuals add greatly to the immersion, making you feel like you’re truly navigating a grim, plague-ridden London. The city feels alive, or rather, on the edge of death, with NPCs coughing in the streets and tension hanging thick in the air. Each district has its own vibe and unique NPCs, which adds to the overall richness of the setting.
https://steamoss.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3364804723

Gameplay and Mechanics

When it comes to gameplay, Vampyr falls a bit short. Unlike action-focused RPGs, Vampyr is designed more as a story-driven experience than a combat-heavy game. The combat system is fairly basic and, while functional, lacks the depth and polish seen in other action RPGs. Fights can feel repetitive over time, with limited moves and abilities, and they don’t match the intensity or complexity you might expect in a game centered around a vampire character.
The gameplay is mostly about exploration and talking to NPCs, fitting with Dontnod’s strength in storytelling rather than action mechanics. Much of the game consists of running around London, investigating clues, and interacting with various characters to unravel the story. For players who enjoy story-based games like Life is Strange, this narrative focus will feel familiar and satisfying. However, if you’re looking for a combat-focused vampire game, the gameplay may feel too slow or simplistic.
https://steamoss.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3365876745

Pros:

Rich, immersive story with moral choices that impact the game world.
Well-developed characters with complex backstories that make the world feel alive.
Beautifully dark atmosphere that captures the eerie feel of London in 1918.
Choice-driven narrative where decisions matter and have real consequences on the world.

Cons:

Mediocre combat system that lacks depth and can feel repetitive.
Gameplay is limited mostly to exploration and conversation, which may not appeal to action-focused players.
Some pacing issues in terms of quests and travel between locations.

Final Thoughts

Vampyr is a game that shines in its storytelling, character development, and atmosphere. It’s a deep, narrative-driven experience that draws you in with its moral complexity and haunting setting. However, the combat and gameplay mechanics feel underdeveloped, which might not appeal to everyone. If you’re a fan of story-based games and are looking for an immersive vampire tale where your choices truly matter, Vampyr is worth the journey through dark London streets. But if you’re seeking a high-action vampire RPG, this game’s slower, more story-focused approach may fall short.

Posted 16 November, 2024. Last edited 16 November, 2024.

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Recommended

55.7 hrs on record (25.1 hrs at review time)

The 2018 reboot of God of War, originally launched for PlayStation, finally arrived on Steam in 2022, and it’s truly a remarkable shift for the series. As a long-time fan who played all previous games except God of War: Ascension, I was excited to see how Kratos’ story and character would evolve and it didn't disappoint. This version of God of War not only brought a fresh concept to the franchise but also delivered one of the most engaging experiences in modern gaming.

A Bold New Direction

Unlike the classic God of War titles set in Greek mythology, this game moves Kratos into the world of Norse mythology. The change in setting is refreshing, offering new gods, lore, and creatures that bring fresh energy to the game. This shift in focus isn't just about the mythological change but also a whole new style for Kratos. Gone is the rage-fueled antihero of the past, replaced by a more complex and thoughtful character. This change in concept adds emotional depth and makes Kratos much more relatable, especially as he navigates fatherhood with his son, Atreus.

Exceptional Character Development

The character development in God of War is top-notch. Kratos isn’t just the “Ghost of Sparta” anymore, he’s a father struggling with his past while trying to guide Atreus. Watching Kratos interact with his son, seeing him try to balance his brutal instincts with the need to be a good father, is gripping. The father-son bond grows stronger throughout the story, and you really feel Kratos’ evolution. Atreus, too, develops from a curious and inexperienced boy into a character with his own thoughts, personality, and abilities. This relationship drives the game and makes it stand out from previous titles in the series.

Gameplay Changes That Feel Fresh

The gameplay has undergone a big transformation. Instead of the fast-paced, combo-heavy battles of the original series, God of War (2018) offers a more tactical approach. Kratos now wields the Leviathan Axe, a weapon with a satisfying weight and feel. You can throw it, call it back, and use it in combination with shield and hand-to-hand combat. This new combat style feels fresh yet challenging, and Atreus plays a helpful role in battle, using his bow and skills to support Kratos.

The camera angle change also adds intensity. The over-the-shoulder view keeps you close to the action and makes fights feel more personal and grounded. This change enhances the immersion, making each battle feel intense and up-close.

Stunning Visuals and Norse World Design

The graphics in God of War are stunning, even more so on PC. The level of detail in the environments, the character models, and the cinematic scenes is breathtaking. The Norse world is vast and beautifully designed, with snowy mountains, mysterious forests, and ancient ruins that feel alive and full of history. Exploring the realms is rewarding, with hidden paths, secrets, and lore that deepen the story. On Steam, with higher resolutions and frame rates, the game looks even more polished, making the experience visually impressive.

Storytelling at Its Finest

The storytelling in God of War (2018) is a standout feature. It’s not just about fighting gods and monsters, it’s about a journey filled with personal growth, loss, and family. The pacing of the story is just right, mixing epic moments with quieter scenes that build Kratos and Atreus' relationship. The story unfolds in a single, continuous camera shot, which creates a seamless, uninterrupted narrative that keeps you immersed in their journey from start to finish.

Pros:

Rich character development that adds depth to Kratos and Atreus.
Beautiful Norse world design with breathtaking visuals and environments.
Revamped combat mechanics that are satisfying and challenging.
Emotional and engaging storytelling that feels genuine and immersive.
Improved graphics and performance on PC, enhancing the experience for new players.

Cons:

Less fast-paced combat compared to previous titles, which may not appeal to everyone.
Limited enemy variety in some areas, with a few enemy types repeated throughout.
Occasional backtracking in the map, which can slow down the pace for some players.

Final Thoughts

God of War on Steam is a masterpiece that redefines the series. This game doesn’t just rely on nostalgia, it creates something entirely new while respecting its roots. For longtime fans, it’s a fresh, mature, and satisfying journey with Kratos. For new players, it’s an epic story with gameplay that strikes a balance between action and emotional depth. Whether you’re in it for the combat, the story, or the breathtaking Norse world, God of War (2018) is a must-play experience on Steam.

Posted 12 November, 2024.

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Recommended

42.7 hrs on record (15.7 hrs at review time)

The Witcher: Enhanced Edition may be an older title, but it laid down a strong foundation for what would eventually become one of the most celebrated RPG franchises in gaming history. Released in 2007 by CD Projekt Red, The Witcher brought something fresh to the RPG genre with its darker, morally complex world and choice-driven gameplay that wasn’t as common back then. While it didn’t generate a massive amount of hype at its release, the game has since gained respect, especially after the fame of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.

What Made The Witcher Different?

In a time when RPGs were mostly focused on clear-cut heroes and villains, The Witcher presented a world full of grey areas. You play as Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter with his own set of ethics, navigating a morally complex world where choices don’t just impact you, but the people and politics around you. This wasn’t your typical “good vs. evil” story. Instead, every choice had weight, and often, there was no truly “right” answer. This approach set The Witcher apart from other RPGs and made players think deeply about their actions and their consequences.
Another thing that made The Witcher unique was its attention to storytelling. Based on the Polish novels by Andrzej Sapkowski, the game stayed close to its rich source material, bringing a unique Eastern European fantasy world to life in a way that most Western RPGs hadn’t seen. It felt raw, gritty, and believable, even though it was filled with supernatural elements.

https://steamoss.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=971211956

Why It Wasn’t Hugely Hyped Back Then

Despite its strengths, The Witcher didn’t receive massive attention at release, partly because CD Projekt Red was a relatively unknown developer at the time. Additionally, the RPG market was dominated by major franchises like The Elder Scrolls and Mass Effect, making it tough for a new IP to stand out. The game’s combat system, which used timed clicks rather than the hack-and-slash mechanics players were used to, was also polarizing. Some players loved it, but others found it a bit clunky. And while the visuals were impressive for their time, they didn’t quite match the production quality of AAA games from bigger studios.

How The Witcher 3 Brought Fame to the Franchise

It wasn’t until The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt released in 2015 that the series really exploded in popularity. By then, CD Projekt Red had gained experience and improved their technical skills, delivering a visually stunning, open-world RPG that took the storytelling, character development, and moral complexity of the first game to a whole new level. The Witcher 3 became a global hit, praised for its vast, immersive world, complex narrative, and Geralt’s rich character journey. This game was a culmination of all the ideas that started in the original Witcher, but now executed with higher production values and a more refined open-world design.
The fame of The Witcher 3 also cast new light on the earlier games, with many players going back to experience Geralt’s origins in The Witcher and The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings. This renewed interest in the series allowed The Witcher: Enhanced Edition to find a second life as players became curious about where it all began.

Final Thoughts

While The Witcher: Enhanced Edition may not be as polished as The Witcher 3, it’s an essential piece of the series’ history and a fascinating RPG in its own right. Its deep, morally complex world, unique storytelling, and non-traditional hero made it a standout even if it wasn’t widely recognized back then. For fans of RPGs and players who enjoyed The Witcher 3, it’s well worth playing to see the roots of the franchise that redefined the genre.

https://steamoss.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=1773421413

Posted 6 November, 2024.

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Recommended

40.3 hrs on record (39.3 hrs at review time)

Grid 2, once available on Steam but now a lost title, is a true hidden Gem in the racing genre that deserves a closer look. Codemasters delivered a game that stands out for its accessible arcade-style driving while offering a hint of simulation. Despite some drawbacks, it remains a solid choice for anyone who loves racing games and is looking for something that runs well on lower-end PCs.

One of the greatest strengths of Grid 2 is its performance. Even on less powerful machines, the game handles impressively well. Codemasters optimized it efficiently, allowing players with older hardware to experience smooth racing without significant issues. For gamers who don’t have a high-end rig but still want a quality racing experience, Grid 2 performs admirably and doesn’t compromise on visuals or gameplay to do so.

The gameplay in Grid 2 leans toward fast-paced arcade racing, focusing on thrilling overtakes, high-speed drifts, and dynamic AI opponents. The driving physics strike a nice balance—simplified enough for newcomers but with enough depth to keep dedicated racers engaged. However, for those looking for a pure simulation or a deeply customizable racing experience, Grid 2 may feel too simplistic. The game lacks the in-depth tuning and complex car mechanics that more simulation-focused racing games offer. Instead, Grid 2 aims for accessibility and excitement.

Critically, Grid 2 suffers from a very linear campaign structure. The single-player mode has a straightforward progression system that, while easy to follow, feels restrictive and repetitive after some time. Players are guided through races with limited freedom to explore different racing styles or events at their own pace. This lack of flexibility can make the game feel more like a series of pre-determined races rather than an open-ended racing journey.

Another downside is the lack of content updates, as the game is no longer available on Steam. Codemasters removed it from the store due to licensing issues, which has prevented new players from discovering it and cut off further development or updates. Additionally, multiplayer is more challenging to access now, and the community has dwindled. For those lucky enough to have claimed Grid 2 while it was free, it’s a nostalgic experience, but newcomers may struggle to find the same level of enjoyment without a vibrant online community.

In summary, Grid 2 is a forgotten classic for arcade racing fans, and its low system requirements make it accessible to a wide audience. While it has its faults—particularly a linear campaign and limited replay value, it’s an excellent game for quick racing thrills. Those who managed to grab it before it left the Steam library have a piece of racing history on their hands, one that’s worth revisiting for its balance of fun and performance.

Posted 1 November, 2024.

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Recommended

2.0 hrs on record

Bright Memory is honestly one of the craziest games I’ve ever seen, especially when you realize it was made by just one guy. That’s right, a solo "one-man development studio FYQD" built this entire game, which is kind of mind-blowing. The gameplay is like a mix of Doom and Devil May Cry but set in this futuristic, supernatural world. You’re constantly swapping between guns, a sword, and all these cool special abilities, which makes the combat feel super fast and just awesome.

https://steamoss.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=1773478207

The story? Okay, it’s a little confusing and doesn’t totally make sense at times, but the game is more about the gameplay and visuals. And, wow, the graphics are incredible. Bright Memory looks like something you’d expect from a big studio, not a single developer. Every environment feels detailed, the lighting is amazing, and it all adds to the intensity of the action. Even though the game is pretty short (like, it’s over before you know it), you can tell there’s a ton of passion in every bit of it.

And the best part? This isn’t the end of it. There’s a full sequel called Bright Memory: Infinite, which builds on the original game but with even more depth, story, and polish. It’s like the “full” version of Bright Memory, where everything from the gameplay to the story has been expanded. Infinite gives you the same intense combat but in a bigger and more polished package, so if you liked the first one, the sequel is definitely worth the hype.

So if you’re down for a game that’s short but totally action-packed, Bright Memory is a must-play. And with Bright Memory: Infinite out now, there’s even more to dive into. It's wild to think this all started from just one developer’s vision, but it's proof of how much passion can go into creating something amazing.

Posted 25 October, 2024.

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Recommended

0.0 hrs on record

Having completed the main campaign of Watch_Dogs back in 2016, I recently went into its additional content DLC "Watch_Dogs Bad Blood." This game offers a compelling narrative set in a digitalized Chicago where hacking is both a tool and a weapon, this game was actually ahead of its time.

Expanding upon the main narrative, the Bad Blood DLC introduces players to T-Bone Grady, a charismatic hacker with a unique set of skills and a compelling backstory. The DLC offers a fresh perspective on the game world, presenting new missions, challenges, and insights into the overarching narrative. It seamlessly integrates with the main game while providing additional depth and complexity to the overall experience.

The rendition of Chicago in Watch_Dogs is impressively detailed, capturing the essence of a bustling metropolis under constant surveillance. The city feels alive with its dynamic weather patterns and vibrant day-night cycle, enhancing the immersive experience of navigating its streets and towering structures.

Central to the gameplay of Watch_Dogs is its hacking mechanics, which empower players to manipulate the environment and gain tactical advantages. Whether it's manipulating traffic lights to create distractions or hacking into security systems for investigation, every action feels impactful and strategic. Combat mechanics are robust, offering both stealth and direct confrontation options to suit different play-styles.

Watch_Dogs stands out as a commendable entry in the action-adventure genre, offering a richly detailed world, engaging narrative, and innovative gameplay mechanics centered around hacking. The addition of the Bad Blood DLC enhances the experience by providing new content and perspectives, making it a worthwhile investment for fans of the series and newcomers alike.

Posted 4 July, 2024.

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