There is something rather appealing about a game that refuses to explain everything and instead expects players to figure things out for themselves. In an era where many adventures are filled with objective markers, detailed maps, and constant reminders of what to do next, Queen’s Domain takes a decidedly different approach. Developed by Freshly Baked Games and published by Future Friends Games, this first-person action RPG draws heavily from the traditions of FromSoftware’s King’s Field series, combining deliberately paced combat with an interconnected world full of secrets. Players take on the role of Prince Beruim, who sets out to find his missing father after a disastrous expedition to the Isle of Neasied. The island is home to an ancient evil, strange creatures, and the remnants of an expedition that clearly went very wrong. Although the narrative provides a reason to venture into this mysterious setting, storytelling is largely delivered through environmental details, scattered notes, and occasional encounters rather than extensive dialogue or cinematic sequences. This approach certainly contributes to the atmosphere, although players looking for a particularly compelling or character-driven storyline might find the narrative somewhat underdeveloped. The real attraction lies in discovering what happened on the island and uncovering its many secrets. Continue reading “Queen’s Domain review (PS5)”
Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee Remastered review (PS5)
At a time when fighting games have become increasingly sophisticated, Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee Remastered takes a rather different approach. Originally released for the Nintendo GameCube in 2002, this arena-based monster brawler returns with updated visuals, some quality-of-life improvements, and online multiplayer. Atari and original developer Pipeworks Studios have clearly recognized that there is still an audience for watching enormous monsters flatten entire cities while exchanging atomic blasts and devastating physical attacks. Rather than attempting to reinvent the experience, this remaster largely preserves the straightforward arcade formula that made the original an enjoyable multiplayer distraction. That approach has its charms, although it also means that some of the game’s underlying limitations have survived the passage of more than two decades. Continue reading “Godzilla: Destroy All Monsters Melee Remastered review (PS5)”
Developer interview: Triband
Making players laugh is at the heart of everything Triband does. The Copenhagen-based indie studio has built a reputation for turning familiar concepts into wonderfully absurd gaming experiences, from the unconventional golf antics of WHAT THE GOLF? to the unusual racing adventure of WHAT THE CAR? and the VR comedy of WHAT THE BAT? With its distinctive approach to game design, a willingness to challenge player expectations, and a clear focus on accessibility and fun, Triband has carved out a recognizable place in the industry. Having previously crossed paths with the team at a trade show, we caught up with Peter Bruun, co-founder and CEO of Triband, to discuss the creative process behind the studio’s games, the challenges of bringing its signature humor to VR, the importance of playtesting, and what players can expect from the studio in the future. Continue reading “Developer interview: Triband”
ASYLUM review (PS5)
Some horror games rely on relentless jump scares, grotesque monsters, and an almost constant sense of danger to keep players on edge. Others take a considerably more patient approach, allowing their surroundings and unsettling stories to do most of the work. ASYLUM firmly belongs in the latter category. Developed and published by Senscape, this first-person psychological horror adventure takes players into the decaying Hanwell Mental Institute, a sprawling psychiatric hospital filled with disturbing memories, questionable medical practices, and secrets that are perhaps best left undisturbed. Having spent more than fifteen years in development and initially being released on PC, the game has certainly been a long time coming. Fortunately, there is a worthwhile experience here, although its old-fashioned design and occasionally sluggish progression make it difficult to recommend without reservations. Continue reading “ASYLUM review (PS5)”
Let’s Sing 2027 review (PS5)
Karaoke games have always had a particular charm. Whether players are genuinely talented singers or simply enjoy making a fool of themselves in front of friends and family, there is something inherently entertaining about grabbing a microphone and attempting to recreate some of the biggest hits in music. The Let’s Sing franchise has been capitalizing on that appeal for years, and with Let’s Sing 2027, developer Voxler and publisher THQ Nordic are once again inviting players to take center stage. The latest installment introduces a refreshed presentation, a new selection of songs and an entirely new Party mode, while retaining the familiar karaoke mechanics that have kept the series going. It is an approachable and enjoyable package, although the limited amount of included content raises familiar questions about the franchise’s annual release strategy. Continue reading “Let’s Sing 2027 review (PS5)”