With a look at SENSEs: Midnight, Brave Soldier: Invasion of Cyborgs and the new “Overwhelming” update for Vampire Survivors, we’re ending the week with a look at three recent releases.
SENSEs: Midnight review (PS4)
SENSEs: Midnight, a new installment in the SENSE anthology series, takes players on a journey into a cyberpunk-inspired world filled with urban legends and supernatural entities. This survival horror game excels with a chilling atmosphere through some good sound design and dimly lit environments, but has some rough edges as well.
For instance, the controls can occasionally feel unresponsive and stiff, which can quickly lead to a lack of fluidity and frustration in a game like this. Additionally, there is too much trial and error involved, which hampers any kind of strategic thinking and creating repetitive moments when you have to keep retrying certain sections.
On the plus side, SENSEs: Midnight introduces an intriguing narrative that integrates urban legends and supernatural elements. The storytelling creates a suspenseful atmosphere, immersing players in the mysteries of the game. The incorporation of these elements adds depth and intrigue to the overall narrative experience, although a more fleshed-out storyline with stronger connections to the established SENSE universe would have been welcome.
SENSEs: Midnight offers an atmospheric survival horror experience with its unique blend of urban legends, spirits, and cyberpunk elements. While the game captures the essence of classic survival horror titles, it falls short in certain areas, including the execution of gameplay mechanics and the depth of the narrative. It’s also quite short, but if you’re looking for a quick fix or enjoyed the previous SENSE game you might still enjoy this.
Brave Soldier – Invasion Of Cyborgs (PS4)
Brave Soldier: Invasion of Cyborgs, developed by JM Neto Game Dev and published on consoles by Eastasiasoft, brings a pixel art platform game infused with action to gaming enthusiasts. Although it doesn’t reach the heights of classics like Contra or Metal Slug – which obviously inspired it, it’s an enjoyable platforming shoot-’em-up experience. Starting off with simple platform challenges and gradually introducing enemies, new weapon modes and environmental hazards, what sets this one apart is a focus on perfect runs, emphasizing precise movement rather than aiming skills. With the inclusion of mud, ice, turrets, and formidable bosses, the challenge progressively escalates, forcing you into a slower way of playing and offering a different take on the genre.
One standout aspect of Brave Soldier: Invasion of Cyborgs is its visually appealing retro style. The game’s pixel art graphics strike a balance between 8-bit arcade nostalgia and modern flair, providing players with a nostalgic glimpse into the past. The graphics, accompanied by an engaging soundtrack, create an immersive atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. Additionally, the shooting mechanics work well, and the gameplay flows smoothly, allowing players to enjoy the action-packed adventure.
But while the basic gameplay is fun, the variation in level design could have been greater. Throughout the game, levels tend to feel similar, potentially discouraging players and diminishing their motivation to continue. More unique environments, enemies, and mechanics would certainly have elevated the game, as would local co-op mode for that two player arcade feel.
Brave Soldier: Invasion of Cyborgs manages to deliver a satisfying retro-inspired platforming shooter experience with its appealing pixel art graphics, smooth gameplay mechanics, and catchy soundtrack. While improvements in level design variation could have elevated the overall experience, the existing offering is still worth exploring, especially for fans of nostalgic 8-bit visuals and action-packed adventures.
Vampire Survivors – the Overwhelming update review (Xbox)
Vampire Survivors, developed by Poncle Games, is an addictive Gothic roguelike game that has been a huge hit since its launch. It offers primal gameplay inspired by twin stick shooters, where players avoid monsters, collect weaponry and magic, and defeat pixelated enemies. Despite its visually unremarkable appearance, the game’s gradual difficulty escalation and addictive formula provide infinite replay value.
The game features a variety of characters with unique stats and abilities. By collecting gold, players can unlock additional characters or purchase permanent buffs to make subsequent playthroughs easier. Leveling up and upgrading abilities allows players to shape their character’s playstyle, while defeating enemies rewards gems that contribute to progression.
Vampire Survivors relies on the left analog stick for character movement, with weapons and skills automatically activated on a cooldown timer. As players advance, they unlock various weapons and abilities, including magic wands, throwing knives, and throwable phials of holy water. The satisfaction of defeating enemies and earning rewards, such as gold-filled treasure chests and bonus upgrades, is a highlight of the gameplay.
Exploring the game map reveals secrets and hidden elements, adding to the desire for repeated playthroughs. The addictive nature of Vampire Survivors lies in discovering new weapons, evolving them through item combinations, and creating unique character builds. With its accessible entry barrier and instant gratification, players can easily dive into the chaotic monster slaughter.
Since its release, Vampire Survivors has gained popularity, allowing the developer, Luca ‘Poncle’ Galante, to pursue game development full-time. The game’s addictive gameplay, depth, and variety make it a standout indie title, recommended for fans of similar games. The recent “Overwhelming update” introduces exciting features such as new achievements, a new stage called Astral Stair, character and weapon evolutions, a “Randomize Minute Events” game mode, and new relics and pickups. These additions further enhance the game’s replay value, making it an even more enjoyable experience.
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