Besides looking at the latest new releases, we also enjoy checking out those games that are being re-introduced to us through ports for additional platforms. Today, we check out the return of an indie classic with BIT.TRIP RERUNNER, the next high profile PlayStation to PC port in Ghost of Tsushima and indie horror game Project 13.
BIT.TRIP RERUNNER review (PS5)
BIT.TRIP RERUNNER, developed by Choice Provisions, brings back a beloved rhythm platformer franchise on the PlayStation 5 with new mechanics, enhanced visuals, and a level editor. Despite these changes, the game remains true to its roots, offering 150+ challenging obstacle-filled levels that demand precise timing and coordination to a soundtrack that’s based on the previous titles and includes a good share of quality remixes. This inclusion of tracks from previous BIT.TRIP titles ensures a diverse and engaging audio experience, and a nice nod to fans of the series.
Visually, BIT.TRIP RERUNNER benefits significantly from its upgrade to Unreal Engine 5, presenting a vibrant and dynamic art style that adds depth to the familiar gameplay – elevating it from the rather minimalistic look of the original game. The striking visuals, paired with the rhythmic soundtrack, create an immersive and sometimes even dazzling audiovisual experience that draws players into the game’s flow.
The addition of the “runner maker” is a standout feature, allowing players to design and share custom levels. This level editor opens up endless possibilities for creativity and extends the game’s replayability. By fostering a community of aspiring game designers, it adds a new dimension to the BIT.TRIP series and encourages community engagement.
But despite its many strengths, BIT.TRIP RERUNNER is not without challenges. The steep difficulty curve, especially in later levels, can be daunting, and the visually intense style may sometimes overwhelm players if they’re not used to the BIT.TRIP look and feel. However, the game remains a must-play for fans of the series and rhythm game enthusiasts, successfully blending classic platforming with modern enhancements.
Ghost of Tsushima – Director’s Cut review (PC)
Ghost of Tsushima – Director’s Cut has made its highly anticipated debut on PC, bringing Jin Sakai’s epic journey to a new audience. Developed by Sucker Punch and published by PlayStation PC, this version offers the complete Ghost of Tsushima experience with enhanced graphics, unlocked framerates, and a suite of new features tailored for PC gamers.
Set in the late 13th century during the Mongol invasion of Japan, the narrative follows samurai warrior Jin Sakai as he battles to reclaim Tsushima Island from Khotun Khan’s forces. The rich storyline, filled with emotional depth and historical intrigue, remains as compelling as ever. The Director’s Cut also includes the Iki Island expansion, adding more layers to Jin’s story and providing additional content for players to explore.
One of the standout features of the PC version is its stunning visual fidelity. With support for ultrawide and super ultrawide monitors, the game’s landscapes and meticulously designed environments are more stunning to look at than ever. Enhanced graphics options, including NVIDIA DLSS, AMD FSR, and Intel XeSS, ensure that the game runs smoothly across a variety of hardware configurations.
On PC, there’s some added flexibility in terms of control options. You can choose between a DualSense controller if you want to use haptic feedback and adaptive triggers for PS5-like experience, or you can go with a fully customizable mouse and keyboard setup. The combat remains fluid and satisfying, with precise controls that cater to different playstyles.
Overall, Ghost of Tsushima – Director’s Cut on PC is a great port, offering a visually stunning and deeply engaging experience. While the core gameplay and narrative remain unchanged, the enhancements tailored for PC elevate the game, making it a must-play for both newcomers and returning players. The meticulous attention to detail and the addition of features like ultrawide support and advanced upscaling technologies ensure that Jin Sakai’s journey is as captivating than ever, and seeing it run on a Steam Deck is a sight to behold.
Project 13 review (PS5)
Project 13, developed by DRYBREAD and published by Dolores Entertainment, brings a new and haunting walking simulator experience to the PlayStation 5. Players navigate a Psych Ward Corridor, tasked with identifying and reporting anomalies. There’s a rather minimalistic narrative here that focuses on observation, which creates an atmosphere of tension and mystery to try and keep players engaged.
The gameplay mechanics are straightforward but demanding, requiring keen observation and accurate reporting of anomalies. Mistakes are harshly penalized, forcing players to restart the corridor from the beginning. This high-stakes set enhances the game’s suspense but can also lead to frustration, especially during longer play sessions when having to do repeated restarts can become tedious.
Visually, Project 13 excels in creating a disorienting and eerie atmosphere. The repeating corridor design, coupled with subtle visual cues and a minimalist soundtrack, effectively heightens the sense of dread and immersion. The ambient noises further contribute to the unsettling environment, keeping players on edge throughout their journey.
But despite its strengths, the game’s repetitive nature can also make it feel monotonous, and the strict anomaly-reporting requirements might not appeal to everyone. However, for those who enjoy psychological horror and observation-heavy gameplay, Project 13 offers a unique and captivating experience that challenges the mind and nerves.
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