Disaster Band, Thief Simulator 2 and Naheulbeuk’s Dungeon Master came out on Steam in 2022 and 2023, but were all just released on the PlayStation 5. Time to take a close look at them in our latest port roundup.
Disaster Band review (PS5)
Disaster Band, developed by PRODUKTIVKELLER Studios and published by SunDust (a Toplitz label), makes its way over to the PlayStation 5 after its PC release in late 2022. This rhythm game invites players of all skill levels with an accessible control scheme, offering a unique blend of musical creativity and fun in a genre that hasn’t seen too much innovation in recent years. The game encourages experimentation with various instruments on any given track, allowing for a gameplay experience that’s both exploratory and entertaining, even when mistakes are made – playing wrong notes is part of the game, hence the title.
One of the game’s strengths lies in its multiplayer mode, where up to four players can jam together, where joining forces can either lead to a sessions that sounds kind of harmonious to one that is completely off-key. Cross-platform support enhances the social experience, making it easy to connect with friends regardless of their gaming platform and setup. The competitive element of global and local leaderboards adds extra motivation for players to refine their musical skills and prove their prowess against others.
Visually, Disaster Band features a charming, simplistic aesthetic that complements its whimsical approach to rhythm gaming. The wide array of instruments, including everything from classical violins to meowing cats, adds to the game’s playful atmosphere. As you can imagine, the audio experience is diverse because of this, though the novelty of having offbeat sounds fades over time. The inclusion of mod.io support for custom tracks ensures a constant stream of new content for players to explore and enjoy.
In summary, Disaster Band offers a delightful and sometimes unpredictable musical adventure. Its emphasis on creative freedom, accessible controls, and engaging multiplayer features make it a standout experience in the rhythm game genre, for better and for worse. While its unstructured nature might not appeal to everyone, those looking for a fun and lighthearted take on the rhythm game genre will find plenty to enjoy.
Thief Simulator 2 review (PS5/Xbox)
Thief Simulator 2 by CookieDev, recently released on PlayStation 5 and Xbox by Ultimate Games, offers a foray into the world of high-stakes thievery. While we were unfamiliar with the first game, this sequel transports players to a game world brimming with valuable items and potential heists, from residential homes to high-security banks. As a novice thief, you begin with simple tasks, honing your skills and acquiring advanced tools to tackle more lucrative jobs. The game emphasizes strategy, requiring players to study their targets, plan heists, and only then execute them with precision.
The gameplay mechanics of Thief Simulator 2 are a blend of gameplay styles, with players needing to time their break-ins based on the occupants’ schedules. The tools at your disposal range from basic crowbars for a low-tech break-in to sophisticated hacking devices, and you’ll gradually unlock more complex and rewarding heists as you progress. The game also introduces various location types, including resorts, warehouses, and central banks, each presenting unique challenges and requiring different approaches. Despite the variety on offer, however, you’ll find yourself repeating many of the same actions again and again, so things can eventually get a bit monotonous if you play in long sessions.
Visually, Thief Simulator 2 features detailed environments and a realistic day-night cycle that adds to the immersion, but it won’t wow you with AAA production values either. The audio design complements the tension, with subtle sound cues alerting you to nearby dangers or the approach of law enforcement. The game’s graphics, while not groundbreaking, effectively set the mood for your clandestine activities, and the inclusion of car thefts and police chases adds an adrenaline rush, although the vehicle mechanics could feel somewhat clunky compared to the more polished stealth segments – and especially to the thrilling chases you maybe have played in the Need for Speed series.
Thief Simulator 2 excels in creating a compelling thief experience, but does have its drawbacks. The AI can be unpredictable, sometimes too easily fooled or, conversely, unrealistically perceptive, which can lead to frustration. Additionally, the control scheme, while generally intuitive, occasionally feels a little awkward when you need to act quickly. Despite these issues, the game offers a rewarding experience for fans of stealth and simulation genres, providing a unique blend of strategy and action that keeps you on your toes. Since it’s been ten (!) years since the PS4 release of Thief, this is a nice return to the genre.
Naheulbeuk’s Dungeon Master review (PS5)
Naheulbeuk’s Dungeon Master, developed by Artefacts Studio and published by Dear Villagers, brings the quirky and humorous world of Naheulbeuk to PlayStation 5 a few months after its PC debut. This management simulation game casts players as Reivax, the steward of the Dungeon of Naheulbeuk, tasked with building, populating, and defending a thriving dungeon before the infamous adventurers arrive. As you’d expect from a Naheulbeuk game, the game’s narrative is rich with humor and charm, drawing players into a whimsical and fantastical universe where every decision can lead to unexpected and often hilarious outcomes.
The gameplay mechanics of Naheulbeuk’s Dungeon Master blend construction, management, and strategy elements seamlessly. Players must carefully balance the development of their dungeon with the recruitment and management of a diverse array of minions, each with unique skills and personalities. The game challenges players to decorate their dungeon to attract patrons, manage resources effectively, and fend off any would-be adventurers. The inclusion of strategic raiding missions adds an extra layer of depth, allowing players to disrupt rival dungeons and gain valuable resources as you go on the offensive – providing a nice change of pace.
Visually, Naheulbeuk’s Dungeon Master has a vibrant and detailed art style, capturing the essence of the Naheulbeuk universe by not being as dark as other titles in this genre. The characters are animated with a distinct flair, and the environments are filled with delightful details that enhance the overall immersion. The audio design complements the visual aesthetics with a whimsical soundtrack and humorous voice acting, adding to the game’s lighthearted tone. However, die hard strategy fans might find the humor a bit over the top, perhaps taking away something from the game’s strategic elements.
Naheulbeuk’s Dungeon Master is a fun game to play, but it’s not without its flaws. The controls can feel somewhat clunky, and the game’s difficulty curve might be steep for those just looking for the lighthearted comedy elements associated with the UP. Additionally, managing the various needs and expectations of the minions can become repetitive over time, leading to occasional moments of tedium. Nevertheless, these minor issues are overshadowed by the game’s engaging and entertaining gameplay, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of management simulation games.
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