In today’s release roundup, we check out brand new DLC for Tropico 6, as well as major updates for Trailmakers and ReSetna.
Tropico 6 – Return To Nature DLC review (PC)
Tropico 6’s Return to Nature DLC introduces an eco-friendly twist to the series, focusing on sustainability and nature preservation. The DLC’s new campaign spans all four eras, revolving around the growth of the Biggdrasil tree, and emphasizes manure production, making ranches crucial. The side objectives are well-integrated into the main storyline this time, offering a guided sense of progression instead of forcing players to follow a set path.
A major highlight is the addition of 15 new buildings, including residential and high school structures that look great and provide strong stats. The Beekeeper, producing sugar as an alternative to large plantations, is fun one to zoom into. These buildings work synergistically, offering opportunities for creative gameplay, similar to the tourism mechanics that would give similar bonuses in the base game.
The single large-map structure, which covers all eras in one setting, may not appeal to everyone. Some players may find the starting conditions restrictive, with limited space and distant resource deposits that make city planning more challenging. However, the scenario provides a good balance of challenge and replayability, offering multiple paths to success, which should satisfy long time players.
Visually, the DLC blends seamlessly with the base game, featuring lush environments and a striking Biggdrasil centerpiece. The tropical aesthetic and Latin-inspired soundtrack continue the series’ signature charm. While some may debate its pricing (similar to the full base game’s regular sale price), the new mechanics and content make it a solid expansion for those seeking an eco-friendly experience in Tropico 6.
Trailmakers: Pioneers review (PS5)
Trailmakers: Pioneers marks a significant evolution for Flashbulb Games’ vehicle-building sandbox, introducing a wealth of new content and systems that aim to enrich the player’s creative journey. The standout addition to this free update is the expansive Campaign Mode, set on Planet Gregory, where players ally with the native Froggits against the menacing BOTNAK robots. This narrative layer provides context to the construction and exploration elements, adding depth to the experience for those not into sandbox experiences.
The game’s core – designing and piloting vehicles across diverse terrains – remains as engaging as ever. The building interface is intuitive, allowing for seamless assembly of complex machines. However, the campaign’s pacing can feel sluggish to experienced builders, with resource gathering occasionally overshadowing the creation process.
Visually, Trailmakers: Pioneers doesn’t push graphical boundaries, but it compensates with charming landscapes and a serene atmosphere. The day-night cycle and ambient soundtrack contribute to a relaxed environment that encourages experimentation. That said, the open world may feel sparse to newcomers, lacking incentives for thorough exploration beyond resource collection.
The introduction of new modes, including survival elements, adds variety but your enjoyment may vary. Some will appreciate the more structured objectives, while others will feel that the true joy lies in unrestricted building and testing of the base game. In a similar fashion, the combat mechanics, involving various weapons and vehicle designs, offer additional engagement, though they may not be the primary draw for all players.
In summary, Trailmakers: Pioneers enriches the original game with meaningful content and systems that enhance the creative experience. While certain aspects, like the campaign’s pacing and world density, may not resonate with everyone, the game’s core appeal – intuitive vehicle construction and the freedom to innovate – remains its strongest asset.
ReSetna review (PC)
ReSetna delivered a stylish yet somewhat rough metroidvania experience at launch, set in a decayed cybernetic world where fast-paced combat and deep customization take center stage. The game revolves around precise melee action, with players wielding an axe, sabre, or naginata – each benefiting from the recent Ruby Armor update, which refines animations and parry mechanics. The update also enhances enemy encounters by allowing projectile reflection, making combat feel more dynamic. However, while these improvements add depth, some enemy attack patterns remain unpredictable, occasionally making fights feel more frustrating than skill-based.
A key feature of ReSetna is its chip-based upgrade system, offering a flexible approach to character progression. Players can experiment with different chips to enhance movement, combat, and hacking abilities, creating unique builds. This customization adds strategic variety, but some upgrades feel underwhelming, and the grid-based layout may not appeal to everyone. Side quests, which now provide better rewards, encourage exploration, but repetitive objectives can make them feel like filler rather than meaningful content.
Visually, ReSetna’s cyberpunk aesthetic is compelling, with detailed environments that reinforce its desolate atmosphere. The Ruby Armor update introduces improved environmental effects and refined UI elements, making the world more immersive. However, while the game presents intriguing lore through cryptic messages and environmental storytelling, its narrative lacks emotional weight, often feeling too abstract to fully engage the player.
The game’s latest refinements also address control issues, with key rebinding and input adjustments making movement smoother. While combat responsiveness has improved, platforming remains inconsistent, with imprecise wall jumps and dodges creating occasional frustration. IXA, the drone companion, serves a useful role in healing and hacking, though its mechanics feel underutilized. Ultimately, ReSetna offers rewarding combat and customization but still struggles with uneven pacing and rough edges even post-patch, making it a solid but imperfect choice for metroidvania fans.
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