In today’s release roundup, we’re checking out Nico Saves the State, Golden Gloves VR and Super Engine GT Turbo SPEC with a trio of reviews.
Nico Saves The State review (PS5)
Nico Saves the State takes an inventive spin on the puzzle-platformer genre, and its arrival on the PlayStation 5 gives console players the chance to dive into one of the more mechanically creative indies we’ve seen recently. Developed by Cross Game Studio and published by Ratalaika Games on consoles, the game follows lab assistant Nico on an unexpected journey to rescue the kingdom of Ririland. With the seasoned hero conveniently away on vacation, Nico’s tool of salvation is the “Statephone,” which lets players manipulate saved versions (or ‘states’) of their position, momentum, and even inventory. It’s a premise that sounds like it belongs in speedrunning circles, but it works surprisingly well here as a core mechanic.
The level design cleverly revolves around this save-and-load concept, allowing players to chain actions and solve environmental puzzles in ways that feel both challenging and rewarding. Whether it’s double-jumping by reloading a stored bounce or duplicating items through saved inventory states, the mechanics consistently force creative thinking. At the same time, the game isn’t always forgiving – its one-hit-death system, while thematically in line with the need for precision, can also be a source of frustration, especially when paired with controls that feel a little less responsive than you’d like during tense platforming segments.
Visually, the game lands in charming territory, using a 2.5D pixel aesthetic that pays homage to retro classics while still feeling modern and colorful. Hand-drawn cutscenes are peppered throughout the experience and lend a visual novel-style flair to the story, though the plot itself is intentionally light and goofy in tone. A vibrant soundtrack rounds things out with funky, 90s-inspired tunes that complement the game’s energetic personality without becoming repetitive.
While Nico Saves the State can occasionally test your patience – especially if you’re not used to the trial-and-error nature of its state system – it also offers something genuinely different. It’s a puzzle-platformer that dares to break away from genre conventions and rewards those who take the time to experiment and master its mechanics. The PlayStation 5 version plays smoothly, and aside from some minor control quirks, it’s a fun, inventive journey that stands out in a crowded field of indie platformers.
Golden Gloves VR review (Quest)
Golden Gloves VR steps into the ring on Meta Quest with a strong punch, offering an immersive boxing experience that leans into realism and training authenticity. Developed by Engine Room VR, the game carries the weight of the Golden Gloves license and legacy while inviting players to chart a path from novice to champion. What helps set it apart in a crowded VR boxing scene is its clear focus on discipline and progression. Rather than relying on arcade-style spectacle, the game encourages players to adopt proper technique, study opponent behavior, and commit to gradual improvement.
The game’s career mode is still in (early access) development but shows promise. Facing off against AI fighters with distinct styles and learning curves adds depth beyond just swinging wildly. Training sessions in the virtual gym are where the attention to realism really comes through, especially with responsive mitt work, speed bags, and sparring drills. The physics aren’t perfect yet and some hits don’t always land as expected, and there’s room for polish in how stamina and movement feel, but it’s clear the foundation is being laid for a thoughtful and technical boxing sim.
Visually, Golden Gloves VR doesn’t aim for hyper-realism, but it delivers a clean and practical gym environment. The arenas are functional rather than flashy, which fits the game’s more grounded tone. Sound design is equally utilitarian: you get the satisfying thuds of gloves and audible crowd reactions, but it’s the in-gym audio cues and feedback from trainers that give the experience its rhythm. Still, this is clearly a title with ongoing work ahead, and the current presentation – while solid – lacks the polish of more established VR offerings.
Controls are responsive and benefit from being tied to real boxing movements, though players expecting a quick, action-heavy workout might need to recalibrate their expectations. This isn’t about flailing your arms to win, but about timing, angles, and endurance. For players looking to blend fitness with skill-building in a VR space, Golden Gloves VR already delivers more substance than many of its peers – and its early access status suggests there’s more potential waiting in the wings. It’s one to watch, especially for boxing enthusiasts willing to grow alongside the game as it continues to evolve.
Super Engine GT Turbo SPEC review (PS5)
Super Engine GT Turbo SPEC isn’t aiming for realism, but it definitely knows its audience. Developed by Josep Monzonis Hernandez and published by Eastasiasoft, this retro-inspired arcade racer channels the spirit of the PS1 era of overhead racers, offering a no-frills, back-to-basics approach to high-speed competition. With cel-shaded visuals and a clear nod to genre classics, the game delivers an accessible and fast-paced experience – so long as you’re not expecting the polish or complexity of modern racing sims.
The structure is as straightforward as the racing: four event series (Novice to Pro), eight tracks, and a growing garage of unlockable cars. Races typically start you at the back of the pack, and it’s all about overtaking rivals on tight circuits that emphasize cornering precision over outright speed. The controls are responsive and accessible, though the AI can feel a bit too rigid at times, offering little in the way of dynamic challenge beyond simply being faster in later series.
Visually, the cel-shaded aesthetic gives the game a distinct charm, but the track environments can feel sparse and repetitive across events. Car designs are nicely stylized, and performance on the PS5 is smooth, though the game’s audio design lacks punch – engine sounds are basic, and the soundtrack is functional but forgettable. Still, the presentation overall supports the arcade vibe and keeps things moving at a brisk pace.
Where Super Engine GT Turbo SPEC succeeds is in its focus: it knows what kind of game it wants to be and sticks to it. There’s not much here in terms of features or variety beyond the core progression loop, but for players looking to unwind with short bursts of old-school racing, it more or less hits the mark. It may not leave a lasting impression, but for the low price and what it sets out to do, it gets to the finish line.
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