Checking out some of the smaller releases of these past few weeks, we’re reviewing Vessels of Decay, Wild Rumble and Exo-Calibre in our latest roundup of indie games.
Vessels of Decay review (PS5)
Vessels of Decay delivers a visually striking blend of Scandinavian folklore and pixel-art melancholy, but not all of its systems hold up as confidently as its atmosphere. You play as Freja, accompanied by a helpful creature named Mud, journeying through the remnants of civilization now overrun by supernatural beasts. The world is carefully constructed and immediately evocative – its handcrafted scenes and layered pixel environments pull you in with an almost painterly sense of ruin and reverence.
Combat, at its best, allows for creative expression through its stagger-and-finisher system. Each enemy becomes an opportunity for stylish takedowns, and the multi-phase boss fights channel the tension well. However, the responsiveness of these mechanics doesn’t always feel tight, and some players might find that the fluidity of movement occasionally clashes with the demands of more complex battles. The game is more contemplative than action-heavy overall, and while that suits the world’s somber tone, it may frustrate those expecting a faster-paced experience.
Exploration across the decaying world is a standout here. Vessels of Decay invites players to linger, soaking in environments rich with small details and narrative hints. The retro aesthetic is a highlight, with pixel visuals that show an impressive level of polish, complemented by an understated soundtrack that enhances the game’s haunting sense of isolation. Still, a few areas do suffer from visual repetition, especially across longer play sessions.
In the end, Vessels of Decay leans more into mood than mechanical precision. It’s a game that prioritizes the feeling of wandering through forgotten myths over constant engagement. That won’t be for everyone – but those drawn to artistic direction, emotional world-building, and folklore-infused post-apocalyptic tales will find something quietly compelling beneath the decay.
Wild Rumble review (PS5)
Wild Rumble might look like a zany arcade sports game (akin to Mario Strikers) at first glance, but under the surface it’s a tightly designed roguelike with surprising tactical depth. Combining 3v3 soccer matches with persistent upgrades and team synergy mechanics, it delivers an experience that’s part Mario Strikers, part deck-building strategy game. Each character has unique traits, and tailoring your lineup to your playstyle – offense, defense, or all-out speed – is key to progressing through increasingly intense matches.
One of the standout features is the way the game handles goal scoring: it’s not just about landing shots, but whittling down the opposing goalie’s health by building up ball power through passing and positioning. This system rewards teamwork and timing rather than just button mashing, and special moves tied to charged shots add a layer of satisfying risk and reward. Earning and upgrading passive perks between matches through cards gives players the flexibility to evolve their playstyle as they go, whether in solo or multiplayer sessions.
Visually, Wild Rumble leans into its chaos with colorful animal characters and explosive arenas, but it all remains readable even in the thick of action. Match pacing is fast and addictive, usually wrapping up in a few minutes, and whether you’re winning or losing, you’re quickly back in the action again. This makes the loop highly replayable, especially in short bursts. The multiplayer options extend the fun, even though you’ll probably get more mileage from local sessions.
Some players might find the content loop repetitive once they’ve unlocked all the characters, and the lack of more structured online matchmaking tools might limit the game’s competitive potential. Still, for its modest price and creative spin on sports brawling, Wild Rumble offers far more replay value than many of its genre peers. It’s not just arcade fun – it’s a scrappy, tactical brawler that earns its place on the pitch.
Exo-Calibre review (PS5)
Exo-Calibre throws players headfirst into a bright, fast-paced bullet hell experience that combines classic vertical shoot-em-up mechanics with a splash of quirky mecha anime flair. You pilot one of several Exo-Tech warriors, each offering their own weapon types and playstyle, through increasingly chaotic stages full of enemy drones and oversized bosses. It’s a well-worn premise, but the game delivers it with enough polish and energy to satisfy genre fans – especially those with a fondness for arcade-style score chasing.
One of the most satisfying elements lies in the game’s mix of ranged attacks and melee weapons. Swapping between the two gives combat a nice rhythm, and while it doesn’t drastically reinvent the formula, it does keep each encounter from feeling too one-note. The generous scoring system rewards players for staying alive and unscathed, which encourages replayability and fuels the leaderboard grind across multiple game modes, including a dedicated Boss Rush and Time Rush.
Visually, Exo-Calibre leans heavily into its pixel art charm, delivering crisp sprite work and vibrant backdrops that hold up even when the screen gets packed with enemy fire. The characters and their mechs are designed with a lighthearted tone that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and the cheesy but endearing cutscenes only add to the retro appeal. The soundtrack complements the action nicely, but it won’t linger in your memory once the dust settles.
Where Exo-Calibre starts to show some wear is in its simplicity. The narrative barely makes a dent, and once you’ve completed a few runs, you may start to feel the repetition settle in. There’s a solid core here, but the lack of real mechanical evolution or stage variety might limit its appeal beyond genre enthusiasts. Still, for those looking for a low-priced dose of old-school bullet hell with modern convenience, it’s an easy recommendation.
Press Play Media 