At its core Inscryption is a card based roguelike with a twist. Players are tasked with building and refining their deck of cards to battle against a series of increasingly challenging opponents. However what sets Inscryption apart is its innovative use of mechanics such as deck manipulation, creature sacrifice, and environmental puzzles. Each battle feels like a carefully orchestrated dance of strategy and wit, as players must constantly adapt their tactics to overcome new obstacles and adversaries.

One of the most captivating aspects of Inscryption is its incorporation of metagame elements. As players progress through the game they uncover layers of hidden secrets and cryptic messages that blur the lines between fiction and reality. The meta narrative woven throughout the game adds an extra layer of depth and intrigue keeping players engaged and eager to uncover the truth behind the games enigmatic world.

Visually Inscryption is a masterpiece of minimalist design. The games hand drawn art style perfectly complements its dark and surreal atmosphere creating a sense of foreboding and unease. Each card and environment is meticulously crafted imbuing the game with a sense of tangible depth and immersion.

Similarly the sound design in Inscryption is superb. From the haunting melodies that accompany players on their journey to the subtle sound effects that punctuate key moments in the game. Every auditory element serves to enhance the overall experience. The combination of visual and auditory elements creates a cohesive and immersive world that draws players in from the very beginning.

Inscryptions narrative is perhaps its most compelling aspect. The games story unfolds gradually as players progress through its various stages revealing snippets of lore and backstory that hint at a much larger and more complex narrative. The writing is top notch with clever dialogue and well developed characters that keep players invested in the unfolding mystery.

However its worth noting that the narrative in Inscryption can be quite dense at times which may not be to everyones taste. Some players may find themselves struggling to piece together the various threads of the story leading to moments of frustration or confusion.

Ups:

Innovative gameplay mechanics that combine deck-building, puzzle solving, and narrative driven elements.
Immersive visuals and sound design that create a dark and surreal atmosphere.
Compelling narrative with well written dialogue and intriguing characters.
Metagame elements add an extra layer of depth and intrigue.
High replay value thanks to procedurally generated levels and hidden secrets.

Downs:

The dense narrative may be off putting to some players.
Steep learning curve may deter newcomers to the genre.
Occasional bugs and technical issues can detract from the overall experience.

Inscryption is a tour de force of game design that pushes the boundaries of what a card based roguelike can be. With its innovative gameplay mechanics, immersive visuals, sound design and compelling narrative it offers a truly unique gaming experience that will linger in the minds of players long after the credits roll. While its dense narrative and steep learning curve may not be for everyone those willing to delve deep into its dark and enigmatic world will find themselves rewarded with a gaming experience unlike any other.

What Silent Hill does so well that I feel most horror media didn’t around the same time, was create a genuinely disturbing and memorable atmosphere.

Too many times in the 90s, horror media was all B tier blood and guts gory bullshit that didn’t leave an actual impact on you as the viewer. When a game can take what movies with higher budgets are attempting to do, and turn it into something I feel is top of the line in that category, it’s truly something special.

You will not find a plethora of cheap jump scares to make you squeal, but rather area after area of images and sounds that will bother something inside of you. A lot of the time during my play through, I would hesitantly go through a door or up a flight of stairs, worried the next images I am about to see are going to stick with me even more than the last.

I love psychological horror themes, often creating a sense of dread within your own mind rather than worrying only for Harry.

Even the slow movements and fixed camera compliment the tension while trying to escape as quickly as you can. It’s almost as if Toyama knew how the average Joe would respond to being in this type of situation.

Honestly the only thing here I’m not too fond of is how slow some of the melee attacks can be, considering a large portion of the in between areas encourage you to use them.

Nevertheless, Silent Hill is what more horror media should strive to be. 9/10.

A disturbing yet emotional ride into living hell.

This is probably the 24th or 26th time I played thru this game. I just love it. It's the greatest horror game ever made and my #3 game of all time. Were to start?

Heather is arguably the closest that I would consider a "4-dimensional" character. You could make her a mute and the flavour texts alone, while clicking the X-Button to investigate on things would still give her more personality than 99% of all other video game characters. The story about her finding out about her true self and how she deals with it along with another tragic incident that is going to happen to her, is very intruging and gives alot of depth to her character.

The side characters are well written aswell, better than those of SH1 for the most part but inferior to those from SH2. The voice acting for all characters is flawless as long you play with the original voices, avoid the HD collection as far as possible.

SH3 is also pretty much the best looking game of the PS2. The only games from 6th gen that come close to it are SH2 and 4, the Resident Evil 1 Remake and Resident Evil Zero and Black. It's art design is truly magnificent. The character faces look closer to reality than most games of 7th gen.

The score once again composed by Akira Yamaoka is terrific. It's sad, moody and scary at the same time.

Now lets get into the gameplay department. It's the most polished game in the series. If you consider tank controls clunky, you might not consider them that clunky anymore after playing SH3. There is also an option to play without tank controls so there is actually no reason, not to play this game. It improved on the little things when compared to SH2, most notably the inventory. There are also plenty of unlockables like a lightsaber for example.

The level design this time offers a lot of variety even though I still consider SH1 level design the best in the franchise but this is a close 2nd.

So for all the people that just circle jerk around SH2, give SH1 and 3 a chance. You will not regret it if you love storytelling in gaming. This for sure is an underrated hidden gem and I think it's the best game in the franchise and of the survival horror genre.

10/10 puked out demon fetuses.

Check my review for the abysmal movie on Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/xgmanx/film/silent-hill-revelation-3d/

a little quaint but very much a beautiful work of art that i adore. i had a conversation with a friend about how brain rotting fortnite is and it deeply depresses me that hardly anyone touches this masterpiece. the puzzles are challenging but never impossible, even an idiot like me was able to complete it without a single use of any guide. playing it made me realize this must be an amazing game to experience as a kid; puzzle solving, keeping track and caring for another that helps your patience and to completely immerse yourself in a mostly quiet ambience. some moments of silence that is elevated with a rush of ocean wind should not only be much appreciated in video games but also in todays world especially with how chaotic everything has been (i sound dumb as hell but i hope my point comes across).

Ups:

Stunning Visuals: The game boasts breathtaking graphics and attention to detail, creating a visually immersive and realistic open world.

Compelling Story: "Red Dead Redemption 2" features a deep and emotionally engaging narrative with well-developed characters, making players invested in the story.

Open World Exploration: The vast and diverse open world provides players with a sense of freedom to explore, hunt, and engage in various activities beyond the main storyline.

Realistic Wildlife and Hunting: The game's detailed ecosystem includes a variety of animals, and the hunting mechanics add a layer of realism to survival in the wild.

Dynamic Weather and Day-Night Cycle: The changing weather conditions and day-night cycle contribute to the immersive atmosphere, affecting gameplay and visuals.

Attention to Detail: Rockstar Games paid meticulous attention to details, from character animations to environmental elements, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Impressive Soundtrack: The game features a memorable and evocative soundtrack that enhances the mood and atmosphere throughout the game.

Challenging Combat: The combat system is challenging and realistic, requiring players to be strategic in gunfights and other confrontations.

Downs:

Pacing Issues: Some players have criticized the game for its slow pacing, especially in the early chapters, which might not appeal to those looking for a faster-paced experience.

Complex Controls: The controls can be overwhelming, especially for newcomers to the game or those unfamiliar with Rockstar's control schemes.

Occasional Glitches and Bugs: Like many open-world games, "Red Dead Redemption 2" is not completely free of bugs and glitches, though updates have addressed many issues.

Steep System Requirements: The game demands high system requirements, potentially limiting access for players with less powerful gaming setups.

Limited Fast Travel: Some players find the limited fast travel options restrictive, especially considering the vast size of the game world.

Repetitive Tasks: Certain activities, such as maintaining your character's health and camp management, can become repetitive for some players.

Learning Curve: The game's complexity and depth may pose a steep learning curve for some players, requiring time to fully grasp all the mechanics and features.

In Depth Review

Red Dead Redemption 2 takes players on an epic journey through the fading Wild West, offering an immersive open-world experience that is as breathtaking as it is challenging. Released in 2018, the game has garnered widespread acclaim for its stunning visuals, compelling narrative, and attention to detail. In this in-depth review, we'll explore the various aspects of the game that make it a standout title in the action-adventure genre.

One of the most striking features of the game is its jaw-dropping visuals. The game presents a meticulously crafted open world that feels alive and dynamic. From the sweeping landscapes of the Heartlands to the snow-covered peaks of the Grizzlies, each environment is a visual masterpiece. The attention to detail is unparalleled, with realistic weather effects, day-night cycles, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. Character models are highly detailed, and the facial animations capture subtle emotions, adding depth to the storytelling.

The narrative is the backbone of Red Dead, and it doesn't disappoint. Set in 1899, players assume the role of Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang led by the charismatic and enigmatic Dutch van der Linde. The story is a poignant exploration of loyalty, morality, and the consequences of ones actions. The character development is exceptional, with each member of the gang having a distinct personality and backstory. Arthur's personal journey is both compelling and emotional, providing players with a nuanced and mature narrative rarely seen in video games.

The vast open world of RDR 2 is a playground for exploration. The map is expansive and diverse, offering a wide range of landscapes, from bustling towns to remote wilderness. The attention to detail is staggering; every nook and cranny feels purposefully designed. The game encourages exploration, with hidden treasures, wildlife to hunt, and dynamic events scattered throughout the map. The sense of immersion is heightened by the ability to interact with NPCs, each with their own stories and routines.

The audio design in Red Dead is a masterpiece. The ambient sounds of the wilderness, the creaking of saddle leather, and the distant howls of coyotes create an immersive soundscape. The voice acting is exceptional, with Roger Clark's portrayal of Arthur Morgan being a standout performance. The game's soundtrack, composed by Woody Jackson, is a beautiful and evocative accompaniment that enhances the emotional impact of key moments in the story.

One recurring critique of the game is its pacing, particularly in the early chapters. The slow burn narrative, while intentional for immersion and character development, might be off-putting to players seeking a more immediate and action-packed experience. Some may find the initial hours laboriously slow, impacting the game's accessibility to a broader audience.

Certain gameplay elements, such as maintaining the health of Arthur Morgan and managing the gang's camp, can become repetitive over time. While these mechanics contribute to the game's realism, some players may find the routine nature of these tasks tedious, impacting the overall enjoyment of the gameplay.

Red Dead Redemption 2's approach to mission handholding is a double-edged sword. While it contributes significantly to the narrative immersion and character relationships, it may come at the cost of limiting player freedom and introducing repetitive patterns. The balance struck by the game is subjective, with some players appreciating the guidance for its narrative benefits, while others may find it restrictive. Ultimately, the handholding elements in missions serve a specific design philosophy, enriching the storytelling experience while posing challenges for those seeking a more open and dynamic approach to mission gameplay.

While Red Dead has earned its reputation as a masterpiece, it's essential to acknowledge its imperfections. Pacing issues, Intense hand holding and repetitive tasks are aspects that may hinder the game's universal appeal. However, it's crucial to contextualize these criticisms within the broader context of the game's achievements. Despite these drawbacks, Red Dead Redemption 2 remains a noteworthy and memorable gaming experience for those willing to navigate its intricacies and appreciate its strengths.

Garry's Mod, commonly known as GMod, is a sandbox game that has captivated players worldwide for its limitless possibilities and creative freedom. With 2.5k hours invested in this Sandbox, I feel compelled to share my insights into the game's evolution and the transformation of its fanbase over time.

Garry's Mod, developed by Facepunch Studios, stands as a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of its community. The game provides an expansive sandbox environment where players can manipulate objects and create their own worlds using the Source engine. From building elaborate structures to scripting custom game modes, GMod has offered unparalleled freedom and creativity.

Over the course of my 2.5k hours, I have Played countless game modes, helped develop a custom game mode, and took a glance at the diversity of user-generated content. The games modding community is a testament to its enduring appeal, with countless add-ons, maps, and game modes pushing the boundaries of what's possible within the GMod universe.

However, the once-thriving and collaborative community has undergone a noticeable shift over the years. In the earlier days of Garry's Mod, the community was characterized by a passion for creativity, mutual support, and a genuine love for the game. Unfortunately, a perceptible transformation has occurred, as a subset of the community has become more focused on profit and financial gain.

One of the more concerning trends within the GMod community is the emergence of money-driven servers. While there is nothing inherently wrong with individuals seeking compensation for their time and effort, the shift towards overt commercialization has introduced an element of discord. Numerous servers now prioritize pay to win mechanics, creating an uneven playing field that undermines the game's original spirit of creativity and collaboration.

The monetization trend has also impacted the gaming experience itself. Some servers heavily restrict access to certain features or content behind paywalls, limiting the enjoyment of players who may not be willing or able to invest financially. This has led to a fractured player base and a sense of exclusion, detracting from the communal atmosphere that once defined Garrys Mod.

In conclusion, Garrys Mod remains a fantastic sandbox game that has provided me with countless hours of entertainment and creativity. The games vast potential is a testament to the dedication of its developers and the talent within its community. However, the gradual shift towards a more money-driven fanbase is a cause for concern, as it threatens to compromise the inclusive and collaborative spirit that has made GMod a beloved title for so many.

While the core game itself is still a masterpiece, the evolving nature of its community underscores the importance of maintaining a balance between creative expression and financial incentives. As a long time player, I hope that Facepunch can navigate these challenges and continue to thrive as a beacon of creativity in the gaming world with S&box.

Trepang2 falls short of its potential, leaving players with a sense of disappointment. Despite some promising elements, the overall experience is marred by various issues.
The game's visuals are commendable, showcasing detailed environments and modern graphics. However, this is where the positives largely end.

The storyline is both thin and uninspiring, failing to captivate players or provide any meaningful context for the action. The lack of a compelling narrative diminishes the overall immersion and engagement.
Gameplay suffers from repetitive and uninteresting mechanics. The enemies lack diversity, and encounters quickly become monotonous. The promise of intense action falls flat due to uninspired level design and predictable enemy AI.

Furthermore, the game lacks depth and variety in content. With a limited selection of environments, weapons, and enemies, Trepang2 fails to provide the necessary elements for a satisfying and lasting experience.

In conclusion, Trepang2 falls short of expectations, offering a visually appealing but ultimately hollow experience. The lack of a compelling story, repetitive gameplay, optimization issues, and unresponsive controls make it a difficult title to recommend for those seeking a fulfilling gaming experience.

Ups:

Visually Striking Graphics: Trepang2 manages to impress with its visually stunning graphics and detailed environments. The game's aesthetics create a captivating atmosphere that initially draws players in.

Downs:

Lackluster Storyline: Unfortunately, the promising visuals are let down by a lackluster storyline. The narrative fails to engage players, offering a generic and forgettable experience that leaves much to be desired.

Repetitive Gameplay: The gameplay loop in Trepang2 quickly becomes monotonous, with repetitive encounters and uninspired enemy AI. The lack of variety in missions and objectives makes the overall gaming experience feel tedious.

Limited Content: The game lacks substantial content, offering a disappointingly short playtime. With a shortage of diverse environments, weapons, and enemy types, Trepang2 fails to provide the depth and variety necessary for a satisfying gaming experience.

Voidtrain is a game that's been on my radar for a while, and I finally got around to playing it with a few of my friends. After spending some time in its quirky universe, I can confidently say it's an experience that left me with mixed feelings.

Ups:

Unique Concept: Voidtrain's concept is undoubtedly intriguing. Who wouldn't want to explore a strange, ever-changing train traveling through an otherworldly void? The game's setting is a breath of fresh air in the gaming world.

Visually Captivating: The game's art style is a delightful blend of steampunk aesthetics and cosmic wonder. Voidtrain nails the ethereal atmosphere and manages to keep you visually engaged throughout your journey.

Crafting and Upgrades: Voidtrain offers a decent crafting system, allowing you to tinker with your train and upgrade it in various ways. This adds a layer of progression and customization that some players might find appealing.

Downs:

Lack of Depth: While the concept is unique, Voidtrain falls short in terms of depth. The gameplay loop eventually becomes repetitive, and the story lacks the depth needed to keep players engaged for extended periods.

Unpolished Mechanics: The game's mechanics, especially combat, feel somewhat clunky. You might find yourself frustrated with the controls and the overall execution of certain actions.

Limited Replayability: Once you've completed the game, there isn't much incentive to go back and replay it. The lack of diverse objectives or branching storylines limits its replay value.

In conclusion, Voidtrain is a game that sparks curiosity with its unique premise and captivating visuals. However, it falls short in terms of depth and polish, making it a somewhat mediocre experience. If you're a fan of experimental indie games and don't mind overlooking some rough edges, it might be worth a short stopover in the void. Otherwise, you might want to wait for updates or discounts before hopping aboard this train.