VGM Essentials - Final Fantasy Vinyl Review By Lee 📀 @FiragaRecords #Vinyl #VideoGameVinyl

Firaga Records and the VGM Essentials series. Lots of them are out, many of them are essential for the discerning video game/electronic music fan in your life. And this, the Final Fantasy edition, is no different.

I'm not going to delve into the history of the series, because everyone who knows video games knows Square Enix's franchise, from the NES era to the modern 9th-generation console powerhouses. One thing the multitude of FF games has in common, though, is excellent music. This collection takes a sprinkling of that magic from across the whole series and allows a bevvy of producers to drag it firmly into club-ready territory.

The presentation is, as usual, exemplary. A bright, glossy die-cut slipcase houses two sleeved records, pressed on black vinyl at 45rpm. Each sleeve has a beautiful crystal design that is visible when the package is put together. Each track is remixed by one or two producers, some of whom will be familiar to fans of the series, such as SARE, nokbient and Noteblock, along with some new-to-me names like Emunator and Prower.

MOUSE: P.I. For Hire "What If Classic Toons Collided With DOOM" 🐭 @mousethegame #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich dons the tiny trench coat of a mouse detective with attitude in Mouse P.I For Hire!

This gameplay video dives into the quirky, noir‑soaked world where classic cartoon vibes collide with fast‑paced action and mystery. Explore the city’s back alleys, uncover clues, interrogate shady characters, and take on cases that are way too big for a mouse — but perfect for a P.I with whiskers and grit.

Crime Simulator PS5 Review 6/10 *A Game That Almost Stole My Heart* 🦹 @ULTGames #IndieGame #GameDev

Back in 2024, I covered Thief Simulator 2 and whilst I had a lot of fun with, it was very clearly rough around the edges and needed refining. Fast-forward to 2026, and the newest release from Polish studio CookieDev has made its way to consoles, and it is a game that is frustratingly short of being a really unique gem in the stealth-thievery genre but has too many issues to really be a recommended title.

The game – a first-person affair - begins with your character locked up in prison and being bailed out to quite a princely sum by a mysterious cabal of insalubrious individuals that intend to make you steal and earn your way through your debt. 

Beginning in an abandoned warehouse, you only have a PC, a box to send over your stolen goods, and a wall chart to pan out your next nick-fest. There is only one neighbourhood available at the start, with you and your team – up to four players online – needing to rack up some earnings (via a percentage cut from what you steal, which gets higher dependent on the difficulty) in order to unlock heists and other areas to pillage.

Dead Format PC Review By Ayden 6.5/10 📼 "A 3-8 hour horror-action experience with character"

While I’m a fan of horror movies and books, I haven’t had much experience with horror games up until this last year. I put this down to it being easier to desensitise oneself to films and the written word, whereas with video games there is no option to mentally disengage. Your choices matter, when you move matters, and that is quite a bit more terrifying than simply watching a slide show of off-putting and uncomfortable scenes.

All this to say, I may have watched over 50 horror movies last year with a stony and dead eyed expression, but when it comes to games of the same genre, I’m a snivelling coward. So I can’t promise that what got me nervously pausing and gathering myself before I could again brave more of the Video Ghastlies will equally terrify you. What I will say, is that if the stress detector on my watch is to be believed, this game achieved what it set out to with me.

The game starts with scant details, other than you are on a search for your missing brother. You enter his flat and search for clues which ultimately leads you to uncovering the mysteries of a new and inexplicably dangerous VHS format, “Video Ghastlies”. After watching the first tape, you will find yourself stepping out of the flat and into its macabre reality. Whilst in these other realms, you will find new tapes and trinkets required to proceed. You do also at some point get a bone-gun that shoots teeth (don’t ask, I’m still not sure), so it’s not an experience entirely built on hide-run-hide-run. 

Rushing Beat X on Switch 2 – "A Modern Beat‑’Em‑Up Revival!" 💥👊 @claricedisc #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich decides to step into the streets of Rushing Beat X on Nintendo Switch 2 — a modern revival of Jaleco’s classic beat‑’em‑up series. This gameplay showcase dives into fast combos, co‑op brawling, and the upgraded visuals that bring this cult favourite into the next generation.

Worms Armageddon: Anniversary Edition Review 7.5/10 "Ridiculous Fun, Lovingly Preserved" 🪱

I went to a flat party in 1999 and was in the front room when the host asked me if I'd ever played Worms before. I said, "No". He said, "You're Gonna Love it!" and proceeded to fire up the PS1 and welcome me into the crazy, crazy world of Worms: Armageddon. 

By the end of the night, most of the people in the flat were playing Worms, and the manic action was being fuelled by the many litres of Red Bull & Vodka being consumed (it was the late 90s, after all). From that moment on, Worms was THE party game and all my friends loved to drink and play this; it was essential for a great night out, either pre-party, post-party, post-post party or during party!

Fast forward to today, and it's true that some games age gracefully… and then there’s Worms Armageddon, a title that refuses to age at all. Firing it up feels like opening a box in your mum and dad's loft packed with banana bombs, holy hand grenades, and the kind of ridiculously crafted chaos that not too many video games attempt nowadays. Worms is most definitely still utterly ludicrous, endlessly funny, and capable of turning players into cackling agents of worm-fuelled destruction.

Armageddon remains the perfect expression of what makes Worms tick. The physics are just unpredictable enough to keep every turn tense. The weapons are as silly as ever, and still capable of producing those hilarious local multiplayer moments; it’s as manic today as it was in 1999.

What really elevates this release is the museum timeline charting the history of the series, the unexpected star of the show, with behind‑the‑scenes content that is a love letter to the Worms legacy.

These documentary‑style segments are surprisingly heartfelt. They chart the evolution of Team17’s iconic series with archival footage, developer interviews, early concept art and some cool Stories about how certain weapons and ideas came to be.

It’s the kind of material we've all come to expect from a Digital Eclipse release, and once again, for fans of gaming history, it’s pure gold nuggets. For Worms fans specifically, it’s borderline emotional. You get a real sense of how this quirky British strategy‑comedy hybrid became a global phenomenon.

Worms is Worm, but why does it still work? Well, Worms Armageddon endures because it’s built on timeless ingredients of simple rules, deceptively deep strategy, endless unpredictability, and a tone that never takes itself seriously. It’s the rare game where losing can be just as entertaining as winning, especially when your last worm is blasted into orbit by a rogue sheep or a concrete donkey.

SUMMARY
For me, this is more than a nostalgia trip. It’s a reminder of how inventive, chaotic, and downright joyful games can be. The core experience is still a riot, but the documentary timeline pushes this version into “must‑own” territory for anyone who loves retro gaming, British game development history, or just a good laugh. My kids and I are playing this endlessly as I introduce a new generation to Worms and have more couch chaos with the family!

Right, I'm off to drop a concrete donkey on my wife...

7.5/10

🆒COOL🆒

Worms Armageddon: Anniversary Edition | Nintendo Switch games | Games | Nintendo UK

Delverium PC Gameplay "No Commentary" 🪨⛏️🛖🌳@DelveriumGame #IndieGame #GameDev

Immerse yourself in the world of Delverium with this no-commentary PC gameplay showcase. This playthrough focuses entirely on the game’s atmosphere, visuals, sound design, and raw moment‑to‑moment gameplay — perfect for viewers who want a clean, uninterrupted experience.

Explore eerie environments, uncover hidden paths, and face the dangers lurking within Delverium’s mysterious world. Captured on PC for maximum clarity and smooth performance.

Nested Lands PC Gameplay – Early Access Survival RPG First Look ⚔️🛖⛏️ @nestedlands #IndieGame #GameDev

Welcome to Nested Lands, a gritty new Early Access survival RPG where every step feels dangerous and every resource matters. In this first‑look PC gameplay video, I explore the opening moments, gather supplies, craft essentials, and get a feel for the world’s harsh but intriguing atmosphere.

If you’re curious about how Nested Lands plays in its current Early Access state — from combat and crafting to exploration and progression — this video gives you a clear, honest look at the experience so far.

MARVEL COSMIC INVASION XBOX SERIES X Review 8/10 "A vibrant, retro-inspired beat 'em up that channels old-school arcade energy" 💥 @MARVELCosmicInv @Dotemu

Marvel Cosmic Invasion is here: it hits Xbox Series X as a vibrant, retro-inspired beat 'em up that channels old-school arcade energy - think the classic 1992 X-Men arcade game - with the combos, special moves and overall depth we've come to expect from Dotemu, the publisher behind the excellent Streets of Rage 4.

The game follows the Marvel Annihilation storyline, pitting a huge roster of 15 playable characters against the evil Annihilus and the deadly Annihilation Wave. You punch, claw, fly and swing through locations ranging from New York City, through the Avengers Helicarrier, to the depths of the Negative Zone. The excellent pixel art style and fast-paced brawling capture an energetic comic-book feel that is very much in keeping with other Dotemu releases.

The Last Ninja Collection – Nintendo Switch Review | Retro Reborn or Bare Bones? 🥷 #RetroGaming

In today’s Rich's Rapid Review, I take a look at The Last Ninja Collection on Nintendo Switch — a bundle that brings three iconic System 3 classics back for a new audience. It’s genuinely great to play these games again, and the atmosphere, music, and isometric adventuring still hold up beautifully.

Dark Quest: Remastered Xbox Series X Review 6/10 *The boardiest of digital board games* ☠️⚔️ @brainseal #IndieGame #GameDev

I first got on board with the Dark Quest series back in 2023 with the third entry, which was a fantastic isometric title that relied on a blend of chance and memorisation as you delved ever further into its rewarding depths, as a man with a loud voice shouted numbers at you – good! 

More recently, I covered Dark Quest 4, which further evolved the formula with more classes and personalisation options – and so when I had the opportunity to go back to the start of the series and cover this remaster of the original Dark Quest – originally released back in 2015 for PC– I leapt at the chance, as Brain Seal have fast become a personal fave developer of mine – helped along by their recent explosive physics-based title Blow It Up. Although this remaster does feel a bit of a step backwards as opposed to a celebration and re-imagining of an earlier title. In the Brain Seal catalogue.

Esoteric Ebb Gameplay Showcase – Character Creator + First Hour (PC) 🎲☠️ @chrisbodegard #IndieGame #GameDev

I drop into the strange and stylish world of Esoteric Ebb as I dive into the PC version, explore the character creator, and play through some of Act 1. This first look showcases the game’s surreal atmosphere, unique art direction, and the intriguing choices that shape your journey.

In this gameplay video, I build a fresh character from scratch before heading into the opening act to see what mysteries, mechanics, and surprises Esoteric Ebb has in store. If you’re curious about the game’s tone, pacing, or early gameplay loop, this is a great place to start.

Britt’s Brief Bulletin - April Review Round Up! 🎮

ICARUS: Console Edition
Available on PlayStation 5

A game that was initially released on Windows at the tail end of 2021 and has now made its way to console, ICARUS comes from the mind of DayZ creator, Dean Hall. Developed by RocketWerkz, ICARUS is again in the survival genre, this time with a slightly futuristic bent but with the same sense of a world of beasts and nature itself being against you.

Visually impressive, and a game that does not hold your hand, ICARUS is all about incremental progress and practicality, playable online with multiplayer, this is a game that has you weathering out storms, building structures to protect you from wildlife as well as the planet itself...structures that can go up like a lit match if you are too cavalier with your campfire placement!

Certainly a game that invites you to dive in, explore...and survive in a harsh unrelenting world, this would be a blast with the up to eight players that can be in each drop, gathering and managing resources whilst fighting off curious animals as well as preparing a transient home away from the natural elements, but I did find a slight disconnect between these hostile planets, futuristic setting...and the fact that -initially at least – the fauna that you deal with are bizarrely very Earth-centric. 

It would have been cool to be up against things other than boars, wolves, and bears, as it can make the whole setup feel a little superficial, not taking full advantage of the fact that this could be a truly alien world, full of surprises, instead of being just another survival adventure, with the tutorial effectively snapped off. 

Finally, the in-game text is minute with seemingly no way of enlarging it, so if you have trouble with your eyesight, be prepared to get close up and personal with your TV.

The Rogue Prince of Persia PS5 Gameplay – Physical Edition First Look! ⚔️🎮

Rich steps into the sands once more with The Rogue Prince of Persia –Physical Edition on PS5!

Watch as the legendary Prince returns in this fast‑paced, roguelite adventure packed with fluid combat, wall‑running acrobatics, and stunning hand‑drawn visuals. This gameplay showcase dives into the console edition — exploring early levels, upgrades, and the new physical release that fans have been waiting for.

SNK and PLAION Bring Back a Legend: NEOGEO AES+ Set for Christmas 2026 Launch 🕹️

Retro gaming takes a monumental step forward this winter as SNK and PLAION REPLAI announce the return of one of the most coveted consoles ever made: the NEOGEO AES+, a modern reissue of the iconic 24‑bit home arcade system. Pre‑orders open today ahead of the console’s global launch on 12 November 2026.

Positioned as a “zero‑compromise” revival, the NEOGEO AES+ is not a mini‑console, not an emulation box, and not a reinterpretation. Instead, it is a faithful, hardware‑accurate recreation of the original AES — complete with full compatibility for vintage NEOGEO cartridges. For collectors and arcade purists, this marks the first time in decades that the original experience can be enjoyed on modern displays without adapters, converters, or aftermarket modifications.

RIG R5 SPEAR PRO‑Series Gaming Headsets Launch in North America 🎧

NACON has announced the North American launch of its latest R5 SPEAR PRO‑Series gaming headsets. 

The new lineup — including the RIG R5 PRO HX, RIG R5 PRO HC, and a new white edition of the RIG R5 PRO HS — is available starting today at Best Buy, Amazon, and Shop NACON. G Style Magazine

Dragonkin The Banished PS5 Review 7/10 "A Solid, If Generic ARPG That Runs Fantastically" 🐲⚔️ @Eko_Software @DragonkinGame #IndieGame #GameDev

A new ARPG from EKO Software, Dragonkin The Banished has a lot going for it in terms of the smooth visuals, intriguing world, city-developing aspect, and dragon-centric story, but fails to stand out from a crowded genre in a meaningful way, and results in a game that makes you wish it had something else up its sleeve – or a little more character – to really leave a mark.

Choosing from a pool of heroes, you (and up to one other player locally, or up to three more if playing online) are challenged with defeating a world being overcome with the corruption of banished dragons. Beginning in the one remaining city as yet untouched by corruption, you start your quest. 

A game full of various options to customise your experience in terms of accessibility and camera zoom – you can choose whether to be closer to the action, or see more of the landscape – it’s here you’ll get to grips with the games mechanics and systems. 

Dragonkin The Banished features a hexagonal upgrade system in which you can put tiles together to boost your powers, not to mention those of your wyrmling; a small dragon that accompanies you on your quest and primarily features elemental powers in a bid to aid your combat finesse, these can eventually be armoured and powered up alongside you. The city also gains its own experience points as you explore in your journey and you’ll find new areas such as stores and features cropping up with each level. 

Pilgrims 'Curious Adventures' Board Game Review By Britt 🎲♟️

I’ve been a big fan of Amanita Design for a few years now, first being introduced to them through their incredible Machinarium (I previously covered the glorious soundtrack to this), Creaks (and the art of the game), and more recently, Phonopolis and Happy Game.

Titles from Amanita Design have incredibly distinct and unique visuals and music, with Radim Jurda being a huge part of this, with his handcrafted artwork and talents. The first board game from them that I’ve covered, Pilgrims casts you as a wanderer that meets new characters whilst building up their tale and hopefully – having enough victory points to best the other players!

ZX Dreams Vol. 2 Review By Britt - Author – Graeme Mason Publisher – Fusion Retro Books 📖 #RetroGaming

I covered ZX Nightmares, the original book in this series back in 2023, and was so taken by it that I followed it up with an interview with the author, Graeme Mason. It remains one of my favourite books on gaming (being one of the few to genuinely make me laugh out loud whilst also being incredibly insightful) and is sadly out of stock on the Fusion Retro Books at present, because so many incredibly wise folks snapped it up upon initial release! 

I remember seeing some noise on the internet that there would be a follow-up (ZX Dreams) which got me excited, and then for reasons I still can’t fathom – it completely passed me by, I can only assume that I was buried deep in some preposterous 90-hour JRPG review for GF and time had all but ceased to hold meaning. Whatever the reason, I recently noticed that a second volume of ZX Dreams had been released, and jumped at the chance to cover it here at GF.

The cover (and included dust jacket) feature a handsome gentleman in a white t-shirt lying in bed, lost in the realms of sleep as various instantly recognisable 8-bit characters dance around his head. From Trap Door characters through to Dizzy via the racer from Super Hang-On – it hints at the titles to be covered inside these hallowed pages. Also included is a white-ribbon page-marker to keep your page – and you will need this, because, like all the best books about gaming – you’ll probably find yourself pausing to jump online and watch some footage of / spend a bit of time playing the game currently being discussed in ZX Dreams, as Mason’s words bring the experience to life, and often add context and intrigue to each title.

🎧 GXTrust unveils PS5‑licensed Forta Wireless headset with 55‑hour battery life 🎧

GXTrust has launched the Forta Wireless Gaming Headset, a PS5‑focused wireless model priced at ££69.99 RRP.

GXTrust, Trust’s gaming brand, announces the Forta Wireless Gaming Headset, featuring low-latency wireless audio, immersive 3D sound, and up to 55 hours of battery life – all at an accessible £69.99 RRP. 

 

Building on the success of the original Forta, the new wireless version removes cables, allowing untethered gameplay without sacrificing performance.

 

Designed specifically for PlayStation fans, the Forta Wireless connects via a 2.4GHz USB receiver, providing ultra-low latency and lossless audio. Fitted with 50mm drivers and PS5 3D Audio support, the headset ensures sound remains synchronised with on-screen action—whether reacting to fast-paced multiplayer moments or exploring cinematic worlds.

 

With up to 55 hours of battery life, equivalent to two days, the Forta Wireless is built for long gaming sessions, allowing players to enjoy multiple plays without constantly worrying about power. When the battery is low, players can continue gaming and chatting with teammates using the included 1m USB-C to USB-C charging cable via USB-C.

 

The headset developed by GXTrust is also designed to match every gamer’s setup, with the Forta Wireless available in Midnight Black, White, and an Amazon-exclusive Black & White. Each colourway complements the PS5 console's design, creating a seamless addition to any gaming setup. 

 

Alongside improving the gaming experience for both novice and seasoned gamers, comfort remains a key focus with the Forta Wireless. The headpiece features an adjustable headband for a personalised fit, swivelling ear cups for flexibility, and soft, over-ear cushions designed for long gaming sessions. 

KENA Bridge Of Spirits Arrives on Switch 2 – Is It Worth the Wait? 💎🏹 @emberlab #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich leaps into the magical world of KENA: Bridge of Spirits — now running beautifully on Nintendo Switch 2!

Watch as Rich explores lush environments, battles corrupted spirits, and harnesses the power of the Rot in this stunning action‑adventure experience.

🔗 https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/Games/Nintendo-Switch-2-games/Kena-Bridge-of-Spirits-3054992.html#overview

Bethesda Pinball Brings Three Legendary Universes to Life in One Explosive Collection 📌⚽

Bethesda’s most iconic worlds have collided with the fast‑paced chaos of pinball, and the result is a glorious, flipper‑flicking celebration of Fallout, DOOM, and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Bethesda Pinball is now available across PC, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4/5, Nintendo Switch, and Switch 2—complete with a purchase link ready for vault dwellers, slayers, and Dragonborn alike.

Whether you’re chasing high scores, mastering ramps, or simply soaking in the nostalgia of these beloved franchises, this three‑table pack delivers a surprising amount of depth, personality, and replayability.

Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon DLC – Sanctuary of Sarras ⚔️🧙‍♂️ @TaintedGrail_AR #IndieGame #GameDev

I covered Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon last year, and it was one of my GOTY titles for 2025. An absolute gem of a game that takes the ball from Bethesda, and runs with it it into a deep, dark, Arthurian fantasy. Good.

Developers Questline have continued to support this cracking game, and I’m pleased that it’s been such a success that they have the time to polish and craft the experience even further, recently announcing a small FPS boost on console, this DLC and a roadmap for an upcoming free DLC at the end of March 2026, good times for all!

A drowned secret of Avalon
For six centuries, the fate of Sarras and its rebel crew has been shrouded in myth. Now, a hidden passage reveals a path into the past. In a completely new storyline, follow the trail of Nimue and the deserters who challenged King Arthur. Piece together the truth behind their disappearance and Merlin’s horrible retribution.

Sanctuary beneath the waves
The Sanctuary of Sarras invites players into a brand-new realm shaped by the deep sea. Ancient structures rise from the ever-shifting currents, and forgotten paths pulse with the life of a submerged world. But try not to get charmed, as when you begin to explore the unknown, the true nature of Sarras starts to surface.

Ancient treasures to claim
The Sanctuary brims with around 15 hours of challenges and rewards that follow. Meet new characters, hear their stories, and decide whether to help them. Venture into over 20 meticulously crafted dungeons and interiors. Confront unique epic bosses and other new adversaries. Discover over 100 new pieces of equipment, from armour sets and weapons to rings, amulets, relics, spells, and more; each offering a new way to improve your character.

Progression altered
A new progression system transforms the usual journey through Avalon. The underwater enemies scale to your level, keeping every encounter tense. At the same time, sacred shrines you activate weaken foes and grant points to invest in three completely new, distinct skill trees. At any moment, choose which tree is active, reshaping your build on the fly to match your current needs.

Over The Top WW1 – "Rich Takes Part In 200 Player Trench Warfare on the PC!" 💥🪖 @fse_games #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich dons his boots, grabs his bayonet and steps into the mud, chaos, and brutality of World War I trench warfare in Over the Top: World War I. 

This PC gameplay showcases intense frontline combat, desperate pushes across No Man’s Land, and the gritty atmosphere of early‑20th‑century battlefields.

Whether you're here for the authentic WW1 setting, the large‑scale multiplayer battles, or just to see how the game performs on PC, this video gives you a full look at the action.

The Prisoning – Fletcher’s Quest PC Gameplay | First Look & Impressions 👾 @EldenPixels #IndieGame #GameDev

Rich takes a step into the strange, atmospheric world of The Prisoning: Fletcher’s Quest, a retro‑inspired adventure packed with mystery, puzzles, and eerie encounters. In this PC gameplay video, we dive into the opening moments of Fletcher’s journey as he attempts to uncover the truth behind his imprisonment and the bizarre forces shaping his fate.

Reboxy Review By Britt "every video game has a soul. And every soul deserves a body." 💾 #Retrogaming

One of the things we are very keen on here at GF is the preservation of older video games, and Reboxy is very much in the same vein. Creating high quality products that allow gamers, fans, and collectors to celebrate key games from their gaming histories in physical form.

I first became aware of Reboxy a few weeks ago when I received an email from Ziggurat Interactive – another company that celebrates the legacy of older games- as they were promoting their collaboration with a PC big box release of Terminal Velocity. This really intrigued me, as Ziggurat have brought some really intriguing releases back from the brink (including a personal fave of mine – Boiling Point), and I was soon making my way through the Reboxy website which led to GF being in the position of being able to cover two Reboxy editions – Litil Divil (1993), and Realms of the Haunting (1996).

The presentation is absolutely top notch, these specific titles are officially licensed from Funbox Media, another company that we’ve previously covered here at GF and I especially love the attention to detail, such as the logos on each box regarding Gremlin Graphics / Interactive reflecting the logos used at the time of original release, and the colouring of Reboxy’s logo on each release matching the main font / colour of the game in question, for example – Litil Divil’s box font is red, whilst Realms of the Haunting is gold, and the Reboxy logo on the side is colour-matched accordingly. It’s a small touch but shows the level of detail that goes into these Reboxy editions. Also of note is that all editions are DRM free!

FastSnail 8 in 1 JoyCon Charging Dock for Nintendo Switch 1&2 - Review By Britt🕹️ "GF RECOMMENDED"

I believe that this this is the first time I’ve covered a product from FastSnail, and it’s a solid one to start off with! This is very much a ‘does what it says on the tin’ product, acting as a snazzy charging dock for your Joy-Cons, whether that be the Original Switch, or the Switch 2. You can even mix and match, as I do – for reasons described later in this article -it’s Ring Fit Adventure-related.

Currently priced at around the £15 mark, The FastSnail 8 in 1 Charging Dock is a sleek and practical way to keep your Joy-Cons charged and at the ready. Especially if you own both Switches and need to flit between them, as of course - due to the new magnetic lock design - you cannot physically attach original Switch Joy-Cons to the Switch 2, although they are pair-able with the system.

Top Racer Collection Nintendo Switch Review 7/10 "Top Gear (no, not that one) is back!" 🏎️ @qubytegames #RetroGaming

Known outside of Japan as Top Gear upon its initial release, the Top Racer Collection collects 4 titles from the series (Top Racer, Top Racer 2, Top Racer 3000, and Top Racer Crossroads – which is a ROM mod of the first game and so not wholly original) into a single pack, and as with other QUByte titles, there are various extras and bonus information about the series included, always a boon!

These are all titles from the early-to-mid ‘90s and as such are 16-bit emulations that keep the original frame rates etc. so it’s best not to expect silky smooth 60fps here! These are as close to the original releases as possible in terms of vibe and gameplay, so your mileage will certainly vary dependent on how much nostalgia and enjoyment you get out of typical 16-bit racers. That said, one thing that is solid gold about these games are the soundtracks, which are pure fun and took me right back to the early days of my gaming, bloody lovely stuff.

Brutal Deluxe is back: Rebellion’s Speedball reboot slams onto PC, Xbox, and PS5 Feature By Nate Drake 🪩 @Rebellion #GameDev #IndieGame

If you grew up in the late 80s/early 90s there was one place to go if you wanted you and your friends to scream at each other over a metal ball in a bare steel cyberpunk arena: Speedball (1988) and its successor Speedball II:Brutal Deluxe were future sports games where no-holds-barred violence mattered just as much as scoring goals.

Rebellion’s latest reboot of the franchise leans fully into this brutality and comes out the other side with a 3D epic. Speedball’s Lead Designer Jim Stimpson and Art Director Sam Beattie were good enough to agree to speak to me about their dystopian creation.

This was an interview I'd been itching to do since Rebellion's acquisition of the Bitmap Brothers catalogue in 2019, which includes likes of Xenon, The Chaos, Engine as well as the Speedball series, though there was never much doubt about which the company would focus on first:

“It was more a group decision," Sam explained. "What games people here loved, and what we thought the market would be excited by. Speedball just naturally presented itself as the frontrunner, because tons of people in the studio were super excited about the idea of bringing it back.”

Britt's iOS Odyssey - Adventure To Fate: Dungeons iOS Review 9/10 "A dungeon that begs to be delved into" 🧙‍♂️ @AdventureToFate #IndieGame #GameDev

This is effectively part 2 of my iOS odyssey into finding the best single player RPGs on mobile. In the previous instalment I covered both Dawncaster, and Caves of Lore – both very different games with the linking factor that they were both awesome, a theme that I’m glad to say very much continues on here, with Adventure To Fate: Dungeons.

I want to say upfront that developer Touchmint is a very active dev, with this being a one-cost game, meaning that you pay just once and get full access not only to the entire game, but also any future packs that may be added. Very cool stuff, and this openness is bolstered through the accessibility features that Touchmint has added to ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy the game, regardless of their abilities.