> As we can see, there is a small performance hit with NVIDIA App. However, it’s nowhere close to what has been reported. On our PC system, it’s around 4-6%. And that’s mostly in CPU-bound areas. For instance, in Indiana Jones which is a GPU-bound game with Path Tracing, there isn’t any performance hit at all. Ridiculous that this was even a discussion.

Not sure how particulary I think about it. I kinda agree though because, honestly, I genuinely **like** prodding at RL-issues in my video games, but if the best the writers can do is some MCU-level shit that I would expect in Forspoken or Fortnite, then I really wish they'd not. It just feels like making fun of transgender people with how terrible the scene's dialogue is (there's a video in the article). Plus, as the update says, they couldn't even be arsed to search through the previous games for whether this was already talked about. Sigh. Still, the game is far better than I expected it to be, so this isn't just a rant, but I wish the dialogue in particular had decent writing behind it, it breaks immersion near-constantly even if the general scene and story were done well.

Slowly getting really excited for this. Between the demo and now the scenes showing here, I'm starting to really dig the new visuals, and the voice work in the playable part was **fantastic**. More Max! 🏳️‍🌈

Game Information -------------------- **Game Title**: Shadows of Doubt **Platforms**: - PC (Apr 24, 2023) **Trailers**: - [Shadows of Doubt Early Access Launch Trailer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymMy-n3Bak0) - [Shadows of Doubt: March 2022 Gameplay Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgY_7_S84pA) **Developer**: ColePowered Games **Publisher**: Fireshine Games **Review Aggregator**: **[OpenCritic - 71 average - 67% recommended - 10 reviews](https://opencritic.com/game/14865/shadows-of-doubt)** Critic Reviews ------------- **[CGMagazine](https://opencritic.com/outlet/82/cgmagazine)** - [Justin Wood](https://opencritic.com/critic/8041/justin-wood) - [4 / 10](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/game/shadows-of-doubt-console-review/) >Shadows of Doubt as an idea is incredible; even the PC version of the game is fantastic; the console version, however, is riddled with issues that make it almost unplayable in its current state. ------------- **[Cerealkillerz](https://opencritic.com/outlet/465/cerealkillerz)** - [Julian Bieder](https://opencritic.com/critic/3391/julian-bieder) - *German* - [8.4 / 10](https://cerealkillerz.org/review-shadows-of-doubt-ein-frische-wind-den-das-detektivspiel-genre-schon-lange-noetig-hatte/) >Playing detective has never felt so organic! The procedurally generated map, which can be explored completely freely, offers a wide variety of ways to track down a perpetrator - or to end up in a dead end. Gameplay systems centred around stealth, profiling and physical confrontations and status effects, a social credit system or upgrading implants create a depth of gameplay that is unheard of in this genre. >However, one drawback is the repetitive process of filling in the form at the end of the case. Shadows of Doubt is unfortunately still full of bugs and glitches in its current state, but this should be tolerated in case of the first fully-fledged sandbox detective game. ------------- **[GamesRadar+](https://opencritic.com/outlet/91/gamesradar-)** - [Joel Franey](https://opencritic.com/critic/3423/joel-franey) - [3.5 / 5 ](https://www.gamesradar.com/games/simulation/shadows-of-doubt-review/) >What emerges is a genuinely impressive engine for generating narratives somewhere between Raymond Chandler and Philip K. Dick, but riddled with errors and overlooked features. ------------- **[God is a Geek](https://opencritic.com/outlet/111/god-is-a-geek)** - [Chris White](https://opencritic.com/critic/582/chris-white) - [8 / 10](https://www.godisageek.com/reviews/shadows-of-doubt-early-access-review/) >Shadows of Doubt is an incredibly smart and intricate detective thriller, giving you tons of freedom that can be both a blessing and a curse. ------------- **[God is a Geek](https://opencritic.com/outlet/111/god-is-a-geek)** - [Chris White](https://opencritic.com/critic/582/chris-white) - [8 / 10](https://www.godisageek.com/reviews/shadows-of-doubt-review/) >Shadows of Doubt may have a few problems that hold it back, but it's easily one of the most ambitious and exciting games of the year so far. ------------- **[PC Gamer](https://opencritic.com/outlet/162/pc-gamer)** - [Joshua Wolens](https://opencritic.com/critic/9577/joshua-wolens) - [83 / 100](https://www.pcgamer.com/games/sim/shadows-of-doubt-review/) >One part detective sim and one part chaos generator, Shadows of Doubt lives up to its influences as an immersive sim that actually makes good on its ambitions. ------------- **[Pro Game Guides](https://opencritic.com/outlet/892/pro-game-guides)** - [Connell Watson](https://opencritic.com/critic/10641/connell-watson) - [4.5 / 5 ](https://progameguides.com/shadows-of-doubt/shadows-of-doubt-review-indie-at-its-finest/) >An extremely addictive and satisfying core gameplay loop combined with exceptional gameplay, immersion mechanics, an outstanding setting, and a strong, fitting visual style make this an indie title for the history books. There is nothing like this out there, and I'd be shocked if there's anything like this again. ------------- **[Rock, Paper, Shotgun](https://opencritic.com/outlet/270/rock-paper-shotgun)** - [Brendan Caldwell](https://opencritic.com/critic/1592/brendan-caldwell) - [Unscored](https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/shadows-of-doubt-review) >Being a hapless detective in this superior cyber-noir will see you battle with your own brain as well as the game's bugs. Just try not to break into the wrong apartment. ------------- **[Use a Potion](https://opencritic.com/outlet/486/use-a-potion)** - [9 / 10](https://www.useapotion.com/2024/09/shadows-of-doubt-pc-review/) >Shadows of Doubt is simply brilliant, with its sleuthing gameplay loop proving clever, creative, and unpredictable in design to ensure that each case you solve will keep you fully immersed in its fascinating world. I was constantly amazed at how deep each case would go, and with cities on offer that are packed with citizens to interrogate and locales to explore, it’s hard not to feel blown away by the scale of it all. I haven’t played anything quite like it before, and whilst it does have some imperfections and some cases can leave you flummoxed for a little longer than I’d have liked, Shadows of Doubt offers the best representation of ‘solving a murder’ that I’ve EVER seen in gaming. ------------- **[XboxEra](https://opencritic.com/outlet/758/xboxera)** - [Jesse Norris](https://opencritic.com/critic/7583/jesse-norris) - [6 / 10](https://xboxera.com/2024/09/23/shadows-of-doubt-review/) >Shadows of Doubt should be great.  A lack of variety leads to repetition so quickly that I can’t recommend this 1.0 and console release.  If the devs continue supporting the game with new content, especially something more directed like the tutorial mission, then it could potentially become an indie classic.  For now, though the game is a mere shadow of its potential. -------------

This is going to be one of those "Ubisoft investigates Ubisoft and found that Ubisoft did nothing wrong at Ubisoft"-situations, isn't it?

I personally always dislike it, too. There are two reasons you might want to do this as a dev, of course. One of them I feel kinda half-asses your design, if you don't want to get a threat or failure during gameplay to get into the way of your storypacing, **just make a visual novel**. Or at least something like SOMA, Amnesia or Still Wakes The Deep. Or alternatively, if you want to make a game explicitly made for children that's okay, but then also do the marketing a bit more kid-centric IMO. I dunno, maybe this one is actually genuinely meant for children, but some of the humor and writing doesn't feel that way if I'm honest. Princess Peach does this more thoroughly: It is the same "handholding 100% of the time", but it's also **very** obviously meant to be played primarily by relatively small children!

Text copied and pasted from the linked Steam update (there's also a video showcasing things): **Brand New Gameplay Presets** You wanted a challenge, more variety, and more control over... everything! So we've given it to you. Starting today you can modify your trips in the Zone with 7 new presets: Pacific Drive The standard Pacific Drive experience - a Pacific Drive through the Olympic Peninsula. Scenic Tour Crafting requirements, resource consumption, driving difficulty, hazards, dangers, storms, and damage are all lowered or disabled. The player cannot die. A scenic route through the story of Pacific Drive. Joyride The same gameplay and tension as Pacific Drive, but gathering, crafting, and research requirements are all lowered. Damage and failure penalties are minimal. A Sunday Drive Focus on the Olympic Peninsula with minimal interruptions Nuclear Journey Every map will be filled with low dose radiation that is harmful to the player. Storms are faster and stronger, hazards and damage are more plentiful. An unpredictable, irradiated journey that only the car can protect you from. Mechanic's Road Trip Terrain and the status of the car impact driving more. Items to repair the car are more costly to craft, and can't be crafted on a run. A challenging drive and susceptible car will provide a test of your forethought, problem solving, and automobile experience. Olympic Gauntlet All aspects of the game are much harder - An extreme gauntlet to challenge the most dedicated Breachers. Iron Wagon All aspects of the game are much harder, and failing a run will delete your save file. An extreme gauntlet to challenge the most dedicated Breachers, with no room for failure. It doesn't end there though, you can create your own presets with over 50 new settings in addition to the base game's existing options. Tune and tweak your trips to be as punishing or as pain-free as you'd like, all from the same menu. **New Paintable Parts and Collectible Cosmetics** Unleash your inner artist and further customize your heroic wagon! Bumpers and wheels are now fully paintable. It's fully possible for you to create the best and brightest clown car station wagon imaginable, or black out your rig for a more Mad Max style adventure. Along with the new paintable surfaces, we've add two new collectible cosmetics to find out on a trip - an antenna topper and mirror hanger that fit in pretty well with the surreal, fantastical elements of the Zone. **Play Custom Music from Local Storage (PC ONLY)** Now that you've got a custom car... how about some custom tunes? One of the most requested features from the community was the ability to use your own playlists and music in game - and we're happy to say that this feature is also included in todays update. For PC players, you can now load your local music into a folder via local storage and Pacific Drive will pull it into the game. You'll be able to kick back and listen to it in the garage via the Jukebox or out on the road through your old station wagon speakers. Songs are loaded from `%localappdata%/PenDriverPro/Custom/Radio/` folder, and this feature supports .wav, .mp3, and .ogg files, as well as simple .m3u/.m3u8 files. Playlist files may point to an external internet radio stream as well (if the stream type is supported). Enabled in the Audio settings category, can choose to have no custom music (Default), a mixed playlist of default music and your custom set, or exclusively your own music. Reminder: If you are streaming the game or otherwise creating content, you could be at risk of DMCA strikes or content restrictions on platforms like Twitch and YouTube if you are playing copywritten music through Pacific Drive’s in game radio. Use this feature responsibly, and at your own risk. **The Anomalous Cosmetic Pack** Last but certainly not least... we have a new cosmetic DLC pack available! This Anomalous set features parts and decals that pay tribute to your favorite weirdness from out in the Zone. Included in this cosmetic DLC: Mailbox Bunny (Bobblehead) Sawblade (Hood Ornament) Tourist (Shifter) Anchor (Steering Wheel) Vacation (Sticker Pack) Anomaly (Decal Kit) Our paid cosmetic DLC packs allow Ironwood to continue to support the game with content updates just like this one! Stay tuned towards the end of the year for upcoming details about our Winter update and more - Pacific Drive just keeps getting bigger and better and we're very thankful that you're all along for the ride.

This emoji summarizes it perfectly: 🤢

This is looking pretty good. I'm especially excited about them taking key bindings seriously, with even class-specific binds. Coming fresh off of Avatar Frontiers of Pandora - which I loved - where Ubisoft could not even be arsed to make key rebinding **usable** by having several hardcoded functions on E and F, absolutely crucial buttons that both block using ESDF to move (as is proper, as per Tribes) or using a lefty keybinding setup near the numpad for us 96% users. Don't get me wrong, this is still the successor to the severly undercooked if well-designed DA2 and then the big but also super tepid and boring DAI. Not truly excited about the game as a whole, and definitely not going to get this before a few patches have passed fixing the worst bugs. But for as laughable as the first trailer was, it's now looking... quite good?

> The closed alpha consists of two thrilling modes - Hotzone and Team Deathmatch - across three different maps (Ozone, Zenith and Frontier) and grants players an early look at each of its three factions. There is no time or match limit during the alpha, and it is free to play. > Iterating on the initial game’s success, 1047 has rebuilt Splitgate 2 from scratch. Suit up and portal into the action as an elite Ace, choosing between three factions - each with their own distinct abilities tailored to a variety of playstyles. Mix and match to create the ultimate team and play together to master Splitgate 2’s fast-paced combat unlocking new capabilities along the way.

From the article: > On the whole, Bloober's Silent Hill 2 sometimes seems more... visually led than it should. There's an innocent airiness and spaciousness to it, for all the shadows and grime, with puddles that grandly reflect the clouds and sumptuously imagined interiors that speak to an antiquated fixation with extravagant lighting effects and photorealistic fine-detailing for its own sake.

The big one here is IMO the change in respawn systems, from group respawn (the thing they custom-made for Season 7) to a more standard wave respawn system: > So those things were great, but the biggest problem with Group Respawn was how dying first often led to getting “buried” by a long sequence of teammates dying in a row, making your respawn time a lot longer. This meant their respawn times were generally shorter, but it also meant yours was longer. Wave Respawn fixes that by ensuring your respawn time will always be shorter than the default if another hero was already dead. Though the statistic with group respawn is truly interesting, about how it made a much bigger difference in particular in the highest ranks. Which is curious, as you'd also assume that in those ranks, people would have known to stay back and wait for their respawning teammates, which in a way is all group respawn ever did, forcing that.

Excited as all hell, this looks really really beautiful in remastered. 😮

If someone finds the dark mode or knows where I left my pair of sunglasses, let me know. 😑

Game Information -------------------- **Game Title**: Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure **Platforms**: - Nintendo Switch (Jul 25, 2024) **Trailer**: **Developer**: Furniture & Mattress **Review Aggregator**: **[OpenCritic - 78 average - 75% recommended - 22 reviews](https://opencritic.com/game/17019/arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure)** Critic Reviews ------------- **[AnaitGames](https://opencritic.com/outlet/691/anaitgames)** - [Víctor Manuel Martínez García](https://opencritic.com/critic/6087/v-ctor-manuel-mart-nez-garc-a) - *Spanish* - [9 / 10](https://www.anaitgames.com/analisis/analisis-de-arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure) >Furniture & Mattress' debut game moves all its threads with surgical precision to get puzzles and adventures to share a triumphant close-up. ------------- **[CGMagazine](https://opencritic.com/outlet/82/cgmagazine)** - [Jordan Biordi](https://opencritic.com/critic/378/jordan-biordi) - [8.5 / 10](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/game/arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure/) >Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure made sliding-block puzzles fun and interesting. That in and of itself is the highest praise I could give it. ------------- **[Checkpoint Gaming](https://opencritic.com/outlet/563/checkpoint-gaming)** - [8 / 10](https://checkpointgaming.net/reviews/2024/07/arranger-review-a-beautifully-pieced-together-game/) >Players who enjoy casual puzzle titles are sure to find something to love in Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure. With its beautifully hand-drawn world and original puzzle mechanics, Arranger offers a compelling story world with engaging puzzles that are great for puzzle fans, both young and old. The world's grid system creates a novel way to interact with engaging puzzles while also expanding on the story world. If you're looking for a hardcore puzzle challenge, Arranger might not be for you, however, if you're looking for a casual experience with colourful graphics to boot, Arranger will be a great fit for your library. ------------- **[Eurogamer](https://opencritic.com/outlet/114/eurogamer)** - [Christian Donlan](https://opencritic.com/critic/753/christian-donlan) - [4 / 5](https://www.eurogamer.net/arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure-review) >This is a lovely mixture of puzzling and exploration, with a delirious wraparound twist. ------------- **[Final Weapon](https://opencritic.com/outlet/727/final-weapon)** - [Saras Rajpal](https://opencritic.com/critic/9891/saras-rajpal) - [3.5 / 5 ](https://finalweapon.net/2024/07/22/arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure-review-an-addictive-delight/) >Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure is an addicting and fun title with a beautiful art style and a near flawless performance, regardless if you're playing on docked mode or handheld mode. Despite the short runtime, a lack of any content for completionists, and puzzles that often feel obtuse, Arranger is bound to at least put a smile on your face, even if you're just a casual fan of the puzzle genre. ------------- **[GameBlast](https://opencritic.com/outlet/797/gameblast)** - [Alexandre Galvão](https://opencritic.com/critic/7692/alexandre-galv-o) - *Portuguese* - [7 / 10](https://www.gameblast.com.br/2024/07/analise-review-arranged-a-role-puzzling-adventure.html) >Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure stands out for its originality and charm, offering a magical and compelling experience. The soundtrack, charming art direction and plot help create an immersive, captivating atmosphere. However, the gameplay, while innovative, presents challenges that may hinder the player experience due to execution issues and the lack of adequate support during critical moments. Jemma's journey is full of lessons about friendship, trust and courage, making it a pleasant adventure to play through despite the obstacles that demand constant attention to this world's logic. ------------- **[GameXplain](https://opencritic.com/outlet/315/gamexplain)** - [Thomas Arnold](https://opencritic.com/critic/1718/thomas-arnold) - [8 / 10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BGuyIpUfdI) >Video Review - Quote not available ------------- **[God is a Geek](https://opencritic.com/outlet/111/god-is-a-geek)** - [Lyle Carr](https://opencritic.com/critic/6583/lyle-carr) - [9 / 10](https://www.godisageek.com/reviews/arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure-review/) >Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure is an engaging puzzle game full of heart, charm and a whole lot of variety. ------------- **[Guardian](https://opencritic.com/outlet/27/guardian)** - [Keza MacDonald](https://opencritic.com/critic/230/keza-macdonald) - [4 / 5 ](https://amp.theguardian.com/games/article/2024/jul/25/arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure-review) >It definitely exhausted my brain from time to time – now and then I was just shifting stuff around in circles because I couldn’t figure out how to make three blocks land on three separate switches at the same time, as the conveyor belt logic of the puzzles temporarily eluded me. But more often I felt locked in, darting around the levels and arranging them almost on instinct, feeling as if I was playing Tetris. Having reached the end of Jenna’s adventure, I am definitely done with block puzzles for a while – but rarely do you play a game that explores one good idea as thoroughly as this. ------------- **[Kotaku](https://opencritic.com/outlet/276/kotaku)** - [Kenneth Shepard](https://opencritic.com/critic/491/kenneth-shepard) - [Unscored](https://kotaku.com/arranger-role-puzzling-adventure-review-puzzle-game-1851600269) >Arranger is a brisk adventure, but it’s filled with so many clever, perfectly executed ideas that by the time it was over, I was just left wanting more. Jemma’s story might be over by the end, but I’d love to see Furniture & Mattress add new puzzles in future updates because the team has such an immaculate, clever eye for what makes puzzle games so satisfying. Now I’m just waiting for my memory of the game to fade so I can go back and try to solve those puzzles with fresh eyes once more. ------------- **[LadiesGamers.com](https://opencritic.com/outlet/734/ladiesgamers-com)** - [Paula Moore](https://opencritic.com/critic/6787/paula-moore) - [Loved](https://ladiesgamers.com/arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure-reivew/) >Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure is a game focused on the core experience of exploration and puzzle-solving. It brings a refreshing twist to the RPG genre. Its innovative grid system, storytelling, and visuals make it a standout title for me on the Nintendo Switch. > >The game’s unique approach to movement, exploration, and combat, combined with its story, ensures that it will leave a lasting impression on players. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the genre, Arranger is an adventure worth embarking on. ------------- **[Metro GameCentral](https://opencritic.com/outlet/75/metro-gamecentral)** - GameCentral - [8 / 10](https://metro.co.uk/2024/07/25/arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure-review-a-puzzle-game-plot-21299204/amp/) >Puzzle game meets narrative adventure in this funny, beautifully written, indie game whose unusual grid-sliding mechanic is elevated by its characters and story. ------------- **[Nindie Spotlight](https://opencritic.com/outlet/570/nindie-spotlight)** - [Justin Nation](https://opencritic.com/critic/3723/justin-nation) - [9 / 10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ce4yoDtkBik) >A smart, and simply different, mix of puzzle and RPG elements that feels fresh ------------- **[Nintendo Life](https://opencritic.com/outlet/136/nintendo-life)** - [Alana Hagues](https://opencritic.com/critic/159/alana-hagues) - [8 / 10](https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/switch-eshop/arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure) >Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure dares to be different, and it succeeds with aplomb. By interweaving a heartwarming and inclusive story with addictive gameplay, Furniture & Mattress teaches us that puzzle games can be more than just a vehicle for making the cogs in your brain turn. If you're looking for pure puzzling, then the game won't be for you, but a simple story and simple gameplay loop are both elevated to new heights because of the thought and care that's gone into them. ------------- **[Press Start](https://opencritic.com/outlet/491/press-start)** - [James O'Connor](https://opencritic.com/critic/2976/james-oconnor) - [7.5 / 10](https://press-start.com.au/reviews/nintendo-switch/2024/07/22/arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure-review-the-good-kind-of-sliding-block-puzzle/) >Arranger takes a type of game puzzle that is often irritating and turns it into something pretty cool – even if some of that frustration remains. It's absolutely gorgeous and full of interesting mechanical ideas, and though its core premise isn't the most exciting, it makes a strong argument for its own existence. ------------- **[Push Square](https://opencritic.com/outlet/25/push-square)** - [Stephen Tailby](https://opencritic.com/critic/942/stephen-tailby) - [8 / 10](https://www.pushsquare.com/reviews/ps5/arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure) >Arranger is a delightful puzzle adventure game that we thoroughly enjoyed from beginning to end. Its tile-sliding puzzles are simple but well designed, and new ideas are introduced at a steady rate, adding variety without overcomplicating things. On top of that is a lovely, positive tale that gets its message across with a good dose of humour. There are some narrative loose ends we'd like to have seen addressed, but really there's very little to pick at here. It's a charming, well presented game well worth sliding into your schedule. ------------- **[Rectify Gaming](https://opencritic.com/outlet/355/rectify-gaming)** - [10 / 10](https://rectifygaming.com/review-arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure/) >Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure is a true masterpiece that sets a new standard for indie games. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, unique world design, and captivating narrative come together to create an unforgettable experience that will leave players eager for more ------------- **[Rock, Paper, Shotgun](https://opencritic.com/outlet/270/rock-paper-shotgun)** - [Alice Bell](https://opencritic.com/critic/1708/alice-bell) - [Unscored](https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure-review) >Arranger is funny, surprising, and builds a simple movement puzzle concept into complex, layered head-scratchers. It's a very charismatic puzzle game that won't outstay its welcome. ------------- **[Siliconera](https://opencritic.com/outlet/793/siliconera)** - [Jenni Lada](https://opencritic.com/critic/342/jenni-lada) - [6 / 10](https://www.siliconera.com/review-arranger-makes-you-consider-every-action/) >I appreciate Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure and what it sets out to do, as the concept is great and some puzzles are thought-provoking. ------------- **[TheGamer](https://opencritic.com/outlet/731/thegamer)** - [Axel Bosso](https://opencritic.com/critic/6341/axel-bosso) - [3.5 / 5 ](https://www.thegamer.com/arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure-review/) >Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure is both a pleasing and frustrating puzzling journey that leaves you thinking both about the steps you make in-game and the ones that you might or might not make in your real life. This could have just been a small game about a cool and strong mechanic, but it ended up being ------------- **[Video Chums](https://opencritic.com/outlet/624/video-chums)** - [A.J. Maciejewski](https://opencritic.com/critic/5170/a-j-maciejewski) - [4 / 5 ](https://videochums.com/article/old-school-console-games-part-4#arranger-a-role-puzzling-adventure) >As one of my new favourite indies of the year, Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure is a joy to play with its unconventional puzzles. ------------- **[video games are good](https://opencritic.com/outlet/837/video-games-are-good)** - [Nathan Hermanson](https://opencritic.com/critic/8905/nathan-hermanson) - [9 / 10](https://www.videogamesgood.com/post/review-tile-and-error-find-belonging-in-arranger-slide-puzzle-world) >Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure is an explosion of creativity. The team of artists behind it turned one simple concept into an adventure worth taking, turned simple tiles on a grid into a world full of imaginative concepts, and, hopefully, will turn many more slide puzzle strangers into converts overnight. > >If you're looking at the hefty 2024 gaming season and wondering if you should slide some pieces around to make space for Arranger, I say leave the space open and you won't regret it. -------------

This is one of those genuinely funny bugs, tbh. I remember Singles 2, the slightly more naughty competitor from years ago, had a ton of these weird quirky interactions, like masturbating with guests around and stuff.

From the article: > "Play is an integral part of human evolution and learning," she says, mentioning that this is a topic she covers in her book. "Gaming, being the most refined form of play in our time, has much to offer. Instead of focusing on what gaming is not, it's more effective to showcase its true essence. The industry's effort to create a more diverse range of games, beyond merely violent and intense ones, will help showcase the broad spectrum of gaming as an expression of creativity."

Interesting bits: > Net bookings of €290.0 million, ahead of target of around €275.0 million > As Ubisoft progresses on expanding its presence in GaaS-native experiences, a strong pipeline of content for current Live titles was also presented at Ubisoft Forward 🤮 > Ubisoft shareholders approved all resolutions on the agenda of its Annual General Meeting held on July 11 by a very large majority highlighting the strong confidence of the shareholders in Ubisoft’s strategy. In particular, the shareholders voted for the renewal of Yves Guillemot’s as director. 😑

What's interesting to me is of course how cheaply Bioshock got made compared to today's blockbuster hits. Somewhere, we took the wrong turn in regards to modern game development, truly. Too many managers to pay and as a result too high personel costs, I would assume. :<

Also free to keep on Steam [here](https://store.steampowered.com/app/628290/All_Walls_Must_Fall__A_TechNoir_Tactics_Game/). I have not personally played it yet, though I have seen it before. Seems above-average, if far from perfect. Anyone know more about it?

So yeah, EA is going full apeshit on Apex Legends monetization, doubling the number of battle passes and removing the ability to buy them ingame. Great. 😑 Good thing I left that game what feels like forever ago.

This really does not sound healthy. The game is released, for a certain amount of money. If people don't like what they get for their money, they simply should not buy it. But by now gamers have been **so** trained to expect to endless content treadmills and all their ilk like mtx and battle passes that publishers/developers get egged on if they **don't** work on their game 24/7 and forever.

GOG link posted, Steam link is [here](https://store.steampowered.com/app/1090100/Scorchlands/). I tried a demo what feels like forever ago, neat little colony builder.

Pre-order access is scheduled to go live at 09:00 UTC on the 28th with the full release following at ~09:00 UTC on the 2nd.

> I cannot share specific numbers, but I can say that we had an internal metric we were aiming for that had been approved, and that we exceeded that number by a significant portion. We also got a thumbs up a few weeks before launch.

I like this. A lot. I mean as far as I can judge it just from the demo. It looks like it'd be a quirky XCOM-like. Chimera Squad, but even more magic than the special ability in that. And in a lot of ways it is that, but it has this thing where you can see what the enemy will do on their turn, which in turn makes your turn a tight **puzzle** as you got near-perfect information. And it's super well done. You can pull off these perfect turns constantly where no enemy can ever do anything and you control the entire momentum, and it feels cool. I hope they can keep that up as the team gets bigger, but so far it feels nice. Plus, the writing is quirky as fuck and very fourth-wall-breaking, but also cool. The whole game gives off that vibe, what with one guy using an Assault Staff (basically an AR-15 but also a wizard's staff) and your witch having a tactical vest on and tac goggles on her witch hat. Did anyone of you try it? Did you also like it? Definitely waiting for them to announce when it'll come out now.

Game Information -------------------- **Game Title**: Capes **Platforms**: - PC (May 30, 2024) **Trailer**: **Developer**: Spitfire Interactive **Publisher**: Daedalic Entertainment **Review Aggregator**: **[OpenCritic - 77 average - 75% recommended - 16 reviews](https://opencritic.com/game/16759/capes)** Critic Reviews ------------- **[CGMagazine](https://opencritic.com/outlet/82/cgmagazine)** - [Jordan Biordi](https://opencritic.com/critic/378/jordan-biordi) - [7 / 10](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/game/capes-pc-review/) >Capes is a good enough game, but lacks the necessary distinction to go up, up and away. ------------- **[Checkpoint Gaming](https://opencritic.com/outlet/563/checkpoint-gaming)** - [Charlie Kelly](https://opencritic.com/critic/6051/charlie-kelly) - [8 / 10](https://checkpointgaming.net/reviews/2024/05/capes-review-deja-vu-of-the-best-kind/) >If Capes' biggest crime is that it isn't the most original game and that its fights require more thought than some might like, then I'd call Spitfire Interactive's debut a hearty success. Within its deep tactics gameplay is plenty of exciting and creative party DNA to tool around with. It even has a surprisingly refreshing tone and take on the superhero genre that is the most authentic I've seen in a while. So why not go save the world? I promise a super duper good time awaits. ------------- **[GAMES.CH](https://opencritic.com/outlet/762/games-ch)** - [Steffen Haubner](https://opencritic.com/critic/9589/steffen-haubner) - *German* - [82%](https://www.games.ch/capes/test/review-lZU/) >Sending your own superhero into the race is a brave move and, at least in terms of play, it really works here. There's plenty of scope to come up with your own solutions, and figuring out the best strategy makes the hours fly by. The fact that the ambitious story is not supported by a corresponding character design is regrettable, but in view of the undeniable gameplay qualities it is easy to get over. ------------- **[God is a Geek](https://opencritic.com/outlet/111/god-is-a-geek)** - [Chris White](https://opencritic.com/critic/582/chris-white) - [7.5 / 10](https://www.godisageek.com/reviews/capes-review/) >Capes is a solid turn-based strategy title that has some great ideas in the fight, and more often than not keeps things exciting. ------------- **[Hardcore Gamer](https://opencritic.com/outlet/23/hardcore-gamer)** - [Thomas Kent](https://opencritic.com/critic/10417/thomas-kent) - [4 / 5](https://hardcoregamer.com/review-capes/) >With its vibrant visuals, intricate gameplay mechanics and a narrative that both entertains and provokes thought, Capes sets itself up as a memorable addition to the superhero genre. While there are minor audio-visual sync issues and balance quirks in the combat system, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive. This game promises hours of engaging gameplay and delivers a powerful commentary on control and resistance in a dystopian future. ------------- **[IGN](https://opencritic.com/outlet/56/ign)** - [Dan Stapleton](https://opencritic.com/critic/201/dan-stapleton) - [8 / 10](https://www.ign.com/articles/capes-review) >Capes is a clever and challenging tactics game with a clear love of the superhero comics that inspired it. And no one actually wears a cape. ------------- **[Merlin'in Kazanı](https://opencritic.com/outlet/661/merlinin-kazan-)** - [Murat Oktay](https://opencritic.com/critic/7098/murat-oktay) - *Turkish* - [80 / 100](https://www.merlininkazani.com/Capes-oyun_inceleme-125976p1.html) >Capes is a very enjoyable turn-based strategy game. Even those who don't like the genre like me can get tied to their heads for a long time. With the many options it offers, you have the chance to finish each mission with a different method and hero. If we do not consider the minor camera errors, Capes is a production that should be considered by those who love the genre. ------------- **[Merlin'in Kazanı](https://opencritic.com/outlet/661/merlinin-kazan-)** - [Murat Oktay](https://opencritic.com/critic/7098/murat-oktay) - *Turkish* - [79 / 100](https://www.merlininkazani.com/Capes-oyun_inceleme-125983p1.html) >Overall, the only thing I see missing is the lack of multiplayer support. ------------- **[Nintendo Life](https://opencritic.com/outlet/136/nintendo-life)** - [Trent Cannon](https://opencritic.com/critic/7488/trent-cannon) - [8 / 10](https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/switch-eshop/capes) >Despite some visual shortfalls, Capes is a very solid turn-based strategy game that takes the best bits of XCOM 2 and gives it the superhero treatment. The tactical gameplay will have you thinking of the best way to position your growing roster of heroes on each turn to help you save King City from the nefarious Company. Even a predictable plot doesn't undermine how well-balanced and fun Capes is to play. Strategy and comic book fans will find plenty to enjoy here. ------------- **[PC Gamer](https://opencritic.com/outlet/162/pc-gamer)** - [Robin Valentine](https://opencritic.com/critic/6872/robin-valentine) - [80 / 100](https://www.pcgamer.com/games/strategy/capes-review/) >An awkward story doesn't hold Capes back from being one of the best turn-based strategy games of recent years. ------------- **[PCGamesN](https://opencritic.com/outlet/169/pcgamesn)** - [Andrew McMahon](https://opencritic.com/critic/5488/andrew-mcmahon) - [6 / 10](https://www.pcgamesn.com/capes/review) >Capes mostly overcomes its cliches, lack of customization, and limited scope thanks to its strategic gameplay that will test the mettle of even the most hardened of turn-based tactics veterans. ------------- **[Screen Rant](https://opencritic.com/outlet/664/screen-rant)** - [Brad Lang](https://opencritic.com/critic/5914/brad-lang) - [3.5 / 5 ](https://screenrant.com/capes-pc-review-superhero-tactics-game/) >Capes is an excellent foundation for what could be a fantastic tactics franchise. Thanks to its excellent mechanics, squad-based dynamics, and progression, Spitfire Interactive's debut game will no doubt find plenty of love from those who appreciate small-scale strategy games that emphasize positioning and clever teamwork - it's just a pity that its writing, voice-acting, and animation vary so dramatically in quality that it's difficult to really appreciate its story. ------------- **[The Games Machine](https://opencritic.com/outlet/497/the-games-machine)** - [Gabriele Barducci](https://opencritic.com/critic/5344/gabriele-barducci) - *Italian* - [8.3 / 10](https://www.thegamesmachine.it/capes-pc/recensione/) >Capes is the perfect game for those looking for a level of challenge similar to that of any XCOM. Fun, complex and colourful, at times the game becomes very difficult, requiring more and more attention from the player, but if taken calmly, Capes can offer many emotions and hours of fun. ------------- **[The Outerhaven Productions](https://opencritic.com/outlet/335/the-outerhaven-productions)** - Getselious - [4 / 5 ](https://www.theouterhaven.net/2024/05/capes-video-review-xcom-meets-superheroes/) >Capes is a solid take on tactic-based gameplay in the world of superheroes. It can be a tad short but it's a great time throughout! ------------- **[TheSixthAxis](https://opencritic.com/outlet/68/thesixthaxis)** - [Gareth Chadwick](https://opencritic.com/critic/317/gareth-chadwick) - [8 / 10](https://www.thesixthaxis.com/2024/05/24/capes-review/) >Capes is a valiant effort at a relatively unique idea, one that I personally have wanted since I heard Midnight Sons would have a card-based attack system. It isn't perfect, it could do with a little more polish, and it's occasionally a bit frustrating, but it's deep, challenging and the story is enjoyable enough if you like comic books' campy style. Considering this is Spitfire Interactive's debut game, it has absolutely convinced me to keep an eye on their future projects. ------------- **[Wolf's Gaming Blog](https://opencritic.com/outlet/527/wolfs-gaming-blog)** - [Baden Ronie](https://opencritic.com/critic/3995/baden-ronie) - [3.5 / 5 ](https://wolfsgamingblog.com/2024/05/27/capes-review/) >While Capes might be less Avengers and more West Coast Avengers in terms of its presentation and budget, underneath those plastic faces lies a really fun turn-based tactics game. The story may not reach the highs of comic book greatness but it’s still a decent time. It’s the gameplay where Capes shines though. Sometimes it can be a bit too heavy-handed with the enemy count, but when you’re in the middle of the fray punching bad guys off of ledges, powering up Ultimates and combining abilities, it’s a damn good time. -------------

Bringing remodellings of: * Stockholm * Nice * Monaco * Barcelona * Porto * Madrid In particular the shot of Monaco looks truly impressive, tbh.